Category: Football

Week 15: Sunday Games

Dallas at Indianapolis, 1:00p, FOX (Colts -3, O/U: 47)

The Cowboys have had big wins recently but they were close. The Colts might be without T.Y. due to an ankle injury. Luck has also had career lows in the amount of times he’s got and sacked. Take the Colts to cover in the over, Colts 27-21.

Miami at Minnesota, 1:00p, CBS (Vikings -7.5, O/U: 45)

The Dolphins shocked the league with a huge conversion on a hook and ladder play to beat the Pats by 1. The Vikings have been struggling the last couple of weeks and their offense hasn’t been as potent. Questions have risen about whether Cousins was the right signing. When it comes to big games, he looks mediocre. Take the Dolphins to cover in the loss, in the under, Vikings 24-20.

Oakland at Cincinnati, 1:00p, CBS (Bengals -3, O/U: 46)

The Bengals are a mess and tons of people, especially Browns fans, have been blaming the hiring of Hue Jackson. Since losing Dalton, the Bengals have been an unpredictable mess. Keeping it close against the Chargers last week. Derek Carr has been quietly efficient since his early season struggles. Even, after trading Cooper, he’s completing nearly 70% of his passes and has improved to a 2:1 td/int ratio. Take the Raiders to cover in the under, Raiders 24-16.

Tennessee at N.Y. Giants, 1:00p, CBS (Giants +1.5, O/U: 43)

You can never figure out the Titans. They are a gritty team that have big time wins with their defense under Mike Vrabel, has been tough, especially against the run. The Giants are coming into this contest with momentum but will be without OBJ. Given that Sheppard is considered to be trash (by a young fan as Sheppard was under cover at a Models), the Giants don’t stand a chance other than using Barkley every down. Let’s also not forget about Henry’s performance last week, HUGE! Take the Titans to cover in the under, Titans 24-13.

Washington at Jacksonville, 1:00p, FOX (Jags -7.5, O/U: 36.5)

The Redskins are in trouble here folks. They’re using quarterbacks of yesteryear to finish off their season and it just hasn’t been pretty. The Jaguars getting Fournette back is key. Yeldon can hold his own but having both makes the offense pop more since they can use both to catch the ball. Take the Jaguars to cover in the under, Jaguars 20-10.

Arizona at Atlanta, 1:00p, FOX (Falcons -9.5, O/U: 44)

The Cardinals have the league’s worst offense. Yes David Johnson has somewhat woke up and they have Fitz but their line has had major issues all year long and despite when they move the ball downfield, they can’t score. The Falcons were a big surprise this year. Inefficiency has hurt them as well as poor defensive play. It’ll be an interesting watch as the Cardinals still have a good pass rush and Ryan gets flustered easily when the pocket breaks down often. Take the Cardinals to cover in the loss, in the under, Falcons 24-17.

Detroit at Buffalo, 1:00p, FOX (Bills -3, O/U: 40)

The Lions haven’t blown anyone away but the Bulls have been impressive when they’ve had their rookie quarterback under center. Take the Bills to cover in the over, Bills 17-16.

Green Bay at Chicago, 1:00p, FOX (Bears -5, O/U: 46.5)

Aaron Rodgers and the Packers needed to have a game like they did last week. The Bears say this isn’t a revenge game but we all know it is. Packers thin playoff hopes are on the line and the weather makes this perfect for this rivalry game. Take the Packers to cover in the upset win, in the over, Packers 27-24.

Tampa Bay at Baltimore, 1:00p, FOX (Ravens -9, O/U: 46)

Tampa has been resilient in most of their games even with their turn overs and frequent quarterback changes. No D-Jax hurts them though. Rookie Lamar Jackson has been impressive, enough so that he gets the start over a healthy Joe Flacco. Take the Buccs to cover in the loss, in the over, Ravens 28-24.

