Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action has passed us by but another one is fast approaching us. The NFL has finished up its 2nd week of playoff competition in the Divisional round and the next round is the Conference Championship games. The column will cover the Divisional round games plus my picks to who goes to the Super Bowl. Let's get to work!
Divisional Round Recap
Indianapolis 13, Kansas City 31: TW: Colts; CV: Colts
The critics of the Kansas City Chiefs came in with high hopes and left with bitter disappointment. The Chiefs completely dominated the game from the offense, defense, and special teams. It was their first home playoff win in nearly 25 years. Andrew Luck has had some success against the Chiefs in the playoffs. Luck would finish the game with 203 passing yards with a touchdown (the only touchdown all game for the Colts). The Colts running game of Marlon Mack didn't get anything going with only 46 yards rushing, certainly a credit to the Chiefs defense. Patrick Mahomes would pass the ball for 278 yards for zero touchdowns. The Chiefs rushing game gave them all the offense they needed. Damien Williams, Tyreek Hill, Darrell Williams, and Patrick Mahomes would all score a rushing touchdown each. Damien Williams was the leading rusher with 129 yards. Kansas City gets to stay at home for the AFC Championship Game.
TW: 0-1; CV: 0-1
Dallas 22, LA Rams 30: TW: Rams; CV: Rams
There was some doubt that the Rams would win the game. I was certainly one of them. With how well the Cowboys handled themselves on defense as well as their rushing attack. It would be the Rams that would hang on to win them the game. Dak Prescott threw the ball for 266 yards for a touchdown. Prescott would run for a touchdown as well. Ezekiel Elliot could only muster 47 yards rushing with a touchdown of his own. Credit to the Rams rush defense to keep Elliot at bay. Jared Goff threw the ball for 186 yards with zero touchdowns in the game. It would be the Rams running game that gave them all the offense they needed. CJ Anderson and Todd Gurley would finish the game with 100+ yard games running the ball. CJ Anderson would run it for 123 yards for two touchdowns while Gurley would get 115 and a touchdown as well. The Rams will be on the road for the NFC Championship Game.
TW: 1-1; CV: 1-1
LA Chargers 28, New England 41: TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots
The Patriots continued with their playoff success while Philip Rivers remains winless against Tom Brady. The Chargers quarterback threw the ball for 331 yards while scoring three touchdowns and a pick. The Chargers running game didn't get a lot going as Melvin Gordon could muster 15 yards rushing with a touchdown. Any chance of Tom Brady slowing down remains to be in question. Brady would throw the ball for 343 yards with a touchdown. The biggest offensive contributor was Sony Michel. Michel ran the ball for 129 yards for three touchdowns. Rex Burkhead would get a touchdown as well in the game, running the ball for 12 yards. It was a dominant game but in garbage time the Patriots defense came a bit into question. They will need to play stellar football next week when they head to Kansas City for the AFC Championship Game.
TW: 2-1; CV: 2-1
Philadelphia 14, New Orleans 20: TW: Saints; CV: Saints
Around this time last year, Nick Foles was leading the Eagles to what would become their championship run. The similarities were too hard to dismiss to this year. The Saints would end any hope of a repeat for the Eagles. Nick Foles threw the ball for 201 yards for a touchdown and two picks. Those two interceptions were from Marcus Lattimore. Foles would score a rushing touchdown as well. The Eagles running game of Wendell Smallwood could only muster 33 yards, qualifying him to be the Eagles leading rusher. Drew Brees threw the ball for 301 yards with two touchdowns and a pick. Alvin Kamara was the Saints leading rusher with 71 yards. The Saints stay at home for the NFC Championship Game next Sunday.
TW: 3-1; CV: 3-1
Conference Championship Picks
LA Rams (14-3) @ New Orleans (14-3) (FOX): TW: Saints; CV: Rams
The Rams got a win against the Cowboys and the Saints beat the Eagles last week in the Divisional round. The game is a rematch of a Week 8 game that the Saints would end up winning 45-35. The game was high scoring, high on offense game. I would expect this one to be much of the same. The biggest advantage that the Saints have is the crowd noise. Communication will be a factor for the Rams. If they can take the crowd out of the game early and keep them out of it, they have a chance to win. The Saints defense will need to get their A+ game on when it comes to rush defense as the Rams had a lot of success running the ball against the Cowboys. The Rams didn't have Aqib Talib during that Week 8 game as well. Could be a factor but I feel with Drew Brees at the helm of the ship, I think they will be the NFC representative in the Super Bowl.
New England (12-5) @ Kansas City (13-4) (CBS): TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots
The Patriots beat the Chargers and the Chiefs beat the Colts in the Divisional round. The two teams are teams that love to throw the ball. Weather will be a factor as the temperature could reach the single digits with some wind. Despite the weather, I feel that there will be points scored in the game, just not in the 40+ range. The keys for the Patriots is to get Rob Gronkowski involved in the offense as well as playing rock-solid defense as Patrick Mahomes will not be intimidated by zone defenses. The key for the Chiefs will keep the same success with their rushing game against the Patriots defense. The Chiefs defense needs to contain Tom Brady and the Patriots running game. Keeping Tom Brady off his rhythm will be a factor in the game. The Patriots don't particularly do well in road playoff games, with the exception of neutral site games like the Super Bowls the Pats were in. Despite all this, I feel the Patriots will still edge out on the Chiefs and give the Patriots their 11th conference title.
I'll probably do a short Conference Championship recap post shortly after the games are done. It'll either be on Sunday or Monday. I plan on keeping the Super Bowl post a separate post. Until then, have a good weekend and enjoy the games!
-Tom
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
Wednesday, January 9, 2019
NFL 2018 Divisional Picks + Wild Card Recap
Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action has passed us by but another week is soon approaching us. The NFL is in its 2nd week of playoff competition with the winners of the Wild Card round moving on to the Divisional round of the playoffs. In the column, I'll talk about the Wild Card games and will give my picks to who wins the Divisonal round of games this weekend. Let's get to work!
Wild Card Recap:
Indianapolis 21, Houston 7: TW: Colts; CV: Texans
It was another chapter to the already great comeback story for Andrew Luck. At this time last year, Luck was nursing an injury. Luck would finish the game with 222 passing yards for two touchdowns while throwing an interception. Marlon Mack provided a great spark with 148 yards rushing for a touchdown as well. DeShaun Watson got the start for the Texans. Watson threw for 235 yards passing with a touchdown while throwing an interception. The Texans running game was once again dependent on Watson's legs as the quarterback ran for 76 yards, the 2nd closest was Lamar Miller's 18 rushing yards. The score shouldn't have been closer than the result shows. Indianapolis moves on to take on the Kansas City Chiefs.
TW: 1-0; CV: 0-1
Seattle 22, Dallas 24: TW: Cowboys; CV: Cowboys
The game was a close one, not compared to the previous meeting earlier in the season. You have to give a lot of credit to the Cowboys rush defense in stuffing the Seahawks running game. Russell Wilson had a good game with 233 yards passing for a touchdown. Wilson would also get a rushing touchdown as well. Rashad Penny could only muster 29 rushing yards. The Cowboys got a lot of production out of their running attack with Ezekiel Elliot's 137 rushing yards while scoring a touchdown. Dak Prescott got 226 passing yards with a touchdown and interception in the game. Prescott would also rush in for a touchdown too. Dallas will move on to Los Angeles to take on the Rams in the divisional round.
TW: 2-0; CV: 1-1
LA Chargers 23, Baltimore 17: TW: Ravens, CV: Chargers
In the first matchup, the Chargers couldn't contain Lamar Jackson. In the 2nd, they grounded him for most of the game. By the time the Ravens passing game got off the ground, the Ravens were staring at a depleting clock and a point deficit. Philip Rivers had an alright game tossing the ball for 160 yards for zero touchdowns. The only offensive touchdown came from Melvin Gordon, who had 40 rushing yards for the game. Michael Bagley of the Chargers did the rest. Lamar Jackson would end the game with 194 passing yards with two touchdowns and an interception. The Chargers did a better job with containing Jackson's legs as he would only get 54 rushing yards for the game. LA moves on to New England to take on the Patriots.
TW: 2-1; CV: 2-1
Philadelphia 16, Chicago 15: TW: Bears; CV: Bears
It is somewhat ironic for the Eagles to even be here. The Bears were the reason why they were there. By game time, the pleasantries ended. The Bears depended a lot on Cody Parkey's legs and his leg really depended on the outcome of the game. Nick Foles got a good game with 266 passing yards with two touchdowns while throwing two interceptions. The Eagles running game didn't get a lot going but Darren Sproles got 21 rushing yards on 13 carries. Mitchell Trubisky would finish the game with 303 passing yards with a touchdown. I feel the biggest factor for the Bears loss was their ineffective running attack as Jordan Howard got only 35 rushing yards. Philadelphia moves on to New Orleans.
TW: 2-2; CV: 2-2
Divisional Round Picks:
The 2nd week of NFL playoff competition is called the Divisional round. It is personally my favorite out of the whole entire playoffs. A sort of David vs Goliath. A team with a lot of wins having a bye week last week, while the other team scratched, clawed, and teethed their way into the postseason. NBC will get the weekend started with the Colts and Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium. FOX will show the Cowboys vs Rams game in Los Angeles. On Sunday, CBS will show the Chargers vs Patriots game and FOX will show the Eagles vs Saints playoff game in the afternoon slot. Let's get to the picks!
Indianapolis (11-6) @ Kansas City (12-4) (NBC): TW: Colts; CV: Colts
The Colts beat the Texans in the Wild Card game and the Chiefs were a bye last week. The game will greatly depend on how well the Colts play on offense. If they stick to the formula that won them the Wild Card game, they should win. Taking risks, sustaining drives, wearing out the opposing defense will be the keys for the Colts to win. The Chiefs need to get a great game from their running game as I feel that is their one weakness since they released Kareem Hunt earlier this season. It's not like the Chiefs have won a playoff game at home since 1993. I don't like their chances.
Dallas (11-6) @ LA Rams (13-3) (FOX): TW: Rams; CV: Rams
The Cowboys defeated the Seahawks in the Wild Card game and the Rams were on a bye week. The key matchup will be Dak Prescott vs the Rams pass defense. A lot of the game will depend on how well Dak Prescott throws the ball, runs the ball, and how he coordinates the offense. For the Rams, if Todd Gurley plays in the game he will be a big help in what they do offensively. I feel the Rams have the better offense and a better defense than the Cowboys but how well the Rams play on defense will be key.
LA Chargers (13-4) @ New England (11-5) (CBS): TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots
The Chargers beat the Ravens in the Wild Card game and the Patriots had the bye last week. The game will more likely be of a shootout between Philip Rivers and Tom Brady. Both quarterbacks love to throw the ball, certainly, age will be a factor for Tom Brady but I don't know how much of a factor it will. The Patriots defense has played well in the last few weeks prior to this game, I feel they should stay on the same level. If the Chargers can get any chance to win the game, it will greatly depend on better offensive production from their passing and running games. It's a tall task but I like the Patriots at home.
Philadelphia (10-7) @ New Orleans (13-3) (FOX): TW: Saints; CV: Saints
The Eagles beat the Bears in the Wild Card game and the Saints were on a bye last week. The game pretty much looks like a dominant game on paper for the Saints. I don't think that it will be a blowout when it came to the last time these two teams played each other. It will come down to the Eagles getting a rhythm on the passing game and getting good runs from their running game. Keeping Drew Brees and the Saints off the field will be key to victory for the Eagles. The Saints will score points in the game, that is for certain as the Eagles defense is depleted with key injuries to their regular players. I hate to say it but I don't see the Eagles moving past this weekend. The Saints look way too good to give up on an opportunity to get Drew Brees ring #2.
Much like this week, I'll be doing a Divisional recap and a pick 'em for the Conference Championship games next week. Look out for that sometime on Wednesday or Thursday of next week. Until then, enjoy the games, have a good weekend.
-Tom
Wild Card Recap:
Indianapolis 21, Houston 7: TW: Colts; CV: Texans
It was another chapter to the already great comeback story for Andrew Luck. At this time last year, Luck was nursing an injury. Luck would finish the game with 222 passing yards for two touchdowns while throwing an interception. Marlon Mack provided a great spark with 148 yards rushing for a touchdown as well. DeShaun Watson got the start for the Texans. Watson threw for 235 yards passing with a touchdown while throwing an interception. The Texans running game was once again dependent on Watson's legs as the quarterback ran for 76 yards, the 2nd closest was Lamar Miller's 18 rushing yards. The score shouldn't have been closer than the result shows. Indianapolis moves on to take on the Kansas City Chiefs.
TW: 1-0; CV: 0-1
Seattle 22, Dallas 24: TW: Cowboys; CV: Cowboys
The game was a close one, not compared to the previous meeting earlier in the season. You have to give a lot of credit to the Cowboys rush defense in stuffing the Seahawks running game. Russell Wilson had a good game with 233 yards passing for a touchdown. Wilson would also get a rushing touchdown as well. Rashad Penny could only muster 29 rushing yards. The Cowboys got a lot of production out of their running attack with Ezekiel Elliot's 137 rushing yards while scoring a touchdown. Dak Prescott got 226 passing yards with a touchdown and interception in the game. Prescott would also rush in for a touchdown too. Dallas will move on to Los Angeles to take on the Rams in the divisional round.
TW: 2-0; CV: 1-1
LA Chargers 23, Baltimore 17: TW: Ravens, CV: Chargers
In the first matchup, the Chargers couldn't contain Lamar Jackson. In the 2nd, they grounded him for most of the game. By the time the Ravens passing game got off the ground, the Ravens were staring at a depleting clock and a point deficit. Philip Rivers had an alright game tossing the ball for 160 yards for zero touchdowns. The only offensive touchdown came from Melvin Gordon, who had 40 rushing yards for the game. Michael Bagley of the Chargers did the rest. Lamar Jackson would end the game with 194 passing yards with two touchdowns and an interception. The Chargers did a better job with containing Jackson's legs as he would only get 54 rushing yards for the game. LA moves on to New England to take on the Patriots.
TW: 2-1; CV: 2-1
Philadelphia 16, Chicago 15: TW: Bears; CV: Bears
It is somewhat ironic for the Eagles to even be here. The Bears were the reason why they were there. By game time, the pleasantries ended. The Bears depended a lot on Cody Parkey's legs and his leg really depended on the outcome of the game. Nick Foles got a good game with 266 passing yards with two touchdowns while throwing two interceptions. The Eagles running game didn't get a lot going but Darren Sproles got 21 rushing yards on 13 carries. Mitchell Trubisky would finish the game with 303 passing yards with a touchdown. I feel the biggest factor for the Bears loss was their ineffective running attack as Jordan Howard got only 35 rushing yards. Philadelphia moves on to New Orleans.
TW: 2-2; CV: 2-2
Divisional Round Picks:
The 2nd week of NFL playoff competition is called the Divisional round. It is personally my favorite out of the whole entire playoffs. A sort of David vs Goliath. A team with a lot of wins having a bye week last week, while the other team scratched, clawed, and teethed their way into the postseason. NBC will get the weekend started with the Colts and Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium. FOX will show the Cowboys vs Rams game in Los Angeles. On Sunday, CBS will show the Chargers vs Patriots game and FOX will show the Eagles vs Saints playoff game in the afternoon slot. Let's get to the picks!
Indianapolis (11-6) @ Kansas City (12-4) (NBC): TW: Colts; CV: Colts
The Colts beat the Texans in the Wild Card game and the Chiefs were a bye last week. The game will greatly depend on how well the Colts play on offense. If they stick to the formula that won them the Wild Card game, they should win. Taking risks, sustaining drives, wearing out the opposing defense will be the keys for the Colts to win. The Chiefs need to get a great game from their running game as I feel that is their one weakness since they released Kareem Hunt earlier this season. It's not like the Chiefs have won a playoff game at home since 1993. I don't like their chances.
Dallas (11-6) @ LA Rams (13-3) (FOX): TW: Rams; CV: Rams
The Cowboys defeated the Seahawks in the Wild Card game and the Rams were on a bye week. The key matchup will be Dak Prescott vs the Rams pass defense. A lot of the game will depend on how well Dak Prescott throws the ball, runs the ball, and how he coordinates the offense. For the Rams, if Todd Gurley plays in the game he will be a big help in what they do offensively. I feel the Rams have the better offense and a better defense than the Cowboys but how well the Rams play on defense will be key.
LA Chargers (13-4) @ New England (11-5) (CBS): TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots
The Chargers beat the Ravens in the Wild Card game and the Patriots had the bye last week. The game will more likely be of a shootout between Philip Rivers and Tom Brady. Both quarterbacks love to throw the ball, certainly, age will be a factor for Tom Brady but I don't know how much of a factor it will. The Patriots defense has played well in the last few weeks prior to this game, I feel they should stay on the same level. If the Chargers can get any chance to win the game, it will greatly depend on better offensive production from their passing and running games. It's a tall task but I like the Patriots at home.
Philadelphia (10-7) @ New Orleans (13-3) (FOX): TW: Saints; CV: Saints
The Eagles beat the Bears in the Wild Card game and the Saints were on a bye last week. The game pretty much looks like a dominant game on paper for the Saints. I don't think that it will be a blowout when it came to the last time these two teams played each other. It will come down to the Eagles getting a rhythm on the passing game and getting good runs from their running game. Keeping Drew Brees and the Saints off the field will be key to victory for the Eagles. The Saints will score points in the game, that is for certain as the Eagles defense is depleted with key injuries to their regular players. I hate to say it but I don't see the Eagles moving past this weekend. The Saints look way too good to give up on an opportunity to get Drew Brees ring #2.
Much like this week, I'll be doing a Divisional recap and a pick 'em for the Conference Championship games next week. Look out for that sometime on Wednesday or Thursday of next week. Until then, enjoy the games, have a good weekend.
