Thursday, August 30, 2012

NCAA - Week 1 Picks

The season is now upon us! Please check out this document for updated results and stats on picks (just follow the menu to week 1 for this weeks picks!).

Opening weekend in college football has a lot of great matchups. In order to pare it down to 15 games, some good contests that are definitely worth following had to be cut. This week has several opening the season rivalries (Kentucky v. Louisville, West Virginia v. Marshall, and Colorado v. Colorado State) as well as some premium out of conference matchups (Michigan v. Alabama, Boise State v. Michigan State, Clemson v. Auburn). If I had to attend one game, with all apologies to Notre Dame against Navy in Dublin, Ireland, I would have to say I'd love to attend the Boise State v. Michigan State game this weekend. Both are breaking in new quarterbacks, and both teams are extremely well coached and prepare their teams well. The matchup I included because I think it is  an early trap game is Southern Mississippi at Nebraska. Southern Miss actually had the better record last year, and was Conference USA champs. I think this one has all the potential for great viewing this weekend!

Players below are represented by their initials as follows:
Jason Bewley (Bewley), Jeremiah Colon (Colon), Jeremiah Dao (Dao), Nathan Dustman (NDust), Teresa Dustman (TDust), Rachael Eggebeen (Eggebeen), Joanna Lacanlale (Joa Lac), Joe Lacanlale (JoeLac), Dennis Lowe (Lowe), Wes Luzadder (Luzadder), Gary McFarren (GMcF), Joe McFarren (JMcF), Rob McFarren (RMcF), Dusty Miller (Miller), Ed Vander Woude (VanderWoude)

Without further ado, the picks for Week 1 of the NCAA

Thursday, August 30
South Carolina @ Vanderbilt
SCAR - NDust, TDust, Eggebeen, JoeLac, Lowe, Luzadder, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
Miller: I think the Gamecocks will make a run at the SEC championship this year and it starts with beating the Commodores
JoaLac: They have the light blue uniforms right? Hmm...maybe that's North Carolina
Dao: USC Gamecocks all the way! Grew up in the Southern States!
RMcF: I'll root for Vandy and wouldn't put it past the Gamecocks to underachieve yet again, but it won't be the first game of the year
VANDY - no one?

Eastern Michigan @ Ball State
EMICH - Dao, NDust, Eggebeen, JoeLac
BALLST - TDust, JoaLac, Lowe, Luzadder, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
RMcF: Will the Cardinals get over the hump into legitimate contention for the MAC title and bowl eligibility?
Miller: I have to go with the Cardinals at home to open the season with a win!

Friday, August 31
Boise State @ Michigan State
BOISE - Dao, JoeLac, Luzadder, GMcF
RMcF: (see above). The bottom line for me is Christ Peterson with an entire offseason to prepare. New QB for both teams...underdog status yet again. The Broncos get it done just as they did at Georgia & VT the last couple of years
Miller: It seems that the Broncos go on the road to open each season and they seem to win most of those games, so I will take them to open the season with another victory
JoaLac: Gotta love the blue field
Eggebeen: My love of the Big Ten cannot trump the power of the BSU program
MSU - NDust, JMcF, Vander Woude
Lowe: This should be a pretty good game. Boise State could flex its muscles but I think the Green Beans will pull this off at home. If they were on the blue turf, Boise State would take this game.
TDust: Big Ten all the way!

Saturday, September 1
Notre Dame v. Navy (in Dublin, Ireland)
ND - NDust, Eggebeen, JoeLac, Lowe, Luzadder, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
TDust: Of course
Dao: Fighting Irishmen
JoaLac: Wouldn't mind going to Ireland
Miller: The new uniforms for the Irish are hideous, but I don't think they will have any trouble disposing of Navy
RMcF: How could I even think about picking against the Fighting Irish in Ireland?
NAVY - no one? yeah, we are a smart league - Go Army Beat Navy!

Northwestern @ Syracuse
NW - Dao, TDust, Egeebeen, JoeLac, Lowe, JMcF
Miller: I will go with the Big Ten here
CUSE - NDust, JoaLac, Luzadder, GMcF, Vander Woude
RMcF: Home team wins with equal turnover. This looks like one of the competitions separation games (half and half!)

Marshall @ West Virginia
MARSH - Dao, JoaLac, Luzadder
WVU - NDust, TDust, Egeebeen, JoeLac, Lowe, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
Miller: I like the Mountaineers over the Thundering Herd (even if their mascot is much better!)
RMcF: The real question is can West Virginia actually win the Big 12 in their first year? I think they can compete with Oklahoma for sure.

Miami (FL) @ Boston College
MIA(FL) - NDust, TDust, JoeLac, Lowe, Luzadder, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
RMcF: I can't even name 1 player on BC, or remember one positive thing said about the team heading into this year
BC - Dao, Eggebeen
JoaLac: Not a Miami fan
Miller: It's hard to win at BC and I don't think the Hurricanes have enough firepower to get it done

Southern Mississippi @ Nebraska
SMISS - Dao
NEB - NDust, TDust, Eggebeen, JoeLac, Lowe, Luzadder, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
RMcF: This game may be closer than many think. Two very quality teams. Will Nebraska step up to the challenge and return to elite level (not pretender elite like last couple of years)? This game will give a good indication of whether that will happen or not
Miller: I like Nebraska to get to the Big Ten championship game this year and I think they will start the season with a non-conference win over a quality opponent
JoaLac: Even though they desert the Big 12

Colorado State v. Colorado (in Denver)
CSU - NDust, Lowe
CU -Dao, TDust, Eggebeen, JoaLac, JoeLac, Luzadder, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
Miller: I don't think either of these teams will factor in their conference races, but I think the Buffalos will take care of the Rams easily
RMcF: I remember these games are always close, at least into the 2nd half. Its truly a toss-up, but Colorado being in the PAC-12 now has no excuse to lose.

Clemson v. Auburn (in Atlanta)
CLEM - NDust, JMcF
Dao: Clemson has the orange D; another SC team I grew up with but Go Gamecocks!
Miller: Clemson always seems to start the season strong and I like them to win a big game against a quality opponent here
RMcF: Orange and blue, blue and orange. Just a bit more expectation for Clemson, and they win it (And this is the other separation game)
AUB - TDust, Eggebeen, JoaLac, JoeLac, Lowe, Luzadder, GMcF, Vander Woude

Michigan v. Alabama (in Arlington, TX)
MICH - Eggebeen, Luzadder
Lowe: This year will be Michigan's best chance at a Big Ten title and hopefully the National Championship!! Go Blue!!!
RMcF: A gut pick. I didn't think Alabama deserved to be called National Champs after last year, and lets just knock them down a rung right now. Go Shoelace!
BAMA - Dao, NDust, JoaLac, JoeLac, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
Miller: I think the Crimson Tide will make a run at the National Championship again this year and I just don't
TDust: Well, Big Ten almost all the way - must be practical!

Toledo @ Arizona
TOLEDO -
RMcF: The Wildcats aren't very good and they lost their QB. Toledo will start off the Rich Rodriguez era with a loss (just like he like to do in Michigan with MAC teams)
Miller: I will take the MAC in this matchup. The Rockets offense will be too strong for Arizona in this one
ZONA - Dao, NDust, TDust, JoaLac, JoeLac, Lowe, Luzadder, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
Eggebeen: Bear down!

Sunday, September 2
Kentucky @ Louisville
UK - NDust, JoeLac
LVILLE - Dao, TDust, Eggebeen, JoaLac, Lowe, Luzadder, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
Miller: Let's face it, the UK football program could take notes from their basketball program and start paying players to come to their school
RMcF: Louisville expects to win the Big East this year. They can't do that and expect to be ok losing to a bottom feeder in the SEC

Southern Methodist @ Baylor
SMU - Lowe, Luzadder
RMcF: SMU is improved from last year, Baylor lost their entire passing offense. Enough said.
BAYLOR - Dao, NDust, TDust, Eggebeen, JoaLac, JoeLac, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
Miller: We shall see just how important RGIII was to the Baylor program.

Monday, September 3
Georgia Tech @ Virginia Tech
GT - no one? wow
VT - Dao, NDust, TDust, Eggebeen, JoaLac, JoeLac, Lowe, Luzadder, GMcF, JMcF, Vander Woude
Miller: I have to take the Hokies at home here. This is a big game for Virginia Tech and I am hoping they will win a big one early here.
RMcF: The Hokies will contend once again. Will they be able to avoid the early season let-down and be a Top-5 team?

Friday, August 24, 2012

NFL - Personal Franchise Rankings - Rob McFarren

A couple of years ago, I ranked all 32 NFL teams in the order that I personally liked them based on all the factors in my head that made me lean towards some teams and not others (players on roster, uniforms, location, childhood favorites, coaches, etc). I thought a good primer for the NFL 2012 season would be to update and publish those. I will also try to get others to do the same for comparison sake. Just know that really I break this down into 4 groups - Favorite team, Teams I like and root for, No strong feelings for either way, Teams I hope lose every game unless its against one of the other teams I can't stand (and then how can they both lose, or which one has the most to lose by losing?). Yeah, its a mouthful. Basically, the question asked is: Who do I want to win the game?

