Author: Jeremy Kohl

A good, hard working dude that loves his sports.

NFL Week 6: Sunday Picks, Predictions & Colin Cowherd’s Blazin’ 5 Picks

Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – London, 9:30 AM (Buccs +1, O/U: 47.5)

Kyle Allen has been keeping the Panthers season alive in the absence of Cam. He’s completed 67% of his passes and has been very careful with the ball, throwing 5 TD’s and 0 picks. The team has put a lot of work on Christian McCaffrey as well as he leads the league in yards from scrimmage (866) while leading the league in rushing yards (587) and tied for second in rushing TD’s (6). The defense is the 4th best against the pass, allowing just 985 yards. The Buccs have been keeping things interesting in the NFC South with wins against the Panthers and Rams. Jameis has been up and down but has looked better than seasons past under Arians (61.4 % completions, 1,371 yards and 11 TD’s with 5 picks). The big difference in this offense is that their efficient in passing downfield, averaging 13.4 yards per completion. The line needs more work as they’ve allowed 18 sacks (tied for 4th in the league). The emergence of Ronald Jones has been much needed for the run game. The team is middle of the league in rushing but Ronnie has shown flashes of what he can do when the line blocks well as he’s averaged 4.6 yards per carry. Their defense has been suspect however as they’ve allowed the 5th most points and yards in the league (148 and 1,967 yards) but caused 10 turnovers which ironically is also the 5th best in the league.

Take the Panthers to cover in the over, Panthers 27-24.

Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens, M&T Bank Stadium, 1:00 PM (Ravens -10.5, O/U: 46.5)

The Bengals have been hovering around the bottom 4 in most team stats. Massive offensive line issues have them sitting 3rd worst in the league in rushing which forces Dalton to throw more which has the team 9th in the league in passing yards. Dalton at least has kept the turnovers to a minimum (7TD’s to 4 picks). They have the 2nd worst redzone conversion, only converting 4 TD’s on 14 trips (28.6%). They’ve also allowed the 7th most points and don’t get to the QB much at all with only 6 sacks (tied for 2nd worst in the league). The Ravens have seemed to cool off a bit as he’s thrown for less than 250 yards in each game and has 4 TD’s and 5 picks in those games and luckily walk away 1-1 from those games. Ingram is top 10 in yards with 6 TD’s (tied for 2nd in the league). The defense isn’t the Ravens defense of old however. They’re bottom half of the league in points allowed, 3rd worst in passing yards allowed, bottom 3rd in the league with just 9 sacks, but have been solid against the run (top 3rd in the league). The one for sure thing is that they are good in the redzone, converting the 8th best percentage (63.6%) with 14 redzone TD’s on 22 trips. Take the Ravens to cover in the over, Ravens 31-17.

Houston Texans @ Kansas City Chiefs, Arrowhead Stadium, 1:00 PM (Chiefs -3.5, O/U: 54.5)

The Texans take their 8th best offense up against the Chiefs 3rd best. Showdown of the young guns has Watson (69.2% completions, ,1364 yards, 11 TD’s and 1 INT) versus Mahomes (65.6% completions, 1,831 yards, 11 TD’s and zero picks). The Texans have converted a leagues 2nd best in the redzone, 73.3% (11TD’s for 15 trips) while the Chiefs are only 22nd (10 TD’s for 20 trips, 50%), however the Chiefs are more of a big play type of offense. Speaking of their big play abilities, Tyreek Hill will be back in the lineup, how effective, we will see but a deep threat that Mahomes has been missing, is back. Take the Chiefs to cover in the over, Chiefs 34-28.

New Orleans Saints @ Jacksonville Jaguars, TIAA Bank Field, 1:00 PM (Jags -2.5, O/U: 42.5)

Something has to give with the Saints as they go into their 4th game under Bridgewater’s leadership. They lead the NFC South while also having a -1 on scoring differential, that’s right, they’ve allowed more points than scored and are 4-1. The Saints have stayed middle of the league in passing as Bridgewater has only averaged just over 200 yards per game. Kamara hasn’t really broken out yet either, ranking 12 in rushing yards with only 1 TD. Important to note that the Saints have one of the worst redzone defenses (5th worst) allowing 11 TD’s in 16 trips (68.8%). The Jaguars are 10th in passing but Fournette has woken up and is now 3rd in the league in rushing with 512 TD’s while scoring his first and only TD of the year last week. To be fair, he’s had 333 of his 512 yards in the last 2 weeks but that just means that the offense is starting to find a grove under Minshew who also had a big week last week (374 yards, 2TD’s and 0 picks). Believe it or not but Minshew is right behind Aaron Rodgers in yardage (1,279) and has an astounding 9 TD’s and only 1 pick. Both defenses are 11th (Saints) and 12th (Jags) in passing yards allowed. Take the Jaguars to cover in the under, Jaguars 20-17.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Minnesota Vikings, U.S. Bank Stadium, 1:00 PM (Vikings -3.5, O/U: 45.5)

The Eagles come into this matchup with the NFC East lead while having scored the 6th most points but being 20th in pass yards and 18th in rush yards means they don’t spend much time on the field and are efficient in the redzone 68.4% of their trips (13 TD’s in 19 trips). The defense has allowed the 4th most yards (1,356) as a result but only allowed 111 points which keeps them middle of the league. Cousins had a big bounce back game last week (306 yards and 2 TD’s) as he improved on the leagues 28th best passing offense. Given Cousins struggles all season so far, The Vikings have been great on the ground as the leagues 2nd best run game as Cook has 542 yards (45 yards behind McCaffrey) and 5 TD’s. He’s been phenomenal since coming back from his injury in his rookie season. The Vikings are also efficient in the redzone, scoring 9 td’s on 15 trips (60%). Take the Eagles to cover in the win, in the over, Eagles 27-24.

