The Draft has come and gone. The Jets still look like the team to beat. I mean if your team plays them, your team should beat them. I have no detailed analysis other than what I dive into below. I will check this blog post all season long to see how well I did. It can't be any worse than when I predicted the Eagles schedule last year, producing an inverse record.
WEEK 1
Ravens Vs. Broncos - The defending champions do not get the privilege of playing the first game at their home field. Some say the Orioles are to blame, but I say blame the NFL. Major League Baseball and the Orioles are not responsible for the NFL schedule. The second an NFL team is in the playoffs, the NFL should begin working out their scheduling issues at that moment. I knew Washington wasn't going to win the Superbowl, but Hell, arrangements should have been made to prevent a scheduling conflict. That said, the new look Ravens (read shitty Ravens) will struggle in the beginning of the season. If Peyton Manning does one thing extremely well, it's serving up a nice dish of revenge. That somebody also pooped on. Broncos, 33-20. Broncos in a boat race. Duba 1-0.
Patriots Vs. Bills - Nice try, Buffalo. Patriots, 35-17 Closer than it should have been, but a win is a win. Duba 2-0.
Titans Vs. Steelers - Bad luck for the Titans to start the season. Consider this an additional pre-season game for Pittsburgh. Steelers, 24-10. Surprise of the weekend. Steelers lose. Duba 2-1
Falcons Vs. Saints - This should be great. Sean Payton's first game back, Drew Brees hates the NFL. Hates he saw the Falcons almost get to the NFC game and lose. The Saints also hate that they opened the season last year with a loss to the Redskins. This game will be explosive, but Saints have suffered far too long. Saints, 42-35. Not as high scoring as I predicted, but the result was correct. Duba 3-1.
Buccaneers Vs. Jets - The Bucs tried again to create the best team ever, and they are bringing home Revis to the Jets (if he is healthy enough to play). If Tampa struggles, expect the questions of the next QB in line. They are playing the Jets, though. Tampa, 24-12. That's right, draft the Jets Kicker in fantasy. I was right about drafting the kicker, but wrong about the result. As was the world. Duba 3-2
Chiefs Vs. Jaguars - The Andy Reid era begins in Kansas City. The Gus Bradley era begins in Jacksonville. Somebody has to start their tenure with a loss. Since I have seen it so many times in Philadelphia, Bradley will prevail. This game will be a highlight real for both teams with a lot of positives coming out of it. Jaguars, 17-14. Sometimes you just have to realize you know nothing about football until the games are played. Duba 3-3.
Seahawks Vs. Panthers - I'm already getting tired here. Last year the Seahawks struggled with the Panthers. I think that was when Russel Wilson was finally becoming Russel Wilson, so expect the same ass kicking Seahawks to have their way with the Panthers. Seahawks, 21-13. Didn't have their way, but a win is a win. Duba 4-3.
Bengals Vs. Bears - Juicy matchup. New coach for the Bears that nobody knows what to expect. Jay Cutler to Brandon Marshall, I know that much. This will be an interesting game. I think continuity on the Bengals wins out in a close slugfest. Bengals, 17-13. See above. The Bears earned their victory. Duba 4-4.
Dolphins Vs. Browns - The 2012 Dolphins could win this one blindfolded. Dolphins, 28-17. Closer than it should have been. Duba 5-4.
Vikings Vs. Lions - The Vikings better hope to get off to a hot start, but luckily they get the porous Lions defense. Or perhaps this is the rise of Ziggy Ansah. I don't know. Ansah has never played against anyone like Adrian Peterson. Vikings, 24-21. People are acting like the Lions are the next Patriots. Not quite. But I was still wrong. Duba 5-5.
Raiders Vs. Colts - Good luck, anybody in Black and Silver. This will be a showcase for Andrew Luck. Colts, 30-10. The Pryor era has begun and almost was an upset. Almost. Duba 6-5.
Packers Vs. 49ers - Awesome first week matchup that should have been the Sunday night game. It is one of two featured 4:25 games, and will be broadcast throughout the country. The fact that the 49ers burned the Packers twice is fuel enough to somebody like Aaron Rogers. The 49ers showed their weaknesses in the Superbowl, so I think the Packers, combined with depth loss for the 49ers, makes it go their way. Packers, 24-20. Maybe I should have gone to the coin toss method. Duba 6-6.
Cardinals Vs. Rams - This is easy to call. I also know the broadcast team will consist of that guy who was homeless with the great broadcaster voice and Artie Lange on color commentary. Rams, 38-24. Rams with a workman's like hard earned win. Duba 7-6.
Giants Vs. Cowboys - As much as I hate to say it, I will watch this game in its entirety. I feel the Giants want that hot start more than the Cowboys who have made it a habit of expecting to play into the last week with a chance at the playoffs rather than securing their spot. Giants, 20-17. Seriously, worst display of football. Felt like my first year tackle kids team I coached's first game. Duba 7-7.
Eagles Vs. Redskins - The key here is if RG3 is up to par and probably an offensive explosion from the Eagles. I expect a fraction of craziness that people predict for the Eagles offense, and I also expect Chip Kelly to prepare to the max to not have his team lose his first spotlight game, first ever pro game as a coach. I think the players want to make an immediate difference. The only question would be how well the defense keeps up with whatever form of offense the Redskins can provide. I fear this may be a year of sprint race offense and sluggish defense (to start). Eagles, 31-27. So yeah this score was almost dead on. What do you think about that? Duba 8-7
Texans Vs. Chargers - I fully expect, at the end of the first week of the NFL, Texans player and the sports media to say, "You got your manhood back, Coach Kubiak." Texan, 24-14. Thank you Brian Cushing for not making me go 0.500 for the first week. Duba 9-7.
WEEK 2
Jets Vs. Patriots - Man, NFL Network likes to punish itself. Relive the "Butt Fumble" game. This game was terrible late last year, and will be terrible again. The Patriots don't mess around. If other teams are flies to Bill Belichek, the Jets have become gnats. Shoo flies, squash gnats. Patriots, 42-20. Yikes, not even close to the score, but the result was factually correct. Duba 10-7
Rams Vs. Falcons - Hot off a loss for the Falcons, the Rams are in trouble. I think they put up one hell of a fight and have everything in place this early in the season to pull off a major upset, but I think this game and week belongs to the home teams. Falcons, 21-16. Legatron will have his feet full. Not a leggy day for Legatron, but I did the result was expected. Duba 11-7.
Chargers Vs. Eagles - Chip Kelly has seemingly endeared himself to the Philadelphia fans already. Some may still be skeptical, and Chip Kelly doesn't care about them. You want action, the Eagles will provide it. They come out hot for the first time in a long time in a home opener. Eagles, 23-21. I was wrong about many things. Duba 11-8.
Cowboys Vs. Chiefs - You would think the Cowboys should own this game. The fact of the matter is, minus one year (2009), Andy Reid has challenged the Cowboys every year in the NFC East, even with his worst teams. The Chiefs open up in grand fashion. Chiefs, 20-17. I almost got this game perfect. If I could give myself a double win, I would. Duba 12-8.
Dolphins Vs. Colts - So weird. The Dolphins on paper have improved immensely. The Colts took a great leap from 2011 to 2012. Now the Colts must fight the sophomore slump while the Dolphins have new toys to deploy. This will be a good game, and I think Tannehill wants to show he is just as important to this league as Andrew Luck. Dolphins, 27-21. Why do people not think this is the year for the Dolphins to make noise? Duba 13-8.
Titans Vs. Texans - Keep laying them up for the Texans. Texans, 20-13. One score was the difference, result the same. 14-8.
Redskins Vs. Packers - Yikes. The Redskins still have concerns on defense and if you aren't from Green Bay you have concerns playing against the Packers offense. RG3 or even Kirk Cousins could perhaps do their own carving up of the Packers, but Aaron will not lose after taking blood from San Francisco in Week 1. Packers, 27-20. Maybe the Redskins and Lions together will ruin my record in the end, but for now, Duba 15-8.
Browns Vs. Ravens - Believe it or not, this will be a slugfest. The Browns I am sure are very very tired of being jokes in the AFC North. The Browns have heart, but that won't beat a Superbowl champ coming off the heels of a let down they have had 10 days to lament on. Ravens, 21-13. Didn't see the game, but I heard they don't look like the Super Bowl Champs anymore. Duba 16-8.
Panthers Vs. Bills - The Buffalo home stand continues, and I think the disappointment does as well. The Panthers find a way to get in the W column. Panthers, 23-17. This score almost happened exactly as I wrote it. That would've been a starred off, personal victory. Duba 16-9.
Vikings Vs. Bears - A real test for the Bears. I think the Vikings may have trouble here. Bears, 26-18. (Why not a weird score). Ugly win. Duba 17-9.
Saints Vs. Buccaneers - Second tough division battle in a row. Freeman does not out-gun-sling Drew Brees. Saints, 35-24. See above, but make it Duba 18-9.
Lions Vs. Cardinals - The Cardinals have been starting out hot recently, and I think Carson Palmer hits all the right spots. Cardinals, 24-20. Off by one point for each team in my prediction. Duba 19-9.
Jaguars Vs. Raiders - Despite picking number two overall, I think the Jaguars would beat Oakland 9 times out of 9. Jaguars, 17-10. Terrel Pryor Fever? Or does Jacksonville just suck out loud? Duba 19-10.
Broncos Vs. Giants - Eli face, all game. Broncos, 23-14. Cub scout meeting kept me from watching this game, but I did get to see an Eli pout during dinner. Duba 20-10.
49ers Vs. Seahawks - I love watching these teams play. I love cheering for Russel Wilson. Seahawks, 30-20. I do like the Seahawks to go very very far this year. Duba 21-10.
Steelers Vs. Bengals - Bengals start to show they are the class of the AFC North. Bengals, 23-14. Never a doubt in my mind about the Bengals this year, but Andy Dalton looks TERRIBLE. Duba 22-10 (13-3 this week).
Week 3
Chiefs Vs. Eagles - Perhaps the last marquee matchup of the season for both teams. Unlike when McNabb came back, there will be no warm reception for Andy. Eagles, 23-14.Ugh. And so begins the dreaded road trip for the Eagles to lose many games in a row. Duba 22-11
Texans Vs. Ravens - I think the Texans are tired of losing to the Ravens. This does not look like the Superbowl Champions. Texans, 28-20. What the Hell, Houston? Do you enjoy losing to the Ravens? So far, this season started poorly. Duba 22-12.
Giants Vs. Panthers - Remember when the Giants ran all over the Panthers last year on Monday night? So does Tom Coughlin. Giants, 27-17. If I could've re-written this post, I would have changed my pick to the Panthers (as I did in my football pool). Duba 22-13.
Lions Vs. Redskins - I think a one-legged RG3 can outduel the Lions at home in this one. Redskins, 30-24. Same comment as above. Duba 22-14.