Seattle at San Francisco, 4:05p, FOX (49ers +4, O/U: 44.5)

Russell Wilson has a remarkable 5:1 td/int ratio. The last meeting between the two, the Seahawks dominated the 49ers even though the undrafted Mullens scorched their secondary for over 400 yards with 5 different relievers having 50+ yards. The big question is can Kittle replicate last week’s 210 yard performance? This should be a good watch. Take the Seahawks to cover in the over, Seahawks 31-24.

New England at Pittsburgh, 4:25p, CBS (Steelers +3, O/U: 54)

The Patriots are chasing a first round bye and with the Chiefs losing on Thursday, they still have time to stay within a game of the Chiefs and Chargers with a win. Brady may have lost in Miami again but he still threw for 350+ yards with 3 scores. The Steelers are usually buttoned up and solid at home but there’s still a question mark in regards to James Conner, who will be a game time decision after not practicing all week. Take the Steelers to cover in the over, Steelers 31-28.

Philadelphia at L.A. Rams, 8:20p, NBC (Rams -13, O/U: 52)

The epitome of the Eagles season has been injuries. Who knows what this team could’ve done with a full, healthy squad. Defensive backs, running backs, offensive line and now quarterback. Wentz has been sat with a back injury that opens the door for Foles in his second round of starts this season. Perhaps Tate will get going with a new quarterback at the helm. The Rams had a shocking loss last week against the Bears who held the Rams to just 6 points, Goff to under 200 yards and picked him off 4 times. The Rams need to get his confidence built back up so expect them to turn it on early and often. Take the Rams to cover big in the over, Rams 42-17.

Colin Cowherd’s Blazin 5:
o Cleveland at Denver – Cleveland (+3)
o Oakland at Cincinnati – Oakland (+3)
o Dallas at Indianapolis – Indianapolis (-2.5)
o Tennessee at NY Giants – Tennessee (+2.5)
o Philadelphia at LA Rams – LA Rams (-11)

#beatyourbookie

Week 15: Saturday Games

Houston vs. New York Jets, 4:30p, NFLN (Jets +7, O/U: 44.5)

Houston had been on a tear with a 9 game winning streak until the Colts messed that up. They look to rebound against the lowly Jets. Despite giving up nearly 400 yards last week, the Texans have the 5th best defense in terms of points allowed and 5th best against the run. This bodes well for them given that the Jets pass game is virtually non existent. A surprising stat is that the Texans are 3-1 on grass this year. Pair that up with Watson’s 112.9 QBR in his last 7 games with 13 TDs and 2 picks alongside Hopkins 5 game road streak catching a touchdown, it makes for a dangerous setup against the Jets.

Speaking of the Jets, Darnold led his team with under 2 minutes left to beat the Bills and snap a 6 game losing streak. Neither rookie quarterback looked all that impressive however after starting with so much hype but failing on his face since week 3, Darnold needed something to gain the confidence back. With the team needing receivers, running back, a defense, the Jets will likely struggle often today.

Take the Texans to cover in the under, Texans 24-10.

Cleveland vs. Denver, 8:30p, NFLN (Broncos -1.5, O/U: 47)

This game feels like a trap given the national following the Browns have accrued. Baker Mayfield has come on strong as of late, leading this team with grit. The Browns are 3-1 in their last 4 with five wins against the Falcons and Panthers. Nick Chubb has also been on a roll with 5 straight games scoring on the ground. Their defense has had individual successes in the form of sacks and picks. Garrett has 7.5 of his 13.5 sacks in the last 7 games along with Randall picking 2 of his 4 passes in the last 3 games.

The Broncos have also been 3-1 in their last 4 games, also against great teams (Steelers and Chargers). Even with the big wins, Keenum has had 3 straight games with less than 200 yards. Phillip Lindsay has been hot and cold all season but still is starring at a 1,000 yard season and double digit rushing touchdowns. Von Miller has led the Broncos defensive resurgence with 9.5 of his 13.5 sacks in the last 8 games.