-Tom
Friday, January 4, 2019
NFL 2018 Wild Card Picks + Preseason Prediction Results
Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action is upon us. The regular season is over and the NFL's second season begins, the playoffs! The first week of the playoffs is the Wild Card round. In the column, I'll talk about the predictions that I made prior to Week 1, the winner between me and Cardinal Viking's pick 'em, and the my Wild Card picks. Let's get to work!
Preseason Prediction Results:
On the Week 1 Picks column, I did a prediction area on who would win the division, Super Bowl, various awards, etc. The awards part won't come til later in the playoffs but the rest of it, well did. This is what I had for division winners prior to Week 1:
AFC:
East: Patriots
North: Steelers
South: Texans
West: Raiders
Wild Card: Chiefs, Ravens
NFC:
East: Giants
North: Vikings
South: Saints
West: Rams
Wild Card: Packers, Cowboys
For the AFC I got the Patriots and Texans prediction correct for winning their respective divisions. The rest I either got wrong or that particular team is the division winner. The Ravens won the AFC North. The Chiefs won the AFC West. The Raiders and Steelers didn't even win their divisions. More on the Raiders later.
The NFC was much of the same story. I got the Saints and Rams predictions correct, the rest I got wrong. The Cowboys won the NFC East. The Bears won the NFC North. The Packers didn't even make it to the playoffs.
Now comes the part where I really have to kick myself in the groin for. Like really hard. This was my Super Bowl Prediction:
Super Bowl:
Unbiased: Raiders over Saints
Biased: Packers over Raiders
Preseason Prediction Results:
On the Week 1 Picks column, I did a prediction area on who would win the division, Super Bowl, various awards, etc. The awards part won't come til later in the playoffs but the rest of it, well did. This is what I had for division winners prior to Week 1:
AFC:
East: Patriots
North: Steelers
South: Texans
West: Raiders
Wild Card: Chiefs, Ravens
NFC:
East: Giants
North: Vikings
South: Saints
West: Rams
Wild Card: Packers, Cowboys
For the AFC I got the Patriots and Texans prediction correct for winning their respective divisions. The rest I either got wrong or that particular team is the division winner. The Ravens won the AFC North. The Chiefs won the AFC West. The Raiders and Steelers didn't even win their divisions. More on the Raiders later.
The NFC was much of the same story. I got the Saints and Rams predictions correct, the rest I got wrong. The Cowboys won the NFC East. The Bears won the NFC North. The Packers didn't even make it to the playoffs.
Now comes the part where I really have to kick myself in the groin for. Like really hard. This was my Super Bowl Prediction:
Super Bowl:
Unbiased: Raiders over Saints
Biased: Packers over Raiders
The Saints could possibly still make it to the big game but the rest will be at home watching it probably. I had stated my case for the Raiders over a while in the season. Let's just say it was a rough year. Here are my predictions for who wins the various awards:
MVP:
Derek Carr, Raiders
Coach of the Year:
Mike Zimmer, Vikings
Rookie of the Year:
Saquon Barkley, Giants
Derek Carr, Raiders
Coach of the Year:
Mike Zimmer, Vikings
Rookie of the Year:
Saquon Barkley, Giants
It is still possible for Saquon Barkley to get Rookie of the Year with the year he had. Hard to say for sure who could win MVP or Coach of The Year but I can't hold my breath for my picks.
Pick 'em Results:
After the final second was sounded, the final ball was packed away, or the last interview was given. There was the fun, bragging rights competition between me and my roommate, Cardinal Viking. The contest was held over the 17 weeks of the regular season. Here are the final results:
Records:
Tom (me)
2018:
Week 1: 10-5-1
Week 2: 6-9-1
Week 3: 8-8
Week 4: 12-3
Week 5: 6-9
Week 6: 10-5
Week 7: 10-4
Week 8: 11-3
Week 9: 9-4
Week 10: 7-7
Week 11: 8-5
Week 12: 11-4
Week 13: 10-6
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 8-8
Week 16: 11-5
Week 17: 12-4
Overall: 156-98-2
Cardinal Viking
2018:
Week 1: 8-7-1
Week 2: 9-6-1
Week 3: 5-11
Week 4: 9-6
Week 5: 9-6
Week 6: 6-9
Week 7: 12-2
Week 8: 10-4
Week 9: 8-5
Week 10: 9-5
Week 11: 7-6
Week 12: 13-2
Week 13: 11-5
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 10-6
Week 16: 10-6
Week 17: 13-3
Overall: 156-98-2
Obviously, as you can see, there is a tie. In the event of a tie, it would possibly come down to who won week by week. Here's who won each week:
Tom: Week 1, Week 3, Week 4, Week 6, Week 8, Week 9, Week 11, Week 16
Cardinal Viking: Week 2, Week 5, Week 7, Week 10, Week 12, Week 13, Week 15, Week 17
Tie: Week 14
Not even a breakdown by a week could decide the winner. Perhaps us being tied is meant to be. Perhaps the football gods realized that we're both worthy opponents. Here's a comparison to previous years:
Records:
Tom (me)
2018:
Week 1: 10-5-1
Week 2: 6-9-1
Week 3: 8-8
Week 4: 12-3
Week 5: 6-9
Week 6: 10-5
Week 7: 10-4
Week 8: 11-3
Week 9: 9-4
Week 10: 7-7
Week 11: 8-5
Week 12: 11-4
Week 13: 10-6
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 8-8
Week 16: 11-5
Week 17: 12-4
Overall: 156-98-2
Cardinal Viking
2018:
Week 1: 8-7-1
Week 2: 9-6-1
Week 3: 5-11
Week 4: 9-6
Week 5: 9-6
Week 6: 6-9
Week 7: 12-2
Week 8: 10-4
Week 9: 8-5
Week 10: 9-5
Week 11: 7-6
Week 12: 13-2
Week 13: 11-5
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 10-6
Week 16: 10-6
Week 17: 13-3
Overall: 156-98-2
Obviously, as you can see, there is a tie. In the event of a tie, it would possibly come down to who won week by week. Here's who won each week:
Tom: Week 1, Week 3, Week 4, Week 6, Week 8, Week 9, Week 11, Week 16
Cardinal Viking: Week 2, Week 5, Week 7, Week 10, Week 12, Week 13, Week 15, Week 17
Tie: Week 14
Not even a breakdown by a week could decide the winner. Perhaps us being tied is meant to be. Perhaps the football gods realized that we're both worthy opponents. Here's a comparison to previous years:
Cardinal Viking:
2017: 167-89
2018: 156-98-2
My record:
2012: 164-90-2
2013: 162-92-1
2014: 172-83-1
2017: 164-92
2018: 156-98-2
Wild Card Picks:
Wild Card weekend begins at Houston, Texas and ends in Chicago, Illinois. There will be eight teams playing in four games during the two days. The NFL's broadcasting partners will televise a game during the weekend. ESPN will have the Colts-Texans game, FOX will show the Seahawks-Cowboys game, CBS will have the Chargers-Ravens game, and NBC will show the Eagles-Bears game to finish the weekend. I'll be more in-depth with my analysis since there are only four games and I have time on my hands. Let's get to the picks!
Indianapolis (10-6) @ Houston (11-5) (ESPN/ABC): TW: Colts; CV: Texans
The playoff opener showcases a pretty good game. At least on paper. The two games that the two teams played in the regular season were decided by exactly three points. The Texans won the first game 37-34 in OT at Indianapolis. The Colts won the 2nd game at Houston by the result of 24-21. The two teams are mirror images of each other. They love to throw the ball with their franchise quarterbacks, as well as run the ball, all the while playing great defense. I tend to think playoff experience will be a factor in the game as Andrew Luck has been in the playoffs quite a few times in his career. I like the Colts in the game as Andrew Luck could come up clutch in a big moment in the game.
Seattle (10-6) @ Dallas (10-6) (FOX): TW: Cowboys; CV: Cowboys
When it comes to toss-up games, this one is definitely worthy of it. This game is a rematch of a Week 3 game where the Seahawks beat the Cowboys 24-13 in Seattle. The two teams are quite different than what they were 15 weeks ago. Both teams have great running backs that can easily get 50+ rushing yards. I feel it will greatly depend on which running back can get it done as both teams will be passing the ball a lot. I could use the playoff experience card on Russell Wilson as he does have a Super Bowl ring in his career. I like the Cowboys in the game as they do have a better defense by rank than the Seahawks do. I just hope I'm not wrong.
LA Chargers (12-4) @ Baltimore (10-6) (CBS): TW: Ravens, CV: Chargers
It is a rematch between the two teams of a Week 16 matchup that the Ravens won 22-10 in Los Angeles. The game will be in Baltimore. I feel the Ravens will still win despite the opportunity that presents to the Chargers. The opportunity to get back at the Ravens again after seeing Lamar Jackson and the running game. The key matchup will be just that, the Ravens rush vs Chargers rush defense. If the other contains or exploits the opponent they have a shot to win. Certainly, playoff experience does play a factor for Philip Rivers but defense is usually the name of the game when it comes to playoffs.
Philadephia (9-7) @ Chicago (12-4) (NBC): TW: Bears; CV: Bears
The last game of the Wild Card weekend features two teams that haven't faced each other this season. The defending champs were underdogs in last year's playoffs and they will be facing tougher odds to get back to the Super Bowl as Vegas has Chicago favored by 6.5 points. I can't really see the Eagles winning the game based on the Eagles running game and their defense. Those two things are what the Bears do well in. If the Eagles have any chance of winning, they must get better production out of their running game and get short defensive stops, especially stuffing Jordan Howard. It's a tough task but I'm going with the safer bet in the Bears. God, I cringe at picking 'Da Bears.
There probably won't be a Wild Card recap but I'll still do a recap in the Divisional round pick 'em because why not. Look out for that later next week before the Divisional round games. Until then, have a great weekend and enjoy the games!
-Tom
Thursday, January 3, 2019
NFL 2018 Week 17 Recap
Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action is in the books. With it the final week of the regular season. Out of the 32 teams, 20 of them are at home while the rest will move on into January for the playoffs. In the column, I'll give a recap of the week's games.
Dallas 36, NY Giants 35: TW: Cowboys, CV: Cowboys
It was an offensive game that put Dak Prescott against the entire Giants team. Jason Garrett rested Ezekiel Elliot and a few offensive linemen in the game. Ultimately it was Prescott that would give Dallas the win. Prescott threw the ball for 387 yards for four touchdowns. The Cowboys leading rusher was Rod Smith with 35 rushing yards and a touchdown. The Giants gave the 'Boys a fight. Eli Manning threw for 301 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Saquon Barkley would rush the ball for 109 yards with a touchdown. Wayne Gallman got a touchdown as well of his own while rushing for 23 yards. The Cowboys move on.
TW: 1-0; CV: 1-0
Carolina 33, New Orleans 14: TW: Saints, CV: Saints
The difficult part in predicting these games in week 17 is whether or not teams will rest their starters. This game was about as meaningless to the Saints as it was to the Panthers. The Panthers started Kyle Allen in his first NFL start. Allen had a great game throwing the ball for 228 yards for two touchdowns, at least until he injured his shoulder by Marcus Davenport before halftime. By then it was 23-0 at halftime. The Panthers got a boost in the running game with Cameron Artis-Payne rush for 56 yards and a touchdown. Teddy Bridgewater started the game for the Saints throwing the ball for 118 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Dwayne Washington rushed the ball for 106 yards. The Saints will have a bye week next week before their divisional game.
TW: 1-1; CV: 1-1
Atlanta 34, Tampa Bay 32: TW: Falcons, CV: Falcons
The game was a meaningless one for both. None of them were going to be playing next week. Matt Ryan threw the ball for 378 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Tevin Coleman got 45 yards rushing with a rushing touchdown. The Buccaneers got a good start out of Jameis Winston. Winston threw for 345 yards for four touchdowns and an interception. Peyton Barber got 66 rushing yards for zero touchdowns in the game. It was a shootout for the ages. Ultimately, Tampa will stay in the cellar of the NFC South for another year.
TW: 2-1; CV: 2-1
Detroit 31, Green Bay 0: TW: Packers, CV: Lions
Once again I pick the Packers, my team, and they fail to get the job done. Aaron Rodgers started the game throwing for 26 yards before getting a concussion. Deshone Kizer had some better stats throwing 132 yards with an interception. Kizer led the team in rushing with 40 yards. The Lions had better offensive stats. Matthew Stafford threw for 266 yards for two touchdowns while Matt Prater scored a touchdown on a fake field goal. Zach Zenner got 93 yards rushing with a touchdown in the game for the Lions. It'll be a cold winter in Green Bay, that's for sure.
TW: 2-2; CV: 3-1
Jacksonville 3, Houston 20: TW: Texans, CV: Texans
The season ends poorly for the Jaguars who were at this time last year a playoff team. Blake Bortles could only muster 107 passing yards with an interception. The quarterback led the team in rushing with 15. Deshaun Watson had a better day with 234 passing yards. Watson also got 66 rushing yards with a touchdown. Lamar Miller had 56 rushing yards with a touchdown of his own. Houston moves on to Wild Card.
TW: 3-2; CV: 4-1
NY Jets 3, New England 38: TW: Patriots, CV: Patriots
While the Patriots didn't get home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs, they still got a respectable 2nd seed. Sam Darnold threw for 167 yards for zero touchdowns. Elijah McGuire mustered 41 rushing yards for zero touchdowns. Tom Brady would throw for 250 yards for four touchdowns (three of them in the first half). Sony Michel ran the ball for 50 yards for zero touchdowns. New York stays home for another year while their rival gets a week off.
TW: 4-2; CV: 5-1
Miami 17, Buffalo 42: TW: Bills, CV: Dolphins
It was a dominating effort. At the start of the season, not a lot of people looked highly on the Buffalo Bills. I was one of them. Ryan Tannehill threw for 147 yards for two interceptions. Kalen Ballege was the Dolphins leading rusher with 47 yards. Kenny Stills was credited with a touchdown pass to Ryan Tannehill for three yards. Josh Allen gave the Bills 224 passing yards with three touchdowns and an interception (the pick was also a pick-six). Allen was also the Bills leading rusher with 95. Buffalo still finishes with a last-place mark in the AFC East.
TW: 5-2; CV: 5-2
San Francisco 32, LA Rams 48: TW: Rams, CV: Rams
The Rams have proven to be the NFL's best team all season long. It was a shootout to be sure. Nick Mullens had 282 yards passing with three touchdowns and interceptions. Former Redskin and Cowboy Alfred Morris had 111 yards rushing with a touchdown. Jared Goff threw the ball for 199 yards for four touchdowns. CJ Anderson rushed for 132 yards and a touchdown. San Francisco will stay at home while the Rams get a week off.
TW: 6-2; CV: 6-2
Philadelphia 24, Washington 0: TW: Eagles, CV: Eagles
Philadelphia had business to finish, then help would come. Nick Foles threw for 221 yards for two touchdowns and an interception. Nate Sudfeld would also get a touchdown from a 22-yard pass from Sudfeld to Nelson Aghalor. Wendell Smallwood rushed the ball for 53 yards for zero touchdowns. The Redskins on offense couldn't get a lot going. Josh Johnson only threw the ball for 91 yards with an interception. Chris Thompson could only get 10 rushing yards in the game for Washington.
TW: 7-2; CV: 7-2
Chicago 24, Minnesota 10: TW: Vikings, CV: Vikings
Most cases pointed to the Bears letting their foot off the gas. They didn't move a muscle. Mitchell Trubisky would throw the ball for 163 yards for zero touchdowns or interceptions. Jordan Howard ran the ball for 109 yards for two touchdowns. Tarik Cohen would get a touchdown of his own while rushing for 24 yards. Kirk Cousins got the start for the Vikings. Cousins threw the ball for 132 yards for a touchdown. The Vikings running game didn't get a lot going as Dalvin Cook ran the ball for 39 yards for zero touchdowns. The year ends in disappointment in Minnesota.
TW: 7-3; CV: 7-3
Arizona 24, Seattle 27: TW: Seahawks, CV: Seahawks
At the start of the season, the Seahawks looked to be in a rebuilding mode. After a 10-6 record, that talk diminished quickly. The Cardinals started Josh Rosen at quarterback. Rosen threw the ball for 149 yards for a touchdown. David Johnson ran the ball for 62 yards. Russell Wilson threw the ball for 152 yards for a touchdown and interception. The Seahawks running game was led by Chris Carson's 122 yards for a touchdown. Mike Davis also got the ball for 44 yards with a touchdown of his own. Seattle travels to Dallas on Saturday.
TW: 8-3; CV: 8-3
Cincinnati 13, Pittsburgh 16: TW: Steelers, CV: Steelers
Pittsburgh would win the game, however, they needed help to get a sniff at a playoff berth. Jake Driskell threw the ball for 95 yards for zero touchdowns. Joe Mixon was the Bengals leading rusher with 105 yards in the game. Ben Roethlisberger got 287 yards passing for a touchdown and an interception. James Conner would return to the team to start for the game. Conner got 64 rushing yards.
TW: 9-3; CV: 9-3
Cleveland 24, Baltimore 26: TW: Ravens, CV: Ravens
The Ravens kept it interesting in this one. Baker Mayfield threw the ball for 376 yards for three touchdowns and three interceptions. Nick Chubb couldn't quite get a lot going only rushing the ball for 24 yards. Lamar Jackson threw the ball for 179 yards for zero touchdowns. Jackson would run the ball for 90 yards for two touchdowns. Kenneth Dixon ran the ball for 117 yards for zero touchdowns. Cleveland played respectable football all year, maybe they might not be the butt of all jokes now.