Seattle Seahawks @ Cleveland Browns, FirstEnergy Stadium, 1:00 PM (Pick’em, O/U: 46.5)

Russell Wilson has been very efficient to start the season and apparently it’s a trend to throw a bunch of TD’s with zero picks as Wilson has 12 TD”s and zero picks. Wilson usually is careful with the ball while ranking second by .2% in completions (73.1%) behind Derek Carr. Seattle ranks up in the top half in rushing as Carson holds the 9th spot with 380 yards and 1 score while averaging 4 yards per carry. The Browns are a roller coaster team which is actually a compliment compared to recent years. Baker ranks middle of the pack in yardage but his overall decision making has hurt the team tremendously (4td’s to 8 picks) while also being sacked 16 times which is tied for 5th most times sacked. Nick Chubb has kept the balance on the offense to try and take the pressure off of Mayfield. Chubb is 4th in the league in rushing yards (485) with 4 TD’s also adding 111 receiving yards for 596 scrimmage yards (4th most). The pride of the Browns is their defense which only ranks 5th in most points allowed. Even though they have been missing some key star players in their secondary, they rank 7th best in passing yards allowed but the rush defense ranks 4th with most yards allowed (754). Take the Seahawks to win in the pick’em, in the over, Seahawks 27-20.

Washington Redskins @ Miami Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium, 1:00 PM (Dolphins +5, O/U: 42.5)

It’s been dubbed the tank bowl and both teams are ranked at or near the bottom in basically every statistical category. There’s not much to say with the Redskins firing Jay Gruden, going with Colt McCoy to start and the Dolphins having struggled to score all year (just 26 points in 5 games). It’s a coin flip. Take the Dolphins to cover in the win (you heard it hear first), in the under, Dolphins 20-17.

Atlanta Falcons @ Arizona Cardinals, University of Phoenix Stadium, 4:05 PM (Cardinals +3, O/U: 51.5)

The Falcons have had a rough start and their coaches job is on the line because of it, being 20th in the league in passing and 28th in rushing, which shouldn’t happen with that talent. It isn’t just the offense that has stunk it up, the defense is ranked 3rd in points allowed, 10th most pass yards allowed and 13th in rush yards allowed. Matt Ryan has had to pass a ton given the lack of the rushing game and minus his picks, he’s been efficient (70% completions, 1,655 yards, 11 TD’s and 7 picks). Devonta Freeman has been the surprise of the season, surprise as he’s been missing on this offense. He’s ranking 38th in rushing (58 carries, 187 yards, zero TD’s). Kyler Murray has been fairly effective given the porous offensive line (62.7% completions, 1,324 yards, 4TD’s and 4 picks). I mentioned the bad offensive line, they’ve allowed the leagues second most sacks with 21. David Johnson had a couple good games to make everyone think he was back but he’s still only 21st in rushing (264 yards and 1 TD). The Cardinals are known to start games slow and turn it on after the half but that kind of inconsistency hurts especially since they’re 3rd worst in the league in the redzone with 20 trips but only 6 TD’s for 30%. Take the Falcons to cover in the over, Falcons 31-24.

San Francisco 49ers @ Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, 4:05 PM (Rams -3, O/U: 49.5)

The 49ers have been on a nice ride as they are the only undefeated team left in the NFC at 4-0. The 49ers were sure to ease Jimmy G back as they have the 3 worst passing yardage as Jimmy G has 69% completions, 920 yards, 7TD’s and 4 picks. The team is ranked 3rd in rushing as they were easing Jimmy G back with Matt Breida ranking 13th in rushing yards (340) and a TD but also teaming with Rasheem Mostert (236) and Tevin Coleman (120). The concerning stat, redzone conversions are bottom 3rd of the league with 17 trips but only 8 TD’s (47.1%). The Rams have fallen off a bit but are still scoring the leagues 5th most points (146). Goff leads the leagues 3rd best passing team with 63.1% completions, 1,649 yards, 7TD’s but also 7 picks as he’s throwing more due to hit and miss run support. They rank 22nd in team rushing with 481 yards and 8 TD’s with Gurley only ranking 19th in the league with 270 yards but 5 TD’s. They are good in the redzone, converting 14 TD’s in 22 trips (63.6%) good for tied for 8th. Defensively the Rams rank in the bottom 3rd and the 49ers rank 2nd in points allowed. 49ers also have the 3rd most turnovers caused in the league with 11, 7 by way of the interception (only had 2 all last season). Take the 49ers to cover and win in the under, 49ers 24-20.