Here are my rankings:

1. Indianapolis Colts - Hometown team, suffered through their struggles and enjoyed the Peyton years. Now looking forward to Luck and company...

2. Denver Broncos - Wife's family team. Lived in Colorado too, and now they Peyton.
3. Arizona Cardinals - I've now lived here longer than anywhere else other than Indiana. If only they had a quarterback they may jump Denver. (and better uniforms)
4. Chicago Bears
5. Detroit Lions
6. Buffalo Bills
7. New Orleans Saints - Drew Brees is my favorite QB, but they drop a bit due to scandal
8. San Francisco 49ers
9. Kansas City Chiefs
10. New York Giants
11. Green Bay Packers
12. Seattle Seahawks
13. Pittsburgh Steelers
14. Tennessee Titans
15. Cleveland Browns
16. Atlanta Falcons
17. St. Louis Rams
18. Carolina Panthers
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
20. Houston Texans
21. Baltimore Ravens
22. Minnesota Vikings
23. Cincinnati Bengals
24. Jacksonville Jaguars
25. Miami Dolphins
26. Dallas Cowboys
27. Philadelphia Eagles
28. San Diego Chargers
29. Oakland Raiders
30. Washington Redskins
31. New York Jets
32. New England Patriots

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

2012 - The Players

So as the new season rolls around, its time to introduce the infamous participants: (I guess we need nicknames!)

Joe McFarren - Roanoke, IN
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: Indianapolis Colts
Favorite NCAA team: Ball State Cardinals
Other teams followed: Duke Blue Devils, Butler Bulldogs, Florida State Seminoles, Oregon Ducks
What I do other than pick football games: Active Indiana National Guardsman


Gary McFarren - Keystone, IN
NFL & NCAA picks
*Defending 2011-12 NCAA season champion*
Favorite NFL team: Indianapolis Colts
Favorite NCAA team: Ball State Cardinals
Other teams followed: Purdue Boilermakers, Notre Dame Fighting Irish
What I do other than pick football games: Newly retired

Rachael Eggebeen - Tucson, AZ
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: Green Bay Packers
Favorite NCAA team: Wisconsin Badgers & Arizona Wildcats
What I do other than pick football games: Church Administrator & more; Married to Ed!

Ed Vander Woude - Tucson, AZ
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: San Diego Chargers
Favorite NCAA team:
What I do other than pick football games: Driver for Shamrock Foods; Married to Rachael!



Dennis Lowe - Indianapolis, IN
*2011-12 NCAA Bowl Season Champion*
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: Buffalo Bills
Favorite NCAA team: Michigan Wolverines
What I do other than pick football games: Police officer for the City of Indianapolis


Teresa Dustman - Bluffton, IN
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team:
Favorite NCAA team: Notre Dame Fighting Irish
What I do other than pick football games: Circulation Department Head at Wells County Library



Dusty Miller
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: Chicago Bears
Favorite NCAA team: Virginia Tech Hokies
What I do other than pick football games:





Jeremiah Colon - Colorado Springs, CO
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: New York Giants
Favorite NCAA team: Syracuse Orange
Other teams followed: Denver Broncos
What I do other than pick football games: Bartender, Personal Trainer


Joe Lacanlale - Seattle, WA
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: San Francisco 49ers
Favorite NCAA team: Army Black Knights
Other teams followed: Kansas State Wildcats, Washington Huskies
What I do other than pick football games: Project Manager, Army Corps of Engineers; Married to Joanna!


Joanna Lacanlale - Seattle, WA
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: ?
Favorite NCAA team: Kansas State Wildcats
Other teams followed: Washington Huskies, Arizona Wildcats
What I do other than pick football games: Married to Joe!



Wes Luzadder - Coldwater, MI
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: Indianapolis Colts
Favorite NCAA team: Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Other teams followed: Arizona Cardinals, Washington Huskies
What I do other than pick football games: Technology Specialist




Nathan Dustman - Kabul, Afghanistan
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: Indianapolis Colts
Favorite NCAA team: Notre Dame Fighting Irish
What I do other than pick football games: US Army Officer - Company Commander



Jason Bewley - Laughton, OK
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: San Francisco 49ers
Favorite NCAA team: Ohio State Buckeyes
Other teams followed: Cleveland Browns
What I do other than pick football games: Former Army, Lowe's Associate & video game junkie


Jeremiah Dao - Phoenix, Arizona
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: New England Patriots
Favorite NCAA team: South Carolina Gamecocks
Other teams followed: Carolina Panthers, North Carolina Tarheels, Texas Longhorns, Boston College Eagles
What I do other than pick football games: Student at Glendale Community College & baller


Rob McFarren - Avondale, AZ
*Defending 2011-12 NFL season champion*
NFL & NCAA picks
Favorite NFL team: Indianapolis Colts
Favorite NCAA team: Army Black Knights
Other teams followed: Purdue Boilermakers, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Boise State Broncos, North Carolina Tarheels, Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos, Drew Brees' team
What I do other than pick football games: Watch football games





Thursday, April 12, 2012

Its hard to let Peyton go from fan allegiance

I just ran into this story on ESPN about Peyton Manning. Peyton called up Colts reporter Phil Wilson (and others that haven't reported on it?). This is what made the separation between the Colts and Peyton so difficult for so many of us fans. I'm from Indiana and have always pulled for the Colts. But it isn't every day, or even every decade, that you run into a superstar that remains classy like this. Peyton was a competitor, and definitely demanded a lot of his teammates. But those demands were also placed upon himself, so I don't see that as a negative. The winning legacy is intact.

So while I still long that Peyton would have finished his time in Colts blue, I get the "business" side that has caused the team to go in a new direction. So, a Colts fan I remain. I'm actually excited about the Colts putting things together and hopefully begin winning now. Several of their moves have been solid in the transition to a new system and coach. It'll be fun to watch them. They remain my team.

Yet, I will still pull for Peyton. I do think its a couple of years from the Colts being Super Bowl contenders, and so the Broncos should win it these next couple of years! It helps that my wife's family is all from Colorado Springs and I lived there before Phoenix, so I can say the Broncos are my third/second favorite team (cause I'd put the Cardinals in the same camp with them...pull for them both, but if they played each other who would I root for?) Well, that answer right now seems to be shifting to the Broncos simply because of Peyton. He's that class of an act, and it would be awesome to see him win 2 straight Super Bowls in Denver colors...but yes, he will be a Colt in the Hall of Fame, even with a couple more Super Bowls!

Friday, March 9, 2012

Peyton Manning & the Colts

Of course, I had been hoping against all the media signs pointing to the recent separation of Peyton Manning and the Colts. There are so many articles that have been published to this point as well, both in remembering everything Peyton has done as well as speculation as to where he will go. So I don't want to go into all of that again...but simply offer up a couple of thoughts.

1. I get that he is supposedly preferring to go to an AFC team, since those are the teams that he has mostly scouted and better understands already. Manning's game is as much mental as it is physical, and his scouting and film preparation would be best suited in staying in the AFC.

2. So of the AFC teams - what is the best situation for Peyton?

Miami does make sense with Brandon Marshall (if he willingly submits to Peyton's level of intensity), Reggie Bush, and the ties that make Reggie Wayne a viable signing as well -  even if I don't like them.

I know the Broncos want him, but honestly what about that offense excites you? Willis McGahee? Demarius Thomas? Don't see the pieces to make the Broncos attractive - even though I do like the Broncos.  Plus, remembering some of the Colts over Broncos playoff games...

The Chiefs make some sense, with franchising Dwayne Bowe and having some other receivers as well. Their defense seems to be decent...I see it as an option!

The Jets - no way. Not happening.

3. Personal Favorite. I have to pull for an NFC team still - the Arizona Cardinals. Yes, it has a lot to do with the fact I live here in AZ, so I want to see Peyton play out his career and follow/watch it closely! Also - I do think that Peyton could probably throw it to Larry Fitzgerald every single play and they would connect on 70% of the passes. Of all the Wide Receivers out there, Manning to Fitzgerald most excites me. The Cardinals have young pieces in place on both sides of the ball - and all they have to do is give up on Kevin Kolb. I'm good with that.

4. What actually happens? I don't know - I'm going with hoping for the Cardinals even if that is a long-shot!

----
So on to the Colts - what about them? They are definitely changing regimes. I think all we know is that there is a lot of change in roster personnel. Here is what to look forward to:

1. Andrew Luck - he's going to be QB, so I just hope he stays healthy. He seems like he will be good.

2. Robert Mathis - glad he's be resigned. He could be the veteran cornerstone of this defense.

3. Anthony Castonzo - Hoping for the year 2 leap in getting the game. Stay healthy and he will be a solid LT.

4. RB? Donald Brown showed something. Will Addai be there?

5. Pat Angerer is set. Everyone is saying Gary Brackett might be out, but if they are really swapping to a 3-4, that would be a pretty solid middle 2 LBs in my humble opinion.