TW: 10-3; CV: 10-3
Oakland 3, Kansas City 35: TW: Chiefs, CV: Chiefs
The light of the tunnel finally reached for Oakland in this game. Derek Carr threw the ball for 185 yards for two interceptions. Doug Martin ran the ball for the century mark at 100 yards on 21 carries. Patrick Mahomes threw the ball for 281 yards for two touchdowns and an interception. Damien Williams ran the ball for 51 yards with a touchdown. Tyreek Hill also got a rushing touchdown as well on a 15-yard play. Kansas City gets a week off.
TW: 11-3; CV: 11-3
LA Chargers 23, Denver 9: TW: Chargers, CV: Chargers
The Chargers still won the game despite some ineptitude on offense. Phillip Rivers threw the ball for 176 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. Austin Ekeler was the Chargers leading rusher with 58 yards and a touchdown. Case Keenum threw the ball for 292 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Royce Freeman ran the ball for 60 yards. Another losing season in Denver.
TW: 12-3; CV: 12-3
Indianapolis 33, Tennessee 17: TW: Titans, CV: Colts
Indy moves on to Wild Card weekend. Andrew Luck threw the ball for 285 yards with three touchdowns and an interception. Marlon Mack ran the ball for 119 yards with a touchdown. Blaine Gabbert got the start for the Titans. Gabbert threw the ball for 165 yards for a touchdown and two interceptions. Derrick Henry put up good numbers with his 93 rushing yards. Tennessee won't move on to next weekend.
TW: 12-4, CV: 13-3
Records:
Tom (me)
2018:
Week 1: 10-5-1
Week 2: 6-9-1
Week 3: 8-8
Week 4: 12-3
Week 5: 6-9
Week 6: 10-5
Week 7: 10-4
Week 8: 11-3
Week 9: 9-4
Week 10: 7-7
Week 11: 8-5
Week 12: 11-4
Week 13: 10-6
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 8-8
Week 16: 11-5
Week 17: 12-4
Overall: 156-98-2
Cardinal Viking
2018:
Week 1: 8-7-1
Week 2: 9-6-1
Week 3: 5-11
Week 4: 9-6
Week 5: 9-6
Week 6: 6-9
Week 7: 12-2
Week 8: 10-4
Week 9: 8-5
Week 10: 9-5
Week 11: 7-6
Week 12: 13-2
Week 13: 11-5
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 10-6
Week 16: 10-6
Week 17: 13-3
Overall: 156-98-2
I know I did promise to have this up on Tusday as it is Thursday. I will try to get the Wild Card + Preseason Prediction results up soon. Until then, see you soon!
-Tom
Dallas 36, NY Giants 35: TW: Cowboys, CV: Cowboys
It was an offensive game that put Dak Prescott against the entire Giants team. Jason Garrett rested Ezekiel Elliot and a few offensive linemen in the game. Ultimately it was Prescott that would give Dallas the win. Prescott threw the ball for 387 yards for four touchdowns. The Cowboys leading rusher was Rod Smith with 35 rushing yards and a touchdown. The Giants gave the 'Boys a fight. Eli Manning threw for 301 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Saquon Barkley would rush the ball for 109 yards with a touchdown. Wayne Gallman got a touchdown as well of his own while rushing for 23 yards. The Cowboys move on.
TW: 1-0; CV: 1-0
Carolina 33, New Orleans 14: TW: Saints, CV: Saints
The difficult part in predicting these games in week 17 is whether or not teams will rest their starters. This game was about as meaningless to the Saints as it was to the Panthers. The Panthers started Kyle Allen in his first NFL start. Allen had a great game throwing the ball for 228 yards for two touchdowns, at least until he injured his shoulder by Marcus Davenport before halftime. By then it was 23-0 at halftime. The Panthers got a boost in the running game with Cameron Artis-Payne rush for 56 yards and a touchdown. Teddy Bridgewater started the game for the Saints throwing the ball for 118 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Dwayne Washington rushed the ball for 106 yards. The Saints will have a bye week next week before their divisional game.
TW: 1-1; CV: 1-1
Atlanta 34, Tampa Bay 32: TW: Falcons, CV: Falcons
The game was a meaningless one for both. None of them were going to be playing next week. Matt Ryan threw the ball for 378 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Tevin Coleman got 45 yards rushing with a rushing touchdown. The Buccaneers got a good start out of Jameis Winston. Winston threw for 345 yards for four touchdowns and an interception. Peyton Barber got 66 rushing yards for zero touchdowns in the game. It was a shootout for the ages. Ultimately, Tampa will stay in the cellar of the NFC South for another year.
TW: 2-1; CV: 2-1
Detroit 31, Green Bay 0: TW: Packers, CV: Lions
Once again I pick the Packers, my team, and they fail to get the job done. Aaron Rodgers started the game throwing for 26 yards before getting a concussion. Deshone Kizer had some better stats throwing 132 yards with an interception. Kizer led the team in rushing with 40 yards. The Lions had better offensive stats. Matthew Stafford threw for 266 yards for two touchdowns while Matt Prater scored a touchdown on a fake field goal. Zach Zenner got 93 yards rushing with a touchdown in the game for the Lions. It'll be a cold winter in Green Bay, that's for sure.
TW: 2-2; CV: 3-1
Jacksonville 3, Houston 20: TW: Texans, CV: Texans
The season ends poorly for the Jaguars who were at this time last year a playoff team. Blake Bortles could only muster 107 passing yards with an interception. The quarterback led the team in rushing with 15. Deshaun Watson had a better day with 234 passing yards. Watson also got 66 rushing yards with a touchdown. Lamar Miller had 56 rushing yards with a touchdown of his own. Houston moves on to Wild Card.
TW: 3-2; CV: 4-1
NY Jets 3, New England 38: TW: Patriots, CV: Patriots
While the Patriots didn't get home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs, they still got a respectable 2nd seed. Sam Darnold threw for 167 yards for zero touchdowns. Elijah McGuire mustered 41 rushing yards for zero touchdowns. Tom Brady would throw for 250 yards for four touchdowns (three of them in the first half). Sony Michel ran the ball for 50 yards for zero touchdowns. New York stays home for another year while their rival gets a week off.
TW: 4-2; CV: 5-1
Miami 17, Buffalo 42: TW: Bills, CV: Dolphins
It was a dominating effort. At the start of the season, not a lot of people looked highly on the Buffalo Bills. I was one of them. Ryan Tannehill threw for 147 yards for two interceptions. Kalen Ballege was the Dolphins leading rusher with 47 yards. Kenny Stills was credited with a touchdown pass to Ryan Tannehill for three yards. Josh Allen gave the Bills 224 passing yards with three touchdowns and an interception (the pick was also a pick-six). Allen was also the Bills leading rusher with 95. Buffalo still finishes with a last-place mark in the AFC East.
TW: 5-2; CV: 5-2
San Francisco 32, LA Rams 48: TW: Rams, CV: Rams
The Rams have proven to be the NFL's best team all season long. It was a shootout to be sure. Nick Mullens had 282 yards passing with three touchdowns and interceptions. Former Redskin and Cowboy Alfred Morris had 111 yards rushing with a touchdown. Jared Goff threw the ball for 199 yards for four touchdowns. CJ Anderson rushed for 132 yards and a touchdown. San Francisco will stay at home while the Rams get a week off.
TW: 6-2; CV: 6-2
Philadelphia 24, Washington 0: TW: Eagles, CV: Eagles
Philadelphia had business to finish, then help would come. Nick Foles threw for 221 yards for two touchdowns and an interception. Nate Sudfeld would also get a touchdown from a 22-yard pass from Sudfeld to Nelson Aghalor. Wendell Smallwood rushed the ball for 53 yards for zero touchdowns. The Redskins on offense couldn't get a lot going. Josh Johnson only threw the ball for 91 yards with an interception. Chris Thompson could only get 10 rushing yards in the game for Washington.
TW: 7-2; CV: 7-2
Chicago 24, Minnesota 10: TW: Vikings, CV: Vikings
Most cases pointed to the Bears letting their foot off the gas. They didn't move a muscle. Mitchell Trubisky would throw the ball for 163 yards for zero touchdowns or interceptions. Jordan Howard ran the ball for 109 yards for two touchdowns. Tarik Cohen would get a touchdown of his own while rushing for 24 yards. Kirk Cousins got the start for the Vikings. Cousins threw the ball for 132 yards for a touchdown. The Vikings running game didn't get a lot going as Dalvin Cook ran the ball for 39 yards for zero touchdowns. The year ends in disappointment in Minnesota.
TW: 7-3; CV: 7-3
Arizona 24, Seattle 27: TW: Seahawks, CV: Seahawks
At the start of the season, the Seahawks looked to be in a rebuilding mode. After a 10-6 record, that talk diminished quickly. The Cardinals started Josh Rosen at quarterback. Rosen threw the ball for 149 yards for a touchdown. David Johnson ran the ball for 62 yards. Russell Wilson threw the ball for 152 yards for a touchdown and interception. The Seahawks running game was led by Chris Carson's 122 yards for a touchdown. Mike Davis also got the ball for 44 yards with a touchdown of his own. Seattle travels to Dallas on Saturday.
TW: 8-3; CV: 8-3
Cincinnati 13, Pittsburgh 16: TW: Steelers, CV: Steelers
Pittsburgh would win the game, however, they needed help to get a sniff at a playoff berth. Jake Driskell threw the ball for 95 yards for zero touchdowns. Joe Mixon was the Bengals leading rusher with 105 yards in the game. Ben Roethlisberger got 287 yards passing for a touchdown and an interception. James Conner would return to the team to start for the game. Conner got 64 rushing yards.
TW: 9-3; CV: 9-3
Cleveland 24, Baltimore 26: TW: Ravens, CV: Ravens
The Ravens kept it interesting in this one. Baker Mayfield threw the ball for 376 yards for three touchdowns and three interceptions. Nick Chubb couldn't quite get a lot going only rushing the ball for 24 yards. Lamar Jackson threw the ball for 179 yards for zero touchdowns. Jackson would run the ball for 90 yards for two touchdowns. Kenneth Dixon ran the ball for 117 yards for zero touchdowns. Cleveland played respectable football all year, maybe they might not be the butt of all jokes now.
TW: 10-3; CV: 10-3
Oakland 3, Kansas City 35: TW: Chiefs, CV: Chiefs
The light of the tunnel finally reached for Oakland in this game. Derek Carr threw the ball for 185 yards for two interceptions. Doug Martin ran the ball for the century mark at 100 yards on 21 carries. Patrick Mahomes threw the ball for 281 yards for two touchdowns and an interception. Damien Williams ran the ball for 51 yards with a touchdown. Tyreek Hill also got a rushing touchdown as well on a 15-yard play. Kansas City gets a week off.
TW: 11-3; CV: 11-3
LA Chargers 23, Denver 9: TW: Chargers, CV: Chargers
The Chargers still won the game despite some ineptitude on offense. Phillip Rivers threw the ball for 176 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. Austin Ekeler was the Chargers leading rusher with 58 yards and a touchdown. Case Keenum threw the ball for 292 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Royce Freeman ran the ball for 60 yards. Another losing season in Denver.
TW: 12-3; CV: 12-3
Indianapolis 33, Tennessee 17: TW: Titans, CV: Colts
Indy moves on to Wild Card weekend. Andrew Luck threw the ball for 285 yards with three touchdowns and an interception. Marlon Mack ran the ball for 119 yards with a touchdown. Blaine Gabbert got the start for the Titans. Gabbert threw the ball for 165 yards for a touchdown and two interceptions. Derrick Henry put up good numbers with his 93 rushing yards. Tennessee won't move on to next weekend.
TW: 12-4, CV: 13-3
Records:
Tom (me)
2018:
Week 1: 10-5-1
Week 2: 6-9-1
Week 3: 8-8
Week 4: 12-3
Week 5: 6-9
Week 6: 10-5
Week 7: 10-4
Week 8: 11-3
Week 9: 9-4
Week 10: 7-7
Week 11: 8-5
Week 12: 11-4
Week 13: 10-6
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 8-8
Week 16: 11-5
Week 17: 12-4
Overall: 156-98-2
Cardinal Viking
2018:
Week 1: 8-7-1
Week 2: 9-6-1
Week 3: 5-11
Week 4: 9-6
Week 5: 9-6
Week 6: 6-9
Week 7: 12-2
Week 8: 10-4
Week 9: 8-5
Week 10: 9-5
Week 11: 7-6
Week 12: 13-2
Week 13: 11-5
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 10-6
Week 16: 10-6
Week 17: 13-3
Overall: 156-98-2
I know I did promise to have this up on Tusday as it is Thursday. I will try to get the Wild Card + Preseason Prediction results up soon. Until then, see you soon!
-Tom
Saturday, December 29, 2018
NFL 2018 Week 17 Picks
Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action is soon upon us once more. The NFL is entering its 17th and final week of regular season competition. The final week of the season means most teams will try to play spoiler to those who are seeking playoff aspirations while the rest look to get into the postseason or rather get better seeding. In the column, I'll talk about the latest playoff picture, a cool video of the week and the picks for the week's games!
Playoff Picture: Week 17
AFC:
1st seed: Kansas City Chiefs (11-4)
2nd seed: New England Patriots (10-5)
3rd seed: Houston Texans (10-5)
4th seed: Baltimore Ravens (9-6)
5th seed: Los Angeles Chargers (11-4)
6th seed: Indianapolis Colts (9-6)
Wildcard:
Indianapolis @ Houston
LA Chargers @ Baltimore
Still alive:
Tennessee (9-6), Pittsburgh (8-6-1)
Eliminated:
Cleveland (7-7-1), Miami (7-8), Denver (6-9), Cincinnati (6-9), Buffalo (5-10), Jacksonville (5-10), NY Jets (4-11), Oakland (4-11)
The AFC playoffs are pretty much a wild bunch. You have Kansas City, New England and even Houston to contend for that Homefield advantage, 1st round bye spot. Baltimore can clinch the AFC North with a win and a Steeler loss or both teams taking the tie. Indianapolis could clinch a playoff berth with a win, a Baltimore loss + Indianapolis tie, or an Indy tie + Steelers loss or tie. A lot of scenarios to look out for.
NFC:
1st seed: New Orleans Saints (13-2)
2nd seed: LA Rams (12-3)
3rd seed: Chicago Bears (11-4)
4th seed: Dallas Cowboys (9-6)
5th seed: Seattle Seahawks (9-6)
6th seed: Minnesota Vikings (8-6-1)
Wildcard:
Minnesota @ Chicago
Seattle @ Dallas
Still alive:
Philadelphia (8-7)
Eliminated:
Washington (7-8), Green Bay (6-8-1), Atlanta (6-9), Carolina (6-9), NY Giants (5-10), Tampa Bay (5-10), Detroit (5-10), San Francisco (4-11), Arizona (3-12)
The NFC playoffs are a bit more defined. Homefield advantage went to the Saints while the division winners are in. The Seahawks are in the playoffs. It comes down to the Vikings and Eagles. The Vikings can clinch the playoffs with a win or tie or an Eagles loss or tie. Philadelphia would have to win and hope for a Vikings loss since the Vikings hold the tiebreaker.
Cool video of the week
Week 17 is the only week out of the season where both CBS and FOX will have both the early and late game slots. There will be seven early games, eight late games, and a Sunday night game. No teams are on a bye week, obviously. All the games are division games. Let's get to the picks!
Dallas (9-6) @ NY Giants (5-10) (FOX): TW: Cowboys, CV: Cowboys
The Cowboys got a win against the Buccaneers and the Giants lost to the Colts last week. It would seem fit to pick the Cowboys in the game as they do have a better defense this season and a great running game. I would suspect that Dak Prescott would have to have a great game this week to get to that 10-win mark.
Carolina (6-9) @ New Orleans (13-2) (FOX): TW: Saints, CV: Saints
The Panthers lost to the Falcons and the Saints beat the Steelers last week. The game will have Taylor Heinecke in at quarterback for the Panthers. The Superdome will be a loud environment and communication will be key for the Panthers to win. I don't like their chances to win as the Saints have a great running back tandem, a good pass attack and it doesn't spell well for the Panthers.
Atlanta (6-9) @ Tampa Bay (5-10) (FOX): TW: Falcons, CV: Falcons
The Falcons beat the Panthers and the Buccaneers lost to the Cowboys last week. The two teams look to avoid being in a possible last place in the division. The two teams possess two great pass offenses that use a lot of wide receivers. I feel it will be a shootout. I feel the Falcons will win based on that they have the momentum of a 2-game winning streak going for them.
Detroit (5-10) @ Green Bay (6-8-1) (FOX): TW: Packers, CV: Lions
The Lions lost to the Vikings and the Packers beat the Jets last week. The two teams won't be sniffing the playoffs but the rivalry still exists. The victor will need to control the ball well, not turn it over, and have balance in the offense. If the Packers defense can cause Matthew Stafford to be uncomfortable, they have a shot.
Jacksonville (5-10) @ Houston (10-5) (CBS): TW: Texans, CV: Texans
The Jaguars got a win against the Dolphins and the Texans lost to the Eagles. The Jaguars were a contender in the playoffs come the start of the season but have fallen off the earth. The Texans look legit as a playoff contender. I like the Texans in the game as they do have a solid offense that can put up a lot of yardage and a defense to match any in the NFL. Give me Houston!
NY Jets (4-11) @ New England (10-5) (CBS): TW: Patriots, CV: Patriots
The Jets lost to the Packers and the Patriots beat the Bills last week. The Jets still could play spoiler to a possible 1st round bye that the Patriots are looking for. The idea seems a bit farfetched but it could happen. I feel Bill Belichick will have his guys ready to do battle and be a focused group. A chance to get a bye would mean wonders. Overall I like New England as Tom Brady still is the quarterback and Sony Michel can still put up great numbers.