Dallas Cowboys @ New York Jets, MetLife Stadium, 4:25 PM (Jets +7, O/U: 43.5)

The Cowboys have cooled off tremendously after their hot start. They had to witness another Green Bay win in their own house (again). The Cowboys are still a top 10 offense and rank 4th in redzone conversions with 16 trips and 11 TD’s (68.8%). Their defense is also stout, only allowing the 7th least amount of points (90). Dak Prescott is 5th in passing yardage (1,606), 11 TD’s but 6 picks even with 69.6% completions. Zeke has been in the top 10 in yards all year but being down in the last 2 games, the offense looks to pass more and his numbers took a hit from it. For the Jets, Sam Darnold is back from having mono. The Jets rank last or near last in every statistical category on offense and with Darnold being out for about a month, he will be rusty. Although the Jets are bad, defensively they rank 8th in least amount of pass yards allowed and 4th least amount of yards allowed rushing. The redzone defense isn’t great however, allowing 7TD’s in 10 trips (70%) and are the 2nd wrost there. Take the Cowboys to cover in the under, Cowboys 27-10.

Tennessee Titans @ Denver Broncos, Broncos Stadium at Mile High, 4:25 PM (Broncos -1.5, O/U: 41.5)

The Titans and Broncos are virtually right next to each other in all offensive categories other than redzone conversions. The Broncos are 27th with 7 TD’s on 15 trips (46.7%) while the Titans are 10th 8TD’s in 13 trips (61.5%). Defensively they’re pretty close as well but the Titans pull away in picks (7 Titans, 4 Broncos) and sacks (17 Titans, 5 Broncos). The Titans are worse however (30th), in the redzone as they allowed 9 TD’s on 13 trips (69.2%) while the Broncos are 6th, allowing just 8 TD’s on 17 trips (47.1%). Mariota and Falcco aren’t far off in stats but Mariota still has yet to throw a pick and has 7TD’s, while Flacco has 4 picks and 6 TD’s. This game will be close given how similar the 2 are. Take the Broncos to cover in the under, Broncos 20-17.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Los Angeles Chargers, StubHub Center, 8:20 PM, NBC (Chargers -6, O/U: 42.5)

The Steelers will be sending undrafted rookie, Devin Hodges, out for his first career start as Mason Rudolph hasn’t been cleared from his vicious concussion last week. Hodges will be the teams 3rd quarterback in 6 games but he did look good in his relief work last week, going 7/9 for 68 yards. Conner hasn’t been up to par or what was expected from what he brought last year with only 194 yards on 58 carries and 2 TD’s. Even with all of the injuries at quarterback, the Steelers still have managed to rank 22nd in points scored (99), but are bottom 3rd in passing and rushing yards. The defense has suffered because of it but still rank middle of the pack. The Chargers are trying to hang in there as they are 3rd in the AFC West as the Chiefs obviously lead but the shocking 3-2 Raiders are sitting in 2nd! The Chargers rushing game has hurt the offense early but they now do have Melvin Gordon back as of last week and should see more action in this game. Rivers is 6th in passing yards but only has 7TD’s and 4 picks as he lost Gates and Williams for this season. Ekeler has been a decent fill in but more effective through the air as he ranks in the top 10 in scrimmage yards. Take the Chargers to cover in the under, Chargers 24-13.

Colin Cowherd’s Blazin’ 5:

  • Seattle at Cleveland – Cleveland (+2)
  • New Orleans at Jacksonville – Jacksonville (-2)
  • Atlanta at Arizona – Atlanta (-2.5)
  • Tennessee at Denver – Tennessee (+2)
  • Dallas at NY Jets – NY Jets (+7)

NFL Week 6: Sunday Morning London Game Pick & Prediction

Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – London, 9:30 AM (Buccs +1, O/U: 47.5)

Kyle Allen has been keeping the Panthers season alive in the absence of Cam. He’s completed 67% of his passes and has been very careful with the ball, throwing 5 TD’s and 0 picks. The team has put a lot of work on Christian McCaffrey as well as he leads the league in yards from scrimmage (866) while leading the league in rushing yards (587) and tied for second in rushing TD’s (6). The defense is the 4th best against the pass, allowing just 985 yards. The Buccs have been keeping things interesting in the NFC South with wins against the Panthers and Rams. Jameis has been up and down but has looked better than seasons past under Arians (61.4 % completions, 1,371 yards and 11 TD’s with 5 picks). The big difference in this offense is that their efficient in passing downfield, averaging 13.4 yards per completion. The line needs more work as they’ve allowed 18 sacks (tied for 4th in the league). The emergence of Ronald Jones has been much needed for the run game. The team is middle of the league in rushing but Ronnie has shown flashes of what he can do when the line blocks well as he’s averaged 4.6 yards per carry. Their defense has been suspect however as they’ve allowed the 5th most points and yards in the league (148 and 1,967 yards) but caused 10 turnovers which ironically is also the 5th best in the league.

Take the Panthers to cover in the over, Panthers 27-24.

NFL Week 6: Thursday Night Football Pick & Prediction

New York Giants @ New England Patriots, Gillette Stadium, 8:20 PM, FOX/NFLN (Patriots -17, O/U: 41.5)

The Giants have been hanging in this season despite their absolutely horrendous defense. Their defense ranks 34rd to last in yards allowed with 2,047 yards however their offense are tops in the league with the highest percentage of drives that end in a turnover (20.4%).  That puts tired defenses back on the field to get torched.  Their defense still has output (5 picks, 6 fumbles recovered and 13 sacks) but when you’re on the field all the time, you’re bound to make plays but give up a ton of yards.  The Giants are also down to their 3rd string running back (Jon Hillman) with Saquon Barkley being out with a severe ankle sprain and Wayne Gallman has a concussion and is ruled out.  Daniel Jones is completing 64% of his passes but only averaging 248 yards in his 3 starts.  Barkley surely has made defenses solely focus on Jones as his yards have steadily declined with each game he’s started, 336 yards against the Buccs with Barkley, 225 against the Redskins & 182 yards against the Vikings, both games without Barkley.  Expect more of the same as he’s thrown his 3 picks in games without Barkley.