Chargers Vs. Titans - Big test for the Chargers going coast to coast. They pass the test though, and they start figuring things out. Chargers, 17-10. I started the week poorly. Duba 22-15.
Cardinals Vs. Saints - No way this game is watchable. Saints, 30-14. Thank goodness the gimme games went my way. Duba 23-15.
Buccaneers Vs. Patriots - Again, no way this game is watchable. Patriots, 34-20. You can't feel good about getting it right when it comes to the Patriots. Duba 24-15.
Packers Vs. Bengals - If the Packers want another Superbowl berth in the Aaron Rogers era, it won't be easy. I see a shocker here. Bengals, 21-20. Upset special. Right all around. Duba 25-15.
Rams Vs. Cowboys - The Upstarts vs. The Downfalls. Although I don't think the Cowboys will like losing this much and barely win. Cowboys, 23-20. I want to believe in the Rams, but this wasn't close. Duba 26-15.
Browns Vs. Vikings - I wonder who will be the star of the Game? Adrian Petersons, 21-10. Damn you Vikings! Duba 26-16.
Falcons Vs. Dolphins - Revamp all you want. There's a reason people are always high on the regular season juggernauts in Atlanta. Falcons, 27-17. I went against the grain in my office pool and went Dolphins. Oh well. Duba 26-17.
Bills Vs. Jets - No more Tim Tebow! Wait, he did nothing last year, either? Bills, 30-17. Geez. The Geno Smith train is rolling. Duba 26-18.
Colts Vs. 49ers - How do they have two losses already? Poor Andrew Luck. 49ers, 38-20. 49ers and Vikings being my two biggest let downs so far. Even when they won. Duba 26-19.
Jaguars Vs. Seahawks - Welcome home, Gus. Now here are the directions to the hospital to see your players...Seahawks, 28-10. The backups went deep enough to have outstanding fantasy stats. The Jaguars are awful. Duba 27-19.
Bears Vs. Steelers - Juicy matchup. Tough battle. Enough turnover on both teams to keep anybody guessing. I will now flip a coin 3 times, best two of three. Heads, Bears. Tails, Steelers. Bears, 17-10.
Not even close. Duba 28-19.
Not even close. Duba 28-19.
Raiders Vs. Broncos - You're welcome for the prime time game. Now go home until the 2014 draft. Broncos, 35-17. Broncos games write themselves. Duba 29-19 (9-7 on the week. Terrible).
Week 4
49ers Vs. Rams - Thursday night delight. Rams know how to play the 49ers well for an underdog. Their defense is improved and the Colin K-somethingorother gets attacked all day. Rams, 20-14. I was wrong several times about this game. Duba 29-20.
Ravens Vs. Bills - Yay! They look like Superbowl Champs again! Ravens, 26-20. That sound? That's the sound of the end of the game in the Price is Right. They have not looked like Super Bowl Champs, yet. Duba 29-21.
Cardinals Vs. Buccaneers - Make or break week for the Bucs. They will show heart. Buccaneers, 27-21. And I creep closer and closer to mediocrity. Duba 29-22.
Steelers Vs. Vikings - I think this game is in London. That is no way to reward the fans of a team with the best player in the league. AP does it all day. Vikings, 14-13. Getting over the hump of 30 correct picks is huge now. Duba 30-22.
Giants Vs. Chiefs - By this point, the NFL probably figures it's the same shit with Andy Reid. Plus they have handled Alex Smith before. Giants, 24-13. Honestly cannot say we saw this coming out of the Chiefs. It should be noted the team leftover from the previous coaches is doing well while Andy Reid's first round pick is struggling for playing time. Duba 30-23.
Colts Vs. Jaguars - Jags give it their all. But so do the Colts. Colts, 24-14. I know I picked the Jaguars to win some games. Just can't remember when. Duba 31-23.
Seahawks Vs. Texans - Awesome potential game. Coin flip(s). Texans, 21-17. I'm glad I was wrong. Duba 31-24.
Bengals Vs. Browns - Bengals, 23-10. Treat a team like a joke and they will turn you into one. Duba 31-25.
Bears Vs. Lions - The Lions have to win at some point, right? WRONG! Bears, 35-27. Lions proving me wrong all year so far. Duba 31-26.
Jets Vs. Titans - Chris Johnson remembers his 90-yard touchdown run from last year. He finished with 97 yards that day. He would like to go for 197 yards, please. Titans, 21-10. Explosive day for the Titans. Just when their QB starts rolling, he is hurt. Duba 32-26.
Redskins Vs. Raiders - Mike Shanahan himself could beat them if he played quarterback. Redskins, 38-24. I hate having to say I needed the Redskins to win to help me out here. Duba 33-26.
Eagles Vs. Broncos - As Jah Rule would say, "Murderrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr" Broncos, 30-17. I WISH it was that close. Duba 34-26.
Cowboys Vs. Chargers - I just don't think the Cowboys are into this game after last week's big win. Chargers, 17-14. Nice win, Chargers! Eagles only one game back! Duba 35-26.
Patriots Vs. Falcons - Probably the Superbowl the league wanted. Might as well get the most out of this one. When did the Patriots last play in a dome? Don't know either. Falcons, 30-27. I picked this right in the office pool on Thursday. I picked it wrong in May. Duba 35-27.
Dolphins Vs. Saints - Saints, 27-18. Pretty uneven game. Duba, 36-27.
Week 5
Bills Vs. Browns - Thursday Night Snooze. Browns, 17-10. Higher scoring affair than I predicted, but right on target with the winner. Duba, 37-27.
Patriots Vs. Bengals - Patriot road trip continues, and I don't think they let themselves lose three in a row. I haven't played out this whole schedule, but I think this is a playoff preview. Patriots, 21-20. A close, horrible game. Duba, 37-28.
Lions Vs. Packers - Jim Schwartz's seat is almost too hot to sit in. Packers, 38-24. Lions doing better than I predicted to this point, but they showed more of what I expected by putting up a niner in this loss. Duba, 38-28.
Seahawks Vs. Colts - Colts did a miracle last year vs. the Packers at home. Playing a second place schedule is not favorable for the Colts, though. Seahawks, 27-20. Seahawks embarrassed me on this one. Douches. Don't make me start hating you again. Duba, 38-29.
Ravens Vs. Dolphins - They don't look like Superbowl Champs. Miami, SUPERBOWL!!! Miami, 20-14. And that is why Miami is not popular in Miami anymore. Duba, 38-30.
Saints Vs. Bears - Listed on nfl.com as the only real good matchup (I think Pats/Bengals is better), this deserves a coin flip. Saints, 24-21. Saints never really had anything to worry about in this game. Duba, 39-30.
Eagles Vs. Giants - No miracle needed. No miracle expected. Giants, 28-14. Hey now, the Eagles showed some major life. I predicted the Giants to be 8-8. They better turn that around soon or my win-loss record is going to take a major hit. Duba, 39-31.
Chiefs Vs. Titans - Alex Smith will look awesome here. Chiefs, 30-17. I will take full credit for almost nailing this score. Duba, 40-31.
Jaguars Vs. Rams - Welcome back to oblivion, Jaguars. Rams, 27-14. Thank God the Jaguars are as terrible as expected. Duba, 41-31.
Panthers Vs. Cardinals - A well rested Panthers team makes Arizona look sharp. At least one Superman pose by Newton. And that is early in the game. Cadinals, 20-7. Another almost dead on game score. Duba, 42-31.
Broncos vs. Cowboys - If the weekness in the secondary still exits in the Broncos, they may find it in this game. Cowboys, 20-17. I can't believe I just picked Tony Romo to beat Peyton. What was supposedly a classic game was just another loss for my predictions. Broncos will lose soon, though. Duba, 42-32.
Chargers Vs. Raider - The "Shits and Giggles" bowl. Chargers, 30-14. Goddammit Rivers. Can't you beat the Raiders? Duba, 42-33.
Texans Vs. 49ers - Barn Burner. Texas has barns. 49ers, 21-17. The Texans are let down. Like of epic proportions. Duba, 43-33.
Jets Vs. Falcons - Is the NFL trying to tank ESPN? Falcons, 23,547-3. I watched this game, and I knew I would be wrong watching Geno Smith get his team suited up to play. Keep in mind I predicted this back when Mark Sanchez was the starter. They will make some more noise this year, perhaps beating the Patriots in Week 7. Duba, 43-34.
Week 6
Giants Vs. Bears - Okay, a good Thursday night matchup. Six games in to the season, and I believe the Bears are desperate for a win. Home teams usually do well in the Thursday night specials, so...Bears, 23-14. Giants have one running back after this game, and he ran all over the Bears. But, Duba was right in the end. Duba, 44-34.
Packers Vs. Ravens - They do not look like the Superbowl champs. Packers, 28-17. I think it will be average for the Ravens to score 17 points from this point on. Duba, 45-34.
Bengals Vs. Bills - The two TE set is finally coming alive in Cincinnati, at the expense of the Bills. Bengals, 34-20. It was looking like the correct score for a while, but again I was mostly right. Duba, 46-34.
Lions Vs. Browns - Yuck. I don't think the Lions can legitimately go this long without a win. Lions, 30-13. This was pegged as my first win for the Lions all year. I was wrong there as they have 4 times that many wins right now. Duba, 47-34.
Rams Vs. Texans - The two top drafted rookie receivers play a game of one-upsmanship. I think this goes to the home team, though. Texans, 21-14. If I was the Texans fans, I would cheer more for the game clock expiring than anybody getting hurt. Kharma is a bitch, and you must suffer with a terrible team (at the moment). Duba, 47-35.
Panthers Vs. Vikings - A real test for the Panther's draft class. AP again straps 10 guys on...his back to win it at home. Vikings, 27-17. I wonder if you could make a fully capable team out of the Texans, Giants, and Vikings? Duba, 47-36.
Raiders Vs. Chiefs - Rivalry!!! The Chiefs roll easily. Chiefs, 35-17. I almost got the point deficit correct, so that's worth additional points, right? Duba, 48-36.
Steelers Vs. Jets - Try as they might to improve, the Jets are still the Jets. Steelers, 21-10. The Monday Night Jets > Sunday Afternoon Jets. Duba, 49-36.
Eagles Vs. Buccaneers - The best game the Eagles played last year gets to happen again, at the same venue. The Buccaneers have improved their secondary so no more long amazing Jason Avant catches. Tough to call, as Tampa should still have a good run defense. I hate myself for this. Buccaneers, 21-17. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad the Eagles won, but I was hoping as I was adding up my totals throughout the weeks I could get to win number 50 on an Eagles game. The Tampa defense was shredded, and I am stuck pre-50 wins. Duba, 49-37.
Jaguars Vs. Broncos - Broncos, 27-10. No doy! Oh yeah, thanks Jaguars! Duba, 50-37.
Titans Vs. Seahawks - See above. Seahawks, 28-14. Closer than I predicted. Titans will make a run out of every game from this point on (no matter what I predicted for them). That's the reality vs. May predictions. Duba, 51-37.