2nd cousins Bradley Chubb and Nick Chubb won’t be taking it easy on each other as both have eyes on the playoffs.

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

Week 15: Thursday Night Football

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Kansas City Chiefs (Chiefs -3.5, O/U: 54.5)

The Chargers are putting Melvin Gordon on the game day watch to see if he’ll suit up or miss another game.  If Gordon can’t go, Eckler will once again fill in.  Rivers played masterfully in the first meeting this year between the teams, at home but still lost by 4.  His play has evolved over the last 14 weeks and he’s taken care of the ball this year (29 td’s and only 6 int’s).  Rivers and Keenan Allen have connected on big scoring plays the last 5 weeks and have really been hitting their strides.  Lets not forget their defense, who is also hitting a stride in their own right.

The Chiefs have had back to back weeks of close games but wins.  Since Hunt was released, they’ve had to rely on numerous backs to fill in, one being former future back of the team, Spencer Ware but will be without him tonight due to a neck strain and concussion from last week.  A new addition to the Chiefs will be on the sidelines as they signed the newly released Kelvin Benjamin.  He will suit up tonight but as we can imagine, will be limited in his role even with Tyreek Hill dealing with an injured foot.  Let’s also not forget how reckless Mahomes has been the last few weeks with his passes, he’s been great but he’s also thrown a few picks that weren’t the best of decisions.

What may make up your mind are the numbers you see here:

Chargers ATS: 7-6, Road ATS: 5-1

Chiefs ATS: 8-4-1, Home ATS: 3-3

This will be a battle all night long.  The Chargers are an unbelievable road team and the Chiefs can still score 30 without Hunt but both will be fighting for the AFC West and a top seed in the playoffs, so I would expect Gordon to play such an important game.  In the end, it will come down to who’s running game will keep the opponents offense off the field in the 4th quarter?  Take the Chargers to cover in the upset win, in the over, Chargers 31-28.

#beatyourbookie

Week 14: Monday Night Football

Minnesota vs Seattle (Seahawks -3, O/U: 46)

The Vikings have been seesawing the last handful of weeks winning, losing, winning, losing. They have had success when they’ve had a pass rush and more importantly failures when they couldn’t get to the quarterback. They also haven’t been able to stay up with top competitive teams in the league like the Bears, Patriots and Saints. Don’t let that win in Green Bay fool you, it’s a great win in Lambeau but against a defense that isn’t great and an offense lacking punch.

The Seahawks have been on fire with a 3 game winning streak despite having lost to the Rams twice, Chargers and Bears. The two differences are they were closer games and they’ve won the “easier” games. Another difference is the play calling. The Seahawks run the ball more as Wilson averages less than 250 yards per game but in his last 4 games he has 11 TDs to 0 picks. Their defense has quietly been climbing the ladder to bring a top 10 defense as well, allowing the league’s 9th best in scoring (21.6 points).

Take the Seahawks to cover in the over, Seahawks 28-24.

Week 14: Thursday Night Football

Jacksonville at Tennessee (Titans -5.5, O/U: 37.5)

Totally forgot today was Thursday, true story. Take the Titans to cover in the under, Titans 17-10.

#beatyourbookie

Week 13: Monday Night Football

Washington @ Philadelphia, 8:20p, ESPN (Eagles -6, O/U: 45)

In Colt Mccoy’s first start of the season, replacing the injured Alex Smith, he kept the Redskins in the Thanksgiving game against the Cowboys despite not having much of a supporting cast from the backfield and throwing 3 interceptions. Considering the lack of weapons to throw to, he managed to complete 63% of his passes with 2 touchdowns all while having to rely mostly on his tight ends for the bulk of the targets. McCoy isn’t known for having a deep ball so having Davis and Reed as his crutch is pretty helpful. Peterson has his ups and downs and last week was a tough matchup for the old back as the youngblood defenders of the Cowboys didn’t give him anything to work with. He’ll need to take the ball outside of the Eagles box to take advantage of a young and inexperienced secondary to get those chunk yards we’re used to seeing from him over the last decade.