Miami (7-8) @ Buffalo (5-10) (CBS): TW: Bills, CV: Dolphins
The two teams took losses last week as the Dolphins lost to the Jaguars and the Bills lost to the Patriots. The game will be in Buffalo where the weather could be a factor to the warm weather Dolphins. Football wise, I like Buffalo's running game with Josh Allen playing both a passer and a runner. Bills have a good defense as well. I can't trust the Dolphins enough.
San Francisco (4-11) @ LA Rams (12-3) (FOX): TW: Rams, CV: Rams
The 49ers got a loss against the Bears and the Rams got a win against the Cardinals last week. The Rams have been the golden child of the league this season putting up numbers like crazy while stopping some great offenses as well. The Niners could get a win if the Rams rested their starters but I don't feel that will be the case. An undefeated division record would be a good mark for the Rams this season.
Philadelphia (8-7) @ Washington (7-8) (FOX): TW: Eagles, CV: Eagles
The Eagles got a win against the Texans and the Redskins lost to the Titans last week. The defending champs probably won't sniff the playoffs this season but I feel they will get a winning record after this game is done. Washington hasn't had a lot of success with the quarterback and Josh Johnson will have to have a great game against a banged-up Eagles defense. The Eagles are defending champs and you can never defy the heart of a champion.
Chicago (11-4) @ Minnesota (8-6-1) (FOX): TW: Vikings, CV: Vikings
The two teams got a win last week as the Bears beat the Niners and the Vikings beat the Lions. The game will be a loud one in the Twin Cities. The Bears have not had a lot of luck in Minnesota in recent years and I don't think that will change. Minnesota could have another opportunity to knock off the Bears next week in the Wild Card weekend game. If the Vikings can find success in the running game, they have a great shot to win.
Arizona (3-12) @ Seattle (9-6) (FOX): TW: Seahawks, CV: Seahawks
The Cardinals lost to the Rams and the Seahawks got a win against the Chiefs. The game will depend on if the Cardinals offense can stay on the field as the Seahawks have a legit offense. I can't trust the Cardinals enough to keep up with the Seahawks and to keep the ball safe. The Cardinals could still accidentally win the game.
Cincinnati (6-9) @ Pittsburgh (8-6-1) (CBS): TW: Steelers, CV: Steelers
The two teams lost last week as the Bengals lost to the Browns and the Steelers lost to the Saints. The Steelers are looking to get into the playoffs, the Bengals look to play spoiler to that plan. The Steelers still look like a legit playoff contender with Ben Roethlisberger and his group of wide receivers. The Steelers run game, their bread, and butter of old will need to get a good game as the Bengals will want to play spoiler.
Cleveland (7-7-1) @ Baltimore (9-6) (CBS): TW: Ravens, CV: Ravens
The Browns got a win against the Bengals and the Ravens got a win against the Chargers last week. The game will be a good one. Both teams have quite the good matchup at quarterback. They also have legit offenses. The Ravens defense is still better than the Browns I feel but it will be a close game. I like the Ravens in this one.
Oakland (4-11) @ Kansas City (11-4) (CBS): TW: Chiefs, CV: Chiefs
The Raiders got a win against the Broncos and the Chiefs lost to the Seahawks last week. The Chiefs still have a legit pass offense with Patrick Mahomes. The real question is how well of an effective running game will the Chiefs get this week and beyond. The Chiefs need to get momentum back on their side. The Raiders could play spoiler in the game but I like the Chiefs in the matchup.
LA Chargers (11-4) @ Denver (6-9) (CBS): TW: Chargers, CV: Chargers
The two teams lost last week as the Chargers lost to the Ravens and the Broncos lost to the Raiders. The game will be a huge momentum boost for the Chargers if they win. They will more than likely have to play on the road the rest of the season should they stay at the #5 spot in the AFC playoffs. The Chargers have a good offense, a balanced offense on run and pass. I feel it will depend on how well the Chargers defense can react to the running attack of the Broncos.
Indianapolis (9-6) @ Tennessee (9-6) (NBC): TW: Titans, CV: Colts
The two teams got a win last week as the Colts beat the Giants and the Titans beat the Redskins. The two teams are at 9-6. The winner will get the AFC South title, the loser may possibly make the playoffs but it will depend on the results of the early/late games. The Titans have quite an offensive repertoire that involves running plays from Derrick Henry, Marcus Mariota and Dion Lewis. As well as some pass weapons. It could have an impact if Blaine Gabbert is the starter. Its a toss-up game.
Local TV Schedule (via 506sports.com, subject to change):
CBS Early:
NY Jets @ New England
Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts
CBS Late:
Cleveland @ Baltimore
Jim Nantz, Tony Romo
FOX Early:
Detroit @ Green Bay
Justin Kutcher, Robert Smith, Pat McAfee
FOX Late:
Chicago @ Minnesota
Joe Buck, Troy Aikman
See you guys on Tuesday for the recap of the week's games. Have a happy new year!
-Tom
Playoff Picture: Week 17
AFC:
1st seed: Kansas City Chiefs (11-4)
2nd seed: New England Patriots (10-5)
3rd seed: Houston Texans (10-5)
4th seed: Baltimore Ravens (9-6)
5th seed: Los Angeles Chargers (11-4)
6th seed: Indianapolis Colts (9-6)
Wildcard:
Indianapolis @ Houston
LA Chargers @ Baltimore
Still alive:
Tennessee (9-6), Pittsburgh (8-6-1)
Eliminated:
Cleveland (7-7-1), Miami (7-8), Denver (6-9), Cincinnati (6-9), Buffalo (5-10), Jacksonville (5-10), NY Jets (4-11), Oakland (4-11)
The AFC playoffs are pretty much a wild bunch. You have Kansas City, New England and even Houston to contend for that Homefield advantage, 1st round bye spot. Baltimore can clinch the AFC North with a win and a Steeler loss or both teams taking the tie. Indianapolis could clinch a playoff berth with a win, a Baltimore loss + Indianapolis tie, or an Indy tie + Steelers loss or tie. A lot of scenarios to look out for.
NFC:
1st seed: New Orleans Saints (13-2)
2nd seed: LA Rams (12-3)
3rd seed: Chicago Bears (11-4)
4th seed: Dallas Cowboys (9-6)
5th seed: Seattle Seahawks (9-6)
6th seed: Minnesota Vikings (8-6-1)
Wildcard:
Minnesota @ Chicago
Seattle @ Dallas
Still alive:
Philadelphia (8-7)
Eliminated:
Washington (7-8), Green Bay (6-8-1), Atlanta (6-9), Carolina (6-9), NY Giants (5-10), Tampa Bay (5-10), Detroit (5-10), San Francisco (4-11), Arizona (3-12)
The NFC playoffs are a bit more defined. Homefield advantage went to the Saints while the division winners are in. The Seahawks are in the playoffs. It comes down to the Vikings and Eagles. The Vikings can clinch the playoffs with a win or tie or an Eagles loss or tie. Philadelphia would have to win and hope for a Vikings loss since the Vikings hold the tiebreaker.
Cool video of the week
While the video is a best-of Midseason video (I couldn't find a full season highlight video), it should still send the message of what was a great and memorable season in the NFL. While there is one more week to go in the season, its fun to look back and see the highlights of what was this season. Enjoy.
Week 17 Picks!
Dallas (9-6) @ NY Giants (5-10) (FOX): TW: Cowboys, CV: Cowboys
The Cowboys got a win against the Buccaneers and the Giants lost to the Colts last week. It would seem fit to pick the Cowboys in the game as they do have a better defense this season and a great running game. I would suspect that Dak Prescott would have to have a great game this week to get to that 10-win mark.
Carolina (6-9) @ New Orleans (13-2) (FOX): TW: Saints, CV: Saints
The Panthers lost to the Falcons and the Saints beat the Steelers last week. The game will have Taylor Heinecke in at quarterback for the Panthers. The Superdome will be a loud environment and communication will be key for the Panthers to win. I don't like their chances to win as the Saints have a great running back tandem, a good pass attack and it doesn't spell well for the Panthers.
Atlanta (6-9) @ Tampa Bay (5-10) (FOX): TW: Falcons, CV: Falcons
The Falcons beat the Panthers and the Buccaneers lost to the Cowboys last week. The two teams look to avoid being in a possible last place in the division. The two teams possess two great pass offenses that use a lot of wide receivers. I feel it will be a shootout. I feel the Falcons will win based on that they have the momentum of a 2-game winning streak going for them.
Detroit (5-10) @ Green Bay (6-8-1) (FOX): TW: Packers, CV: Lions
The Lions lost to the Vikings and the Packers beat the Jets last week. The two teams won't be sniffing the playoffs but the rivalry still exists. The victor will need to control the ball well, not turn it over, and have balance in the offense. If the Packers defense can cause Matthew Stafford to be uncomfortable, they have a shot.
Jacksonville (5-10) @ Houston (10-5) (CBS): TW: Texans, CV: Texans
The Jaguars got a win against the Dolphins and the Texans lost to the Eagles. The Jaguars were a contender in the playoffs come the start of the season but have fallen off the earth. The Texans look legit as a playoff contender. I like the Texans in the game as they do have a solid offense that can put up a lot of yardage and a defense to match any in the NFL. Give me Houston!
NY Jets (4-11) @ New England (10-5) (CBS): TW: Patriots, CV: Patriots
The Jets lost to the Packers and the Patriots beat the Bills last week. The Jets still could play spoiler to a possible 1st round bye that the Patriots are looking for. The idea seems a bit farfetched but it could happen. I feel Bill Belichick will have his guys ready to do battle and be a focused group. A chance to get a bye would mean wonders. Overall I like New England as Tom Brady still is the quarterback and Sony Michel can still put up great numbers.
Miami (7-8) @ Buffalo (5-10) (CBS): TW: Bills, CV: Dolphins
The two teams took losses last week as the Dolphins lost to the Jaguars and the Bills lost to the Patriots. The game will be in Buffalo where the weather could be a factor to the warm weather Dolphins. Football wise, I like Buffalo's running game with Josh Allen playing both a passer and a runner. Bills have a good defense as well. I can't trust the Dolphins enough.
San Francisco (4-11) @ LA Rams (12-3) (FOX): TW: Rams, CV: Rams
The 49ers got a loss against the Bears and the Rams got a win against the Cardinals last week. The Rams have been the golden child of the league this season putting up numbers like crazy while stopping some great offenses as well. The Niners could get a win if the Rams rested their starters but I don't feel that will be the case. An undefeated division record would be a good mark for the Rams this season.
Philadelphia (8-7) @ Washington (7-8) (FOX): TW: Eagles, CV: Eagles
The Eagles got a win against the Texans and the Redskins lost to the Titans last week. The defending champs probably won't sniff the playoffs this season but I feel they will get a winning record after this game is done. Washington hasn't had a lot of success with the quarterback and Josh Johnson will have to have a great game against a banged-up Eagles defense. The Eagles are defending champs and you can never defy the heart of a champion.
Chicago (11-4) @ Minnesota (8-6-1) (FOX): TW: Vikings, CV: Vikings
The two teams got a win last week as the Bears beat the Niners and the Vikings beat the Lions. The game will be a loud one in the Twin Cities. The Bears have not had a lot of luck in Minnesota in recent years and I don't think that will change. Minnesota could have another opportunity to knock off the Bears next week in the Wild Card weekend game. If the Vikings can find success in the running game, they have a great shot to win.
Arizona (3-12) @ Seattle (9-6) (FOX): TW: Seahawks, CV: Seahawks
The Cardinals lost to the Rams and the Seahawks got a win against the Chiefs. The game will depend on if the Cardinals offense can stay on the field as the Seahawks have a legit offense. I can't trust the Cardinals enough to keep up with the Seahawks and to keep the ball safe. The Cardinals could still accidentally win the game.
Cincinnati (6-9) @ Pittsburgh (8-6-1) (CBS): TW: Steelers, CV: Steelers
The two teams lost last week as the Bengals lost to the Browns and the Steelers lost to the Saints. The Steelers are looking to get into the playoffs, the Bengals look to play spoiler to that plan. The Steelers still look like a legit playoff contender with Ben Roethlisberger and his group of wide receivers. The Steelers run game, their bread, and butter of old will need to get a good game as the Bengals will want to play spoiler.
Cleveland (7-7-1) @ Baltimore (9-6) (CBS): TW: Ravens, CV: Ravens
The Browns got a win against the Bengals and the Ravens got a win against the Chargers last week. The game will be a good one. Both teams have quite the good matchup at quarterback. They also have legit offenses. The Ravens defense is still better than the Browns I feel but it will be a close game. I like the Ravens in this one.
Oakland (4-11) @ Kansas City (11-4) (CBS): TW: Chiefs, CV: Chiefs
The Raiders got a win against the Broncos and the Chiefs lost to the Seahawks last week. The Chiefs still have a legit pass offense with Patrick Mahomes. The real question is how well of an effective running game will the Chiefs get this week and beyond. The Chiefs need to get momentum back on their side. The Raiders could play spoiler in the game but I like the Chiefs in the matchup.
LA Chargers (11-4) @ Denver (6-9) (CBS): TW: Chargers, CV: Chargers
The two teams lost last week as the Chargers lost to the Ravens and the Broncos lost to the Raiders. The game will be a huge momentum boost for the Chargers if they win. They will more than likely have to play on the road the rest of the season should they stay at the #5 spot in the AFC playoffs. The Chargers have a good offense, a balanced offense on run and pass. I feel it will depend on how well the Chargers defense can react to the running attack of the Broncos.
Indianapolis (9-6) @ Tennessee (9-6) (NBC): TW: Titans, CV: Colts
The two teams got a win last week as the Colts beat the Giants and the Titans beat the Redskins. The two teams are at 9-6. The winner will get the AFC South title, the loser may possibly make the playoffs but it will depend on the results of the early/late games. The Titans have quite an offensive repertoire that involves running plays from Derrick Henry, Marcus Mariota and Dion Lewis. As well as some pass weapons. It could have an impact if Blaine Gabbert is the starter. Its a toss-up game.
Local TV Schedule (via 506sports.com, subject to change):
CBS Early:
NY Jets @ New England
Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts
CBS Late:
Cleveland @ Baltimore
Jim Nantz, Tony Romo
FOX Early:
Detroit @ Green Bay
Justin Kutcher, Robert Smith, Pat McAfee
FOX Late:
Chicago @ Minnesota
Joe Buck, Troy Aikman
See you guys on Tuesday for the recap of the week's games. Have a happy new year!
-Tom
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
NFL 2018 Week 16 Recap
Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action has passed us by. The holiday rush is over, the gift unwrapping is over, the carolers are silent, and Santa can sleep easy again for another year. In this column, I'll be recapping the week's action. Let's get to work!
Washington 16, Tennessee 25: TW: Titans, CV: Titans
The game was somewhat a duel between Adrian Peterson and Derrick Henry. It was still a pass offense-happy game though. Peterson did run for 119 yards for 0 touchdowns, a respectable effort. Henry would run for 84 yards with a touchdown. Obviously, Washington's defense would try to contain Henry as Henry's longest run was for 18 yards. Josh Johnson threw for 153 yards for a touchdown while throwing two interceptions. Marcus Mariota would throw the ball for 110 yards before getting injured. Blaine Gabbert would carry the load while throwing 101 yards for a touchdown. The Titans playoff hopes are still alive.
Week 17: Washington: vs Philadelphia; Tennessee: vs Indianapolis
TW: 1-0; CV: 1-0
Baltimore 22, LA Chargers 10: TW: Chargers, CV: Chargers
It was a game that the Ravens needed to win to stay alive. They answered the call. The Ravens defense would hold the Chargers for 198 total yards. Lamar Jackson would throw for 204 yards for a touchdown. The Ravens leading rusher was Gus Edwards for 92 yards. Philip Rivers would throw the ball for 181 yards while throwing two interceptions. Melvin Gordon would run the ball for 41 yards while scoring the only touchdown for the Chargers in that game. Tough go-around for the Chargers.
Week 17: Baltimore: vs Cleveland; LA Chargers: @ Denver
TW: 1-1; CV: 1-1
Jacksonville 17, Miami 7: TW: Dolphins, CV: Dolphins
It was a bit of redemption for Blake Bortles in this game. To a degree. Cody Kessler would start the game with 106 yards in the effort with zero touchdowns. Bortles would throw for 39 yards while scoring no touchdowns. Carlos Hyde and Leonard Fournette would give the Jaguars rushing attack some help with 47 and 43 yards respectively. Fournette would score a touchdown as well. Ryan Tannehill threw for 146 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The Dolphins rushing game would get not a lot of help in the game as Kenyan Drake would run for 23 yards on six carries. Not the effort that Dolphins fans had hoped.
Week 17: Jacksonville: @ Houston; Miami: @ Buffalo
TW: 1-2; CV: 1-2
Houston 30, Philadelphia 32: TW: Texans, CV: Texans
The game ended up being a shootout. A really good game nonetheless. Deshaun Watson threw the ball for 339 yards while putting up two touchdowns. The Texans running game didn't get a lot going as Watson ran for 49 yards, while Alfred Blue put up only 14. Nick Foles was vintage Nick Foles throwing the ball for 471 yards while putting up four touchdowns and an interception. Darren Sproles would give the Eagles some help with 32 rushing yards on nine carries. The 471 yards by Foles was a new franchise record for passing yards in a game. Insane!
Week 17: Houston: vs Jacksonville; Philadelphia: @ Washington
TW: 1-3; CV: 1-3
Minnesota 27, Detroit 9: TW: Vikings, CV: Vikings
The Vikings needed a win to stay in the wild card hunt and they stepped up in a desperation game. Kirk Cousins threw the ball for 253 yards with three touchdowns. Dalvin Cook would run the ball for 73 yards, giving the Vikings some help in an already balanced attack. It was a lackluster effort on offense for the Lions. Matthew Stafford would only throw the ball for 116 yards and zero touchdowns. Zach Zenner was the Lions leading rusher with 45 yards on eight carries.