Saints Vs. Patriots - A money matchup. I think this game means more to both quarterbacks than we could realize. I have to go to a coin flip on this one, best out of 5...Saints, 35-31 (three straight coin flips went to New Orleans). Perhaps if I made it best out 7, the Patriots could have come back and won that also. Duba, 51-38.
Cardinals Vs. 49ers - A great test for Bruce Arians and Carson Palmer. They need to study a little more as San Francisco starts its comeback charge in the standings. 49ers, 27-18. Bruce Arians is a grumpy old man and Carson Palmer is the Raiders version Palmer and not Bengals version Palmer. Duba, 52-38.
Redskins Vs. Cowboys - Ugh. I hate this game. But I will watch this game. Redskins, 30-24. This makes me hate the Redskins even more. Give them a benefit of the doubt, and they burn you. I'm not offended by their name. I'm offended they are a team. Duba, 53-39.
Colts Vs. Chargers - Perhaps Andrew Luck will change his while playing on the road. The shock of their record thus far changes here. Colts, 20-13. Me and every person on the planet was wrong on this one. Duba, 53-40.
Week 7
Seahawks Vs. Cardinals - Thursday night smash to the mouth. The Cardinals just lost too much of a heartbreaker to the 49ers. I suspect they play their hearts out and steal a win here. Cardinals, 17-14.
Buccaneers Vs. Falcons - As much as they want to compete, the Buccaneers are a year away. Falcons, 31-20.
Bears Vs. Redskins - I think the defense in Washington can't keep up with Brandon Marshall or Matt Forte. RG3 plays like a hero, falling short at the last second. Bears, 20-16.
Cowboys Vs. Eagles - I'm sure Chip Kelly has been told, whatever you do, do NOT lose this game. By no means, no excuses, the Eagles have to have this one to make it count towards a successful rebuilding year. Eagles, 31-27.
Patriots Vs. Jets - Remember the excitement of their Week 1 matchup? It's always nice to open the season thinking your team has a chance, then reality comes by in the form of a monumental beatdown. Patriots, 48-20.
Bills Vs. Dolphins - Two teams rebuilding, one just a step ahead of the other. This should be an underdog of a great game. Dolphins, 24-17.
Rams Vs. Panthers - Two teams fighting for respect they think they should have. If the Rams haven't fully established a running game here, it will be tough sledding. I think Cam Newton plays like a smarter version of his 2011 self here. Panthers, 24-20.
Bengals Vs. Lions - I think the Bengals are just too juiced up and jacked off. I mean jacked up. Did you read this far? Bengals, 28-27.
Chargers Vs. Jaguars - Justin Blackmon may just be getting back into the mix in this one, but this is a "I can't believe we flew all the way down here to an empty stadium so let's get out of here quickly with a win" scenario for San Diego. Chargers, 31-21.
Texans Vs. Chiefs - Andy Reid has beaten the Texans before, but that was last during the magical 2010 campaign. Tough sledding, Andy. Texans, 24-13.
49ers Vs. Titans - Fortunes continue to rise after a beatdown of the Cardinals. 49ers, 35-27.
Browns Vs. Packers - Packers, 33-21.
Ravens Vs. Steelers - This game loses its luster after some foundation players for both teams are no longer on the roster. In a sense, a new rivalry must be born now. Steelers, 20-14.
Broncos Vs. Colts - A game that is exciting to promote, but one that will not be exciting. This will start with a strong Broncos run and Manning consoling Luck. Broncos, 28-17.
Vikings Vs. Giants - Great game. I think the Vikings have a strong chance. Vikings, 17-13.
Week 8
Panthers Vs. Buccaneers - A sneaky good matchup. It was a Thursday night game when we first saw that Doug Martin was for real. I think he still is for real, and Tampa Bay squeezes one out. Buccaneers, 20-17.
49ers Vs. Jaguars - Jaguars fans have broken into being the Baguars again. 49ers, 42-23.
Browns Vs. Chiefs - Weird, thus far, the Browns have been the league's punching bag. I think they punch back. Browns, 23-17.
Dolphins Vs. Patriots - The matchup the Dolphins have been waiting for. Their measuring stick game. With a win, they have a chance to jump ahead of the Patriots. I think they fall just short. If this game were in Miami at this point in the season, it would be the other way around. Patriots, 30-24.
Bills Vs. Saints - Potential first shootout for EJ Manuel. I doubt Kolb still has his head attached to his body by this point (even with good protection, his brain has just become too soft). Saints, 30-23.
Cowboys Vs. Lions - Didn't Tony Romo play a heroic game against them like 2 years ago? I want to like the Lions, I really do. I think at this point they start pressing teams to the max and nabbing a few wins. Lions, 28-20.
Giants Vs. Eagles - I can't believe this is a division leader matchup. The Eagles on the current roster have always played their best to beat the Giants at home, and I think they can again. Eagles, 21-17.
Steelers Vs. Raiders - Last year I think Oakland pulled off the upset. This year, meeeeeeh, not so much. Steelers, 21-7.
Jets Vs. Bengals - No contest. Bengals, 35-21.
Falcons Vs. Cardinals - I hope for a good game and some flashes from Carson Palmer. But alas, two Larry Fitzgeralds couldn't even do the trick here. Falcons, 17-10.
Redskins Vs. Broncos - New School vs. old school. Peyton has made a career of picking apart defenses like Washington. Broncos, 23-15.
Packers Vs. Vikings - I think the Greg Jennings bowl, coupled with Adrian Peterson and now integrated Cordarelle Patterson take the Pack by storm. Vikings, 35-31.
Seahawks Vs. Rams - Smart making the Monday night meeting in Saint Louis. Seattle just lost to the Cardinals, and they will be damned if they lose two in a row. Percy Harvin shows Tavon how it's done. Seahawks, 28-20.
Week 9
Bengals Vs. Dolphins - A potential January 2015 playoff battle. Note I did not say 2014. Make no mistake - the Dolphins worry teams. Bengals, 21-20.
Falcons Vs. Panthers - Poor Panthers fans. Falcons, 28-27.
Vikings Vs. Cowboys - Hot off an emotional win against their division rivals, I think Christian Ponder struggles. Bottom line is that as long as Adrian Peterson is on the field, they always have a chance. Vikins, 17-13.
Saints Vs. Jets - Saints, 2,504 to 3.
Titans Vs. Rams - I haven't given the poor Titans much benefit of the doubt here. And it won't start now. Rams, 31-17.
Chiefs Vs. Bills - Tough bottom feeder match. Coin toss, 2 out of 3. Bills, 33-24.
Chargers Vs. Redskins - Redskins, 28-21.
Eagles Vs. Raiders - No way they lose this one. The surprise team of 2013 continues its winning ways. Eagles, 24-10.
Buccaneers Vs. Seahawks - Richard Sherman blocks off Vincent Jackson and Marshawn Lynch does to the great run defense of Tampa what he always does to great run defenses. Seahawks, 30-20.
Ravens Vs. Browns - They look like the Superbowl champs! The Champs are here!! Ravens, 17-14.
Steelers Vs. Patriots - Maybe the Patriots find a way to court Emmanuel Sanders onto their team before the game starts? I don't see how the Steelers pull this off. Patriots, 24-20.
Colts Vs. Texans - The Texans have been on a roll most of the season, but even the best team I ever saw (2007 Patriots) lose a game. Colts, 20-14.
Bears Vs. Packers - Imagine going into the Packers house after Aaron Rogers just got beat by Christian Ponder? No bye week rest is enough to help Chicago. Packers, 33-20.
Week 10
Redskins Vs. Vikings - I bet this game is really good. I like the confidence at this point the Vikings show. Vikings, 21-17.
Eagles Vs. Packers - If Chip Kelly has really made something special, this is the week to show it. Aaron Rogers is very special. Packers, 31-24.
Jaguars Vs. Titans - This turns out to be a pretty solid back and forth, and Tennessee gets back in the W column. Titans, 14-13.
Bills Vs. Steelers - Just another day for the Steelers, who don't like losing multiple games in a row. Steelers, 21-13.
Raiders Vs. Giants - When will the Raiders ever win again? Giants, 38-17.
Rams Vs. Colts - Tough game last week, great chance for reestablishing themselves. Rams, 20-14.
Seahawks Vs. Falcons - History often repeats itself, unless it's referring to the history of lightning. Since the Seahawk is a bird and not a strike of lightning, history will repeat itself. Falcons, 21-17.
Bengals Vs. Ravens - I don't know why I have such a good feeling, but I think the Ravens start to show flashes of the team that ran through the Superbowl. Ravens, 21-20.
Lions Vs. Bears - Nice try, Lions. Jim Schwartz may get fired. Bears, 27-17.
Panthers Vs. 49ers - NFL.com says this is their matchup to watch. Nope. Despite another heroic effort, the Panthers cannot hang. 49ers, 33-24.
Texans Vs. Cardinals - Bruce Arians may have some knowledge about the Texans after coaching against them twice last year. I just don't think they have enough to stop the Houston offense and DeAndre Hopkins' awesome game let alone block the Houston defense. Texans, 27-17.
Broncos Vs. Chargers - The game that changed everything for the Broncos last year, but no need for a change this year. Broncos, 23-14.
Cowboys Vs. Saints - Flex Scheduling may come into play here. I just don't see a better potential 4 o'clock hour game. Cowboys should hate getting flattened on national TV again. Saints, 38-21.
Dolphins Vs. Buccaneers - Battle for Florida, as Tannehill's stock goes up and Freeman's goes down faster than a "insert Russian whore joke here." Dolphins, 23-13.
Week 11
Colts Vs. Titans - Home teams tend to have had advantage. I expect the Titans to keep it close, but still under the amount of points the Colts can score. Colts, 21-20.
Jets Vs. Bills - I would say this is a coin flip game. I will weight the coin down so the Jets may pull off a win here. JETS!, 6-3.
Falcons Vs. Buccaneers - The Bucs need a new quarterback, but this isn't the game to test him out. Perhaps Freeman gets benched. Next man up won't save them. Falcons, 31-20.
Lions Vs. Steelers - I see the Steelers notice the Ravens aren't the Champs anymore and the Bengals can be beaten. All they have to do is catch them. Steelers, 20-17.
Redskins Vs. Eagles - Last year when the Skins came to town it was ugly. I don't see how the Eagles recover from their loss the previous week. Redskins, 23-14.
Chargers Vs. Dolphins - As if flying down to Jacksonville earlier this year wasn't enough, they have to fly further south, and will put up a fight, but not good enough. Dolphins, 24-14.
Ravens Vs. Bears - They definitely won't look like the Superbowl Champs. Bears, 38-24.
Bronws Vs. Bengals - That crack in the Bengals armor seals up a little bit here. Bengals, 27-20.
Raiders Vs. Texans - I just did 15 coin tosses, and even George Washington hates the Raiders. Texans, beatdown, 42-20.