The Eagles might’ve found a diamond in the rough with rookie running back Josh Adams who had a great performance (22 rushes for 84 yards and 1 TD). They’ve been looking for a consistent back to pair with Wentz to take some of the workload off of his shoulders. He’s proved that he can win and win big games but he still doesn’t look like last year’s Wentz. He’s only had 4 of his 9 games end with over 300 yards passing and still hasn’t clicked with newcomer Golden Tate. Despite this he still has a TD/INT ratio of nearly 3:1 (16/6). With Darren Sproles set to make a return along with Michael Bennett, has last week’s close call win walken them up for the tough stretch of games to close out the season and maybe make the playoffs(Redskins, Cowboys, Rams, Texans, Redskins)?

Take the Eagles to cover in the over, Eagles 27-20.

#beatyourbookie

Week 13: Sunday Games

Denver at Cincinnati, 1:00p, CBS (Bengals +4.5, O/U: 44.5)

Take the Broncos to cover in the over, Broncos 27-21.

Arizona at Green Bay, 1:00p, FOX (Packers -14, O/U: 40.5)

Take the Packers to cover in the over, Packers 34-17.

Baltimore at Atlanta, 1:00p, CBS (Falcons -3, O/U: 47.5)

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

Buffalo at Miami, 1:00p, CBS (Dolphins -3.5, O/U: 40)

Take the Bills to cover in the win, in the over, Bills 24-20.

Carolina at Tampa Bay, 1:00p, FOX (Buccs +3.5, O/U: 52.5)

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

Chicago at N.Y. Giants, 1:00p, FOX (Giants +4, O/U: 43.5)

Take the Bears to cover in the under, Bears 24-17.

Cleveland at Houston, 1:00p, CBS (Texans -6, O/U: 47.5)

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

Indianapolis at Jacksonville, 1:00p, CBS (Jaguars +4.5, O/U: 46)

Take the Colts to cover in the win, in the under, Colts 27-17.

L.A. Rams at Detroit, 1:00p, FOX (Lions +10, O/U: 54)

Take the Rams to cover in the over, Rams 36-20.

Kansas City at Oakland, 4:05p, CBS (Raiders +14, O/U: 53.5)

Take the Chiefs to cover in the over, Chiefs 35-20.

N.Y. Jets at Tennessee, 4:05p, CBS (Titans -10, O/U: 40.5)

Take the Titans to cover in the under, Titans 21-10.

Minnesota at New England, 4:25p, FOX (Patriots -5, O/U: 49)

Take the Vikings to cover in the loss, in the over, Patriots 31-27.

San Francisco at Seattle, 4:25p, NBC (Seahawks -10, O/U: 45.5)

Take the Seahawks to cover in the under, Seahawks 28-17.

L.A. Chargers at Pittsburgh, 8:20p, CBS (Steelers -3, O/U: 52.5)

Take the Chargers to cover in the win, in the over, Chargers 31-28.

Colin Cowherd’s Blazin 5:

  • Baltimore at Atlanta – Atlanta (-1)
  • Cleveland at Houston – Houston (-6)
  • Indianapolis at Jacksonville – Indianapolis (-4)
  • Chicago at NY Giants – NY Giants (+4.5)
  • Minnesota at New England – Minnesota (+5)

Week 13: Thursday Night Football

New Orleans at Dallas, 8:20p, NFLN (Cowboys +8, O/U: 52.5)

New Orleans comes in with the league’s best offense, averaging 37.2 points per game. They’ve also only turned the ball over 9 times, tied for the league lead. Michael Thomas has 86 catches already and Kamara has been hot all year, especially the last 6 games where he has 9 touchdowns! The Saints also lead the league in rushing defense which is more than likely from teams being forced to throw more given how quick the Saints go up early in games, which has caused the pass defense to be 30th worst in the league. The rush defense will be tested tonight.