Week 17: Minnesota: vs Chicago; Detroit: @ Green Bay
TW: 2-3; CV: 2-3
Tampa Bay 20, Dallas 27: TW: Cowboys, CV: Cowboys
The Cowboys would lock up the NFC East, a nice prize after a hectic season. Jameis Winston threw for 336 yards with a touchdown in the game. Peyton Barber was the Buccaneers leading rusher with 43 yards with zero touchdowns. Jaquizz Rodgers did score a touchdown in the game while putting up two yards. Dak Prescott threw the pigskin for 161 yards and a touchdown pass of his own. He would also score a rushing touchdown as well. Ezekiel Elliot was the leading rusher for the Boys with 85 yards. Dallas will host a playoff game in the Wild Card round of the playoffs.
Week 17: Tampa Bay: vs Atlanta; Dallas: @ NY Giants
TW: 3-3; CV: 3-3
Green Bay 44, NY Jets 38 (F/OT): TW: Packers, CV: Jets
The game was a wild one. It was a game that I had some doubt that the Packers could win but nevertheless, they did. Aaron Rodgers would throw the ball for 444 yards with two touchdowns. Rodgers would score two rushing touchdowns as well. The Packers leading rusher was Jamaal Williams with 95 yards with a touchdown. The Jets got a great effort from Sam Darnold who threw for 341 yards with three touchdowns. Elijah McGuire had 35 yards with a touchdown. The win was the Packers first road win dating back to last season.
Week 17: Green Bay: vs Detroit; NY Jets: @ New England
TW: 4-3; CV: 3-4
NY Giants 27, Indianapolis 28: TW: Colts, CV: Colts
The game was a great one as Andrew Luck willed his team to a possible playoff berth. Andrew Luck got 357 yards for two touchdowns while throwing the ball. He did throw an interception in the game. Marlon Mack got 34 yards rushing with a touchdown in the game. Eli Manning had 309 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the game for the Giants. Saquon Barkley would run the ball for 43 yards for a touchdown. Barkley would out-gain Mack in the game.
Week 17: NY Giants: vs Dallas; Indianapolis: @ Tennessee
TW: 5-3; CV: 4-4
Cincinnati 18, Cleveland 26: TW: Browns, CV: Browns
The Browns would sweep their neighbors to the south of Ohio for the first time since 2002. The Bengals got some help in the passing game from Jake Driskell. Driskell would throw the ball for 133 yards and two touchdowns. Joe Mixon would run the ball for 68 yards. Baker Mayfield threw the ball for 284 yards on three touchdowns. Nick Chubb ran the ball for 112 yards with zero touchdowns. It was a far cry from the time two years ago when the Browns got their first win on Christmas Eve against the Chargers.
Week 17: Cincinnati: @ Pittsburgh; Cleveland: @ Baltimore
TW: 6-3; CV: 5-4
Atlanta 24, Carolina 10: TW: Falcons, CV: Falcons
There was a time when the Panthers were 6-2, after this game it would be their 7th straight loss. The Falcons got a great effort from Matt Ryan who threw the ball for 239 yards on three touchdowns. The Falcons got a great boost on the running game with Brian Hill running the ball for 115 yards. The Panthers started Taylor Heineke at quarterback. The QB threw for 274 yards with a touchdown pass. He threw three interceptions in the game. Christian McCaffrey got the Panthers help while running the ball for 101 yards on 21 carries. Both teams are now at 6-9, how crazy.
Week 17: Atlanta: @ Tampa Bay; Carolina: @ New Orleans
TW: 7-3; CV: 6-4
Buffalo 12, New England 24: TW: Patriots, CV: Patriots
The Patriots would get their 10th straight AFC East title after this game. Josh Allen had 217 yards passing the ball with a touchdown pass and throwing two interceptions. Keith Ford would run the ball for 33 yards with zero touchdowns. Tom Brady had an off game while throwing the ball for 126 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. Sony Michel would help pick up the slack for the Pats with his 116 yards while compiling a touchdown of his own. It was more of a defensive effort for the Patriots than the usual offensive game. Then again Buffalo isn't that great.
Week 17: Buffalo: vs Miami; New England: vs NY Jets
TW: 8-3; CV: 7-4
Chicago 14, San Francisco 9: TW: Bears, CV: Bears
It was more of a defensive game than the one that some expected to see. The Bears defense kept the 49ers at bay while the Bears offense gave them enough points to win. Mitchell Trubisky threw the ball 246 yards with a touchdown pass. The Bears leading rusher was Jordan Howard with 53 yards with a touchdown of his own. The Niners quarterback Nick Mullens had a similar game with 241 yards passing with an interception. Jeff Wilson was the 49ers leading man in rushing with 27 yards. The Bears would be the 3rd seed in the NFC playoffs.
Week 17: Chicago: @ Minnesota; San Francisco: @ LA Rams
TW: 9-3; CV: 8-4
LA Rams 31, Arizona 9: TW: Rams, CV: Rams
It was a game that most people would expect to turn in the Rams favor. Jared Goff threw the ball for 216 yards with a touchdown in the game. CJ Anderson would start the game for the Rams in place of the injured Todd Gurley and Anderson didn't lose a step in the game. He racked up 167 yards with a touchdown. Robert Woods and Goff would also score a rushing touchdown for the Rams. The Cardinals had trouble finding stability at quarterback as Josh Rosen threw the ball for 87 yards, Mike Glennon threw for 63 yards and Larry Fitzgerald would see some time throwing the ball, scoring the only touchdown for the Cardinals on a 32-yard pass to David Johnson. One more week to go Arizona!
Week 17: LA Rams: vs San Francisco; Arizona: @ Seattle
TW: 10-3; CV: 9-4
Pittsburgh 28, New Orleans 31: TW: Saints, CV: Saints
The game that a lot of people had their eye on. Some wanted the Steelers to win, some wanted the Saints to win. Ben Roethlisberger attempted to throw the ball for nearly 50 times while compiling 380 yards passing on three touchdowns. The Steelers running game wasn't too much of a factor as Jaylen Samuels only ran for 53 yards. Drew Brees had a good day throwing the ball for 326 yards with a touchdown. The Saints running back duo in Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram ran the ball for 35 and 23 yards respectively. Ingram scored a touchdown while Kamara scored two. The Saints locked up the #1 seed in the NFC playoffs.
Week 17: Pittsburgh: vs Cincinnati; New Orleans: vs Carolina
TW: 11-3; CV: 10-4
Kansas City 31, Seattle 38: TW: Chiefs, CV: Chiefs
Defensive troubles continue to haunt the Chiefs in a time when momentum is huge going into the playoffs. The Chiefs got a great game offensively. Patrick Mahomes had 273 yards passing the ball for three touchdowns. Damien Williams had 103 yards rushing on 13 carries. Russell Wilson threw for 271 yards on three touchdowns of his own with zero interceptions. Chris Carson ran the ball for 116 yards with two touchdowns against the Chiefs. The Seahawks locked up a playoff spot as they will most likely play Dallas in the Wild Card game in a few weeks.
Week 17: Kansas City: vs Oakland; Seattle: vs Arizona
TW: 11-4; CV: 10-5
Denver 14, Oakland 27: TW: Broncos, CV: Broncos
With the possibility of playing in Oakland for the last time, the Raiders gave their fans something to celebrate. The Broncos passing game comprised of Case Keenum throwing the ball for 202 yards with two touchdowns while throwing two interceptions. Philip Lindsey would run the ball for 46 yards with zero touchdowns. Derek Carr threw the ball for 167 yards for zero touchdowns. The Raiders running game was led by Doug Martin running the ball for 107 yards with a touchdown. Jalen Richard would also score a touchdown in the game for the Black & Silver. Richard ran the ball for 11 yards.
Week 17: Denver: vs LA Chargers; Oakland: @ Kansas City
TW: 11-5; CV: 10-6
Records:
Tom (me)
2018:
Week 1: 10-5-1
Week 2: 6-9-1
Week 3: 8-8
Week 4: 12-3
Week 5: 6-9
Week 6: 10-5
Week 7: 10-4
Week 8: 11-3
Week 9: 9-4
Week 10: 7-7
Week 11: 8-5
Week 12: 11-4
Week 13: 10-6
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 8-8
Week 16: 11-5
Overall: 144-94-2
Cardinal Viking
2018:
Week 1: 8-7-1
Week 2: 9-6-1
Week 3: 5-11
Week 4: 9-6
Week 5: 9-6
Week 6: 6-9
Week 7: 12-2
Week 8: 10-4
Week 9: 8-5
Week 10: 9-5
Week 11: 7-6
Week 12: 13-2
Week 13: 11-5
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 10-6
Week 16: 10-6
Overall: 143-95-2
I'll see you guys on Friday for the Week 17 picks column! See you guys in a few days.
-Tom
Washington 16, Tennessee 25: TW: Titans, CV: Titans
The game was somewhat a duel between Adrian Peterson and Derrick Henry. It was still a pass offense-happy game though. Peterson did run for 119 yards for 0 touchdowns, a respectable effort. Henry would run for 84 yards with a touchdown. Obviously, Washington's defense would try to contain Henry as Henry's longest run was for 18 yards. Josh Johnson threw for 153 yards for a touchdown while throwing two interceptions. Marcus Mariota would throw the ball for 110 yards before getting injured. Blaine Gabbert would carry the load while throwing 101 yards for a touchdown. The Titans playoff hopes are still alive.
Week 17: Washington: vs Philadelphia; Tennessee: vs Indianapolis
TW: 1-0; CV: 1-0
Baltimore 22, LA Chargers 10: TW: Chargers, CV: Chargers
It was a game that the Ravens needed to win to stay alive. They answered the call. The Ravens defense would hold the Chargers for 198 total yards. Lamar Jackson would throw for 204 yards for a touchdown. The Ravens leading rusher was Gus Edwards for 92 yards. Philip Rivers would throw the ball for 181 yards while throwing two interceptions. Melvin Gordon would run the ball for 41 yards while scoring the only touchdown for the Chargers in that game. Tough go-around for the Chargers.
Week 17: Baltimore: vs Cleveland; LA Chargers: @ Denver
TW: 1-1; CV: 1-1
Jacksonville 17, Miami 7: TW: Dolphins, CV: Dolphins
It was a bit of redemption for Blake Bortles in this game. To a degree. Cody Kessler would start the game with 106 yards in the effort with zero touchdowns. Bortles would throw for 39 yards while scoring no touchdowns. Carlos Hyde and Leonard Fournette would give the Jaguars rushing attack some help with 47 and 43 yards respectively. Fournette would score a touchdown as well. Ryan Tannehill threw for 146 yards with a touchdown and an interception. The Dolphins rushing game would get not a lot of help in the game as Kenyan Drake would run for 23 yards on six carries. Not the effort that Dolphins fans had hoped.
Week 17: Jacksonville: @ Houston; Miami: @ Buffalo
TW: 1-2; CV: 1-2
Houston 30, Philadelphia 32: TW: Texans, CV: Texans
The game ended up being a shootout. A really good game nonetheless. Deshaun Watson threw the ball for 339 yards while putting up two touchdowns. The Texans running game didn't get a lot going as Watson ran for 49 yards, while Alfred Blue put up only 14. Nick Foles was vintage Nick Foles throwing the ball for 471 yards while putting up four touchdowns and an interception. Darren Sproles would give the Eagles some help with 32 rushing yards on nine carries. The 471 yards by Foles was a new franchise record for passing yards in a game. Insane!
Week 17: Houston: vs Jacksonville; Philadelphia: @ Washington
TW: 1-3; CV: 1-3
Minnesota 27, Detroit 9: TW: Vikings, CV: Vikings
The Vikings needed a win to stay in the wild card hunt and they stepped up in a desperation game. Kirk Cousins threw the ball for 253 yards with three touchdowns. Dalvin Cook would run the ball for 73 yards, giving the Vikings some help in an already balanced attack. It was a lackluster effort on offense for the Lions. Matthew Stafford would only throw the ball for 116 yards and zero touchdowns. Zach Zenner was the Lions leading rusher with 45 yards on eight carries.
Week 17: Minnesota: vs Chicago; Detroit: @ Green Bay
TW: 2-3; CV: 2-3
Tampa Bay 20, Dallas 27: TW: Cowboys, CV: Cowboys
The Cowboys would lock up the NFC East, a nice prize after a hectic season. Jameis Winston threw for 336 yards with a touchdown in the game. Peyton Barber was the Buccaneers leading rusher with 43 yards with zero touchdowns. Jaquizz Rodgers did score a touchdown in the game while putting up two yards. Dak Prescott threw the pigskin for 161 yards and a touchdown pass of his own. He would also score a rushing touchdown as well. Ezekiel Elliot was the leading rusher for the Boys with 85 yards. Dallas will host a playoff game in the Wild Card round of the playoffs.
Week 17: Tampa Bay: vs Atlanta; Dallas: @ NY Giants
TW: 3-3; CV: 3-3
Green Bay 44, NY Jets 38 (F/OT): TW: Packers, CV: Jets
The game was a wild one. It was a game that I had some doubt that the Packers could win but nevertheless, they did. Aaron Rodgers would throw the ball for 444 yards with two touchdowns. Rodgers would score two rushing touchdowns as well. The Packers leading rusher was Jamaal Williams with 95 yards with a touchdown. The Jets got a great effort from Sam Darnold who threw for 341 yards with three touchdowns. Elijah McGuire had 35 yards with a touchdown. The win was the Packers first road win dating back to last season.
Week 17: Green Bay: vs Detroit; NY Jets: @ New England
TW: 4-3; CV: 3-4
NY Giants 27, Indianapolis 28: TW: Colts, CV: Colts
The game was a great one as Andrew Luck willed his team to a possible playoff berth. Andrew Luck got 357 yards for two touchdowns while throwing the ball. He did throw an interception in the game. Marlon Mack got 34 yards rushing with a touchdown in the game. Eli Manning had 309 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the game for the Giants. Saquon Barkley would run the ball for 43 yards for a touchdown. Barkley would out-gain Mack in the game.
Week 17: NY Giants: vs Dallas; Indianapolis: @ Tennessee
TW: 5-3; CV: 4-4
Cincinnati 18, Cleveland 26: TW: Browns, CV: Browns
The Browns would sweep their neighbors to the south of Ohio for the first time since 2002. The Bengals got some help in the passing game from Jake Driskell. Driskell would throw the ball for 133 yards and two touchdowns. Joe Mixon would run the ball for 68 yards. Baker Mayfield threw the ball for 284 yards on three touchdowns. Nick Chubb ran the ball for 112 yards with zero touchdowns. It was a far cry from the time two years ago when the Browns got their first win on Christmas Eve against the Chargers.
Week 17: Cincinnati: @ Pittsburgh; Cleveland: @ Baltimore
TW: 6-3; CV: 5-4
Atlanta 24, Carolina 10: TW: Falcons, CV: Falcons
There was a time when the Panthers were 6-2, after this game it would be their 7th straight loss. The Falcons got a great effort from Matt Ryan who threw the ball for 239 yards on three touchdowns. The Falcons got a great boost on the running game with Brian Hill running the ball for 115 yards. The Panthers started Taylor Heineke at quarterback. The QB threw for 274 yards with a touchdown pass. He threw three interceptions in the game. Christian McCaffrey got the Panthers help while running the ball for 101 yards on 21 carries. Both teams are now at 6-9, how crazy.
Week 17: Atlanta: @ Tampa Bay; Carolina: @ New Orleans
TW: 7-3; CV: 6-4
Buffalo 12, New England 24: TW: Patriots, CV: Patriots
The Patriots would get their 10th straight AFC East title after this game. Josh Allen had 217 yards passing the ball with a touchdown pass and throwing two interceptions. Keith Ford would run the ball for 33 yards with zero touchdowns. Tom Brady had an off game while throwing the ball for 126 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. Sony Michel would help pick up the slack for the Pats with his 116 yards while compiling a touchdown of his own. It was more of a defensive effort for the Patriots than the usual offensive game. Then again Buffalo isn't that great.
Week 17: Buffalo: vs Miami; New England: vs NY Jets
TW: 8-3; CV: 7-4
Chicago 14, San Francisco 9: TW: Bears, CV: Bears
It was more of a defensive game than the one that some expected to see. The Bears defense kept the 49ers at bay while the Bears offense gave them enough points to win. Mitchell Trubisky threw the ball 246 yards with a touchdown pass. The Bears leading rusher was Jordan Howard with 53 yards with a touchdown of his own. The Niners quarterback Nick Mullens had a similar game with 241 yards passing with an interception. Jeff Wilson was the 49ers leading man in rushing with 27 yards. The Bears would be the 3rd seed in the NFC playoffs.
Week 17: Chicago: @ Minnesota; San Francisco: @ LA Rams
TW: 9-3; CV: 8-4
LA Rams 31, Arizona 9: TW: Rams, CV: Rams
It was a game that most people would expect to turn in the Rams favor. Jared Goff threw the ball for 216 yards with a touchdown in the game. CJ Anderson would start the game for the Rams in place of the injured Todd Gurley and Anderson didn't lose a step in the game. He racked up 167 yards with a touchdown. Robert Woods and Goff would also score a rushing touchdown for the Rams. The Cardinals had trouble finding stability at quarterback as Josh Rosen threw the ball for 87 yards, Mike Glennon threw for 63 yards and Larry Fitzgerald would see some time throwing the ball, scoring the only touchdown for the Cardinals on a 32-yard pass to David Johnson. One more week to go Arizona!