Cardinals Vs. Jaguars - The Bruce Arians success formula works this week. Cardinals, 31-24.
Chiefs Vs. Broncos - Time to get your clock cleaned by Peyton Manning again, Andy Reid. Broncos, 31-17.
Vikings Vs. Seahawks - What a treat of a game. I think the Seattle defense is too much for Christian Ponder and the doctors didn't put enough miracles in the leg of Adrian Peterson for this game. Seahawks, 31-21.
49ers Vs. Saints - Tough match for both teams. Perhaps the Greg Williams Damning Evidence Bowl game. I was about to coin toss it up, but I have made up my mind. 49ers, 35-31.
Packers Vs. Giants - Another tough match, and last year the Giants gave the Packers what for. I don't think Rogers lets that happen again. Packers, 28-27.
Patriots Vs. Panthers - This will be much like Texans Vs. Patriots - over quickly. Patriots, 45-28.
Week 12
Saints Vs. Falcons - NFL Network wants a hopefully better game than these two provided last year. How two high powered offenses had little to show on a Thursday night is beyond me. This game determines the NFC South. I love the Saints, but I hate the Falcons more. I hate this. Falcons, 27-21.
Buccaneers Vs. Lions - Two teams with equal parts identity. Only since Stafford-Johnson is stronger than Freeman-Jackson any day or year. Lions, 31-27.
Vikings Vs. Packers - Joe Webb, Christian Ponder, it doesn't matter. Packers, 45-21.
Jaguars Vs. Texans - Next. Texans, 30-20.
Chargers Vs. Chiefs - I started the Chargers defense against the Chiefs last year in a move that saved my fantasy football season. But this year is different. Chiefs, 17-14.
Panthers Vs. Dolphins - Dolphins, 27-20.
Steelers Vs. Browns - Steelers, 20-10.
Bears Vs. Rams - This game will be great. Rams, 27-21.
Jets Vs. Ravens - They look like the Superbowl champs. Ravens, 21-17.
Titans Vs. Raiders - I think this finally a positive for a mess of a team that is known as the Oakland Raiders. Perhaps there will be one good day in Oakland from September through December. Raiders, 24-14.
Colts Vs. Cardinals - A game where Bruce Arians knows what's coming, but the Colts don't. I think those great rookie comebacks come into play here. Colts, 27-24.
Cowboys Vs. Giants - Cowboys fresh off their break will still get knocked out here. Giants, 38-27.
Broncos Vs. Patriots - It hasn't been often when Manning gets the best of Brady. But this is at Foxboro, where the Patriots rarely lose (unless it's the AFC Championship game). Patriots, 42-41.
49ers Vs. Redskins - This game is intriguing in that it is at Washington. Colin K-somethingorother gets it done, though. 49ers, 31-24.
Week 13
Packers Vs. Lions - Thanksgiving! Thank goodness for Football! I bet this is a shoot out, and I really think you see a turkey day upset. Lions, 38-31.
Raiders Vs. Cowboys - Lucky Cowboys fans get a treat on Thanksgiving. Cowboys, 28-20.
Steelers Vs. Ravens - At this point, I have the Ravens at 5-6, and the Steelers at 7-4. I think things start to come together better for the Ravens and they get this game. Ravens, 27-20.
Broncos Vs. Chiefs - Didn't this game like just happen a week or two ago? Chiefs will put up a fight, but that's like saying I would put up a fight against Brock Lesnar. Broncos, 28-21.
Titans Vs. Colts - The Colts fresh off a tough win last week don't want to do it again the hard way. Colts, 24-14.
Jaguars Vs. Browns - You would think after improving the offensive line, getting MJD back healthy, and drafting number 2 overall throughout the draft would make them better than Cleveland. This game makes them even. Jaguars, 27-21.
Buccaneers Vs. Panthers - Panthers will make not make this a good season. Perhaps their coach gets fired thereafter. Buccaneers, 21-17.
Bears Vs. Vikings - Slug fest. Both teams. The winner is in a tie with the Packers at the Division lead, and is vying for first seed in the playoffs along with Seahawks, 49ers, Saints and Falcons. I go with the experienced coach/home team combo special here. Vikings, 21-20.
Cardinals Vs. Eagles - Tough to call. The Cardinals have had the Eagles' number the last three times they played, although that was all under Andy Reid. Larry Fitzgerald kills us every time, so I will have to go with history repeating, again. Cardinals, 30-24.
Dolphins Vs. Jets - This will be the last great Jets moment of the year, probably. Jets, 27-20.
Falcons Vs. Bills - The trappiest of games they (the Falcons) could ever play. Don't underestimate the underdogs. The Falcons tend to slip once or twice a season making every pundit and analyst question if they are for real. This is that game. Bills, 35-30.
Rams Vs. 49ers - What a series these teams have put up over the past year. Jeff Fisher has made the Rams for real, and I think they hang very tough here. Saint Louis in a thriller and a shocker, a thrilling shocking game. Rams, 24-21, OT.
Patriots Vs. Texans - Do the Patriots give Houston the treatment they gave them in the last regular season? Or do the Texans realize they control their own destiny in this one game, this one night where they must lay it all on the line? I go with the latter, in the first time you or I or anybody can really take Houston seriously anymore in the playoffs. Texans, 41-35.
Bengals Vs. Chargers - Quietly, the Bengals keep mowing everybody else down. Bengals, 28-17.
Giants Vs. Redskins - Sorry, but no way this game should be in prime time over Rams/49ers, Bears/Vikings, or Patriots/Texans. Therefore, I know who will win, and I give no team credit in the process. Redskins, 3-2.
Saints Vs. Seahawks - Talk about an awesome awesome AWESOME Monday Night Football game. This will be extraordinary action as well as determining the fate of each team's playoff chances and the fate of millions of fantasy football teams across the world. Seahawks, 38-35.
Week 14
Texans Vs. Jaguars - Will the Texans fall into a trap game? I only make this prediction based on sheer hope that Gary Kubiak can keep his team playing lights out and to the max and not take any opponent for granted after dumping the Patriots last week. Texans, 35-13.
Colts Vs. Bengals - Two teams that lead the youth movement, but one with a little bit older youth movement than the youths on the youthful team of the Colts. Bengals, 20-14.
Browns Vs. Patriots - Sucks to be the Browns. This is the Patriots' "Still fear us" game. Patriots, 48-13.
Raiders Vs. Jets - Sure I'll pick the Jets to win, and I already said they would have their last great moment of the year in last week's win over Miami. This game will be uglier than a c-section. Jets, 13-7.
Panthers Vs. Saints - Panthers got a shit schedule this year. I just don't see them winning many games. Saints, 31-20.
Lions Vs. Eagles - Ugh. If Jim Schwartz is still the coach, he will remember how he beat the Eagles last year (although that was under Andy Reid). I think you see some fancy stuff from the Eagles here, but a 53 man heroic effort can't have us a mark in the win column, I fear. Lions, 42-38.
Dolphins Vs. Steelers - Pittsburgh still controls their own fate. I saw them win games with their third stringers last year. Plus, somebody is about to flatten Mike Wallace. Perhaps a fan might flatten him. Steelers, 21-14.
Bills Vs. Buccaneers - You would think the Buccaneers have to better than the Bills, right? Buccaneers, 28-24.
Chiefs Vs. Redskins - Andy Reid had no answer for RG3 last year, and still doesn't. Redskins continue their push. Redskins, 28-20.
Vikings Vs. Ravens - This is where AP will shine brightest as he ever could. He will tear up the inexperienced and weaker defense of Baltimore. Vikings, 21-20.
Titans Vs. Broncos - You go on with your bad self, Peyton. Remember how convenient it was to beat these guys in a dome? I'm sure you can brave the cold for a couple more hours. Broncos, 27-16.
Rams Vs. Cardinals - Straight shooting, Rams, 24-21.
Giants Vs. Chargers - Eli Manning returns to what was supposed to be his home, this time with ANOTHER Superbowl ring on his finger. I think the Chargers are made to feel like crap again, in their home stadium, as the truth about how bad Philip Rivers CAN be comes out. Giants, 42-20.
Seahawks Vs. 49ers - The swing game. Home team rules in this feud. 49ers, 24-21.
Falcons Vs. Packers - Yikes. First time in a few years the Falcons experience this - a losing streak. Packers, 28-24.
Cowboys Vs. Bears - Seriously, doesn't the NFL ever learn? Remember the turnover fest this game was last year, on Monday Night Football? What makes them think this will not be the same? That game damn near sunk my office fantasy football team (playing against Brandon Marshall AND the Bears defense). Bears, 33-20.
Week 15
Chargers Vs. Broncos - I expect the Chargers to be tired of losing, but the Broncos are just crushing it. Broncos, 24-20.
Redskins Vs. Falcons - No doubt about it this one. Two teams I despise. I wish they would tie. Falcons, 20-17.
Cardinals Vs. Titans - Next. Cardinals, 26-19. Establish the Field Goal.
49ers Vs. Buccaneers - If you don't think there was any good reason why the 49ers didn't resign Dashon Goldson, this game will show you why they didn't. 49ers, 33-17.
Saints Vs. Rams - Prepare for a Tavon Austin highlight reel game. I just don't think it's enough. Saints, 34-28.
Seahawks Vs. Giants - Seahawks face a cross country test. The Giants did great against better opponents at home last season. This is a trap for Seattle, but I think they find a way to play with confidence they should have, like they are legitimate contenders that people will be tired of talking about rather than media darlings. Seahawks, 21-17.
Bears Vs. Browns - Bears, in a close one. Bears, 17-15.
Texans Vs. Colts - Alright, Andrew Luck. Time to put on the big boy pants. I just don't think the Texans let up. Texans, 30-20.
Bills Vs. Jaguars - A "can't believe I have to flip a coin for an irrelevant game" game. This game will not be given the respect of best two of three, but rather a one off. Jaguars, 21-14.
Patriots Vs. Dolphins - Damn, Dolphins. You think you are a big dog? Prove it. The Patriots won't let you, but they will let you think you have a chance. Patriots, 28-27.
Eagles Vs. Vikings - This game will be ugly. Vikings, 27-20.
Chiefs vs. Raiders - The Chiefs have already doubled their wins from the year before, so I will give some love to the Raiders. Raiders, 28-20.
Jets Vs. Panthers - Save your job, Cam Newton, Deangelo Williams, Jonathon Stewart, Ron Rivera, entire Panthers defense. Panthers, 35-21.
Packers Vs. Cowboys - I have no doubt in my mind the Packers pack in the Cowboys. Packers, 38-27.
Bengals Vs. Steelers - Last year all it took was some toughness out of Jonathon Dwyer to beat the Bengals. I think the Bengals need to LOSE this game in order to get them right in the head for the playoffs. And the Steelers need this one more than Cincinnati does. Steelers, 24-20.
Ravens Vs. Lions - I don't see how the Lions have many wins this year. The extra day off helps the Ravens who play inspired after seeing the Colts, Bengals, and Dolphins all lose. Ravens, 28-24.