The Patriots absolutely destroy teams with bad defenses and they don’t ever let up against division rivals or teams that they have a grudge against. If you think the Pats forgot about the 2 super bowls that Eli stole from them, you’re sadly mistaken.  Eli has always played them tough and this will be the first meeting since before 2007 where the Giants will face the Patriots without Eli.  The Pats against Eli were 2-3 with the average game being decided by a mere 3 points!  The Patriots are the leagues top defense, which is rare for them at this point of the season and have only allowed 34 points in 5 weeks which is nearly half of the 49ers who are 2nd.  They’ve allowed the 2nd least amount of yards but tops in average yards allowed per play and are tied with the Steelers for the most turnovers created with 11 picks, 1 fumble recovered and an amazing 24 sacks (leading the NFL).  Brady hasn’t needed to be relied upon as much as the Pats usually do early in the season.  He still has top 10 stats in most categories and protecting the ball as he does with 10 TD’s against 2 picks.  Now, granted, they’ve probably had the softest schedule of any NFL team, outside of playing the Steelers and Bills, they’ve played 3 of the leagues worst and you might as well add the Giants to that since they are bottom half of the league in most categories.  Lastly, Brady passed Brett Favre on the all-time yards list last week, it’s Favre’s 50th birthday today and tonight Brady only needs 18 more yards to pass Peyton Manning for 2nd all-time (how ironic).

Take the Patriots to cover in the under, Patriots 31-10.

NFL Week 5: Monday Night Football Pick & Prediction

Cleveland Browns @ San Francisco 49ers, Levi’s Stadium, 8:15 PM, ESPN (49ers -4.5, O/U: 48.5)

The Browns are hit or miss.  There’s a lot of characters involved with that roster, the big ego’s on the offense (Baker & OBJ) are exhausting and smothering the news on this team.  Baker has his moments but still makes poor “gunslinger” throws that get picked because he’s no Favre.  He’s completed just 59% of his passes and has 4 TD’s to 6 picks.  He can make plays, he can be fluid in the pocket, albeit better to the right than left.  Decision making is his big fault.  He does thrive on hyped up games where his talent is called into question which is what I feel his performance last week was based on adrenaline due to the comparison to Lamar Jackson and the story being pushed, who was a better draft pick?  OBJ was kept silent while the other big threat, Landry went off for season high 8 catches and career best 167 yards before sustaining a concussion to which he was released from concussion protocol late last week so expect to see him on the field.  The Browns defense are middle of the road for points and yards allowed however they are doing very well for themselves on the turnover side of things with 4 picks, 3 forced fumbles, 4 recovered fumbles and then 14 sacks to top all of that.  

Jimmy Garappolo is having a good start to the season as he’s completed 69% but his yardage is light with just 739 yards in 3 games and 5 TD’s to 4 picks but you have to remember, he was out all last year basically so the rust is expected.  Kyle Shanahan will have him up to speed starting with this game as he’s going to need to be extra sharp with the Browns defense even minus Ward in their secondary.  The team is surprisingly near the top in points scored, 2nd in the league with 96 in just 3 weeks as well as being 4th in team yards.  The defense has also been surprisingly strong, near the tops in the league in most team defensive stats including 3 picks, 3 forced fumbles, 5 recovered fumbles and 9 sacks.  Breida and Mostert will need to continue their tag team style who have combined for 428 yards on 75 carries, averaging 5.7 yards per carry.  Expect to see a strong outing for a fresh 49ers team at home.

Take the 49ers to cover in the over, 49ers 28-21.

NFL Week 5: Sunday Games Picks, Predictions & Colin Cowherd’s Blazin’ 5

Arizona Cardinals @ Cincinnati Bengals, Paul Brown Stadium, 1:00 PM (Bengals -3, O/U: 46.5)

The Cardinals have looked choppy at times through games, mostly in the first half but have seemingly come out in the second half and putting things together on offense. The Bengals are going to be without Green and Ross on the outside and thus basically have no weapons. Both teams have bad offensive lines but Murray has the ability to move out of the pocket and still has Kirk and Fitzgerald to throw to. Take the Cardinals to cover and win outright, in the under, Cardinals 24-17.

Atlanta Falcons @ Houston Texans, NRG Stadium, 1:00 PM (Texans -4, O/U: 49.5)

No one can explain why the Falcons aren’t performing well with the personnel they have. Quinn seems to be on the hotseat given the weak start by the club. Their redzone figures are horrendous and their running game is non-existent which is why Ryan has thrown for over 300 yards in all 4 games. The Falcons have also committed the most penalties in the league. The Texans are coming off a bad loss to a backup quarterback at home. The Texans couldn’t move the ball and Watson was sacked 6 times which brings the season total to 18 times sacked in 4 games. Watson has taken care of the ball while completing 65% of his passes with 6 TD’s and 1 pick. The defense has been pretty good, ranking 10th in least points allowed while also forcing 8 fumbles, recovering 8 fumbles and snagging 13 sacks. Take the Texans to cover in the win and in the over, 28-23.

Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers, Heinz Field, 1:00 PM (Steelers +3, O/U: 43.5)

The Ravens are coming off of 2 losses where Jackson has looked more human. He’s thrown for 596 yards for 7 TD’s and zero picks against the Dolphins and Cardinals but in the last 2 games against the Chiefs and Browns (better defenses) he’s thrown for 517 yards, 3 TD’s and 2 picks. They are still scoring (top ranked offense) but are allowing big time yardage on defense (bottom 3rd in the league on defese). The Steelers have been bottom 3rd in the league on offense as it’s evident that missing Ben, Bell and Brown have significantly hurt. Conner woke up a bit against the Bengals however it didn’t blow anyone away. The defense has kept the Steelers in 2 of 3 of their losses even though they’ve even been middle of the road compared to the rest of the league. Take the Ravens to cover in the over, Ravens 28-17.

Buffalo Bills @ Tennessee Titans, Nissan Stadium, 1:00 PM (Titans -3.5, O/U: 39.5)

The Bills Defense has really stepped up this season. They’re 5th in the league in least points allowed and 2nd in yards allowed. They’re passing has been middle of the road but the rushing duo of Gore and Singletary has been top 5 in most rushing categories. Allen has been shacky to start the season, with only having 3 TD’s against 6 picks. The Titans are an up and down team offensively, very inconsistent. The one consistent that has been very evident is that Mariota has thrown for 7 TD’s and zero picks. The offense has been pretty efficient, ranking 25 in yards but 13 in points scored. The defense is also ranked in the top half of the league. The one thing the Bills can do is make offenses make mistakes or stall their drives. Take the Bills to win outright and cover in the under, Bills 21-17.

Chicago Bears @ Oakland Raiders, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – London, 1:00 PM (Raiders +6, O/U: 40.5)

Take the Bears to win but the Raiders cover in the under, Bears 20-17.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Carolina Panthers, Bank of America Stadium, 1:00 PM (Panthers -3, O/U: 40.5)

Take the Jaguars to cover in the win in the over, Jags 24-21.

Minnesota Vikings @ New York Giants, MetLife Stadium, 1:00 PM (Giants +6, O/U: 43.5)

Take the Vikings to win but the Giants to cover in the over, Vikings 27-24.

New England Patriots @ Washington Redskins, FedEx Field, 1:00 PM (Redskins +16, O/U: 41.5)

Take the Patriots to cover in the over, Patriots 31-13.

New York Jets @ Philadelphia Eagles, Lincoln Financial Field, 1:00 PM (Eagles -14, O/U: 43.5)

Take the Eagles to cover in the under, Eagles 27-9.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints, Mercedes-Benz Superdome, 1:00 PM (Saints -3, O/U: 47.5)

Take the Saints to cover in the under, Saints 27-20.

Denver Broncos @ Los Angeles Chargers, StubHub Center, 4:05 PM (Chargers -5.5, O/U: 44.5)

Take the Chargers to cover in the over, Chargers 31-24.

Green Bay Packers @ Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium, 4:25 PM (Cowboys -3.5, O/U: 46.5)

Take the Packers to cover in the win, in the over, Packers 27-24.

Indianapolis Colts @ Kansas City Chiefs, Arrowhead Stadium, 8:20 PM, NBC (Chiefs -10.5, O/U: 55.5)

Take the Chiefs to cover in the over, Chiefs 35-23.

Colin Cowherd’s Blazin’ 5:

  • Arizona at Cincinnati – Arizona (+3)
  • Tampa Bay at New Orleans – New Orleans (-3)
  • Minnesota at NY Giants – Minnesota (-4.5)
  • Chicago at Oakland – Chicago (-4.5)
  • Green Bay at Dallas – Green Bay (+3.5)

NFL Week 5: Thursday Night Football Pick & Prediction

Los Angeles Rams @ Seattle Seahawks, CenturyLink Field, 8:20 PM, FOX/NFLN (Seahawks -1.5, O/U: 49.5)

The talk of the town has been how the Rams might have the super bowl hangover.  Goff is 6 TD’s to 6 picks and only just passed for 300+ yards just last week in a shootout with the Buccs of all teams.  Goff finished with 517 yards and threw 68 passes mainly because Todd Gurley has been in a massive decline.  Gurley has steadily declined in yards each of the first 4 games of the season and only carried the ball 5 times due to lack of effectiveness and because they were behind big early.  Goff has had trouble in his career against the Seahawks, averaging less than 200 yards and averaging 1 TD and 1 pick in 6 meetings.  but the defense has kept them in all of their games as they’ve recovered 3 fumbles, picked 4 passes and added 10 sacks.

What can I say about Russell Wilson?  Everyone wrote this team off before the season and after nearly losing to the Bengals in week one but Wilson has protected the ball and made this offense work with a bunch of no name guys and rookies.  Completing 73% of his passes with 8 TD’s and zero picks while still pushing the ball down the field averaging 9.8 yards per attempt/11.8 yards per completion. has lead the team to a 3-1 start.  Russell doesn’t usually throw for a ton of yards because they do like to use the power run game and he likes to scramble a bit so his averages in 14 games doesn’t really matter but the record does.  He’s 2-4 against Goff and 6-8 overall against the Rams.  The defense has also been a turnover machine with 2 picks (including Jadeveon Clowney’s pick 6) and 7, yes count them, 7 fumble recoveries.  They’ve been average everywhere else on pass and rush yards allowed.  Keep an eye on rookie standout D.K. Metcalf who has 10 catches for 223 yards and a TD.  He’s only averaging about 5 targets per game but only had 1 catch for 6 yards last week.  They may need to air it out more than usual and he’s a big time deep threat.