Week 17: LA Rams: vs San Francisco; Arizona: @ Seattle
TW: 10-3; CV: 9-4
Pittsburgh 28, New Orleans 31: TW: Saints, CV: Saints
The game that a lot of people had their eye on. Some wanted the Steelers to win, some wanted the Saints to win. Ben Roethlisberger attempted to throw the ball for nearly 50 times while compiling 380 yards passing on three touchdowns. The Steelers running game wasn't too much of a factor as Jaylen Samuels only ran for 53 yards. Drew Brees had a good day throwing the ball for 326 yards with a touchdown. The Saints running back duo in Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram ran the ball for 35 and 23 yards respectively. Ingram scored a touchdown while Kamara scored two. The Saints locked up the #1 seed in the NFC playoffs.
Week 17: Pittsburgh: vs Cincinnati; New Orleans: vs Carolina
TW: 11-3; CV: 10-4
Kansas City 31, Seattle 38: TW: Chiefs, CV: Chiefs
Defensive troubles continue to haunt the Chiefs in a time when momentum is huge going into the playoffs. The Chiefs got a great game offensively. Patrick Mahomes had 273 yards passing the ball for three touchdowns. Damien Williams had 103 yards rushing on 13 carries. Russell Wilson threw for 271 yards on three touchdowns of his own with zero interceptions. Chris Carson ran the ball for 116 yards with two touchdowns against the Chiefs. The Seahawks locked up a playoff spot as they will most likely play Dallas in the Wild Card game in a few weeks.
Week 17: Kansas City: vs Oakland; Seattle: vs Arizona
TW: 11-4; CV: 10-5
Denver 14, Oakland 27: TW: Broncos, CV: Broncos
With the possibility of playing in Oakland for the last time, the Raiders gave their fans something to celebrate. The Broncos passing game comprised of Case Keenum throwing the ball for 202 yards with two touchdowns while throwing two interceptions. Philip Lindsey would run the ball for 46 yards with zero touchdowns. Derek Carr threw the ball for 167 yards for zero touchdowns. The Raiders running game was led by Doug Martin running the ball for 107 yards with a touchdown. Jalen Richard would also score a touchdown in the game for the Black & Silver. Richard ran the ball for 11 yards.
Week 17: Denver: vs LA Chargers; Oakland: @ Kansas City
TW: 11-5; CV: 10-6
Records:
Tom (me)
2018:
Week 1: 10-5-1
Week 2: 6-9-1
Week 3: 8-8
Week 4: 12-3
Week 5: 6-9
Week 6: 10-5
Week 7: 10-4
Week 8: 11-3
Week 9: 9-4
Week 10: 7-7
Week 11: 8-5
Week 12: 11-4
Week 13: 10-6
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 8-8
Week 16: 11-5
Overall: 144-94-2
Cardinal Viking
2018:
Week 1: 8-7-1
Week 2: 9-6-1
Week 3: 5-11
Week 4: 9-6
Week 5: 9-6
Week 6: 6-9
Week 7: 12-2
Week 8: 10-4
Week 9: 8-5
Week 10: 9-5
Week 11: 7-6
Week 12: 13-2
Week 13: 11-5
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 10-6
Week 16: 10-6
Overall: 143-95-2
I'll see you guys on Friday for the Week 17 picks column! See you guys in a few days.
-Tom
Saturday, December 22, 2018
NFL 2018 Week 16 Picks
Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action is upon us yet again! The league is entering its 16th week of competition. In the column, I'll discuss the latest playoff picture, an NFL edition of what 32 teams will be getting this holiday, a cool video of the week, and of course, the picks! Let's get to work!
Playoff Picture: Week 16
AFC:
1st seed: Kansas City Chiefs (11-3)
2nd seed: Houston Texans (10-4)
3rd seed: New England Patriots (9-5)
4th seed: Pittsburgh Steelers (8-5-1)
5th seed: Los Angeles Chargers (11-3)
6th seed: Baltimore Ravens (8-6)
Wild Card:
Baltimore @ New England
LA Chargers @ Pittsburgh
Still alive:
Indianapolis (8-6), Tennessee (8-6), Miami (7-7), Cleveland (6-7-1)
Eliminated:
Denver (6-8), Cincinnati (6-8), Buffalo (5-9), Jacksonville (4-10), NY Jets (4-10), Oakland (3-11)
NFC:
1st seed: New Orleans Saints (12-2)
2nd seed: Los Angeles Rams (11-3)
3rd seed: Chicago Bears (10-4)
4th seed: Dallas Cowboys (8-6)
5th seed: Seattle Seahawks (8-6)
6th seed: Minnesota Vikings (7-6-1)
Wild card:
Minnesota @ Chicago
Seattle @ Dallas
Still alive:
Philadelphia (7-7), Washington (7-7), Carolina (6-8)
Eliminated:
Green Bay (5-8-1), Atlanta (5-9), Tampa Bay (5-9), NY Giants (5-9), Detroit (5-9), San Francisco (4-10), Arizona (3-11)
The Kansas City Chiefs and LA Chargers both clinched playoff berths. Two of the six teams in the AFC are in the dance. New Orleans, LA Rams, and Chicago both clinched their divisions assuring that they won't fall below the 4th seed in the playoffs. Maybe not a lot of teams still not in the hunt but there's still seeding to consider.
Secret Santa: What the 32 Teams Will Get This Year
This was something that I did last year as a kind of gag. A gag in that I predicted that what each team would get for the holidays. Like most of my predictions, it won't come true, its more of a joke. Just imagine if there were 32 people getting something for the holidays like a gift.
Arizona Cardinals: A younger version of Larry Fitzgerald.
Atlanta Falcons: Tickets to the Super Bowl since your stadium is hosting it this year but you won't play in it because... well you aren't even in the playoffs.
Baltimore Ravens: You get whatever you get out of a possible Joe Flacco trade. Think of it as a surprise.
Buffalo Bills: You're not in the playoffs this year, but don't feel down. You get snowblowers because of the Buffalo winters. A decent draft pick would be good too.
Carolina Panthers: A defensive unit that won't choke.
Chicago Bears: A DVD collection of past Bears team's not getting to the Super Bowl!
Cincinnati Bengals: Maybe a Marvin Lewis resignation letter, which is a stretch. You'll just get tinker toys.
Cleveland Browns: A better season than what you have had the past two seasons. Six wins is a great gift.
Dallas Cowboys: A GM that will be the mitigator between Jerry Jones and Jason Garrett. You need it, badly.
Denver Broncos: A John Elway-esque quarterback that can throw for more than 200 yards a game.
Detroit Lions: The next Calvin Johnson.
Green Bay Packers: A head coach that knows how to play a balanced offensive game.
Houston Texans: A fighting chance to beat either the Steelers or the Patriots.
Indianapolis Colts: Better offensive linemen
Jacksonville Jaguars: A brand new head coach, or just maybe Tom Coughlin.
Kansas City Chiefs: A playoff win.
Los Angeles Chargers: A chance to go back to San Diego so that I don't have to catch myself twice before saying your name.
Los Angeles Rams: A no-choker label come playoff time.
Miami Dolphins: Shiny reminder that the 1972 Dolphins went undefeated for an entire season. Perhaps a trophy.
Minnesota Vikings: See Los Angeles Rams. Congrats.
New England Patriots: Tom Brady's clone.
New Orleans Saints: Some delicious gumbo and shrimp. You don't need anything special.
New York Giants: Eli Manning's younger self. Like when he used to ball out for 300+ yards.
New York Jets: Signs for the Jets wide receivers to hold that says "Pass to me" or "don't pass to me"
Oakland Raiders: A lump of coal for making me think you were legit championship contenders. I won't forget that.
Philadelphia Eagles: A free pass to boo Santa Claus now that you won a championship last year.
Pittsburgh Steelers: A defensive unit that doesn't shit the bed against sub-par teams.
San Francisco 49ers: A truck to move Levi's Stadium to San Francisco. Santa Clara, really?
Seattle Seahawks: A rebuilding season? A playoff contender? You really don't need anything.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Stability at quarterback.
Tennessee Titans: A Derrick Henry bobblehead.
Washington Redskins: A Dan Snyder resignation letter. Or just some tinker toys.
Cool Video of the Week:
Christmas, a time for giving gifts, eating delicious food, spending time with friends and family. There are people out there in the world that sadly don't get to experience the spirit of the holiday. As you spend time with those you care about, remember of those who are less fortunate and perhaps give a little bit. Here's a video of one of my favorite Christmas songs. Enjoy!
Washington (7-7) @ Tennessee (8-6) (NFL Network): TW: Titans, CV: Titans
Both teams got a win last week as the Redskins beat the Jaguars and the Titans beat the Giants. The game will be a showdown between the old, hardy veteran running back in Adrian Peterson to the younger running back in Derrick Henry. I have been doubting the Titans a lot this season, and I feel that this will come down to which running back can give their teams a lift. I trust in you Tennessee
Baltimore (8-6) @ LA Chargers (11-3) (NFL Network): TW: Chargers, CV: Chargers
Both teams got a win last week as the Ravens beat the Buccaneers and the Chargers beat the Chiefs. The game will come down to which side of the ball really controls the game. Whether it will be the Ravens staunch defense or the powerful Charger offensive attack. Time for me to be a little skeptical of Baltimore this week. If they can keep up with the Chargers it will be a possible victory for them.
Jacksonville (4-10) @ Miami (7-7) (CBS): TW: Dolphins, CV: Dolphins
Both teams got losses last week as the Jaguars lost to the Redskins and the Dolphins to the Vikings. The battle for Florida will be intense. Both teams have shown some lackluster play throughout the season. I tend to like the Dolphins in the matchup as they do have some stability at quarterback and good offensive pieces that can sustain drives. I just can't pick the Jaguars again.
Houston (10-4) @ Philadelphia (7-7) (CBS): TW: Texans, CV: Texans
Both teams got a win last week as the Texans beat the Jets and the Eagles beat the Rams. I don't know how to feel about this game. The two teams have had the capability to do good things on offense but on defense, I would certainly say that Houston still has the advantage with JJ Watt on the field. Nick Foles will still be starting. I feel it will depend on how well the Texans run game can get going. I like the Texans on both sides.
Minnesota (7-6-1) @ Detroit (5-9) (FOX): TW: Vikings, CV: Vikings
The Vikings beat the Dolphins and the Lions lost to the Bills last week respectively. The Vikings run game came to play last week and I feel will have a repeat performance. The Vikings will need it to get going against a Lions team that has seen some success in pass defense. As far as the two defenses, I still have the Vikings defense over the edge against the Lions.
Tampa Bay (5-9) @ Dallas (8-6) (FOX): TW: Cowboys, CV: Cowboys
Both teams took losses last week as the Buccaneers lost to the Ravens and the Cowboys to the Colts. I have to feel that the shutout loss against Indy last week will put the Cowboys in a foul mood and will have a rebound game. The Cowboys defense needs to come through in the clutch as well as the Bucs pass offense is pretty good and will need to give their offense a chance to put points on the board.
Green Bay (5-8-1) @ NY Jets (4-10) (FOX): TW: Packers, CV: Jets
Both teams took losses last week as the Packers lost to the Bears and the Jets to the Texans. I feel this is one of the games that the Packers are capable of winning but also prone to losing due to how bad the offense is compared to the past seasons in the Aaron Rodgers era. If the Packers can sustain drives by being balanced and keeping Sam Darnold off-key during the game on defense will be a result in the Packers in a victory.
NY Giants (5-9) @ Indianapolis (8-6) (CBS): TW: Colts, CV: Colts
The Giants lost to the Titans and the Colts beat the Cowboys last week. The game will have two great running games in Saquon Barkley in the Giants and Marlon Mack of the Colts. Barkley didn't quite show up to the game that I had expected him to. It was a relative surprise. I feel the game will come down to how well the rest of the Colts will play. If the Colts defense can get a few stops early it will be a Colt victory.
Cincinnati (6-8) @ Cleveland (6-7-1) (CBS): TW: Browns, CV: Browns
Both teams got a win last week as the Bengals beat the Raiders and the Browns beat the Broncos. The battle for Ohio recommences for the last time this season. The two teams still have some meaning to their seasons. I feel the Browns will win if they can stick to the winning formula and play some tight defense. Keeping Joe Mixon off-key will be huge as he is the Bengals big weapon.
Atlanta (5-9) @ Carolina (6-8) (FOX): TW: Falcons, CV: Falcons
The Falcons beat the Cardinals and the Panthers lost to the Saints last week. The Panthers will be without Cam Newton in the game. The Falcons still have a lot of offensive talent to account for. The combo of Matt Ryan to Julio Jones will be a huge part of this game. The Falcons defense will keep staying on focus as they will have to plan against Taylor Heinicke. Christian McCaffrey will probably see a huger workload.
Buffalo (5-9) @ New England (9-5) (CBS): TW: Patriots, CV: Patriots
The Bills got a win against the Lions and the Patriots lost to the Steelers last week. The Patriots will need to get a win to remain in the hunt for a 1st round bye. I feel a trouncing of the Bills will keep the Patriot faithful happy. The key in the game is how well Josh Allen will be against a Patriots defense that has shown some lackluster play against the run.
Chicago (10-4) @ San Francisco (4-10) (FOX): TW: Bears, CV: Bears
The Bears beat the Packers and the 49ers beat the Seahawks last week. The game will come down to who will play better in the passing game. Both teams have solid players at running back and can come up clutch on defense. I like the Bears in the game as they have offensive players that can make drives long and can keep Nick Mullens off his game.
LA Rams (11-3) @ Arizona (3-11) (FOX): TW: Rams, CV: Rams
The two teams took losses last week as the Rams lost to the Eagles and the Cardinals to the Falcons. The game really looks like a mismatch on paper but the Rams have shown some signs of slowing down. The key to the game will depend on which Rams team shows up to play. I can't trust the Cardinals enough to pull off one of the huger upsets this week. Go Rams!
Pittsburgh (8-5-1) @ New Orleans (12-2) (CBS): TW: Saints, CV: Saints
The two teams got a win last week as the Steelers beat the Patriots and the Saints beat the Panthers. The marquee game of the week will be the Steelers visiting the Big Easy against the Saints. The game will come down to if how well the Steelers offense can keep the Saints defense on the field. That will mean how well the pass and run game can keep them on the field. Jaylen Samuels will need to play well to give his team a chance to win. The Superdome crowd will be pretty loud and hostile as well. I can't trust the Steelers to get a win in there.
Kansas City (11-3) @ Seattle (8-6) (NBC): TW: Chiefs, CV: Chiefs
Both teams took a loss last week as the Chiefs lost to the Chargers and the Seahawks lost to the 49ers. The game will depend on if the Chiefs can hold a lead as well as keeping their foot on the gas. The Seahawks are still a possible playoff team and will need to maintain their focus. I still like the Chiefs in that they have a good offense and can put up points quite easily.
Denver (6-8) @ Oakland (3-11) (ESPN): TW: Broncos, CV: Broncos
Both teams took losses last week as the Broncos lost to the Browns and the Raiders to the Bengals. The game will depend on how well the passing game of the Broncos will be. The Broncos running attack will have a good day, I feel. The Broncos could win as they still have a solid play on defense. I can't trust the Raiders to pick them after all the pain they've caused me all season. Could also be the last game played in Oakland.
Local TV Schedule (courtesy of 506sports.com, subject to change):
CBS Early:
Houston @ Philadelphia
Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts
CBS Late:
Pittsburgh @ New Orleans
Jim Nantz, Tony Romo
FOX Single:
Minnesota @ Detroit
Chris Myers, Daryl Johnston
For more info on which game is being played in your area, check out: NFL 2018: Week 16 Maps
Records:
Tom (me)
2018:
Week 1: 10-5-1
Week 2: 6-9-1
Week 3: 8-8
Week 4: 12-3
Week 5: 6-9
Week 6: 10-5
Week 7: 10-4
Week 8: 11-3
Week 9: 9-4
Week 10: 7-7
Week 11: 8-5
Week 12: 11-4
Week 13: 10-6
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 8-8
Overall: 133-89-2
Cardinal Viking
2018:
Week 1: 8-7-1
Week 2: 9-6-1
Week 3: 5-11
Week 4: 9-6
Week 5: 9-6
Week 6: 6-9
Week 7: 12-2
Week 8: 10-4
Week 9: 8-5
Week 10: 9-5
Week 11: 7-6
Week 12: 13-2
Week 13: 11-5
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 10-6
Overall: 133-89-2
Sorry for the late post, I had planned on putting this up earlier in the week but I realized the games were on Saturday. I'll see you guys on Wednesday for the recap column as the Christmas holiday will surely be busy.
-Tom
Playoff Picture: Week 16
AFC:
1st seed: Kansas City Chiefs (11-3)
2nd seed: Houston Texans (10-4)
3rd seed: New England Patriots (9-5)
4th seed: Pittsburgh Steelers (8-5-1)
5th seed: Los Angeles Chargers (11-3)
6th seed: Baltimore Ravens (8-6)
Wild Card:
Baltimore @ New England
LA Chargers @ Pittsburgh
Still alive:
Indianapolis (8-6), Tennessee (8-6), Miami (7-7), Cleveland (6-7-1)
Eliminated:
Denver (6-8), Cincinnati (6-8), Buffalo (5-9), Jacksonville (4-10), NY Jets (4-10), Oakland (3-11)
NFC:
1st seed: New Orleans Saints (12-2)
2nd seed: Los Angeles Rams (11-3)
3rd seed: Chicago Bears (10-4)
4th seed: Dallas Cowboys (8-6)
5th seed: Seattle Seahawks (8-6)
6th seed: Minnesota Vikings (7-6-1)
Wild card:
Minnesota @ Chicago
Seattle @ Dallas
Still alive:
Philadelphia (7-7), Washington (7-7), Carolina (6-8)
Eliminated:
Green Bay (5-8-1), Atlanta (5-9), Tampa Bay (5-9), NY Giants (5-9), Detroit (5-9), San Francisco (4-10), Arizona (3-11)
The Kansas City Chiefs and LA Chargers both clinched playoff berths. Two of the six teams in the AFC are in the dance. New Orleans, LA Rams, and Chicago both clinched their divisions assuring that they won't fall below the 4th seed in the playoffs. Maybe not a lot of teams still not in the hunt but there's still seeding to consider.