Week 16
Dolphins Vs. Bills - Bounce back game for the Dolphins, looking for a wild-card spot. Dolphins, 24-20.
Saints Vs. Panthers - The Carolina feel good game of the year was last week, not this week. Saints, 38-20.
Cowboys Vs. Redskins - The networks would like to make you think this game matters. It doesn't, at least for the Cowboys. Redskins, 30-21.
Buccaneers Vs. Rams - The Rams continue their improvement this week. Rams, 20-14.
Bears Vs. Eagles - Another horrendous game, most likely. It would be a bad game for Vick to get hurt in, which is the scenario I see playing out. The Eagles mathematically are alive in the NFC East until Week 16. Mark my words. But that's it. Bears, 30-27.
Browns Vs. Jets - A very winnable game for the Browns. Trent Richardson looks like a beast in this game. Browns, 31-21.
Colts Vs. Chiefs - Colts need this game desperately. Colts, 21-17.
Vikings Vs. Bengals - Because this corps of players on the Bengals has not had a leading position before, I go with what will probably be considered an upset here. Vikings, 21-20.
Broncos Vs. Texans - This could most likely be the AFC Championship game. While I always like seeing the Patriots lose a big game, I could take this one. I'd like to see Arian Foster get a great big bad chance to shine. Even though he is on a new team, combined with Wes Welker, the two of them have experience in beating the Texans in huge spots. This should be the Sunday night game, but it can't be. Broncos, 26-21. First round bye, secured.
Titans Vs. Jaguars - This game should have been on Thursday night game, but it can't be. Titans, 24-21.
Cardinals Vs. Seahawks - Seattle has to have this game. Arizona has the most outside of chances to make the playoffs, but if they can't they will make sure to have put the rest of their division in notice and also let the NFL know that the NFC West is now the toughest division in football, that said...Seahawks, 27-21.
Giants Vs. Lions - Lions play spoiler. Lions, 28-14.
Raiders Vs. Chargers - The Chargers have to win again at some point, right? Chargers, 24-17.
Steelers Vs. Packers - Tough game for the Steelers. Super Bowl rematch, and remember that outcome? Footballtown vs. Footballville. Packers break away late with it. Packers, 38-27.
Patriots Vs. Ravens - Unless somebody close to Joe Flacco dies in the middle of the night, do not expect a thriller like last year's Sunday Night Football meeting had. Patriots, 38-24.
Falcons Vs. 49ers - Wow a great MNF match finally. This is all about jockeying for position, so I go with the home team confidently. 49ers, 27-24.
Week 17
Panthers Vs. Falcons - I suddenly realize I have not kept track of division records, conference records, etc to determine the seeding and what each team has to play for. I don't think it matters for the NFC South, but it does for both wild card spots. Falcons, 31-20.
Packers Vs. Bears - Two teams with everything on the line. No team wants to enter the playoffs with a loss. The Packers lost on the last game of the year, and ultimately dropped their momentum down. I don't think they let that happen again. Packers, 31-28.
Texans Vs. Titans - Texans breath a sigh of relief after their loss last week. Texans, 41-24.
Browns Vs. Steelers - Good for you, Pittsburgh. Steelers, 28-17.
Redskins Vs. Giants - See, if I kept track of everything to this point, I would know if this game even matters for the Giants. If the Redskins win, they are in the playoffs again. If they lose, are the Giants in anyway? Who knows?! I guess we will see in a little table I will make at the end of Week 17. So, because you want suspense, Giants, 28-27.
Ravens Vs. Bengals - Are the Ravens fighting for a playoff spot? No, I don't know the answer. A simple table would've helped out here. Bengals, 24-20.
Eagles Vs. Cowboys - The Chip Kelly era started out hot, but ends as Matt Barkley gets his first NFL start. Cowboys, 27-24.
Jaguars Vs. Colts - Feel good season end for the Colts. Colts, 24-10.
Jets Vs. Dolphins - Again, where do the Dolphins stand? Does the game mathematically matter? Either way, the Dolphins show what they are. Dolphins, 35-17.
Lions Vs. Vikings - Vikings in. Vikings, 28-24.
Bills Vs. Patriots - Unless they play the game of their lives, the Bills will not beat the Patriots until next year. Patriots, 38-24.
Buccaneers Vs. Saints - Saints end the season with first round bye having been earned as their redemption year is complete. Saints, 35-12.
Broncos Vs. Raiders - Broncos win this and it's another first seed. What they do from there is on them. Broncos, 21-14.
49ers Vs. Cardinals - The Cardinals have a chance to finish at 8-8, or the equivalent of the NFC East Champion. I think they finish 7-9. 49ers, 30-20.
Chiefs Vs. Chargers - The game means nothing except perhaps shifting the balance in the AFC West. Chiefs, 20-14.
Rams Vs. Seahawks - Remember maybe 3 or 4 years ago when this was a play-in game for the playoffs on Sunday Night Football? It won't be SNF, but I expect it to be the last game and the highest rated of the day. If the Rams win, they may make the playoffs. Seahawks could either get a home game or go on the road again in the playoffs. If the Rams can upset the Seahawks, their playoff run is already dead. I just see the Seahawks doing great things this year. Seahawks, 21-20.
FINAL STANDINGS
So, what does all that mean? Well, due to Tiebreakers, Redskins win the NFC East due to victories over common opponents, Packers win the NFC North due to division record, and there is a mess for the wild cards. here are the seeds:
Let's see what happens in the Playoffs...
Wild Card Weekend
49ers (6) Vs. Seahawks (3)- They split the season series, and this is the ultimate rubber match. It is tough sledding in the NFC, as I think anybody (except the Redskins) can pick off anybody. Seahawks, with the 12th man, 38-35 in a classic.
Vikings (5) Vs. Redskins (4)- If the Vikings had this matchup last year, they would've advanced at least one more week. Vikings, 28-24.
Dolphins (6) Vs. Patriots (3) - Great run for the improved Dolphins, unfortunately they ran into a Patriot wall. Patriots, 33-20.
Steelers (5) Vs. Bengals (4) - Cincinnati will finally be pumped to see a home playoff game in their house. I think this is the end of the line for a much better than anticipated Steelers season. Bengals, 26-17.
Divisional Round
Seahawks (3) Vs. Saints (2) - Another dream match, added to a dream season for the Saints. I think the Seahawks are still riding high. Seahawks, 45-38.
Vikings (5) Vs. Packers (1) - D'oh!!! At least the Vikings made it one round further than last year, and that's what you want to see, especially when your team was vying for number one overall! Packers, 38-24.
Patriots (3) Vs. Texans (2) - If I was brave, I would say history repeats. It is a rarity in the Belichek-Brady era for them to lose a playoff game at home (even though they did last year). So, I fully believe, Texans, 28-24.
Bengals (4) Vs. Broncos (1) - Broncos will not stand for the one and done last year. But unfortunately that is Peyton Manning's reputation. This game being in Denver, I don't see it. Broncos, 35-20.
Conference Championships
NFC Title Game: Seahawks (3) Vs. Packers (1) - A rematch that if it had happened last season would have been too magical. The mystique of their tainted Monday Night Football game lingers on, this time in Green Bay. I think it comes down to the wire again. I would take players for both teams to be my go to team mates. I want to coin flip this, but I need a solid opinion. Packers, 34-31.
AFC Title Game: Texans (2) Vs. Broncos (1) - History repeats, the Broncos still have the Texans number. Broncos, 34-28.
Super Bowl
Broncos Vs. Packers, in the New Meadowlands of New Jersey. This game will have it all. I think the Manning run has been great last year and through the 2013 season. The addition of Wes Welker has been great. Peyton has been there before and lost. Welker has been there before and lost. Manning has also won, but then he lost. I go with the most recent experience. Packers, 27-24.
There you have it! The entire season, start to finish. Hope your team did what you thought it could.
Week 6
Giants Vs. Bears - Okay, a good Thursday night matchup. Six games in to the season, and I believe the Bears are desperate for a win. Home teams usually do well in the Thursday night specials, so...Bears, 23-14. Giants have one running back after this game, and he ran all over the Bears. But, Duba was right in the end. Duba, 44-34.
Packers Vs. Ravens - They do not look like the Superbowl champs. Packers, 28-17. I think it will be average for the Ravens to score 17 points from this point on. Duba, 45-34.
Bengals Vs. Bills - The two TE set is finally coming alive in Cincinnati, at the expense of the Bills. Bengals, 34-20. It was looking like the correct score for a while, but again I was mostly right. Duba, 46-34.
Lions Vs. Browns - Yuck. I don't think the Lions can legitimately go this long without a win. Lions, 30-13. This was pegged as my first win for the Lions all year. I was wrong there as they have 4 times that many wins right now. Duba, 47-34.
Rams Vs. Texans - The two top drafted rookie receivers play a game of one-upsmanship. I think this goes to the home team, though. Texans, 21-14. If I was the Texans fans, I would cheer more for the game clock expiring than anybody getting hurt. Kharma is a bitch, and you must suffer with a terrible team (at the moment). Duba, 47-35.
Panthers Vs. Vikings - A real test for the Panther's draft class. AP again straps 10 guys on...his back to win it at home. Vikings, 27-17. I wonder if you could make a fully capable team out of the Texans, Giants, and Vikings? Duba, 47-36.
Raiders Vs. Chiefs - Rivalry!!! The Chiefs roll easily. Chiefs, 35-17. I almost got the point deficit correct, so that's worth additional points, right? Duba, 48-36.
Steelers Vs. Jets - Try as they might to improve, the Jets are still the Jets. Steelers, 21-10. The Monday Night Jets > Sunday Afternoon Jets. Duba, 49-36.
Eagles Vs. Buccaneers - The best game the Eagles played last year gets to happen again, at the same venue. The Buccaneers have improved their secondary so no more long amazing Jason Avant catches. Tough to call, as Tampa should still have a good run defense. I hate myself for this. Buccaneers, 21-17. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad the Eagles won, but I was hoping as I was adding up my totals throughout the weeks I could get to win number 50 on an Eagles game. The Tampa defense was shredded, and I am stuck pre-50 wins. Duba, 49-37.
Jaguars Vs. Broncos - Broncos, 27-10. No doy! Oh yeah, thanks Jaguars! Duba, 50-37.
Titans Vs. Seahawks - See above. Seahawks, 28-14. Closer than I predicted. Titans will make a run out of every game from this point on (no matter what I predicted for them). That's the reality vs. May predictions. Duba, 51-37.
Saints Vs. Patriots - A money matchup. I think this game means more to both quarterbacks than we could realize. I have to go to a coin flip on this one, best out of 5...Saints, 35-31 (three straight coin flips went to New Orleans). Perhaps if I made it best out 7, the Patriots could have come back and won that also. Duba, 51-38.