6. Get some support around Antoine Bethea in the secondary.

7. Who is going to play WR?? Seriously, how did this go from a strength to an absolute mystery overnight?

UPDATE (3/9/12 3:35 MST) - Just saw this article on ESPN...so lots of familiar names are now GONE. Another sad day.

Friday, December 9, 2011

Army - Navy 2011!!!!

So I cannot let this week go by without a reminder for everyone to tune in tomorrow for The Game. Also, I suppose it's a great time to understand things about West Point...which is where this blog gets its title from. A quote, "Upon the fields of friendly strife are sown the seeds that, upon other fields, on other days, will bear the fruits of victory." - General Douglas MacArthur. This is one of my all-time favorite sports quotes, because I think it captures exactly why sport, football in particular, is such a loved part of our culture, but which also points to how it plays out for "real life."

As for all other matters:

GO ARMY! SINK NAVY!


GO ARMY! SINK NAVY!


GO ARMY! SINK NAVY!


GO ARMY! SINK NAVY!


GO ARMY! SINK NAVY!


GO ARMY! SINK NAVY!

Saturday, November 19, 2011

NCAA Picks - Week 12

As the season winds down...the Championship picture gets more and more cloudy. My vote is that the Championship game is NOT a rematch of LSU with either Bama or the Ducks. I guess that means I'd still like to see the Cowboys or Sooners (whichever wins that game). I think Bama v. Oregon is a perfect game though! Boise St. should get to play Stanford, too!

Anyway - just a note on this week - Joe McFarren simply did HOME TEAM Wins this week. I bet he gets a better score than many of us.

Here are the picks!

Nebraska @ Michigan
Neb: JL, RE, EVW
Mich: GM, JM
DL - Wishful thinking. GO BLUE!!!!
DM - I like the Wolverines to win in the Big House.
RM - I feel like this is one of those games picked by a formula. This week, its the Wolverines.

Wisconsin @ IllinoisWisc: RE, EVW, GM, JL
DL - When Illinois started playing quality teams, they have proven to be horrible!
DM - I am still a little surprised the Badgers are not undefeated. I think they will handle the Illini on the road this week.
RM - I like Wisconsin...they've blown a couple this year, but I think they and Michigan St. end up being in the inaugural Big Ten title game.
Ill: JM

Iowa @ Purdue
Iowa: EVW, JL
DL - Don't think the Boilers can pull 2 upsets in a row.
DM - I just don't want to pick the Boilers.
Pur: JM, GM, RE
RM - Purdue has actually improved a lot this year. They'll continue their rise back to the top of the Big Ten!

Army @ Temple
Army: JL, RE, DL
DM - I'm just trying to get back in Rob's good graces.
Temp: GM, EVW, JM
RM - Army has sucked against the MAC this year. BEAT NAVY!

Clemson @ NC State
Clem: JL, GM, RE, EVW
DM - Bad uniforms, but pretty good team.
RM - Why, if it isn't one of the handful of "top teams - i.e. SEC, Oklahoma, maybe Ohio St. on a good year" do we quit hearing of the team after 1 loss??? Clemson is quality!
NCSt: JM, DL

SMU @ Houston
SMU: RE
Hou: EVW, GM, JL, DL, JM
DM - The Cougars could possibly score 70 each week. I just don't see SMU being able to hang with them.
RM - I'll pull for Case Keenum...

Texas Tech @ Missouri
TT: none
Mizzou: EVW, RE, JL, DL, GM, JM
DM - An embarrassing performance last week by the Red Raiders led to a serious beating by Ok St. I don't think they'll be able to rebound on the road against the Tigers.
RM - Home team wins battle of inconsistencies.

LSU @ Mississippi
LSU: GM, JL, RE, EVW, DL
DM - The Tigers should continue to roll toward the National Title game.
RM - Of all the teams in the SEC, LSU is the one that has looked the most consistent and doesn't schedule a pansy.
Ole Miss: JM
**This would be pandemonium for the BCS! I'll (Rob) will pull for this upset even though I didn't pick it!

Vanderbilt @ Tennessee
Vandy: RE, EVW, GM, JL
Tenn: JM, DL
DM - I like the Vols at home over the much-improved Commodores
RM - Home team in this rivalry. It should be a good game!

Colorado @ UCLA
CU: none
UCLA: DL, JL, RE, EVW, JM, GM
DM - Colorado just isn't very good and I don't see them winning on the road.
RM - I want to pull for the Buffs, but its not going to happen.

Oklahoma @ Baylor
OU: GM, RE, EVW, DL, JL
DM - Baylor seems to be getting worse as the year goes on. The Sooners roll this week.
Bay: JM
RM - Calling this as an upset because it's at home for the Bears.

Kansas St. @ Texas
KSt: JL, GM, EVW, RE, DL
RM - KState's offense will be the difference. A play will be made when it needs to be done.
Tex: JM
DM - The Longhorns have been impressive this year and the Wildcats haven't really been able to beat quality opponents

Arizona @ Arizona St.
UofA:
RE - Gotta go with my alma mater!
ASU: EVW, GM, GM, JL, DL
DM - I like the Sun Devils to take out the Wildcats, who haven't seemed to figure out who they are this year.
RM - ASU has pulled a nice late-season collapse, but they will be motivated for this one and it won't be close.

California @ Stanford
Cal: none
Stan: RE, EVW, GM, JM, JL, DL
DM - I like the Cardinal to rebound after a pretty bad beating last week.
RM - Stanford is good. Don't like how everyone completely jumped off the Luck/National Champion Contender wagon after that loss...where was that for Bama? That was a better game than LSU-Bama.

Sunday, November 13, 2011

NFL Week 10 Picks

At least this league is staying close!!!

Here are our picks for Week 10 - with some trap games on the schedule for sure! Only Joe McFarren called the Oakland win over San Diego Thursday - but he used a coin flip to decide!

Arizona @ Philadelphia
AZ: none
PHI: RE, EVW, GM, JM, JL, DL, DW
DM - I will take the Eagles, even though they have been very inconsistent.
RM - The Cardinals don't win on the road, especially East Coast, and without Kevin Kolb playing in his return to Philly? Yeah, its not even close.

Tennessee @ Carolina
TEN: DW, DL, GM, JM
CAR: RE, EVW, JL
DM - Cam Newton has continued to be impressive all year; I think he leads the Panthers to a win this week.
RM - Toss up. I actually think it's high scoring (upper 20's for both teams), and one of the 2 RBs for Carolina makes the play to seal it.

Houston @ Tampa Bay
HOU: EVW, JM, JL, GM, DW, DL
DM - I keep waiting for the Texans to collapse and they continue to run the ball over their opponents.
RM - I love the running game of the Texans. It's the "anti-spread" offense...maybe thats why its successful. Less people doing it, so it works better!
TB: RE

Washington @ Miami
WAS: DW, GM
RM - Does it really help to keep flipping QBs so none have any confidence? Is John Beck really an answer?
MIA: JL, RE, EVW, JM, DL
DM - Yuck! The real winners here are the people who don't have to watch this game!

Jacksonville @ Indianapolis
JAX: JL, JM, DL, GM, EVW
DM - Same as the WAS @ MIA game...puke!
RM - I will continue to pull for the Colts, but I just can't pick them anymore.
IND: DW, RE

Denver @ Kansas City
DEN: DW
DM - I liked the way the Broncos played last week and the Chiefs don't win if I pick them anyway.
KC: JL, GM, JM, RE, EVW, DL
RM - Chiefs, even though not that good, will get this done at home. Also, on Madden 12 Ultimate Team, Arrowhead Stadium and the Chiefs home uni's are what my team has so gotta pull for that! (yeah, my team sucks)

Buffalo @ Dallas
BUF: DW, EVW, JM, JL
DM - I can't stand the Cowboys!
RM - Super Bowl rematch! Everyone make sure you know where your helmet is (Thurman Thomas!)
DAL: DL, RE, GM

Detroit @ Chicago
DET: JL, DW, RE, EVW, GM
CHI: DL, JM
DM - I am probably jinxing them by picking them, but they played surprisingly well last week and they need this win against the Lions to help their chances of getting a Wild Card spot.
RM - Chicago always gets overlooked, but Lovie Smith has them playing to the level of their competition every week (this is a compliment when they play good teams like this week!)

New Orleans @ Atlanta
NO: GM, JM, JL, DL, DW, RE, EVW
DM - The Saints have too much offense for the Falcons I think.
RM - I almost picked the other way, but think Brees needs a big game.
ATL: none (fascinating)

St. Louis @ Cleveland
STL: JL, DL, EVW
RM - Bradford is back, so their offense is getting back on track with him and Jackson.
CLE: RE, JM, GM, DW
DM - Again, a game I am glad I won't have to watch.