Secret Santa: What the 32 Teams Will Get This Year
This was something that I did last year as a kind of gag. A gag in that I predicted that what each team would get for the holidays. Like most of my predictions, it won't come true, its more of a joke. Just imagine if there were 32 people getting something for the holidays like a gift.
Arizona Cardinals: A younger version of Larry Fitzgerald.
Atlanta Falcons: Tickets to the Super Bowl since your stadium is hosting it this year but you won't play in it because... well you aren't even in the playoffs.
Baltimore Ravens: You get whatever you get out of a possible Joe Flacco trade. Think of it as a surprise.
Buffalo Bills: You're not in the playoffs this year, but don't feel down. You get snowblowers because of the Buffalo winters. A decent draft pick would be good too.
Carolina Panthers: A defensive unit that won't choke.
Chicago Bears: A DVD collection of past Bears team's not getting to the Super Bowl!
Cincinnati Bengals: Maybe a Marvin Lewis resignation letter, which is a stretch. You'll just get tinker toys.
Cleveland Browns: A better season than what you have had the past two seasons. Six wins is a great gift.
Dallas Cowboys: A GM that will be the mitigator between Jerry Jones and Jason Garrett. You need it, badly.
Denver Broncos: A John Elway-esque quarterback that can throw for more than 200 yards a game.
Detroit Lions: The next Calvin Johnson.
Green Bay Packers: A head coach that knows how to play a balanced offensive game.
Houston Texans: A fighting chance to beat either the Steelers or the Patriots.
Indianapolis Colts: Better offensive linemen
Jacksonville Jaguars: A brand new head coach, or just maybe Tom Coughlin.
Kansas City Chiefs: A playoff win.
Los Angeles Chargers: A chance to go back to San Diego so that I don't have to catch myself twice before saying your name.
Los Angeles Rams: A no-choker label come playoff time.
Miami Dolphins: Shiny reminder that the 1972 Dolphins went undefeated for an entire season. Perhaps a trophy.
Minnesota Vikings: See Los Angeles Rams. Congrats.
New England Patriots: Tom Brady's clone.
New Orleans Saints: Some delicious gumbo and shrimp. You don't need anything special.
New York Giants: Eli Manning's younger self. Like when he used to ball out for 300+ yards.
New York Jets: Signs for the Jets wide receivers to hold that says "Pass to me" or "don't pass to me"
Oakland Raiders: A lump of coal for making me think you were legit championship contenders. I won't forget that.
Philadelphia Eagles: A free pass to boo Santa Claus now that you won a championship last year.
Pittsburgh Steelers: A defensive unit that doesn't shit the bed against sub-par teams.
San Francisco 49ers: A truck to move Levi's Stadium to San Francisco. Santa Clara, really?
Seattle Seahawks: A rebuilding season? A playoff contender? You really don't need anything.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Stability at quarterback.
Tennessee Titans: A Derrick Henry bobblehead.
Washington Redskins: A Dan Snyder resignation letter. Or just some tinker toys.
Cool Video of the Week:
Christmas, a time for giving gifts, eating delicious food, spending time with friends and family. There are people out there in the world that sadly don't get to experience the spirit of the holiday. As you spend time with those you care about, remember of those who are less fortunate and perhaps give a little bit. Here's a video of one of my favorite Christmas songs. Enjoy!
Week 16 Picks!
Week 16 in the NFL's regular season will start in Nashville, Tennessee and ends in Oakland, California. The week will have two Saturday games, nine early games, three late games, a Sunday night game, and a Monday night game. No teams will be on a bye week. CBS will have the doubleheader and FOX will have the single, regional game. Let's get to the picks!
Washington (7-7) @ Tennessee (8-6) (NFL Network): TW: Titans, CV: Titans
Both teams got a win last week as the Redskins beat the Jaguars and the Titans beat the Giants. The game will be a showdown between the old, hardy veteran running back in Adrian Peterson to the younger running back in Derrick Henry. I have been doubting the Titans a lot this season, and I feel that this will come down to which running back can give their teams a lift. I trust in you Tennessee
Baltimore (8-6) @ LA Chargers (11-3) (NFL Network): TW: Chargers, CV: Chargers
Both teams got a win last week as the Ravens beat the Buccaneers and the Chargers beat the Chiefs. The game will come down to which side of the ball really controls the game. Whether it will be the Ravens staunch defense or the powerful Charger offensive attack. Time for me to be a little skeptical of Baltimore this week. If they can keep up with the Chargers it will be a possible victory for them.
Jacksonville (4-10) @ Miami (7-7) (CBS): TW: Dolphins, CV: Dolphins
Both teams got losses last week as the Jaguars lost to the Redskins and the Dolphins to the Vikings. The battle for Florida will be intense. Both teams have shown some lackluster play throughout the season. I tend to like the Dolphins in the matchup as they do have some stability at quarterback and good offensive pieces that can sustain drives. I just can't pick the Jaguars again.
Houston (10-4) @ Philadelphia (7-7) (CBS): TW: Texans, CV: Texans
Both teams got a win last week as the Texans beat the Jets and the Eagles beat the Rams. I don't know how to feel about this game. The two teams have had the capability to do good things on offense but on defense, I would certainly say that Houston still has the advantage with JJ Watt on the field. Nick Foles will still be starting. I feel it will depend on how well the Texans run game can get going. I like the Texans on both sides.
Minnesota (7-6-1) @ Detroit (5-9) (FOX): TW: Vikings, CV: Vikings
The Vikings beat the Dolphins and the Lions lost to the Bills last week respectively. The Vikings run game came to play last week and I feel will have a repeat performance. The Vikings will need it to get going against a Lions team that has seen some success in pass defense. As far as the two defenses, I still have the Vikings defense over the edge against the Lions.
Tampa Bay (5-9) @ Dallas (8-6) (FOX): TW: Cowboys, CV: Cowboys
Both teams took losses last week as the Buccaneers lost to the Ravens and the Cowboys to the Colts. I have to feel that the shutout loss against Indy last week will put the Cowboys in a foul mood and will have a rebound game. The Cowboys defense needs to come through in the clutch as well as the Bucs pass offense is pretty good and will need to give their offense a chance to put points on the board.
Green Bay (5-8-1) @ NY Jets (4-10) (FOX): TW: Packers, CV: Jets
Both teams took losses last week as the Packers lost to the Bears and the Jets to the Texans. I feel this is one of the games that the Packers are capable of winning but also prone to losing due to how bad the offense is compared to the past seasons in the Aaron Rodgers era. If the Packers can sustain drives by being balanced and keeping Sam Darnold off-key during the game on defense will be a result in the Packers in a victory.
NY Giants (5-9) @ Indianapolis (8-6) (CBS): TW: Colts, CV: Colts
The Giants lost to the Titans and the Colts beat the Cowboys last week. The game will have two great running games in Saquon Barkley in the Giants and Marlon Mack of the Colts. Barkley didn't quite show up to the game that I had expected him to. It was a relative surprise. I feel the game will come down to how well the rest of the Colts will play. If the Colts defense can get a few stops early it will be a Colt victory.
Cincinnati (6-8) @ Cleveland (6-7-1) (CBS): TW: Browns, CV: Browns
Both teams got a win last week as the Bengals beat the Raiders and the Browns beat the Broncos. The battle for Ohio recommences for the last time this season. The two teams still have some meaning to their seasons. I feel the Browns will win if they can stick to the winning formula and play some tight defense. Keeping Joe Mixon off-key will be huge as he is the Bengals big weapon.
Atlanta (5-9) @ Carolina (6-8) (FOX): TW: Falcons, CV: Falcons
The Falcons beat the Cardinals and the Panthers lost to the Saints last week. The Panthers will be without Cam Newton in the game. The Falcons still have a lot of offensive talent to account for. The combo of Matt Ryan to Julio Jones will be a huge part of this game. The Falcons defense will keep staying on focus as they will have to plan against Taylor Heinicke. Christian McCaffrey will probably see a huger workload.
Buffalo (5-9) @ New England (9-5) (CBS): TW: Patriots, CV: Patriots
The Bills got a win against the Lions and the Patriots lost to the Steelers last week. The Patriots will need to get a win to remain in the hunt for a 1st round bye. I feel a trouncing of the Bills will keep the Patriot faithful happy. The key in the game is how well Josh Allen will be against a Patriots defense that has shown some lackluster play against the run.
Chicago (10-4) @ San Francisco (4-10) (FOX): TW: Bears, CV: Bears
The Bears beat the Packers and the 49ers beat the Seahawks last week. The game will come down to who will play better in the passing game. Both teams have solid players at running back and can come up clutch on defense. I like the Bears in the game as they have offensive players that can make drives long and can keep Nick Mullens off his game.
LA Rams (11-3) @ Arizona (3-11) (FOX): TW: Rams, CV: Rams
The two teams took losses last week as the Rams lost to the Eagles and the Cardinals to the Falcons. The game really looks like a mismatch on paper but the Rams have shown some signs of slowing down. The key to the game will depend on which Rams team shows up to play. I can't trust the Cardinals enough to pull off one of the huger upsets this week. Go Rams!
Pittsburgh (8-5-1) @ New Orleans (12-2) (CBS): TW: Saints, CV: Saints
The two teams got a win last week as the Steelers beat the Patriots and the Saints beat the Panthers. The marquee game of the week will be the Steelers visiting the Big Easy against the Saints. The game will come down to if how well the Steelers offense can keep the Saints defense on the field. That will mean how well the pass and run game can keep them on the field. Jaylen Samuels will need to play well to give his team a chance to win. The Superdome crowd will be pretty loud and hostile as well. I can't trust the Steelers to get a win in there.
Kansas City (11-3) @ Seattle (8-6) (NBC): TW: Chiefs, CV: Chiefs
Both teams took a loss last week as the Chiefs lost to the Chargers and the Seahawks lost to the 49ers. The game will depend on if the Chiefs can hold a lead as well as keeping their foot on the gas. The Seahawks are still a possible playoff team and will need to maintain their focus. I still like the Chiefs in that they have a good offense and can put up points quite easily.
Denver (6-8) @ Oakland (3-11) (ESPN): TW: Broncos, CV: Broncos
Both teams took losses last week as the Broncos lost to the Browns and the Raiders to the Bengals. The game will depend on how well the passing game of the Broncos will be. The Broncos running attack will have a good day, I feel. The Broncos could win as they still have a solid play on defense. I can't trust the Raiders to pick them after all the pain they've caused me all season. Could also be the last game played in Oakland.
Local TV Schedule (courtesy of 506sports.com, subject to change):
CBS Early:
Houston @ Philadelphia
Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts
CBS Late:
Pittsburgh @ New Orleans
Jim Nantz, Tony Romo
FOX Single:
Minnesota @ Detroit
Chris Myers, Daryl Johnston
For more info on which game is being played in your area, check out: NFL 2018: Week 16 Maps
Records:
Tom (me)
2018:
Week 1: 10-5-1
Week 2: 6-9-1
Week 3: 8-8
Week 4: 12-3
Week 5: 6-9
Week 6: 10-5
Week 7: 10-4
Week 8: 11-3
Week 9: 9-4
Week 10: 7-7
Week 11: 8-5
Week 12: 11-4
Week 13: 10-6
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 8-8
Overall: 133-89-2
Cardinal Viking
2018:
Week 1: 8-7-1
Week 2: 9-6-1
Week 3: 5-11
Week 4: 9-6
Week 5: 9-6
Week 6: 6-9
Week 7: 12-2
Week 8: 10-4
Week 9: 8-5
Week 10: 9-5
Week 11: 7-6
Week 12: 13-2
Week 13: 11-5
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 10-6
Overall: 133-89-2
Sorry for the late post, I had planned on putting this up earlier in the week but I realized the games were on Saturday. I'll see you guys on Wednesday for the recap column as the Christmas holiday will surely be busy.
-Tom
Monday, December 17, 2018
NFL 2018 Week 15 Recap
Hello readers!
LA Chargers 29, Kansas City 28: TW: Chiefs, CV: Chargers
The Chiefs really let this one slip away from them. They had a 14-point lead going into the 4th quarter and would lose the game by one-point. Patrick Mahomes would finish the game with 243 yards and two touchdowns. The Chiefs running game was led by Damien Williams with 49 yards rushing and two touchdowns of his own. Phillip Rivers finished the game with 313 yards and two touchdowns. He would also throw two interceptions. Justin Jackson would run the ball for 58 yards and a touchdown as well. The Chargers would attempt a 2-point conversion and would get it, and that would be the final result.
Week 16: LA Chargers: vs Baltimore; Kansas City: @ Seattle
TW: 0-1; CV: 1-0
Houston 29, NY Jets 22: TW: Texans, CV: Texans
It was a back and forth affair between the two teams. Both quarterbacks played outstanding ball throughout the game. DeShaun Watson had 294 yards passing with two touchdowns while rushing the ball for 26 yards. Sam Darnold had a better game throwing the ball for 254 yards and two touchdowns. With no interceptions mind you. The Texans could win the division with a Colts loss or tie and a Titans loss or tie.
Week 16: Houston: @ Philadelphia; NY Jets: vs Green Bay
TW: 1-1; CV: 2-0
Cleveland 17, Denver 16: TW: Browns, CV: Browns
Around this time last year, the Browns were trying to get their first win. After tonight's game, they won their 6th game. Both teams had their share of mistakes but it would be the Browns that would hold on to win. Baker Mayfield threw the ball for 188 yards for two touchdowns and a pick. Nick Chubb had a good day on the ground with 20 carries for 100 yards. Case Keenum threw for 257 yards for two interceptions. The Broncos running game was stagnant with Philip Lindsay rushing the ball for only 24 yards. Keenum scored the only touchdown for the Broncos on a 1-yard rush. Tough loss for the Broncos. A win is a win for the Browns.
Week 16: Cleveland: vs Cincinnati; Denver: @ Oakland (Christmas Eve)
TW: 2-1; CV: 3-0
Oakland 16, Cincinnati 30: TW: Raiders, CV: Bengals
The game was really a show of how dominant the Bengals were earlier in the season. Jake Driskell threw for 130 yards while getting a touchdown pass and an interception. The real star was Bengals running back Joe Mixon running the ball for 129 yards for two touchdowns. The Raiders fared much less good on offense though Derek Carr threw for 263 yards for a touchdown (the only touchdown for the Raiders all game). Doug Martin couldn't get a lot going on the ground with 39 yards rushed. Only two more weeks Raiders fans.
Week 16: Oakland: vs Denver (Christmas Eve); Cincinnati: @ Cleveland
TW: 2-2; CV: 4-0
Tampa Bay 12, Baltimore 20: TW: Ravens, CV: Ravens
The Ravens defense kept the high flying Buccaneers pass offense in check for most of the game. Jameis Winston did get the start, throwing for 157 yards for an interception. The Buccaneers had some success on the ground with Peyton Barber getting 85 yards on 19 carries while scoring a touchdown. It was a game that was again a showcase of how good Lamar Jackson can be with both his arm and legs. Jackson threw for 131 yards while scoring a touchdown and getting 95 yards. Gus Edwards had a great day with 104 yards rushing with a touchdown. Baltimore could be dangerous in the future.
Week 16: Tampa Bay: @ Dallas; Baltimore: @ LA Chargers (Saturday night)
TW: 3-2; CV: 5-0
Tennessee 17, NY Giants 0: TW: Giants, CV: Titans
I was somewhat expecting the game to be a showcase of two great running backs, one came up huge, the other was eh. Derrick Henry had a repeat performance, gaining 170 yards while scoring two touchdowns. Marcus Mariota only got 88 yards passing with zero touchdowns. Eli Manning could only manage 229 yards passing with an interception. Saquon Barkley could only get 31 yards rushing on 14 carries. Not quite what you would expect with Barkley. Sorry Tennessee for doubting you... again.
Week 16: Tennessee: vs Washington; NY Giants: @ Indianapolis
TW: 3-3; CV: 6-0
Washington 16, Jacksonville 13: TW: Jaguars, CV: Jaguars
Both teams were looking for a win in a down year, Washington's offense would ultimately show up to play. Josh Johnson threw for 151 yards with a touchdown pass, Washington's only one for the day. Adrian Peterson provided a boost in the running game with 51 yards rushing. Cody Kessler would get the start again for the Jaguars only throwing for 57 yards with an interception. Kessler would be the team's leading rusher in the game with 68 yards. Dede Westbrook would provide the only touchdown for the Jaguars on a 74-yard punt return. Washington was down 13-6 at the start of the 4th quarter.
Week 16: Washington: @ Tennessee; Jacksonville: @ Miami
TW: 3-4; CV: 6-1
Miami 17, Minnesota 41: TW: Vikings, CV: Vikings
In the past, I had Dalvin Cook for not showing up when his team needed him most, in this game he showed up to the ball. Cook would run the ball for 136 yards on two touchdowns. Latavius Murray would get a touchdown as well with 68 yards rushing. Kirk Cousins gave the Vikings pass attack a boost with 215 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Kalen Balledge of the Dolphins had a good day with 123 yards rushing with a touchdown run of his own. The Dolphins defense did manage to pick off Kirk Cousins for a pick-six.