Cardinals Vs. 49ers - A great test for Bruce Arians and Carson Palmer. They need to study a little more as San Francisco starts its comeback charge in the standings. 49ers, 27-18. Bruce Arians is a grumpy old man and Carson Palmer is the Raiders version Palmer and not Bengals version Palmer. Duba, 52-38.
Redskins Vs. Cowboys - Ugh. I hate this game. But I will watch this game. Redskins, 30-24. This makes me hate the Redskins even more. Give them a benefit of the doubt, and they burn you. I'm not offended by their name. I'm offended they are a team. Duba, 53-39.
Colts Vs. Chargers - Perhaps Andrew Luck will change his while playing on the road. The shock of their record thus far changes here. Colts, 20-13. Me and every person on the planet was wrong on this one. Duba, 53-40.
Week 7
Seahawks Vs. Cardinals - Thursday night smash to the mouth. The Cardinals just lost too much of a heartbreaker to the 49ers. I suspect they play their hearts out and steal a win here. Cardinals, 17-14.
Buccaneers Vs. Falcons - As much as they want to compete, the Buccaneers are a year away. Falcons, 31-20.
Bears Vs. Redskins - I think the defense in Washington can't keep up with Brandon Marshall or Matt Forte. RG3 plays like a hero, falling short at the last second. Bears, 20-16.
Cowboys Vs. Eagles - I'm sure Chip Kelly has been told, whatever you do, do NOT lose this game. By no means, no excuses, the Eagles have to have this one to make it count towards a successful rebuilding year. Eagles, 31-27.
Patriots Vs. Jets - Remember the excitement of their Week 1 matchup? It's always nice to open the season thinking your team has a chance, then reality comes by in the form of a monumental beatdown. Patriots, 48-20.
Bills Vs. Dolphins - Two teams rebuilding, one just a step ahead of the other. This should be an underdog of a great game. Dolphins, 24-17.
Rams Vs. Panthers - Two teams fighting for respect they think they should have. If the Rams haven't fully established a running game here, it will be tough sledding. I think Cam Newton plays like a smarter version of his 2011 self here. Panthers, 24-20.
Bengals Vs. Lions - I think the Bengals are just too juiced up and jacked off. I mean jacked up. Did you read this far? Bengals, 28-27.
Chargers Vs. Jaguars - Justin Blackmon may just be getting back into the mix in this one, but this is a "I can't believe we flew all the way down here to an empty stadium so let's get out of here quickly with a win" scenario for San Diego. Chargers, 31-21.
Texans Vs. Chiefs - Andy Reid has beaten the Texans before, but that was last during the magical 2010 campaign. Tough sledding, Andy. Texans, 24-13.
49ers Vs. Titans - Fortunes continue to rise after a beatdown of the Cardinals. 49ers, 35-27.
Browns Vs. Packers - Packers, 33-21.
Ravens Vs. Steelers - This game loses its luster after some foundation players for both teams are no longer on the roster. In a sense, a new rivalry must be born now. Steelers, 20-14.
Broncos Vs. Colts - A game that is exciting to promote, but one that will not be exciting. This will start with a strong Broncos run and Manning consoling Luck. Broncos, 28-17.
Vikings Vs. Giants - Great game. I think the Vikings have a strong chance. Vikings, 17-13.
Week 8
Panthers Vs. Buccaneers - A sneaky good matchup. It was a Thursday night game when we first saw that Doug Martin was for real. I think he still is for real, and Tampa Bay squeezes one out. Buccaneers, 20-17.
49ers Vs. Jaguars - Jaguars fans have broken into being the Baguars again. 49ers, 42-23.
Browns Vs. Chiefs - Weird, thus far, the Browns have been the league's punching bag. I think they punch back. Browns, 23-17.
Dolphins Vs. Patriots - The matchup the Dolphins have been waiting for. Their measuring stick game. With a win, they have a chance to jump ahead of the Patriots. I think they fall just short. If this game were in Miami at this point in the season, it would be the other way around. Patriots, 30-24.
Bills Vs. Saints - Potential first shootout for EJ Manuel. I doubt Kolb still has his head attached to his body by this point (even with good protection, his brain has just become too soft). Saints, 30-23.
Cowboys Vs. Lions - Didn't Tony Romo play a heroic game against them like 2 years ago? I want to like the Lions, I really do. I think at this point they start pressing teams to the max and nabbing a few wins. Lions, 28-20.
Giants Vs. Eagles - I can't believe this is a division leader matchup. The Eagles on the current roster have always played their best to beat the Giants at home, and I think they can again. Eagles, 21-17.
Steelers Vs. Raiders - Last year I think Oakland pulled off the upset. This year, meeeeeeh, not so much. Steelers, 21-7.
Jets Vs. Bengals - No contest. Bengals, 35-21.
Falcons Vs. Cardinals - I hope for a good game and some flashes from Carson Palmer. But alas, two Larry Fitzgeralds couldn't even do the trick here. Falcons, 17-10.
Redskins Vs. Broncos - New School vs. old school. Peyton has made a career of picking apart defenses like Washington. Broncos, 23-15.
Packers Vs. Vikings - I think the Greg Jennings bowl, coupled with Adrian Peterson and now integrated Cordarelle Patterson take the Pack by storm. Vikings, 35-31.
Seahawks Vs. Rams - Smart making the Monday night meeting in Saint Louis. Seattle just lost to the Cardinals, and they will be damned if they lose two in a row. Percy Harvin shows Tavon how it's done. Seahawks, 28-20.
Week 9
Bengals Vs. Dolphins - A potential January 2015 playoff battle. Note I did not say 2014. Make no mistake - the Dolphins worry teams. Bengals, 21-20.
Falcons Vs. Panthers - Poor Panthers fans. Falcons, 28-27.
Vikings Vs. Cowboys - Hot off an emotional win against their division rivals, I think Christian Ponder struggles. Bottom line is that as long as Adrian Peterson is on the field, they always have a chance. Vikins, 17-13.
Saints Vs. Jets - Saints, 2,504 to 3.
Titans Vs. Rams - I haven't given the poor Titans much benefit of the doubt here. And it won't start now. Rams, 31-17.
Chiefs Vs. Bills - Tough bottom feeder match. Coin toss, 2 out of 3. Bills, 33-24.
Chargers Vs. Redskins - Redskins, 28-21.
Eagles Vs. Raiders - No way they lose this one. The surprise team of 2013 continues its winning ways. Eagles, 24-10.
Buccaneers Vs. Seahawks - Richard Sherman blocks off Vincent Jackson and Marshawn Lynch does to the great run defense of Tampa what he always does to great run defenses. Seahawks, 30-20.
Ravens Vs. Browns - They look like the Superbowl champs! The Champs are here!! Ravens, 17-14.
Steelers Vs. Patriots - Maybe the Patriots find a way to court Emmanuel Sanders onto their team before the game starts? I don't see how the Steelers pull this off. Patriots, 24-20.
Colts Vs. Texans - The Texans have been on a roll most of the season, but even the best team I ever saw (2007 Patriots) lose a game. Colts, 20-14.
Bears Vs. Packers - Imagine going into the Packers house after Aaron Rogers just got beat by Christian Ponder? No bye week rest is enough to help Chicago. Packers, 33-20.
Week 10
Redskins Vs. Vikings - I bet this game is really good. I like the confidence at this point the Vikings show. Vikings, 21-17.
Eagles Vs. Packers - If Chip Kelly has really made something special, this is the week to show it. Aaron Rogers is very special. Packers, 31-24.
Jaguars Vs. Titans - This turns out to be a pretty solid back and forth, and Tennessee gets back in the W column. Titans, 14-13.
Bills Vs. Steelers - Just another day for the Steelers, who don't like losing multiple games in a row. Steelers, 21-13.
Raiders Vs. Giants - When will the Raiders ever win again? Giants, 38-17.
Rams Vs. Colts - Tough game last week, great chance for reestablishing themselves. Rams, 20-14.
Seahawks Vs. Falcons - History often repeats itself, unless it's referring to the history of lightning. Since the Seahawk is a bird and not a strike of lightning, history will repeat itself. Falcons, 21-17.
Bengals Vs. Ravens - I don't know why I have such a good feeling, but I think the Ravens start to show flashes of the team that ran through the Superbowl. Ravens, 21-20.
Lions Vs. Bears - Nice try, Lions. Jim Schwartz may get fired. Bears, 27-17.
Panthers Vs. 49ers - NFL.com says this is their matchup to watch. Nope. Despite another heroic effort, the Panthers cannot hang. 49ers, 33-24.
Texans Vs. Cardinals - Bruce Arians may have some knowledge about the Texans after coaching against them twice last year. I just don't think they have enough to stop the Houston offense and DeAndre Hopkins' awesome game let alone block the Houston defense. Texans, 27-17.
Broncos Vs. Chargers - The game that changed everything for the Broncos last year, but no need for a change this year. Broncos, 23-14.
Cowboys Vs. Saints - Flex Scheduling may come into play here. I just don't see a better potential 4 o'clock hour game. Cowboys should hate getting flattened on national TV again. Saints, 38-21.
Dolphins Vs. Buccaneers - Battle for Florida, as Tannehill's stock goes up and Freeman's goes down faster than a "insert Russian whore joke here." Dolphins, 23-13.
Week 11
Colts Vs. Titans - Home teams tend to have had advantage. I expect the Titans to keep it close, but still under the amount of points the Colts can score. Colts, 21-20.
Jets Vs. Bills - I would say this is a coin flip game. I will weight the coin down so the Jets may pull off a win here. JETS!, 6-3.
Falcons Vs. Buccaneers - The Bucs need a new quarterback, but this isn't the game to test him out. Perhaps Freeman gets benched. Next man up won't save them. Falcons, 31-20.
Lions Vs. Steelers - I see the Steelers notice the Ravens aren't the Champs anymore and the Bengals can be beaten. All they have to do is catch them. Steelers, 20-17.
Redskins Vs. Eagles - Last year when the Skins came to town it was ugly. I don't see how the Eagles recover from their loss the previous week. Redskins, 23-14.
Chargers Vs. Dolphins - As if flying down to Jacksonville earlier this year wasn't enough, they have to fly further south, and will put up a fight, but not good enough. Dolphins, 24-14.
Ravens Vs. Bears - They definitely won't look like the Superbowl Champs. Bears, 38-24.
Bronws Vs. Bengals - That crack in the Bengals armor seals up a little bit here. Bengals, 27-20.
Raiders Vs. Texans - I just did 15 coin tosses, and even George Washington hates the Raiders. Texans, beatdown, 42-20.
Cardinals Vs. Jaguars - The Bruce Arians success formula works this week. Cardinals, 31-24.
Chiefs Vs. Broncos - Time to get your clock cleaned by Peyton Manning again, Andy Reid. Broncos, 31-17.
Vikings Vs. Seahawks - What a treat of a game. I think the Seattle defense is too much for Christian Ponder and the doctors didn't put enough miracles in the leg of Adrian Peterson for this game. Seahawks, 31-21.