The Cowboys have really turned it up lately since Amari Cooper has come aboard eventhough he’s really only been involved in the offense starting last week on Thanksgiving with an 8 catch, 180 yards and 2 touchdown performance, looking like the first rounder he was supposed to be. Garrett will have to strategize against the Saints and do his best to keep the Saints high powered offense off the field. That means utilizing the league’s leading rusher, Zeke (1,074 rushing yards). But when the ‘Boys defense is on the field, they’ll need Lawrence to continue his wrath of the last 4 games where he’s snagged 3 of his 8.5 sacks on the season. Question is, can the Cowboys newly found 3 headed monster keep up with the Medusa (multiple weapons) offensive threat of the Saints?

Take the Saints to cover on the road in the over, Saints 36-24.

#beatyourbookie

Week 12: Sunday Games

Cleveland at Cincinnati, 1:00p, CBS (Bengals -1, O/U: 47)

Browns haven’t strung together wins in a long time. Huge win last week against the Falcons, used up a ton of energy and emotion to pull off. Bengals head a bad loss at home against the Saints but hung in there on the road against division rival Ravens. Take the Bengals to cover in the over, Bengals 31-20.

Jacksonville at Buffalo, 1:00p, CBS (Bills +3, O/U: 37)

Sacksonville will have their hands full with Allen back for the Bill’s (it’s legit this time, I actually checked before writing this). Fournette has been a difference maker for the offense and they don’t have to rely on Bortles. As I mentioned, welcome back Allen but what a tough defense to face in your first game back. It’ll be similar to the Jags at Colts earlier this season, back and forth until the end. Take the Jaguars to cover in the over, Jags 28-24.

New England at N.Y. Jets, 1:00p, CBS (Jets +13, O/U: 46.5)

Patriots were only 9.5 point favorites before Gronk was listed as active. I don’t think he’s worth that much of a swing. Jets are coming off of a bye but they looked ugly before it and I don’t think there’s much they can improve in with just more prep time, they need players on offense. Take the Patriots to cover in the under, Patriots 31-17.

N.Y. Giants at Philadelphia, 1:00p, FOX (Eagles -5, O/U:50)

The Giants offense is looking good as of late. Eli is completing a bunch of his passes and they’re having fun, big key. The Eagles had another key secondary injury which amounts to about a handful of starters on defense being out. Don’t get me wrong, the Eagles can still be effective on offense. Take the Giants to cover in the loss, in the over, Eagles 27-24.

Oakland at Baltimore, 1:00p, CBS (Ravens -13, O/U: 42)

I really don’t like this number on the Ravens but the Raiders are so inefficient in offense and have had close games only against bad teams. Jackson is exciting and is facing the league’s 31st worst defense against the run. Take the Ravens to cover in the under, Ravens 27-13.

Seattle at Carolina, 1:00p, FOX (Panthers -3, O/U: 47)

The Seahawks have been giving teams fits in the road the last bunch of road games but the Panthers play awesome at home and Cam has been dialed in at home, high completion percentage. Take the Panthers to cover in the over, Panthers 31-24.

San Francisco at Tampa Bay, 1:00p, FOX (Buccs -2, O/U: 54.5)

49ers can score but lose former first rounder Foster at linebacker due to domestic violence issues. Buccs have all the yards but no scores, expect that to change today. Take the Buccs to cover in the under, Buccs 28-20.

Arizona at L.A. Chargers, 4:05p, FOX (Chargers -14, O/U: 43.5)

Cards are horrific on offense, they can move it between the rookie hookup (Rosen/Kirk) but they haven’t done much outside of them. Johnson finally has started seeing some consistency. The Charges don’t play as well at home as on the road (broken record) but it’s the Cards. Take the Chargers to cover in the over, Chargers 36-17.