Week 16: Miami: vs Jacksonville; Minnesota: @ Detroit
TW: 4-4; CV: 7-1
Green Bay 17, Chicago 24: TW: Bears, CV: Bears
I had hoped for a Bears victory, and boy did I get it. It pained me to watch it as a Packer fan, but it was necessary. Aaron Rodgers threw the ball well enough to get 274 yards with an interception (his first in a long time). Jamaal Williams gave the Packers rush some help with 55 yards with a touchdown, the only touchdown the Packers could put up all game. Mitch Trubisky gave the Bears a good game with 235 yards passing with two touchdowns. Jordan Howard got 60 yards with a touchdown while running the ball. Keep the faith, Packer nation!
Week 16: Green Bay: @ NY Jets; Chicago: @ San Francisco
TW: 5-4; CV: 8-1
Dallas 0, Indianapolis 23: TW: Cowboys, CV: Cowboys
It was a weird game. The Cowboys can look like a Super Bowl contender in one game, then look like a dud in another. Dak Prescott threw the ball for 206 yards with an interception while Ezekiel Elliot ran the ball for 87 yards with zero touchdowns. Certainly not the performance that we've expected to see from the Cowboys. You have to give credit to the Colts. Marlon Mack ran the ball for 139 yards on two touchdowns. Andrew Luck gave the Colts passing game some help with 192 yards passing on zero touchdowns. Kudos to the Colts though.
Week 16: Dallas: vs Tampa Bay; Indianapolis: vs NY Giants
TW: 5-5; CV: 8-2
Arizona 14, Atlanta 40: TW: Falcons, CV: Falcons
The Falcons have had a down season, they needed a spark to their team. They would get it when they hosted the Cardinals. Matt Ryan threw for 231 yards with two touchdowns while running it in for a touchdown himself. Tevin Coleman would have a great day on the ground with 145 yards with a touchdown. The Cardinals fared less good. Josh Rosen would throw for 132 yards with two interceptions before getting benched in favor for Mike Glennon who would finish for the Cardinals with 111 yards passing on a touchdown. David Johnson would run the ball for 33 yards while scoring a touchdown. Only two more weeks for you Cardinals fans for your season to be finally over.
Week 16: Arizona: vs LA Rams; Atlanta: @ Carolina
TW: 6-5; CV: 9-2
Detroit 13, Buffalo 14: TW: Bills, CV: Lions
The game truly came down to a missed 2-point conversion. Josh Allen would run the show on offense for the Bills with 204 passing yards with a touchdown while running it in for a score himself. He would finish the day with 16 rushing yards. Keith Ford would give the Bills some boost in the running game with his 46 yards rushing. Matthew Stafford threw the ball for 208 yards with a touchdown. Theo Riddick and Zach Zenner would both have 47 and 45 yards rushing respectively. Zenner would score the 2nd touchdown for the Lions.
Week 16: Detroit: vs Minnesota; Buffalo: @ New England
TW: 7-5; CV: 9-3
Seattle 23, San Francisco 26 (F/OT): TW: Seattle, CV: Seahawks
Special teams were the MVP for the 49ers in the contest. Seattle's Russell Wilson had 237 passing yards with two touchdowns. Chris Carson had 119 yards rushing with a touchdown. Nick Mullens had 275 yards passing with a touchdown. Matt Breida and Jeff Wilson had 50 and 46 yards on the ground respectively. Richie James had a kick return for a touchdown for 97 yards. Robbie Gould finished with 4/4 on field goals. He hit the 36-yard game winner in overtime.
Week 16: Seattle: vs Kansas City; San Francisco: vs Chicago
TW: 7-6; CV: 9-4
New England 10, Pittsburgh 17: TW: Patriots, CV: Patriots
It was an uncharacteristic performance from the Patriots. Tom Brady would give the Patriots 279 yards passing with a touchdown and interception. Sony Michel would be the team's leading rusher with 59 yards. Ben Roethlisberger of the Steelers had 235 yards passing with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Jaylen Samuels had an off day last week but he would ring the bell (pun intended perhaps) with 142 yards on 19 carries. His longest was for 25 yards. A first-round bye is in jeopardy for the Patriots. Pittsburgh finally gets the Patriots monkey off their back.
Week 16: New England: vs Buffalo; Pittsburgh: @ New Orleans
TW: 7-7; CV: 9-5
Philadelphia 30, LA Rams 23: TW: Rams, CV: Rams
The defense was the name of the game with both defenses getting three interceptions. Nick Foles would start for the Eagles again, throwing the ball for 270 yards passing with an interception. Wendell Smallwood would get 48 yards rushing on two touchdowns for the Eagles. Jared Goff had another off game with two interceptions while getting 339 yards passing. Todd Gurley would pick up the slack with 48 yards rushing with two touchdowns of his own. The defending champs aren't dead... yet.
Week 16: Philadelphia: vs Houston; LA Rams: @ Arizona
TW: 7-8; CV: 9-6
New Orleans 12, Carolina 9: TW: Saints, CV: Saints
The game wasn't pretty, it was not the offensive showdown that most probably expected, but it was a win for the Saints. Drew Brees had 203 yards in the air with an interception. Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram, the versatile running back tandem, had 67 and 63 yards rushing respectively. Kamara had a touchdown as well. Cam Newton had 131 yards passing with an interception as well. Christian McCaffrey had a touchdown pass on a 50-yard play. McCaffrey had 53 yards rushing on 15 carries. It was Carolina's sixth straight loss after going 6-2.
Week 16: New Orleans: vs Pittsburgh; Carolina: vs Atlanta
TW: 8-8; CV: 10-6
Records:
Tom (me)
2018:
Week 1: 10-5-1
Week 2: 6-9-1
Week 3: 8-8
Week 4: 12-3
Week 5: 6-9
Week 6: 10-5
Week 7: 10-4
Week 8: 11-3
Week 9: 9-4
Week 10: 7-7
Week 11: 8-5
Week 12: 11-4
Week 13: 10-6
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 8-8
Overall: 133-89-2
Cardinal Viking
2018:
Week 1: 8-7-1
Week 2: 9-6-1
Week 3: 5-11
Week 4: 9-6
Week 5: 9-6
Week 6: 6-9
Week 7: 12-2
Week 8: 10-4
Week 9: 8-5
Week 10: 9-5
Week 11: 7-6
Week 12: 13-2
Week 13: 11-5
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 10-6
Overall: 133-89-2
See you guys on Wednesday for the Week 16 picks column!
-Tom
LA Chargers 29, Kansas City 28: TW: Chiefs, CV: Chargers
The Chiefs really let this one slip away from them. They had a 14-point lead going into the 4th quarter and would lose the game by one-point. Patrick Mahomes would finish the game with 243 yards and two touchdowns. The Chiefs running game was led by Damien Williams with 49 yards rushing and two touchdowns of his own. Phillip Rivers finished the game with 313 yards and two touchdowns. He would also throw two interceptions. Justin Jackson would run the ball for 58 yards and a touchdown as well. The Chargers would attempt a 2-point conversion and would get it, and that would be the final result.
Week 16: LA Chargers: vs Baltimore; Kansas City: @ Seattle
TW: 0-1; CV: 1-0
Houston 29, NY Jets 22: TW: Texans, CV: Texans
It was a back and forth affair between the two teams. Both quarterbacks played outstanding ball throughout the game. DeShaun Watson had 294 yards passing with two touchdowns while rushing the ball for 26 yards. Sam Darnold had a better game throwing the ball for 254 yards and two touchdowns. With no interceptions mind you. The Texans could win the division with a Colts loss or tie and a Titans loss or tie.
Week 16: Houston: @ Philadelphia; NY Jets: vs Green Bay
TW: 1-1; CV: 2-0
Cleveland 17, Denver 16: TW: Browns, CV: Browns
Around this time last year, the Browns were trying to get their first win. After tonight's game, they won their 6th game. Both teams had their share of mistakes but it would be the Browns that would hold on to win. Baker Mayfield threw the ball for 188 yards for two touchdowns and a pick. Nick Chubb had a good day on the ground with 20 carries for 100 yards. Case Keenum threw for 257 yards for two interceptions. The Broncos running game was stagnant with Philip Lindsay rushing the ball for only 24 yards. Keenum scored the only touchdown for the Broncos on a 1-yard rush. Tough loss for the Broncos. A win is a win for the Browns.
Week 16: Cleveland: vs Cincinnati; Denver: @ Oakland (Christmas Eve)
TW: 2-1; CV: 3-0
Oakland 16, Cincinnati 30: TW: Raiders, CV: Bengals
The game was really a show of how dominant the Bengals were earlier in the season. Jake Driskell threw for 130 yards while getting a touchdown pass and an interception. The real star was Bengals running back Joe Mixon running the ball for 129 yards for two touchdowns. The Raiders fared much less good on offense though Derek Carr threw for 263 yards for a touchdown (the only touchdown for the Raiders all game). Doug Martin couldn't get a lot going on the ground with 39 yards rushed. Only two more weeks Raiders fans.
Week 16: Oakland: vs Denver (Christmas Eve); Cincinnati: @ Cleveland
TW: 2-2; CV: 4-0
Tampa Bay 12, Baltimore 20: TW: Ravens, CV: Ravens
The Ravens defense kept the high flying Buccaneers pass offense in check for most of the game. Jameis Winston did get the start, throwing for 157 yards for an interception. The Buccaneers had some success on the ground with Peyton Barber getting 85 yards on 19 carries while scoring a touchdown. It was a game that was again a showcase of how good Lamar Jackson can be with both his arm and legs. Jackson threw for 131 yards while scoring a touchdown and getting 95 yards. Gus Edwards had a great day with 104 yards rushing with a touchdown. Baltimore could be dangerous in the future.
Week 16: Tampa Bay: @ Dallas; Baltimore: @ LA Chargers (Saturday night)
TW: 3-2; CV: 5-0
Tennessee 17, NY Giants 0: TW: Giants, CV: Titans
I was somewhat expecting the game to be a showcase of two great running backs, one came up huge, the other was eh. Derrick Henry had a repeat performance, gaining 170 yards while scoring two touchdowns. Marcus Mariota only got 88 yards passing with zero touchdowns. Eli Manning could only manage 229 yards passing with an interception. Saquon Barkley could only get 31 yards rushing on 14 carries. Not quite what you would expect with Barkley. Sorry Tennessee for doubting you... again.
Week 16: Tennessee: vs Washington; NY Giants: @ Indianapolis
TW: 3-3; CV: 6-0
Washington 16, Jacksonville 13: TW: Jaguars, CV: Jaguars
Both teams were looking for a win in a down year, Washington's offense would ultimately show up to play. Josh Johnson threw for 151 yards with a touchdown pass, Washington's only one for the day. Adrian Peterson provided a boost in the running game with 51 yards rushing. Cody Kessler would get the start again for the Jaguars only throwing for 57 yards with an interception. Kessler would be the team's leading rusher in the game with 68 yards. Dede Westbrook would provide the only touchdown for the Jaguars on a 74-yard punt return. Washington was down 13-6 at the start of the 4th quarter.
Week 16: Washington: @ Tennessee; Jacksonville: @ Miami
TW: 3-4; CV: 6-1
Miami 17, Minnesota 41: TW: Vikings, CV: Vikings
In the past, I had Dalvin Cook for not showing up when his team needed him most, in this game he showed up to the ball. Cook would run the ball for 136 yards on two touchdowns. Latavius Murray would get a touchdown as well with 68 yards rushing. Kirk Cousins gave the Vikings pass attack a boost with 215 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Kalen Balledge of the Dolphins had a good day with 123 yards rushing with a touchdown run of his own. The Dolphins defense did manage to pick off Kirk Cousins for a pick-six.
Week 16: Miami: vs Jacksonville; Minnesota: @ Detroit
TW: 4-4; CV: 7-1
Green Bay 17, Chicago 24: TW: Bears, CV: Bears
I had hoped for a Bears victory, and boy did I get it. It pained me to watch it as a Packer fan, but it was necessary. Aaron Rodgers threw the ball well enough to get 274 yards with an interception (his first in a long time). Jamaal Williams gave the Packers rush some help with 55 yards with a touchdown, the only touchdown the Packers could put up all game. Mitch Trubisky gave the Bears a good game with 235 yards passing with two touchdowns. Jordan Howard got 60 yards with a touchdown while running the ball. Keep the faith, Packer nation!
Week 16: Green Bay: @ NY Jets; Chicago: @ San Francisco
TW: 5-4; CV: 8-1
Dallas 0, Indianapolis 23: TW: Cowboys, CV: Cowboys
It was a weird game. The Cowboys can look like a Super Bowl contender in one game, then look like a dud in another. Dak Prescott threw the ball for 206 yards with an interception while Ezekiel Elliot ran the ball for 87 yards with zero touchdowns. Certainly not the performance that we've expected to see from the Cowboys. You have to give credit to the Colts. Marlon Mack ran the ball for 139 yards on two touchdowns. Andrew Luck gave the Colts passing game some help with 192 yards passing on zero touchdowns. Kudos to the Colts though.
Week 16: Dallas: vs Tampa Bay; Indianapolis: vs NY Giants
TW: 5-5; CV: 8-2
Arizona 14, Atlanta 40: TW: Falcons, CV: Falcons
The Falcons have had a down season, they needed a spark to their team. They would get it when they hosted the Cardinals. Matt Ryan threw for 231 yards with two touchdowns while running it in for a touchdown himself. Tevin Coleman would have a great day on the ground with 145 yards with a touchdown. The Cardinals fared less good. Josh Rosen would throw for 132 yards with two interceptions before getting benched in favor for Mike Glennon who would finish for the Cardinals with 111 yards passing on a touchdown. David Johnson would run the ball for 33 yards while scoring a touchdown. Only two more weeks for you Cardinals fans for your season to be finally over.
Week 16: Arizona: vs LA Rams; Atlanta: @ Carolina
TW: 6-5; CV: 9-2
Detroit 13, Buffalo 14: TW: Bills, CV: Lions
The game truly came down to a missed 2-point conversion. Josh Allen would run the show on offense for the Bills with 204 passing yards with a touchdown while running it in for a score himself. He would finish the day with 16 rushing yards. Keith Ford would give the Bills some boost in the running game with his 46 yards rushing. Matthew Stafford threw the ball for 208 yards with a touchdown. Theo Riddick and Zach Zenner would both have 47 and 45 yards rushing respectively. Zenner would score the 2nd touchdown for the Lions.
Week 16: Detroit: vs Minnesota; Buffalo: @ New England
TW: 7-5; CV: 9-3
Seattle 23, San Francisco 26 (F/OT): TW: Seattle, CV: Seahawks
Special teams were the MVP for the 49ers in the contest. Seattle's Russell Wilson had 237 passing yards with two touchdowns. Chris Carson had 119 yards rushing with a touchdown. Nick Mullens had 275 yards passing with a touchdown. Matt Breida and Jeff Wilson had 50 and 46 yards on the ground respectively. Richie James had a kick return for a touchdown for 97 yards. Robbie Gould finished with 4/4 on field goals. He hit the 36-yard game winner in overtime.
Week 16: Seattle: vs Kansas City; San Francisco: vs Chicago
TW: 7-6; CV: 9-4
New England 10, Pittsburgh 17: TW: Patriots, CV: Patriots
It was an uncharacteristic performance from the Patriots. Tom Brady would give the Patriots 279 yards passing with a touchdown and interception. Sony Michel would be the team's leading rusher with 59 yards. Ben Roethlisberger of the Steelers had 235 yards passing with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Jaylen Samuels had an off day last week but he would ring the bell (pun intended perhaps) with 142 yards on 19 carries. His longest was for 25 yards. A first-round bye is in jeopardy for the Patriots. Pittsburgh finally gets the Patriots monkey off their back.
Week 16: New England: vs Buffalo; Pittsburgh: @ New Orleans
TW: 7-7; CV: 9-5
Philadelphia 30, LA Rams 23: TW: Rams, CV: Rams
The defense was the name of the game with both defenses getting three interceptions. Nick Foles would start for the Eagles again, throwing the ball for 270 yards passing with an interception. Wendell Smallwood would get 48 yards rushing on two touchdowns for the Eagles. Jared Goff had another off game with two interceptions while getting 339 yards passing. Todd Gurley would pick up the slack with 48 yards rushing with two touchdowns of his own. The defending champs aren't dead... yet.
Week 16: Philadelphia: vs Houston; LA Rams: @ Arizona
TW: 7-8; CV: 9-6
New Orleans 12, Carolina 9: TW: Saints, CV: Saints
The game wasn't pretty, it was not the offensive showdown that most probably expected, but it was a win for the Saints. Drew Brees had 203 yards in the air with an interception. Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram, the versatile running back tandem, had 67 and 63 yards rushing respectively. Kamara had a touchdown as well. Cam Newton had 131 yards passing with an interception as well. Christian McCaffrey had a touchdown pass on a 50-yard play. McCaffrey had 53 yards rushing on 15 carries. It was Carolina's sixth straight loss after going 6-2.
Week 16: New Orleans: vs Pittsburgh; Carolina: vs Atlanta
TW: 8-8; CV: 10-6
Records:
Tom (me)
2018:
Week 1: 10-5-1
Week 2: 6-9-1
Week 3: 8-8
Week 4: 12-3
Week 5: 6-9
Week 6: 10-5
Week 7: 10-4
Week 8: 11-3
Week 9: 9-4
Week 10: 7-7
Week 11: 8-5
Week 12: 11-4
Week 13: 10-6
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 8-8
Overall: 133-89-2
Cardinal Viking
2018:
Week 1: 8-7-1
Week 2: 9-6-1
Week 3: 5-11
Week 4: 9-6
Week 5: 9-6
Week 6: 6-9
Week 7: 12-2
Week 8: 10-4
Week 9: 8-5
Week 10: 9-5
Week 11: 7-6
Week 12: 13-2
Week 13: 11-5
Week 14: 7-9
Week 15: 10-6
Overall: 133-89-2
See you guys on Wednesday for the Week 16 picks column!
-Tom
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