49ers Vs. Saints - Tough match for both teams. Perhaps the Greg Williams Damning Evidence Bowl game. I was about to coin toss it up, but I have made up my mind. 49ers, 35-31.
Packers Vs. Giants - Another tough match, and last year the Giants gave the Packers what for. I don't think Rogers lets that happen again. Packers, 28-27.
Patriots Vs. Panthers - This will be much like Texans Vs. Patriots - over quickly. Patriots, 45-28.
Week 12
Saints Vs. Falcons - NFL Network wants a hopefully better game than these two provided last year. How two high powered offenses had little to show on a Thursday night is beyond me. This game determines the NFC South. I love the Saints, but I hate the Falcons more. I hate this. Falcons, 27-21.
Buccaneers Vs. Lions - Two teams with equal parts identity. Only since Stafford-Johnson is stronger than Freeman-Jackson any day or year. Lions, 31-27.
Vikings Vs. Packers - Joe Webb, Christian Ponder, it doesn't matter. Packers, 45-21.
Jaguars Vs. Texans - Next. Texans, 30-20.
Chargers Vs. Chiefs - I started the Chargers defense against the Chiefs last year in a move that saved my fantasy football season. But this year is different. Chiefs, 17-14.
Panthers Vs. Dolphins - Dolphins, 27-20.
Steelers Vs. Browns - Steelers, 20-10.
Bears Vs. Rams - This game will be great. Rams, 27-21.
Jets Vs. Ravens - They look like the Superbowl champs. Ravens, 21-17.
Titans Vs. Raiders - I think this finally a positive for a mess of a team that is known as the Oakland Raiders. Perhaps there will be one good day in Oakland from September through December. Raiders, 24-14.
Colts Vs. Cardinals - A game where Bruce Arians knows what's coming, but the Colts don't. I think those great rookie comebacks come into play here. Colts, 27-24.
Cowboys Vs. Giants - Cowboys fresh off their break will still get knocked out here. Giants, 38-27.
Broncos Vs. Patriots - It hasn't been often when Manning gets the best of Brady. But this is at Foxboro, where the Patriots rarely lose (unless it's the AFC Championship game). Patriots, 42-41.
49ers Vs. Redskins - This game is intriguing in that it is at Washington. Colin K-somethingorother gets it done, though. 49ers, 31-24.
Week 13
Packers Vs. Lions - Thanksgiving! Thank goodness for Football! I bet this is a shoot out, and I really think you see a turkey day upset. Lions, 38-31.
Raiders Vs. Cowboys - Lucky Cowboys fans get a treat on Thanksgiving. Cowboys, 28-20.
Steelers Vs. Ravens - At this point, I have the Ravens at 5-6, and the Steelers at 7-4. I think things start to come together better for the Ravens and they get this game. Ravens, 27-20.
Broncos Vs. Chiefs - Didn't this game like just happen a week or two ago? Chiefs will put up a fight, but that's like saying I would put up a fight against Brock Lesnar. Broncos, 28-21.
Titans Vs. Colts - The Colts fresh off a tough win last week don't want to do it again the hard way. Colts, 24-14.
Jaguars Vs. Browns - You would think after improving the offensive line, getting MJD back healthy, and drafting number 2 overall throughout the draft would make them better than Cleveland. This game makes them even. Jaguars, 27-21.
Buccaneers Vs. Panthers - Panthers will make not make this a good season. Perhaps their coach gets fired thereafter. Buccaneers, 21-17.
Bears Vs. Vikings - Slug fest. Both teams. The winner is in a tie with the Packers at the Division lead, and is vying for first seed in the playoffs along with Seahawks, 49ers, Saints and Falcons. I go with the experienced coach/home team combo special here. Vikings, 21-20.
Cardinals Vs. Eagles - Tough to call. The Cardinals have had the Eagles' number the last three times they played, although that was all under Andy Reid. Larry Fitzgerald kills us every time, so I will have to go with history repeating, again. Cardinals, 30-24.
Dolphins Vs. Jets - This will be the last great Jets moment of the year, probably. Jets, 27-20.
Falcons Vs. Bills - The trappiest of games they (the Falcons) could ever play. Don't underestimate the underdogs. The Falcons tend to slip once or twice a season making every pundit and analyst question if they are for real. This is that game. Bills, 35-30.
Rams Vs. 49ers - What a series these teams have put up over the past year. Jeff Fisher has made the Rams for real, and I think they hang very tough here. Saint Louis in a thriller and a shocker, a thrilling shocking game. Rams, 24-21, OT.
Patriots Vs. Texans - Do the Patriots give Houston the treatment they gave them in the last regular season? Or do the Texans realize they control their own destiny in this one game, this one night where they must lay it all on the line? I go with the latter, in the first time you or I or anybody can really take Houston seriously anymore in the playoffs. Texans, 41-35.
Bengals Vs. Chargers - Quietly, the Bengals keep mowing everybody else down. Bengals, 28-17.
Giants Vs. Redskins - Sorry, but no way this game should be in prime time over Rams/49ers, Bears/Vikings, or Patriots/Texans. Therefore, I know who will win, and I give no team credit in the process. Redskins, 3-2.
Saints Vs. Seahawks - Talk about an awesome awesome AWESOME Monday Night Football game. This will be extraordinary action as well as determining the fate of each team's playoff chances and the fate of millions of fantasy football teams across the world. Seahawks, 38-35.
Week 14
Texans Vs. Jaguars - Will the Texans fall into a trap game? I only make this prediction based on sheer hope that Gary Kubiak can keep his team playing lights out and to the max and not take any opponent for granted after dumping the Patriots last week. Texans, 35-13.
Colts Vs. Bengals - Two teams that lead the youth movement, but one with a little bit older youth movement than the youths on the youthful team of the Colts. Bengals, 20-14.
Browns Vs. Patriots - Sucks to be the Browns. This is the Patriots' "Still fear us" game. Patriots, 48-13.
Raiders Vs. Jets - Sure I'll pick the Jets to win, and I already said they would have their last great moment of the year in last week's win over Miami. This game will be uglier than a c-section. Jets, 13-7.
Panthers Vs. Saints - Panthers got a shit schedule this year. I just don't see them winning many games. Saints, 31-20.
Lions Vs. Eagles - Ugh. If Jim Schwartz is still the coach, he will remember how he beat the Eagles last year (although that was under Andy Reid). I think you see some fancy stuff from the Eagles here, but a 53 man heroic effort can't have us a mark in the win column, I fear. Lions, 42-38.
Dolphins Vs. Steelers - Pittsburgh still controls their own fate. I saw them win games with their third stringers last year. Plus, somebody is about to flatten Mike Wallace. Perhaps a fan might flatten him. Steelers, 21-14.
Bills Vs. Buccaneers - You would think the Buccaneers have to better than the Bills, right? Buccaneers, 28-24.
Chiefs Vs. Redskins - Andy Reid had no answer for RG3 last year, and still doesn't. Redskins continue their push. Redskins, 28-20.
Vikings Vs. Ravens - This is where AP will shine brightest as he ever could. He will tear up the inexperienced and weaker defense of Baltimore. Vikings, 21-20.
Titans Vs. Broncos - You go on with your bad self, Peyton. Remember how convenient it was to beat these guys in a dome? I'm sure you can brave the cold for a couple more hours. Broncos, 27-16.
Rams Vs. Cardinals - Straight shooting, Rams, 24-21.
Giants Vs. Chargers - Eli Manning returns to what was supposed to be his home, this time with ANOTHER Superbowl ring on his finger. I think the Chargers are made to feel like crap again, in their home stadium, as the truth about how bad Philip Rivers CAN be comes out. Giants, 42-20.
Seahawks Vs. 49ers - The swing game. Home team rules in this feud. 49ers, 24-21.
Falcons Vs. Packers - Yikes. First time in a few years the Falcons experience this - a losing streak. Packers, 28-24.
Cowboys Vs. Bears - Seriously, doesn't the NFL ever learn? Remember the turnover fest this game was last year, on Monday Night Football? What makes them think this will not be the same? That game damn near sunk my office fantasy football team (playing against Brandon Marshall AND the Bears defense). Bears, 33-20.
Week 15
Chargers Vs. Broncos - I expect the Chargers to be tired of losing, but the Broncos are just crushing it. Broncos, 24-20.
Redskins Vs. Falcons - No doubt about it this one. Two teams I despise. I wish they would tie. Falcons, 20-17.
Cardinals Vs. Titans - Next. Cardinals, 26-19. Establish the Field Goal.
49ers Vs. Buccaneers - If you don't think there was any good reason why the 49ers didn't resign Dashon Goldson, this game will show you why they didn't. 49ers, 33-17.
Saints Vs. Rams - Prepare for a Tavon Austin highlight reel game. I just don't think it's enough. Saints, 34-28.
Seahawks Vs. Giants - Seahawks face a cross country test. The Giants did great against better opponents at home last season. This is a trap for Seattle, but I think they find a way to play with confidence they should have, like they are legitimate contenders that people will be tired of talking about rather than media darlings. Seahawks, 21-17.
Bears Vs. Browns - Bears, in a close one. Bears, 17-15.
Texans Vs. Colts - Alright, Andrew Luck. Time to put on the big boy pants. I just don't think the Texans let up. Texans, 30-20.
Bills Vs. Jaguars - A "can't believe I have to flip a coin for an irrelevant game" game. This game will not be given the respect of best two of three, but rather a one off. Jaguars, 21-14.
Patriots Vs. Dolphins - Damn, Dolphins. You think you are a big dog? Prove it. The Patriots won't let you, but they will let you think you have a chance. Patriots, 28-27.
Eagles Vs. Vikings - This game will be ugly. Vikings, 27-20.
Chiefs vs. Raiders - The Chiefs have already doubled their wins from the year before, so I will give some love to the Raiders. Raiders, 28-20.
Jets Vs. Panthers - Save your job, Cam Newton, Deangelo Williams, Jonathon Stewart, Ron Rivera, entire Panthers defense. Panthers, 35-21.
Packers Vs. Cowboys - I have no doubt in my mind the Packers pack in the Cowboys. Packers, 38-27.
Bengals Vs. Steelers - Last year all it took was some toughness out of Jonathon Dwyer to beat the Bengals. I think the Bengals need to LOSE this game in order to get them right in the head for the playoffs. And the Steelers need this one more than Cincinnati does. Steelers, 24-20.
Ravens Vs. Lions - I don't see how the Lions have many wins this year. The extra day off helps the Ravens who play inspired after seeing the Colts, Bengals, and Dolphins all lose. Ravens, 28-24.
Week 16
Dolphins Vs. Bills - Bounce back game for the Dolphins, looking for a wild-card spot. Dolphins, 24-20.
Saints Vs. Panthers - The Carolina feel good game of the year was last week, not this week. Saints, 38-20.
Cowboys Vs. Redskins - The networks would like to make you think this game matters. It doesn't, at least for the Cowboys. Redskins, 30-21.