Pittsburgh @ Cincinnati
PIT: DW, DL, EVW, GM
DM - The Bengals have played well this year but their remaining schedule will show us how good they are; this week is the first test of that.
CIN: JL, RE, JM
RM - Yeah, I'll take the home team with the good defense over the away team with the good defense.

Baltimore @ Seattle
BAL: DL, EVW, RE, GM, DW, JL
DM - The Ravens have also been inconsistent, but the Seahawks are bad!
RM - This could be a trap for Baltimore, but if they can't win this one, then they aren't going anywhere in the playoffs.
SEA: JM

New York Giants @ San Francisco
NYG: JL, DW, JM
SF: EVW, GM, DL, RE
DM - I like the way the 49ers have played this year and I see them winning again this week at home against the up and down Giants.
RM - Cross-country travel after emotional win = loss to a good team.

New England @ New York Jets
NE: DL, JL, GM, RE, DW
DM - I am not really sure if the Patriots are as bad as they have played, but it's hard for me to believe they are this bad right now.
RM - Brady shows the media (if they'd listen) that the Jets don't really have a good defense.
NYJ: JM, EVW

Minnesota @ Green Bay
MIN: none
GB: RE, EVW, DW, GM, JM, JL, DL
DM - The Packers unfortunately continue to roll...the Vikings stink!
RM - Is the weather bad at Lambeau yet???

Friday, November 11, 2011

NCAA Week 11 Picks

The first game happened last night:

Virginia Tech beat Georgia Tech. 

Only one person called that - and of course that was Dad (Gary) the overall leader! Now the rest of us have to play catch-up on the remainder of the week's games:

Oh - also; Joe McFarren has given over completely to a coin flip to determine winners. This week, Joe Lacanlale has done the same...hopefully neither of them win the week!

Here are picks:

Oklahoma St. @ Texas Tech
OK St: JM, JL, RE, EVW, GM
DL - Tech is so inconsistent that I don't think they can pull off another upset over a team from Oklahoma
RM - Cowboys will make it through to their showdown with OU.
TT:
DM - I will take the Red Raiders to upset the Cowboys and end the hopes of a National Championship for them.

Florida @ S. Carolina
Fla: JM
SC: JL, RE, EVW, GM, DL
DM - I like the Gamecocks to win at home over the Gators and the "old ball coach" to win over his former team.
RM - Am I supposed to be impressed with this game as being somehow tougher than one out of another league? Count me among those who think the SEC is overrated (top to bottom).

Nebraska @ Penn St.
Neb: JM, GM, 
DL - Although it is hard to win in Happy Valley, there has been too much "beef" in the media for Penn St. to win against a great Nebraska team.
DM - What a mess at Penn St....I hope the school and program are able to recover sooner than later, but I don't see how they can win this week with all of the distractions.
RM - I really have a hard time picking this way with all the emotion that is going to be in this game...but if things get tough, I think they fold down the stretch to the Cornhuskers. 
PSU: JL, RE, EVW

W. Virginia @ Cincinnati
WVU: JL, RE, GM
Cincy: EVW, JM
DL - Bearcats at home this week. This should be an interesting game.
DM - It's a sad, sad day when Cincinnati is a yearly contender to make it to a BCS bowl game...embarrassing.
RM - I can remember going to the Army @ Cincinnati game my Firstie Year at West Point. Cincy has been a quality program for awhile, and with WVU suing the league (after suing a coach who did they same thing to them that they are doing to the league - remember Rich Rodriguez?) they need to be humbled. I guess loyalty only goes so far as it is in one's own self-interest, whether a coach, school, or conference.

Kent St. @ Akron (The Half Marathon bowl - the distance between these 2 campuses is 13.3 miles)
Kent St.: JM, GM, EVW
DM - The Zips are simply terrible this year.
RM - I agree with Dusty. Akron is the bottom of the league, while Kent St. is mediocre.
Akron: JL, RE, 
DL - No clue on this one. I will take the home team.

Louisiana-Lafayette @ Arkansas St. (Sun Belt Conf. leaders)
ULL: JM, RE, GM
DL - Not really sure on this one either but I think I remember picking against Louisiana-Lafayette earlier and getting a loss on the board because of it!!!
Ark St.: EVW, JL
DM - I know nothing about these 2 teams, so I will just take the home team here.
RM - When two teams are equal, take the home team (which is why I lost in the LSU @ Bama game last week too).

Texas Christian @ Boise St.
TCU: JL
Boise St.: JM, RE, EVW
GM - Boise makes a statement!
DL - Smurf Turf is hard to play on if you are the visiting team, although I think Boise St. would have won if they were playing at TCU also.
DM - Wow, how can I pick against the Horned Frogs?...2 words, Smurf Turf!
RM - I did mention I ride the Boise St. for National Championship game Bus right? This better give them a bump! (Same with Georgia winning out)

Texas A&M @ Kansas St.
A&M: RE
KState: JL, JM, GM, EVW
DL - Kansas St. will bounce back after last week's loss.
DM - I will take the Wildcats at home, although I think this one will be close.
RM - Last week's OK St-KState game was the most entertaining of the week, way better than LSU-Alabama. I'm not joking.

Auburn @ Georgia
Auburn: JL, RE
GA: JM, GM, EVW
DL - They played pretty well last week even with no running backs that were able to play because of suspension.
DM - This should be a good game; I will take the home team.
RM - Most years, I would easily pull for Auburn (my favorite SEC team!). Yet, this year, it's Georgia because that helps Boise St.!!!

Miami (FL) @ Florida St.
Miami: JM
FSU: JL, GM, RE, EVW
DL - Florida St. because they are at home and I do not like the U.
DM - I am pretty sure the Seminoles just do the opposite of my pick each week, so I will just take them at home and hope they don't choke.
RM - Is this really the battle for the best team in Florida?? Yes, I love the day that all Florida teams are mediocre. (That goes for Texas too!)

Rutgers v. Army (in Yankee Stadium)
Rutgers: JM, GM, EVW
DM - Sorry Rob, I'm going to take the Scarlet Knights over the Black Knights here.
RM - Alas, after that collapse at Air Force...the only game I have to pick Army in is against Navy. This one should have a lot of respect being the first meeting since the catastrophic injury to Rutger's Eric LeGrand.
Army: JL, RE
DL - I can't believe Army has fallen to a new low by playing in Yankee Stadium! 
**Note: Army did play (and lose BIG) to Notre Dame last year in Yankee Stadium, which was a return to some old traditions that they used to do many many moons (or decades) ago.

Alabama @ Mississippi St.
Bama: JM, RE, EVW, DL
DM - I think they will rebound from a tough loss to LSU last week.
GM - Alabama in a BIG way; I wouldn't want to be Miss St.
Miss St.: JL
RM - I didn't like how their players were still talking about being the best team in the nation after last week's loss. I say the football gods bring them some humility this week. 

Oregon @ Stanford
OR: JM, RE
RM - I actually like both these teams, but Oregon has been overlooked since their Week 1 loss. They make the statement that the Pac-12 is still theirs.
Stanford: JL, EVW
DL - Just because they are at home. This should be a great game!!
GM - Stanford makes a HUGE statement.
DM - This one should be fun to watch. I will take the Cardinal and Andrew Luck to win at home.

Central Florida @ S. Mississippi
UCF: JL, JM
Southern Miss: RE, EVW, GM 
DL - Southern Miss will come one step closer to wrapping up the Conference USA East. It is great to see a Conference USA team in the Top 25. Houston and Southern Miss are both quality teams. 
DM - I will take the Golden Eagles at home.
RM - Southern Miss regularly seems to produce quality, over-looked, teams. They deserve their time in the Top 25.

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Week 9 NFL Picks

Here are todays NFL Picks!

Miami @ Kansas City
MIA: none
KC: GM, JL, DW, DL, JM, EVW
RE - I'm giving up on Miami.
DM - The Dolphins take another step toward Andrew Luck
RM - KC's looking more like last year than the team that started this year.

Atlanta @ Indianapolis
ATL: JL, DW, DL, JM, EVW, RE
DM - The Colts also continue to fight for Andrew Luck.
GM - 55-7; the Colts are horrible!!!!
RM - It's sad, really. But what Colts corners are going to shut down Roddy, Julio, and Gonzo?
IND: none

Tampa Bay @ New Orleans
TB: none
NO: JL, DW, DL, JM, EVW, RE
GM - NO gets back to normal.
DM - After an embarrassing loss to the Rams last week, I think the Saints will rebound this week.
RM - Drew Brees at home after a mediocre game = win.

New York Jets @ Buffalo
NYJ: none
BUF: JL, DW, DL, JM, EVW, RE
DM - The Bills have been very tough at home and I think they will hold off the Jets this week.
GM - Buffalo to win the NY battle in the great North.
RM - I'll root for the Bills the rest of the way - just like when they went to 4 straight Super Bowls!