Pittsburgh at Denver, 4:25p, CBS (Broncos +3, O/U: 47.5)

It’s cold, they’re throwing salt down on the stands for the fans but the Steelers are a tough team and also play in the cold. The better run game wins here. Take the Broncos to cover in the loss, in the under, Steelers 21-20.

Miami at Indianapolis, 4:25p, CBS (Colts -9, O/U: 52)

Colts spank the Dolphins. Not much else to say, Colts look legit. Take the Colts to cover in the over, Colts 36-20.

Green Bay at Minnesota, 8:20p, NBC (Vikings -3, O/U: 48)

Both teams had close, though losses last week against surging teams. The Vikings didn’t look themselves on offense but Rodgers looked really good. Difference maker will be the quarterback play. Take the Packers to cover in the win, in the over, Packers 31-27.

Colin Cowherd’s Blazin 5:

  • Chicago at Detroit – Detroit (+3.5)
  • Seattle at Carolina – Carolina (-3.5)
  • Cleveland at Cincinnati – Cleveland (+3)
  • NY Giants at Philadelphia – Philadelphia (-6)
  • Green Bay at Minnesota – Green Bay (+3.5)

#beatyourbookie

Week 12: Thanksgiving Games

Chicago at Detroit, 12:30p, CBS (Lions +3, O/U: 43.5)

The Lions have been hard to watch most of the season and in weeks 9 & 10 they allowed open hunting on Stafford. Last week was a different story and with Marvin Jones out, second year guy Kenny Galladay stepped up big time. He’ll have to do so again today as Jones is trending to be out again.

For the Bears, last week was a huge victory against a Vikings team coming off a bye. Mitch-a-polooza looked a bit shakey but got the job done however Chase Daniel will get the start this week with Mitch out with an injury. Hicks and Mack both had sacks last week and given how this line looked just a few weeks ago, they’ll have some early dessert on the field early at Matt Staffords expense. Take the Bears to cover in the over, Bears 24-20.

Washington at Dallas, 4:30p, FOX (Cowboys -7, O/U: 41)

Poor Alex Smith didn’t have history on his side last Sunday as he broke his leg on the same day as Joe Theismann did 33 years ago. Colt McCoy came in and nearly brought the team back against a strong Texans team. Peterson might have a tougher time finding the endzone today given how the ‘Boys defense has been playing lately.

The Cowboys have put together huge back to back wins against the former champs (Eagles) and a high powered offense (Falcons). Climbing out of the NFC East basement has been tough and Garett has had his job threatened by the fan base all season long (last 4 years really), but since the Cooper trade, there seems to be a shift in confidence now. Let’s not forget the emerging star on defense, Leighton Vander Esch whose had an interception each of the last two weeks. I think 7 points is too much though given how well McCoy played. Take the Redskins to cover in the loss, in the over, Cowboys 27-21.

Atlanta at New Orleans, 8:20p, NBC (Saints -13, O/U: 60.5)

Two highly talented offenses will meet in the Superdome for an expectedly high scoring game. Three weeks ago, the Falcons finally found a way to get Julio Jones in the endzone and he’s done so each of the last three weeks however they’ve lost to the Browns and Cowboys the last two weeks. Only getting to the redzone once and not scoring won’t help turn the ship around. Ryan doesn’t turn the ball over much and has been efficient with a 4:1 td/int ratio. Expect that to continue.

The Saints have been on fire all season long. After a week one loss, they’ve rattled off nine straight wins and not many have been all that close and against teams like the Vikings, Rams and the Falcons earlier this season. Brees and his 25 touchdowns to 1 pick, he’s having about as perfect of a season as one can. Michael Thomas is in pace for about 130 catches and about 180 yards and 14 touchdowns. The Falcons don’t escape this one. Take the Saints in the over, Saints 42-27.

#beatyourbookie