Buccaneers Vs. Rams - The Rams continue their improvement this week. Rams, 20-14.
Bears Vs. Eagles - Another horrendous game, most likely. It would be a bad game for Vick to get hurt in, which is the scenario I see playing out. The Eagles mathematically are alive in the NFC East until Week 16. Mark my words. But that's it. Bears, 30-27.
Browns Vs. Jets - A very winnable game for the Browns. Trent Richardson looks like a beast in this game. Browns, 31-21.
Colts Vs. Chiefs - Colts need this game desperately. Colts, 21-17.
Vikings Vs. Bengals - Because this corps of players on the Bengals has not had a leading position before, I go with what will probably be considered an upset here. Vikings, 21-20.
Broncos Vs. Texans - This could most likely be the AFC Championship game. While I always like seeing the Patriots lose a big game, I could take this one. I'd like to see Arian Foster get a great big bad chance to shine. Even though he is on a new team, combined with Wes Welker, the two of them have experience in beating the Texans in huge spots. This should be the Sunday night game, but it can't be. Broncos, 26-21. First round bye, secured.
Titans Vs. Jaguars - This game should have been on Thursday night game, but it can't be. Titans, 24-21.
Cardinals Vs. Seahawks - Seattle has to have this game. Arizona has the most outside of chances to make the playoffs, but if they can't they will make sure to have put the rest of their division in notice and also let the NFL know that the NFC West is now the toughest division in football, that said...Seahawks, 27-21.
Giants Vs. Lions - Lions play spoiler. Lions, 28-14.
Raiders Vs. Chargers - The Chargers have to win again at some point, right? Chargers, 24-17.
Steelers Vs. Packers - Tough game for the Steelers. Super Bowl rematch, and remember that outcome? Footballtown vs. Footballville. Packers break away late with it. Packers, 38-27.
Patriots Vs. Ravens - Unless somebody close to Joe Flacco dies in the middle of the night, do not expect a thriller like last year's Sunday Night Football meeting had. Patriots, 38-24.
Falcons Vs. 49ers - Wow a great MNF match finally. This is all about jockeying for position, so I go with the home team confidently. 49ers, 27-24.
Week 17
Panthers Vs. Falcons - I suddenly realize I have not kept track of division records, conference records, etc to determine the seeding and what each team has to play for. I don't think it matters for the NFC South, but it does for both wild card spots. Falcons, 31-20.
Packers Vs. Bears - Two teams with everything on the line. No team wants to enter the playoffs with a loss. The Packers lost on the last game of the year, and ultimately dropped their momentum down. I don't think they let that happen again. Packers, 31-28.
Texans Vs. Titans - Texans breath a sigh of relief after their loss last week. Texans, 41-24.
Browns Vs. Steelers - Good for you, Pittsburgh. Steelers, 28-17.
Redskins Vs. Giants - See, if I kept track of everything to this point, I would know if this game even matters for the Giants. If the Redskins win, they are in the playoffs again. If they lose, are the Giants in anyway? Who knows?! I guess we will see in a little table I will make at the end of Week 17. So, because you want suspense, Giants, 28-27.
Ravens Vs. Bengals - Are the Ravens fighting for a playoff spot? No, I don't know the answer. A simple table would've helped out here. Bengals, 24-20.
Eagles Vs. Cowboys - The Chip Kelly era started out hot, but ends as Matt Barkley gets his first NFL start. Cowboys, 27-24.
Jaguars Vs. Colts - Feel good season end for the Colts. Colts, 24-10.
Jets Vs. Dolphins - Again, where do the Dolphins stand? Does the game mathematically matter? Either way, the Dolphins show what they are. Dolphins, 35-17.
Lions Vs. Vikings - Vikings in. Vikings, 28-24.
Bills Vs. Patriots - Unless they play the game of their lives, the Bills will not beat the Patriots until next year. Patriots, 38-24.
Buccaneers Vs. Saints - Saints end the season with first round bye having been earned as their redemption year is complete. Saints, 35-12.
Broncos Vs. Raiders - Broncos win this and it's another first seed. What they do from there is on them. Broncos, 21-14.
49ers Vs. Cardinals - The Cardinals have a chance to finish at 8-8, or the equivalent of the NFC East Champion. I think they finish 7-9. 49ers, 30-20.
Chiefs Vs. Chargers - The game means nothing except perhaps shifting the balance in the AFC West. Chiefs, 20-14.
Rams Vs. Seahawks - Remember maybe 3 or 4 years ago when this was a play-in game for the playoffs on Sunday Night Football? It won't be SNF, but I expect it to be the last game and the highest rated of the day. If the Rams win, they may make the playoffs. Seahawks could either get a home game or go on the road again in the playoffs. If the Rams can upset the Seahawks, their playoff run is already dead. I just see the Seahawks doing great things this year. Seahawks, 21-20.
FINAL STANDINGS
Team
|
Wins
|
Loss
|
Division
|
Conference
| ||
Redskins
|
8
|
8
|
4
|
2
|
6
|
6
|
Giants
|
8
|
8
|
4
|
2
|
6
|
6
|
Eagles
|
6
|
10
|
3
|
3
|
3
|
9
|
Cowboys
|
4
|
12
|
1
|
5
|
2
|
10
|
Team
|
Wins
|
Loss
|
Division
|
Conference
| ||
Packers
|
13
|
3
|
4
|
2
|
10
|
2
|
Vikings
|
13
|
3
|
4
|
2
|
9
|
3
|
Bears
|
11
|
5
|
3
|
3
|
7
|
5
|
Lions
|
6
|
10
|
2
|
4
|
5
|
7
|
Team
|
Wins
|
Loss
|
Division
|
Conference
| ||
Seahawks
|
12
|
4
|
4
|
2
|
9
|
3
|
49ers
|
12
|
4
|
3
|
3
|
8
|
4
|
Rams
|
9
|
7
|
4
|
2
|
6
|
6
|
Cardinals
|
6
|
10
|
1
|
5
|
4
|
8
|
Team
|
Wins
|
Loss
|
Division
|
Conference
| ||
Saints
|
13
|
3
|
5
|
1
|
9
|
3
|
Falcons
|
12
|
4
|
5
|
1
|
9
|
3
|
Buccaneers
|
6
|
10
|
2
|
4
|
4
|
8
|
Panthers
|
3
|
13
|
0
|
6
|
1
|
11
|
Team
|
Wins
|
Loss
|
Division
|
Conference
| ||
Patriots
|
13
|
3
|
6
|
0
|
11
|
1
|
Dolphins
|
9
|
7
|
3
|
3
|
7
|
5
|
Jets
|
3
|
13
|
2
|
4
|
3
|
9
|
Bills
|
3
|
13
|
1
|
5
|
2
|
10
|
Team
|
Wins
|
Loss
|
Division
|
Conference
| ||
Bengals
|
12
|
4
|
4
|
2
|
9
|
3
|
Steelers
|
10
|
6
|
4
|
2
|
9
|
3
|
Ravens
|
7
|
9
|
4
|
2
|
6
|
6
|
Browns
|
3
|
13
|
0
|
6
|
3
|
9
|
Team
|
Wins
|
Loss
|
Division
|
Conference
| ||
Broncos
|
14
|
2
|
6
|
0
|
11
|
1
|
Chiefs
|
5
|
11
|
3
|
3
|
4
|
8
|
Chargers
|
5
|
11
|
2
|
4
|
4
|
8
|
Raiders
|
2
|
14
|
1
|
5
|
2
|
10
|
Team
|
Wins
|
Loss
|
Division
|
Conference
| ||
Texans
|
13
|
3
|
5
|
1
|
10
|
2
|
Colts
|
9
|
7
|
5
|
1
|
8
|
4
|
Jaguars
|
4
|
12
|
0
|
6
|
4
|
8
|
Titans
|
3
|
13
|
2
|
4
|
3
|
9
|
So, what does all that mean? Well, due to Tiebreakers, Redskins win the NFC East due to victories over common opponents, Packers win the NFC North due to division record, and there is a mess for the wild cards. here are the seeds:
NFC
| |
Seed
|
Team
|
1
|
Packers
|
2
|
Saints
|
3
|
Seahawks
|
4
|
Redskins
|
5
|
Vikings
|
6
|
49ers (Beat the Falcons)
|
AFC
| |
Seed
|
Team
|
1
|
Broncos
|
2
|
Texans (Beat the Patriots)
|
3
|
Patriots
|
4
|
Bengals
|
5
|
Steelers
|
6
|
Dolphins (Beat the Colts)
|
Let's see what happens in the Playoffs...
Wild Card Weekend
49ers (6) Vs. Seahawks (3)- They split the season series, and this is the ultimate rubber match. It is tough sledding in the NFC, as I think anybody (except the Redskins) can pick off anybody. Seahawks, with the 12th man, 38-35 in a classic.
Vikings (5) Vs. Redskins (4)- If the Vikings had this matchup last year, they would've advanced at least one more week. Vikings, 28-24.
Dolphins (6) Vs. Patriots (3) - Great run for the improved Dolphins, unfortunately they ran into a Patriot wall. Patriots, 33-20.
Steelers (5) Vs. Bengals (4) - Cincinnati will finally be pumped to see a home playoff game in their house. I think this is the end of the line for a much better than anticipated Steelers season. Bengals, 26-17.
Divisional Round
Seahawks (3) Vs. Saints (2) - Another dream match, added to a dream season for the Saints. I think the Seahawks are still riding high. Seahawks, 45-38.
Vikings (5) Vs. Packers (1) - D'oh!!! At least the Vikings made it one round further than last year, and that's what you want to see, especially when your team was vying for number one overall! Packers, 38-24.
Patriots (3) Vs. Texans (2) - If I was brave, I would say history repeats. It is a rarity in the Belichek-Brady era for them to lose a playoff game at home (even though they did last year). So, I fully believe, Texans, 28-24.
Bengals (4) Vs. Broncos (1) - Broncos will not stand for the one and done last year. But unfortunately that is Peyton Manning's reputation. This game being in Denver, I don't see it. Broncos, 35-20.
Conference Championships
NFC Title Game: Seahawks (3) Vs. Packers (1) - A rematch that if it had happened last season would have been too magical. The mystique of their tainted Monday Night Football game lingers on, this time in Green Bay. I think it comes down to the wire again. I would take players for both teams to be my go to team mates. I want to coin flip this, but I need a solid opinion. Packers, 34-31.
AFC Title Game: Texans (2) Vs. Broncos (1) - History repeats, the Broncos still have the Texans number. Broncos, 34-28.
Super Bowl
Broncos Vs. Packers, in the New Meadowlands of New Jersey. This game will have it all. I think the Manning run has been great last year and through the 2013 season. The addition of Wes Welker has been great. Peyton has been there before and lost. Welker has been there before and lost. Manning has also won, but then he lost. I go with the most recent experience. Packers, 27-24.
There you have it! The entire season, start to finish. Hope your team did what you thought it could.
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