Seattle @ Dallas
SEA: EVW
DAL: GM, JL, DW, DL, JM, RE
DM - I don't like to do it, but I have to pick the Cowgirls this week over the lowly Seahawks.
RM - This one is because my fantasy team needs Romo to rebound.

Cleveland @ Houston
CLE: RE
HOU: GM, JL, DW, DL, JM, EVW
DM - I like the Texans to run all over the Browns.
RM - Texans need to win to show they aren't the Texans of old that play to competition.

San Francisco @ Washington
SF: JL, DW, DL, JM, EVW
GM - SF beats the fading Pinkskins (it's what happens to red things that fade!)
DM - This is a tough one to pick, but I think Harbaugh has given the 49ers a whole new attitude.
RM - I like Harbaugh as a coach - got them playing tough!
WAS: RE

Cincinnati @ Tennessee
CIN: GM, JL, DW, DL, EVW, RE
DM - The Titans are heading in the wrong direction and the Bengals are on the rise.
RM - Toughest game to pick this week...I'll lean toward record.
TEN: JM

Denver @ Oakland
DEN: RE
OAK: GM, JL, DW, DL, JM, EVW
DM - The Broncos do have Tebow, but they don't have a line to protect him and I don't see them being able to stop the Raiders running game either.
RM - Broncos have a shot if Palmer still isn't in the groove with McFadden out. But he'll be better.

New York Giants @ New England
NYG:
NE: GM, JL, DW, DL, JM, EVW, RE
DM - The Patriots should rebound from being beaten badly at Pittsburgh and the Giants seem to be afraid of success.
RM - Come on Wes Welker, shake off that injury!

St. Louis @ Arizona
STL: JL, DW, EVW, RE, JM
AZ: GM, DL
DM - I will take the Cardinals at home in this one, but I'm glad I won't have to watch it.
RM - I'll be a homer this week. Go Cardinals.

Green Bay @ San Diego
GB: JL, DW, DL, JM, EVW, RE
DM - Unfortunately, I have to pick the Packers again this week. They are just too good right now to pick against them.
GM - GB to win this week but SI curse will get them next week
SD: EVW
RM - SD Give GB their first loss, because of their loss to KC last week.

Baltimore @ Pittsburgh
BAL: JM, EVW
PIT: GM, JL, DW, DL, JM, RE
DM - I will go with the home team and might I add that they looked very good last week and the Ravens struggled.
RM - I'll buy that Pitt has come a long way from the Week 1 beatdown.

Chicago @ Philadelphia
CHI: DW, EVW, RE
PHI: GM, JL, DL, JM
DM - I have to pick against my team this week, especially after seeing the Eagles dismantle the Cowgirls last week.
RM - The Eagles have turned a corner, for now. They still won't win the NFC East.

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Week 10 NCAA Picks

First up - I apologize for not getting the picks posted for Week 9 - had a busy last week and a bit of work and traveling...

Anyway - things are at crunch time on the season standings. Will anyone catch Gary McFarren? Dusty, Dennis, and Ed look like they have a s solid shot - but do we have enough variance in the games this week to see who wins???

So - this weeks picks: (each 2/3 letter code are initials of the person picking!)

Michigan @ Iowa
Mich: JL, JM, DL, GM, RE, EVW
DM - I think Brady Hoke has the Wolverines on their way back.
Iowa:
RM - Iowa is well coached by Ferentz - they will be ready for this one.

Kansas @ Iowa St.
KU: none
ISU: JL, JM, DL, GM, RE, EVW
DM - The Jayhawks are already looking forward to basketball season.
RM - The Cyclones look to be a program on the rise.

North Carolina @ North Carolina State
UNC: JM, GM, RE, EVW
DM - I like the Tar Heels to take down the Wolfpack.
RM - Carolina Blue all day over white and red.
NC State: JL, DL

Texas Christian @ Wyoming
TCU: JL, DL, GM, RE, EVW
DM - Horned Frogs...enough said.
RM - This is actually a good game between two good teams - I am picking TCU just so when Boise St. beats them it matters more!
Wyoming: JM

Texas A&M @ Oklahoma
A&M: none
OK: JL, JM, DL, GM, RE, EVW
DM - The Sooners are playing with a chip on their shoulder after potentially blowing their chance at the National Title a couple of weeks ago.
RM - They had their letdown game. Their next loss will be OK State.

Army @ Air Force (I declared all who picked Air Force are my mortal enemies this week)
Army: JL, DM
RE - Just for Rob :)
JM - GO ARMY!
RM - Army! Army! Go Black, Go Black Knights! Beat Air Force!!! Gunner missile plane...Fire!
Air Force:
DL - Just because Air Force is at home and sorry Rob - I still need to keep up with your Dad!
EVW - Fully embracing being mortal enemies this week with Rob and his wife as he also chose San Diego over the Packers.
DM - Just because I haven't had a mortal enemy in quite some time! :)

Washington St. @ California
Wazzu: JM
Cal: JL, GM, DL, RE, EVW
DM - I will take the Bears at home.
RM - Home team wins...two underwhelming teams this year.

Utah @ Arizona
Utah: JL
GM - Utes to get going again
DM - Arizona doesn't seem to know whether they are coming or going.
UA: DL, JM, EVW
RE - Homecoming fervor as 12th man!
RM - I'll take the continuation of improvement after firing Stoops.

Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh
Cincy: JL, DL, EVW
GM - Bearcats to beat Pitt (Not Bengals over the Steelers!)
DM - Pitt lost to Notre Dame; I don't think I can pick them to ever win.
RM - Cincy will continue to lead the Big East.  Their only loss was an early one to Tennessee.
Pitt: JM, RE

South Carolina @ Arkansas
SC: none (interesting no one picked this way!)
Ark: JL, JM, DL, GM, RE, EVW
DM - I will take the Hogs at home over the Cocks.
RM - If you didn't see College Gameday this morning Brian Wilson of the San Francisco Giants was pretty hilarious...He was so deadpan picking South Carolina he had Corso and Herbstreit dying laughing!

Arizona St. @ Univ. of California Los Angeles
ASU: JL, JM, DL, GM, RE, EVW
DM - I like the Sun Devils in this one to throw all over the yard.
RM - Yeah, I think ASU doesn't slip up and they win the Pac-12 South.
UCLA: none

Louisiana State @ Alabama
LSU: JL, EVW
RE - The Tide will be stopped by some Tigaaarrsss...
GM - This will be a fun game
Bama: JM, DL
DM - Should be a great game; I just think that Alabama has a little more talent on offense, both defenses are great!
RM - Roll Tide! Home team in this one, but I do think LSU wins the SEC.

Kansas St. @ Oklahoma St.
KState: none (I'm sure just because Joanna didn't get her picks in!)
Ok State: JL, JM, DL, RE, EVW
GM - OK State brings down the purple pride.
DM - KSU had fun beating up on lesser opponents, but last week Oklahoma beat them down and this week in Stillwater won't be any more fun for them.
RM - Oklahoma St. is going to run the table and be undefeated in the Big 12.

Notre Dame @ Wake Forest
ND: GM, RE, EVW
RM - I'll stick with the Golden Domers.
WF: JL, JM, DL
DM - How did this game get scheduled anyway?

Oregon @ Washington
OR: JL, JM, DL, GM, EVW
RE - With a 100% chance that Oregon will sport some goofy uniforms!
DM - I just hope they wear their bright yellow jerseys!
RM - The ducks loss to LSU is looking less bad with each beatdown the Tigers have put on other teams. We'll really know after today's games how Oregon stacks up w/ Bama and other National Title Contenders.
WA: none (even at home!)

Friday, October 21, 2011

NCAA Week 8 Picks

On to Week 8 - the College season is halfway done! And FYI - every team that is 6-0 is already bowl eligible...of the undefeateds who stays that way? History says its got to thin out...

The weeks Picks - with a seeming emphasis on the ACC matchups:

North Carolina @ Clemson
UNC: none
Clemson: JL, JM, EVW, DL, JNL
RE - The baby blues of UNC make me forget they play football
DM - I will take the Tigers in Death Valley...face it thats a cool nickname for a stadium!
RM - One of these weeks, I'm going to pick according to who I like better. But this week, I think Clemson takes charge of the ACC. An ACC undefeated team?
GM - Clemson rolls big over the Heels

Kansas @ Kansas St.
Kansas: RE
Kansas St: JL, JM, EVW, DL, JNL
GM - In the Sunflower State Bowl - Wildcats over Jayhawks
RM - Joe, remember when Barry and I went with you to this game awhile back? I've never seen so much purple!!!
DM - I think maybe Kansas thinks they have a chance at Andrew Luck if they continue to play terribly.