Expect the Seahawks to defend the 12th man better than their previous 2 home games.  Take the Seahawks to win in the over, Seahawks 27-24.

NFL Week 4: Monday Night Football Pick & Prediction

Cincinnati Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers, Heinz Field, 8:15 PM, ESPN (Steelers -4, O/U: 45.5)

The Bengals are reeling after another tough road loss against the Bills last week. Only being blown out at home against the 49ers, the Bengals have lost their 2 road games by a combined 5 points. Andy Dalton is 4th in the league in passing with 979 yards, 5 TD’s and 3 picks while completing 63% of his passes. He’s been without AJ Green (who is expected to be out until at least week 7) but have had John Ross (13 catches for 292 yards, 3 TD’s) and Tyler Boyd (24 catches for 250 yards) step up to fill his shoes together. Their issues have been lack of Mixon’s rushing game (87 yards on 32 carries) and their rush defense which has given up 168.7 yards per game)

The Steelers are living a very similar story where they’ve had 2 close loses of 6 points combined yet were blown out by the Pats in week one. Shockingly, with Big Ben getting hurt in week 2, the Steelers have managed to stay in both games with their backup, Mason Rudolph. Mason has only completed 57% of his passes but has limited turnovers with 4 pass TD’s and 2 picks. Still, the offense has struggled mightily, averaging 204 yards through the air and 64 yards rushing with Conner only averaging 2.9 yards on 34 carries and 97 yards. The offense isn’t the only one struggling as the defense has given up 303 yards through the air and 139 yards on the ground per game. It has been an ugly start with seeing Big Ben go out with injury, Bell and Brown leaving the offense all in the same season. The Steelers are struggling in a way that could hamper them until the end.

This game will be absolutely nasty as both teams are looking up at the Pound Puppies leading the division…yes, you read that right, 4 weeks in, the Browns are leading the division. Take the Bengals to finally get a road win against a virtually hapless Steelers, Bengals cover in the under, Bengals 20-14.

NFL Week 4: Sunday Games Picks & Predictions with Colin Cowherd’s Balzin’ 5

Carolina Panthers @ Houston Texans, NRG Stadium, 1:00 PM (Texans -5.5, O/U: 47.5)

Allen gets his second start but against an always hungry defense. The Texans have been in fairly close games all season so far due to the lack of running game which gives the offense an overall inconsistency despite the excellent passing game. With all the weapons Allen has, expect the Panthers to keep it close. Take the Texans to win but the Panthers to cover in the over, Texans 27-24.

Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens, M&T Bank Stadium, 1:00 PM (Ravens -7.5, O/U: 46.5)

The Browns are struggling mightily to score only averaging 16 points per game. Baker looks to have regressed with additional weapons while only completing 56.9% of his passes. The Ravens have had an offensive output unlike ever seen in this organization. They’ve averaged 36.7 points and went toe to toe with the supreme offense of the Chiefs last week in a close losing effort. Lamar Jackson has completed 63% of his passes for 863 yards, 7 touchdowns and zero interceptions. Take the Ravens to cover in the win, in the over, Ravens 31-20.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Detroit Lions, Ford Field, 1:00 PM (Lions +7, O/U: 54.5)

The Chiefs have been one of the top offensive teams in the league since week 1 of last year. This year they are averaging 33.6 points and even without Tyreek Hill the last 2 weeks. Sammy Watkins, Travis Kelce, Demarcus Robinsons and newly signed LeSean McCoy have all stepped up when needed. The Lions are a scrappy team who surprisingly lead the NFC North while beating a road tough Chargers and upsetting a championship team in the Eagles in their house. They come home to try their hands at another upset. Stafford has been efficient but the running game with Kerryon Johnson has been lacking which takes a dimension away from this team. Take the Chiefs to cover in the under, Chiefs 31-21.

Los Angeles Chargers @ Miami Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium, 1:00 PM (Dolphins +14, O/U: 44.5)

The Chargers are always a tough road team. They’ve missed key players and especially on defense with Derwin James. Phillip Rivers has been exceptional and especially with top target Keenan Allen, expect that to continue with Fitzpatrick now a Steeler. The Dolphins handed the keys to Rosen last week and given how bad the defense was and the many drops his receivers had, overshadowed the good things he did. Expect him to have a his best outing of the season today. Take the Chargers to cover in the under, Chargers 34-17.

New England Patriots @ Buffalo Bills, New Era Field, 1:00 PM (Bills +7, O/U: 41.5)

The Patriots defense has started out very strong, probably the strongest any Pats defense have ever started by blowing out the Steelers, Dolphins and the Jets, only allowing 17 points. Brady has completed 68% of his throws for 911 yards, 7 TD’s and zero picks. The rushing game hasn’t really been there but it hasn’t been needed with how efficient Brady has been. The Bills have been scrappy and impressive with wins against the Jets and Giants on the road and beating the Bengals in a close one at home. You should rarely if ever bet against Bill Belichick and the Pats even though this one will be tough for them. Take the Patriots to cover in the under, Patriots 27-17.