Illinois @ Purdue
Illinois: DL, JL, GM, JNL
DM - The Illini took they first loss of the year last week (they hadn't played tough competition), but I don't see them losing to a bad Purdue team this week.
RE/EVW - Ed is convinced IL is the sleeper of the Big 10 this year. Just an FYI. I'm not on that bandwagon yet.
Purdue: JM
RM - I'm a sucker for punishment. Go black and gold! Boiler Up!

Central Michigan @ Ball St.
Central Michigan: JL, JM, EVW
Ball St.: DL, RE, JNL
GM - Ball St. over the Chips - let them fall where they may.
DM - I have to go with the Cardinals at home this week.
RM - Central isn't what they were, and the Cardinals are on the upswing under another good coaching hire!

Auburn @ LSU
Auburn: JNL
LSU: JL, JM, DL, EVW, GM
RE - Even though Auburn was cleared by the NCAA on the Cam Newton debacle, still not quite ready to get on the Auburn fan club.
DM - Too much defense for Auburn to handle.
RM - I so want to change this pick with the suspensions, but I can't...not with LSU at home. The Mad Hatter Les Miles will come up with something.

Air Force @ Boise St.
Air Force: none
Boise St.: JL, JM, DL, EVW, RE, JNL
GM - There sure will be a lot of blue on the Smurf Turf!
DM - Smurf Turf! That's it!
RM - Did you know when Boise St. joined the Mountain West, they had to agree to not wear all blue uniforms at home in conference games on the blue turf? Still - they are top 5 in the nation.

Georgia Tech @ Miami (FL)
GT: JL, RE, EVW, JNL
RM - Triple option gets back on track.
DL - Has the potential of being a great game but Tech wins on the road.
GM - Ramblin Wreck over a good Hurricane team.
Miami: JM
DM - I don't like to say it, but the Hurricanes will be too tough this week for the Yellow Jackets.

Maryland @ Florida St.
Maryland: JNL
RM - Just a hunch. Neither team is great, but I think Maryland is a quality team at their record...and FSU is still not ready for the next level.
FSU: JL, JM, EVW
GM - Seminoles take out the Terrapins (but they will have on great threads for the loss)
DL - Just because FSU is at home...I want to pick Maryland sooo bad but can't when I am trying to catch Gary  *Note - this is the first time a pick has been declared because of the standings in the league!!! Strategy time!
RE - I do hope Maryland brings back the uniforms from the first game - talk about a walking disaster / state nationalism collision.
DM - They haven't been as good as I'd thought they'd be, but I will take them at home over the Terps.

NC State @ Virginia
NC St.: JNL
Virginia: JM, JL, EVW, RE
DM - I don't know much about either team, so I will take the home team.
DL - This is going to be a good game. Virginia at home.
GM - Wow - UVA might be good and NC St looks bad.
RM - Had this game been a couple weeks ago, this pick may have been different. The Cavs seem to be getting it together.

Army @ Vanderbilt
Army: JL, JNL
RE - Happy birthday Rob!
DL - OK Rob, going with Army again...I might have just jinxed them...sorry!
RM - Alas, I hope Army wins. Then they would be the smart SEC and Big 10 (Northwestern) schools in the same year. After all, they are better academically!
Vandy: GM, EVW, JM
DM - The Commodores defense will be too tough for the Army offense in this one.

Tennessee @ Alabama
Tenn: none
Bama: JL, JM, RE, EVW, DL, GM, JNL
DM - The Crimson Tide will roll over the Vols.
RM - This game looks like it may be worth something in the near future, but not his year.

USC @ Notre Dame
USC: EVW, JL
DM - ND is bad...simple as that.
ND: JM, DL, RE, JNL
GM - I should pick USC but being a Hoosier I will go with ND - Go Irish!
RM - Irish are coming together. Indiana fall weather gets USC.

Wisconsin @ Michigan St.
Wisconsin: JM, JL, EVW, DL
RE - Bring on the Spartan beat down!
GM - What a great game - this will be fun to watch!
DM - I am hoping the Badgers continue to roll towards a possible National Title Game.
RM - Big 10's undefeated team? BCS mayhem if Clemson, Wisconsin, KState or one of the Oklahoma's, LSU or Alabama, Stanford, Houston, and Boise St. all go undefeated. It realistically could happen!
MSU: JNL

Washington @ Stanford
UW: JM
Stanford: EVW, RE, JL, JNL
RM - I actually want to pick UDub, but I think Luck knows this is a big game with exposure, so they'll step up! It will be close. Undefeated??
GM - Don't people on the left coast know these (Cardinals) are supposed to be birds and not trees Joe? Or is this just in the Midwest?
DM - The Andrew Luck show continues to win this week.
DL - This should be an easy one for Andrew Luck and the Cardinal.

Colorado St. @ UTEP
CSU: RE, JL, JM, DL, JNL
UTEP: EVW, GM
DM - The Miners will throw it all over the yard and out score the Rams.
RM - This is a game that has a lot of interest for me, based on where I lived in the Army (El Paso & Colorado Springs). It's also a future Mountain West/C-USA association rivalry! This game could go either way - I'll watch it if I can find it somewhere. Just think UTEP is a little more consistent, particularly in the Sun Bowl.

Friday, October 14, 2011

NCAA Picks - Week 7

So with Army having the week off I decided to make this the Sun Belt Conference week. Really, just trying to mix up some games occasionally so we don't always pick between the same BCS teams. But still are weighted that way!

Michigan @ Michigan St.
Michigan: JL
DL - I don't think this will be the case but I will not go against Michigan!!!
DM - I will go with Brady Hoke's Wolverine's on the road this week.
JM - No way the Spartans can stop Robinson from running all over them.
RM - Hoke has the team focused in a way that has been lacking under the last few "self-serving" coaches.
MSU: RE, EVW
GM - Mich State has more balance than the Big Blue


Baylor @ Texas A&M
Baylor: EVW
RM - I'm taking offense this year over defense. The only 3 exceptions to this rule are LSU, Alabama,  and Boise St. Seriously.
A&M: GM, RE, JL
JM - Tough one. I wouldn't be surprised to see another meltdown by the Aggies, though.
DM - I will take the Aggies at home, although Griffin III will probably impress once again this week.
DL - Texas A&M at home in this game.


Toledo @ Bowling Green
Toledo: EVW, GM
JM - Toledo is the class of the MAC this year.
DL - Bowling Green does not stand a chance!!
RM - Toledo would be making more noise if they could have pulled out one of their tough non-conference games...
BGU: RE, JL
DM - I will take the Falcons at home over the Rockets.


Purdue @ Penn St.
Purdue:
RM - Yeah, this is a fan pick! Boiler up! 
Penn St.: GM, EVW, JL
RE - Joe Pa all the way!
DL - Joe Pa will keep winning at home.
DM - Purdue is pretty bad and I don't see them winning on the road in Happy Valley.
JM - They surprised me last week and they should keep it going in Happy Valley again this week.

Louisiana St. @ Tennessee
LSU: JL, GM, EVW, RE
DL - Anyone else agree that LSU may have an NFL caliber defense especially after the beatdown they put on Florida? 
RM - In response to DL: Not quite - Patrick Peterson was their top CB last year and he's struggling on the Cardinals Defense right now (as experienced each Sunday by us in AZ)...but LSU DEFINITELY has the top Defense in NCAA at this point. 
JM - I will be shocked if Tennessee scores more than once.
DM - I am sold on LSU as a legitimate National Championship team. Their defense is very impressive and will shut down the Vols.
Tennessee: none


Oklahoma St. @ Texas
Oklahoma St.: GM, EVW, RE, JL
DM - I will take the Cowboys on the Road. I think they have too much offense and we will see if the Longhorns can rebound from the beating they took last week.
DL - Texas will lose 2 games in a row...even at home and be shutout by the OK teams.
JM - Texas just isn't what they used to be and their offense is awful.
Texas: none


Ohio St. @ Illinois
OSU: RE
DL - I think the Worthless Nuts will pull off a HUGE upset against the Fighting Illini on their turf.
GM - Ohio State takes out an overrated Illini
DM - I was impressed by the Buckeyes last week and I think they will be too good for the Illini
Illinois: EVW, JL
JM - I think every Big Ten team is loving the beat downs they get to give Ohio State every week this year.
RM - They'll stay unbeaten in whichever division of the Big Ten they are in - Leaders? Legends? 


Colorado @ Washington
Colorado: RE, JL
JM - This is a complete coin flip as I don't think either team is any good.
Washington: GM, EVW
DM - I like the Huskies to win at home this week.
DL - Washington should win this game by a lot.
RM - I like U-Dub's coach. Another than prepares his team to play sound.


Western Kentucky @ Florida Atlantic
WKU: DL, EVW
JM - Only because they're riding the high from last week's win, not because they are any good.
RE - The bright spot in the state of Kentucky, football wise?
FAU: JL
RM - Seriously, this is just because FAU is christening a brand-new stadium this week. Coincidence?
GM - Fla Atlantic because the Hilltopper will be too close to the ocean to focus on football.
DM - I will take the home team in this game that very few people care about.


Virginia Tech @ Wake Forest
VT: GM
JM - VT is the class of the ACC, again.
DL - I don't think the Demon Deacons can pull off 2 upsets in a row...we will see though.
WF: EVW, RE, JL
DM - Unfortunately, I have to pick against the Hokies...they just aren't good right now and I don't see them winning on the road.
RM - I think this will be a fun one to watch, actually. Two schools that play well, edge to WF because of some recent VT struggles.


Kansas St. @ Texas Tech
KSU: EVW, JL
GM - Go Purple!
JM - Go Bill Snyder!
RM - I said last week that KSU had to prove it to me. Well they did. Where's my purple shirt?
TTU: RE
DM - I will take the Red Raiders to win at home over the Wildcats this week.
DL - Kansas State took a huge shot to the chin last week and I don't see them rebounding this quick especially on the road. Tech on the home field.


Florida @ Auburn
Florida:
DL - Florida will crawl back from their beating by LSU.
Auburn: JL, RE, EVW
RM - War Eagle! On a side note, I had Alligator for the first time a couple of weeks ago at an awesome cajun restaurant. It was good! 
GM - Auburn over Florida because they are on their fourth string QB - and Auburn is at home where the War Eagle flys!
JM - The Gators can bite it!
DM - I like the Tigers at home over the young Gators.


Louisiana-Monroe @ Troy
LMU: JL
Troy: GM, RE, EVW
DM - I have no clue about this game, but I will take the Trojans at home.
RM - Simple rule: Home team wins. 
DL - Troy will pass their way to a win on the homefield.
JM - Um, do I really have to pick one?


Utah St. @ Fresno St.
USU: RE, JL
DL - Fresno St. may not be able to walk after getting their butt kicked so bad last week by the Smurf's!!
Fresno St.: GM, EVW
RM - Fresno St. is better than they looked to Boise St. because the Broncos are just that good. Go Broncos!!!
JM - Sounds good to me.
DM - I like the Bulldogs at home...should be a lot of points here.


Arizona St. @ Oregon:
ASU: JL
Oregon: EVW
GM - I really want AZ St. to win but I don't think they can at Oregon
DL - I think this will be a VERY good game. I am taking Oregon on the home field...and they have some pretty snappy uniforms.
DM - James will probably miss this game, but I still think they Ducks are too fast for the Sun Devils here.
RM - Quack Quack! Hopefully there is some rain - that would guarantee the flying V (as in victory) formation.

RE - 100% chance of goofy uniforms for Oregon

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Week 5 NFL Picks

Todays games, on the authority of each of us who are "experts!"



Rachael Eggebeen (RE)
Ed Vander Woude (EVW)
Gary McFarren (GM)
Dennis Lowe (DL)
Dave Wasson (DW)
Rob McFarren (RM)
Dusty Miller (DM)
Joe McFarren (JM)
Joe Lacanlale (JL)

TEN @ PIT
Titans: JL, DL, EVW
DM - I can't believe how poorly the Steelers have looked or how good the Titans have looked.
RM - Is Big Ben playing? Even hurt, I think the Titans are just getting the passing/running balance down
Steelers: DW, RE, GM
JM - There is no way the Titans can keep this going.

SEA @NYG
Seahawks: none
Giants: JL, DL, EVW, RE, DW, GM
DM- The Seahawks are certainly in the "Luck Lotto"
JM - I guess I'll cheer for at least one Manning this year.
RM - Seahawks on the East Coast - when have they last won there?

CIN @ JAX
Bengals: JL, DL, EVW, RE, DW, GM
DM - I can't believe I'm picking the Bengals on the road, but the Jaguars have been pitiful.
RM - I'm liking how Dalton is looking in this offense. Well balanced, young and old.
Jaguars:
JM - Wow, the score may be 3-2

NO @ CAR
Saints: EVW, RE, DW, GM
JM - Sure Cam Newton is a beast, but New Orleans has too much talent.
DM - Carolina is much better than I thought they would be, but the Saints will be too much for them this week.
RM - Just watch - Colston is back.
Panthers: JL, DL

OAK @ HOU
Raiders: JL
DM - This should be a good game between two teams on the rise...I will take the Raiders since the Texans will be without Andre Johnson
RM - McFadden & Co. have extra motivation with the passing of owner Al Davis.
Texans: DL, EVW, RE, DW, GM
JM - OK, I'm a believer. Last week's win was a huge stepping stone for the Texans.

PHI @ BUF
Eagles: GM
JM - I would love to see Buffalo win here, but the bubble may have just popped.
RM - A pick I'd rather lose. Go Buffalo.
Bills: JL, DL, EVW, RE, DW, GM
DM - The Bills will bounce back after a loss in Cincy last week...still disappointed by the Eagles.

KC @ IND
Chiefs: RE, DW
Colts: JL, DL, EVW, GM
DM - If the Colts can't win this game, they may not win any game this year.
JM - Could Curtis Painter really be the starter for the rest of the year?
RM - Lots of injuries to both teams. Painter will get a little better this week, which is the difference.

AZ @ MIN
Cardinals: JL, DW, GM
JM - Minnesota is just bad. Why don't they just give the ball to Peterson?
Vikings: EVW, RE, DL
DM - The Vikings will break into the win column this week...the Cards don't seem to play well on the road.
RM - Why do I keep picking against who I want to win? Oh right, because they aren't going to.

TB @ SF
Bucs: DL, DW
49ers: JL, RE, EVW, GM
DM - The 49ers continue to impress...I am pulling for them to win the West. *nice rhyme
JM - Alex Smith seems to be gaining a bit of confidence
RM - I like Harbaugh, Patrick Willis, and the 49ers uni's. Enough for this one.

NYJ @ NE
Jets: EVW
Patriots: JL, DL, RE, DW, GM
JM - If this was in the Meadowlands, the Jets would probably have the upper hand. But they were really bad in Foxboro last year. Maybe it would help if I go out and take a dump on Tom Brady's doorstep?
DM - This will be a fun one to watch; the Pats' offense will be a little too much for the Jets' D
RM - Wes Welker may shatter the receptions mark this year.

SD @ DEN
Broncos: DL
Chargers: JL, EVW, RE, DW, GM
JM - All Chargers, all day long.
DM - I will take the Chargers on the road in Denver...although it will probably be much closer than I think.
RM - I hope I'm wrong. Go Broncos!

GB @ ATL
Packers: JL, DL, EVW, RE, DW, GM
JM - The Pack may not be playing perfect ball, but few teams out there display as much confidence as they do game in and game out.
DM - As much as I don't like it, the Packers continue to win this week.
Falcons:
RM - Simple. Falcons at home have more to prove. One of 2 games I want to watch!

CHI @ DET
Bears: DW
Lions: JL, EVW, RE, DL, GM
JM - After the toughness they showed last week, it's hard not to like the Lions this week.
DM - The Bears tough schedule continues this week. The Lions should handle the Bears with little problem.
RM - The other game I want to watch. Lions first MNF in Detroit in how long? Yeah, motivation.

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Week 6 NCAA picks

Looks like everyone is starting to think the same way about these games! Really looks like there are only about 2 or 3 games which will be determining who does better than others! Here are this weeks picks:

Rachael Eggebeen (RE)
Ed Vander Woude (EVW)
Gary McFarren (GM)
Dennis Lowe (DL)
Rob McFarren (RM)
Dusty Miller (DM)
Joe McFarren (JM)
Joe Lacanlale (JL)

Boise St. @ Fresno St. 
Boise St. - RE, EVW, JL, GM
DM - The Broncos continue to win!
RM - I'm on the Boise St. Bronco Bus! Give them a chance at the BCS TITLE!!!
DL - Smurfs all the way!
JM - Simple. Blow out.
Fresno St. - none

Oklahoma @ Texas (neutral site)
Oklahoma - EVW, JL, GM
RE - Because the wind goes rushing down the plain and annoys the Longhorns.
JM - Could be one of the best Red River Rivalry games in a long time, though.
DL - Even though Texas is at home, I think OK is tougher
DM - This one should be a good challenge for the Sooners, but I think they have too much for the Longhorns
RM - Oklahoma looks poised right now for the big time. Their loss will be to OK St. later this year.
Texas - none

Florida St. @ Wake Forest
Florida St. - EVW, JL, GM
RE - Bobby Bowden's legacy lives on. Besides, Wake Forest has a football team?
JM - The Seminoles are needing a pick-me-up after the last two weeks of horrible play.
DL - Florida St. will win this one big.
DM - I think the Seminoles are the real deal.
RM - They reassert position to challenge Clemson for the ACC title, hopefully!
Wake Forest - none

Army @ Miami (OH)
Army - RE, EVW, JL
JM - Ok, if they lose this one then I may be done with them for the year.
GM - Army comes to the Midwest for the third time this fall and finally comes away with a win.
DM - I will take the Cadets on the road, unless Big Ben is back for Miami.
RM - They'll pull even to 3-3 to give the hope of a Bowl Game...
Miami - DL

Florida @ LSU
Florida - none (wow!)
LSU - EVW, JL, GM
DM - The Tigers at home will be too much for the Gators
DL - LSU's D is NFL caliber and nobody plays better than LSU at home.
*wow - NFL caliber?
RE - Tigaarsssss, Tigasrss
JM - It would be awesome if Florida wins, but that just isn't going to happen against this defense.
RM - Florida was simply posing as a contender. LSU has shown the National Title goes through them.