Oakland Raiders @ Indianapolis Colts, Lucas Oil Stadium, 1:00 PM (Colts -6.5, O/U: 46.5)

The Raiders have looked ok to start off the season. Sure they had a bad week against the Vikings but they held the Chiefs scoreless in 3 of 4 quarters the week before and beat the Broncos in week 1. Josh Jacobs has looked like an offensive rookie of the year candidate averaging 5 yards per carry. Carr has completed 73% of his passes but has 4 TD’s and 3 picks. The Colts have kept all games under a touchdown and have won 2 of them. Brissett has also completed over 70% of his passes and Marlon Mack has averaged 4.9 yards per rush on 61 carries for 299 yards. Both teams have allowed 70+ points in the first 3 weeks but the Colts have faced one team that is mediocre at best on offense where the Raiders have faced a top team in the Chiefs and held them to 28. Take the Colts to win but the Raiders to cover in the under, Colts 21-20.

Tennessee Titans @ Atlanta Falcons, Mercedes-Benz Superdome, 1:00 PM (Falcons -3.5, O/U: 46.5)

Tennessee has been inconsistent as a team since drafting Mariota and having him lead this team. The one thing Mariota has done well is not throwing picks. What has helped him do that is the rushing game with Derrick Henry and Mariota’s own legs. The Falcons have been shockingly average given the big names on this offense. The rushing game has been non existent and the big performances by Julio Jones to nab 4 reception TD’s and 2 for Hooper and Ridley, to be 1-2 with 2 road games and barely coming away with a win against an Eagles team who lost their 2 top receivers in the opening quarter at home is concerning for their defense and if they can hold an average Mariota. Titans defense can be stout but I expect the better quarterback to be more careful with the ball and start to turn it around. Take the Falcons to cover in the over, Falcons 31-17

Washington Redskins @ New York Giants, MetLife Stadium, 1:00 PM (Giants -3, O/U: 48.5)

The Redskins are choppy but hang in games for some reason. Keenan is a never give up guy and is very fiery. Keenan has completed 69% of his passes despite having a big name but we may see a big name emerging for them, Terry McLaurin who has 16 catches for 257 yards and 3 scores. Chris Thompson has been amazing out of the backfield with 16 catches and 195 yards as the second leading receiver on the team. Danny Dimes has breathed life into this team but it came at the expense of losing Saquon Barkley for at least 1-2 months with a severe sprain of his ankle. Evan Engram has been their top receiver, surprisingly. Given the Barkley injury, expect this one to be close.  Big late injury report has McLaurin out for the game as well. Take the Giants to cover in the under, Giants 24-13.

Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals, University of Phoenix Stadium, 4:05 PM (Cardinals +5, O/U: 47.5)

The Seahawks defense hasn’t been anywhere close to what they had been but Wilson has bailed them out with big time consistency, completing 71% of his passes for 901 yards and 7 TD’s with zero picks. Tyler Lockett has been the main target while D.K. Metcalf has emerged as another favorite target. Chris Carson has been a bruiser of a back but relatively ineffective. The Cardinals have played tough to start the season marking a tie against the Lions, going toe to toe with the Ravens and losing by less than a touchdown and suffered mightily against the Panthers at home. The defense hasn’t been great and they start slow in the first half, being outscored but have outscored opponents in the second half as you saw against the Lions. Take the Seahawks to cover in the over, Seahawks 27-21.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, 4:05 PM (Rams -9, O/U: 48.5)

Jameis Winston has been highly inconsistent only completing 60% of his passes while tossing 5 TD’s and 4 picks. Ronald Jones has been a bright spot of the offense, emerging as their top back averaging 5.29 yards per carry but is not used as much as he should be given they’re often behind in games. Mike Evans and Chris Godwin have been Winston’s top receivers. A big win against the Panthers makes you question their power but their losses haven’t been terrible. The Rams are looking as powerful as ever and Cooper Kupp being back shows how much Goff missed him while catching a team best 23 passes while seeing the teams best 31 targets for a team best 267 yards and a team best 2 reception TD’s. Cooks and Woods are right behind him and are virtually seeing the same amount of targets. The duo of Gurley and Brown have been powerful and effective in mixing it up, keeping defenses on their toes. Take the Rams to cover in the over, Rams 34-23.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Denver Broncos, Broncos Stadium at Mile High, 4:25 PM (Broncos -2.5, O/U: 37.5)

The Jags new found quarterback Gardner Minshew has taken the world and the meme world by storm. He’s come out firing and efficiently while also using his legs when in need. He’s been so good that Jalen Ramsey now doesn’t want to be traded. Minshew has completed 73.9% of his passes for 692 yards and 5 TD’s and just 1 pick. Fournette has been good enough when used but Minshew has 80 yards on 11 carries. DJ Chark and Chris Conley have been the top air targets with both averaging at least 16+ yards per catch, which is astounding. The Broncos thought the savior to their offensive troubles was the signing of Joe Flacco, who is trying to stave off retirement. they’ve played tough teams to start the year and have lost to them all but they weren’t terribly bad losses. He’s completed 69% of his passes but low yardage (773) and only 2 TD’s with 2 picks. Courtland Sutton has been his top target but has yet to reach the endzone while Emmanuel Sanders is showing he still has it being the second favorite target and 2 scores. With all of the big time players on this defense and defensive front, they are without a sack, which is a big deal! Take the Jaguars to cover in the win, in the over, Jaguars 24-21.

Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears, Soldier Field, 4:25 PM (Bears -1, O/U: 38.5)

The Vikings have been an up and down team so far this year, beating 2 teams that are also inconsistent and tough. It almost seems like the Vikings don’t want Cousins to throw the ball given his inconsistencies, completing only 59% of his passes for 3 TD’s and 2 picks. Dalvin Cook and Alexander Mattison have been the real leaders of this offense with over 500 yards combined, both averaging over 5 yards per carry and 5 TD’s. The Bears offense has been stagnant and also don’t fully trust Trubisky throwing the ball. The best quote about him was from the Packers Tramon Williams who said the key to their planning on defense was making Trubisky play quarterback. If that doesn’t scare you about your QB situation, I don’t know what will. Take the Bears to win in the under, Bears 20-17.

Dallas Cowboys @ New Orleans Saints, Mercedes-Benz Superdome, 8:20 PM (Saints +3, O/U: 48.5)

Dak has been unbelievable to start the year, completing 75% of his passes for 920 yards, 9 TD’s and 2 picks.  He’s playing for a contract so expect him to be at the top of his game against a banged up Saints defense.  Zeke has been averaging over 5 yards per carry. Cooper, Gallup and Cobb have been going nuts on the offense and have seen many targets because it’s just too tough to cover all of them.  Bridgewater shocked everyone in the Seattle game with the win but he didn’t look great.  Going against a much tougher defense will expose him greatly.  Take the Cowboys to cover in the over, Cowboys 31-24.

Colin Cowherd’s Blazin’ 5:

  • Tennessee at Atlanta – Tennessee (+3.5)
  • Cleveland at Baltimore – Baltimore (-7)
  • Oakland at Indianapolis – Oakland (+6.5)
  • Seattle at Arizona – Arizona (+5.5)
  • Dallas at New Orleans – New Orleans (+2.5)

NFL Week 4:Thursday Night Football Pick & Prediction

Philadelphia Eagles @ Green Bay Packers, Lambeau Field, 8:20 PM, FOX/NFLN (Packers -4, O/U: 47.5)

The Eagles are coming off of a tough loss at home against the Lions where they had a second dropped pass that could’ve lead to a win (first happened in week 2 at Atlanta).  Alshon Jeffery is back in the lineup tonight after missing last week and most of the Falcons game, coming out early in the first quarter with a calf injury. Nelson Agholor was looked at often in Jeffery’s absence, seeing about a dozen targets the last few weeks and hauling in 3 scores.  They’ll expect him to continue to contribute, but hopefully with less drops.  The defense is lacking however and will be without Ronald Darby which will hurt the secondary even more as they’re ranked 29th in pass yards allowed.  Wentz by the numbers: 2019, 61 completion %, 803 yards, 6 TD’s and 2 INT’s.  He’s a career 2.5:1 TD to INT ratio and on Thursday nights he’s 3-0 with 61 completion % with 7 TD’s and 1 INT and a 104.5 QB rating.  His road numbers however are 8-13 with a 1.78:1 TD to INT ratio.

The Rodgers led Packers isn’t hyped by a high flying offense this year even though they woke up a bit last week.  The defense is showing off with having the 2nd best defense in points allowed with just 35.  They recorded 12 sacks and 6 turnovers in the first 3 weeks.  The Packers at home on Thursday nights since 2012 are 4-0 and won each game by at least 13 points (2012 v Bears 23-10, 2014 v Vikings 42-10, 2016 v Bears 26-10 & 2017 v Bears 35-14). Rodgers by the numbers: 2019: 61 completion %, 647 yards, 4 TD’s and 0 INT’s.  Over his career he’s just over 4:1 TD to INT ratio.  Thursday nights he’s 9-4 with a 67 completion %, a 6.75:1 TD to INT ratio and a 106 QB Rating.  At home he has a 66 completion % and a 5.57:1 TD to INT ratio and 107.7 QB rating with a record of 66-17-1.

The stats and recent history lean heavily in Green Bay’s favor.  Take the Packers to cover in the over, Packers 31-24.

Week 3: Monday Night Football

Chicago Bears @ Washington Redskins, FedEx Field, 8:15 PM, ESPN (Redskins +5.5, O/U: 41.5)

The Bears should scare you.  Their defense surely should scare you because they’re pretty good but this offense should scare you as in anemic, hard to watch, lacking.  Trubisky has yet to throw a touchdown but has a pick.  He’s only accumulated 348 passing yards and averaging only 4.8 yards per attempt while only completing just 58% of his passes.  That means he’s relegated to dink and dunk passes and still can’t get the offense going.  The rushing game hasn’t been there either with only amassing 118 yards on 36 carries for 3.2 yards per rush between 3 backs.  The Redskins have an 0-2 record but given the 2 divisional juggernauts (Eagles week 1, Cowboys week 2), and how they weren’t necessarily blown out of either game, things aren’t looking too bad after losing Alex Smith late last year.  Keenum’s numbers look like his 1 really good year with the Vikings, completing 69% of his passes for 601 yards, 5 TD’s and no picks.  Terry McLaurin has been the early favorite target as he has 10 catches fro 187 yards and 2 TD’s.  The rushing game has yet to come through as Guice is back to being injured after week 1 and AP couldn’t get going last week either after being marked as a healthy scratch week 1.  Given the Redskins defense ranking 30th in points and yards allowed, this one might get ugly but the Bears might be on the losing side of this one when the clock hits 0 because of their inept offense.  Take the Redskins to cover in the under, Redskins 24-17.