Missouri @ Kansas St.
Missouri - RE, EVW
RM - Snyder brought back the old K-State, including scheduling the softest non-conference schedule possible. They are a WEAK undefeated team because their only real win was last week. If they win against Mizzou, I'll give them credit.
KSU - JL
JM - I am absolutely loving this rise back to power.
DM - I didn't take the Wildcats at home last week and it bit me, so I will take them this week.
DL - Kansas State at home.
GM - Kansas St. over Mizzou because the Tigers don't know where they belong.

Miami (FL) @ Virginia Tech
Miami - JL
VT - EVW, GM
RE - Pick on moral reasons (Not a fan of Miami's flagrant violations)
DM - I have to take my team at home again this week even though they were embarrassed last week.
DL - This should be a good game of smash mouth football. Tech at home.
JM - Steamroller, baby!
RM - Beamer ball will get them to bounce back.

Arizona St. @ Utah
ASU - RE, EVW, JL, GM
JM - Utah looked awful last week
DM - I will take the Sun Devils on the road over the Utes
DL - Arizona State will continue winning ways
RM - Utah and Colorado are winless as newcomers so far. The welcoming motivation continues.
Utah - none

Air Force @ Notre Dame
AF - JL
DM - ND isn't very good and I don't see them winning two weeks in a row.
ND - RE, EVW, GM
DL - Why must I keep thinking about Notre Dame winning?
JM - The Irish might just be putting it back together, again.
RM - If only the Irish hadn't sold out on concessions for standards for football players under Coach Kelly (a stipulation of his signing)...Air Force is a great example of the way to have good academics and football team. If only ND had a coach like Calhoun. I pick the Fighting Irish cause I am a fan!

Iowa @ Penn St.
Iowa -
JM - I don't care if they are playing at home, the Nittany Lions could have the worst offense in the country.
Penn St. - EVW, JL, GM
DM - Happy Valley will be rocking for this one...I will take the home team.
DL - JoePa will win at home. I think both these teams are struggling this year even though their records are not showing it. I can only hope they start losing!
RE - JoePa all the way (unless they play WI)
RM - Like both of these coaches...but somehow think the crowd will get PSU the win.

Auburn @ Arkansas
Auburn - EVW, JL
GM - I keep picking against the Tigers but now I give in.
Arkansas -
RE - Roll Tide!
DL - MAN the SEC is tough. Only because Are-kansas is at home!!
DM - They squeaked one out for me last week, so I'll go with them at home again this week.
JM - Auburn will fall out of the Top 25 for the third time this year.
RM - I really really really really will be rooting for Auburn. Why did I pick this way? Yeah, their Defense.

Texas A&M @ Texas Tech
Texas A&M - RE, EVW, JL, GM
JM - This game could see a team break 100 points.
DM  - I will take the Aggies on the road over the Red Raiders.
DL - A&M to win on the road. They will snap their losing streak.
RM - Just don't see A&M giving up after the last two hard losses.
Texas Tech -none

Michigan @ Northwestern
Michigan - RE, EVW, JL
DM - I will take the much improved Wolverines, even though I think they are due for a letdown soon.
DL - I, a HUGE Michigan fan, said a couple of weeks ago that Michigan will start their downfall...Thank goodness I was wrong!! Go BLUE!!!
JM - Ohio State fans have to be hating this season more every week.
GM - NW lost to Army that lost to Ball St. and you know Brady Hoke saw that game = Go Blue!
RM - Yes, Persa is back for NW. No, that doesn't mean the defense is better.
Northwestern - none

Georgia @ Tennessee
Georgia - RE, JL
DL - I think Georgia is still a tough team. Their 2 losses were against 2 VERY good teams. UGA will win on the road.
RM - Let's go Georgia. The more they win - the more credence given to the Boise St. Broncos!!! Georgia to win the SEC East; just watch.
Tennessee - EVW
GM - Tenn. @ Rocky Top beats the Dogs
JM - Middle of the road SEC teams clash to decide absolutely nothing.
DM - I will take the Vols at home this week.

Ohio St. @ Nebraska
Ohio St. - none
Nebraska - EVW, JL
GM - Nebraska responds and destroys Ohio St.
DM - I think the Cornhuskers bounce back this week after a beating by the Badgers last week.
RE - After that awesome welcome to the Big Ten, I see revenge brewing.
DL - Even though the Cornhuskers lost last week, they will pull through and win against the Worthless Nuts at home.
JM - Ohio St. can't hang with anyone anymore and Nebraska has their Big Ten home opener. Huskers all the way.
RM - The Buckeyes are now in free-fall mode.

Friday, September 30, 2011

Week 4 NFL Picks

Same deal as NCAA - now posting the Week 4 NFL Picks:

DET @ DAL
Lions: Ed Vander Woude (EVW), Rachael Eggebeen (RE), Dave Wasson (DW), Joe Lacanlale (JL)
Gary McFarren (GM)-Detroit to show the Cowboys the right way to play football in Texas
Joe McFarren (JM)-Cause who doesn't want to be on this bandwagon?
Dusty Miller (DM)-I am enjoying seeing the Lions do well and I can't stand the Cowboys.
Rob McFarren (RM)-Did you see how confused the Cowboys offense looked last week? The Lions Offense is more explosive than the Redskins.
Cowboys:
Dennis Lowe (DL)-Dallas will give Detroit their first loss of the season

CAR @ CHI
Panthers: JL
DL-Cam Newton is HOT this year so far!! He will be able to pick the Bears defense apart!!
Bears: DW, RE, EVW
DM-I will pick my favorite team for the first time this year (which probably means they will disappoint me!)
GM-Bears stop Cam-olina
JM-Carolina is really a lot worse than they are playing.
RM-Newton looks good cause all they are doing is letting him throw...look how few rushing attempts they have, even with the backs they have. If that continues, Da Bears easily win!

BUF @ CIN
Bills: EVW, RE, JL
DW-I'm picking Buffalo to go 16-0 this season...
JM-Do they really have a legit shot at 4-0?!?!
DL-The Bills are going to remain undefeated and add another loss to the horrible Bengals.
GM-Buffalo stampedes the Bengals
DM-2 teams that are much better than anticipated, but I'll take the Bills to stay undefeated.
RM-Why do I hear OJ Simpson singing "Buffalo is going to the Su-per Bowl"?
Bengals: *unanimous for Buffalo

TEN @ CLE
Titans: EVW
DL-The Titans' Chris Johnson will run all over Cleveland. Yes the Browns have won 2 in a row but it was against teams that will struggle to win a game all year: the Colts and the Dolphins.
RM-In match ups like this, I should pick the home team. But is Hillis healthy enough (he lost 10 lbs due to Strep throat last week!)?
GM-Mr. Hasselbeck to lead the Titans
DM-I will take the Titans in this one, I think they have more offense than the Browns.
Browns: RE, DW, JL
JM-Because I really don't care...

MIN @ KC
Vikings: DW, EVW, JL
GM-Vikings get their first win over KC
DM-Glad I won't have to watch this one, yuck! I'm hoping the Vikings decide to not blow another lead this week.
DL-The Vikings will keep the Chiefs, or should I say the Chefs, in the loss column. The Chiefs have given up the most points and scored the fewest points so far this season.
Chiefs: RE
JM-They have to win one eventually.
RM-I'll take the home team. Something is not right with the Vikings...Just hand it off to Peterson!

WAS @ STL
Redskins: EVW, DW
DL-The Redskins will win this one in a tough battle.
GM-Washington to rebound over the Rams
DM-I have been impressed by how the Redskins have played so far and I think the Rams have been a huge disappointment.
RM-I regret this pick already, but I want to see how Grossman responds to the narrow loss last week.
Rams: RE, JL
JM-Sam Bradford finally breaks out in his sophmore year.

NO @ JAX
Saints: RE, DW, EVW, JL
DL-The Saints are tied with the Pats for the second most points scored this year behind the Bills. Jacksonville has given up the second most points this year just ahead of the Chiefs. So in other words, the Saints are going to win BIG this week.
JM-Too good of an offense against too poor of a defense.
DM-This one could be over early, the Saints should be able to score at will here.
RM-Colston back, Drew Brees will win. The real question is who will be the Saints fantasy play this week?
GM-NO will kill the Jags
Jaguars: *No one dares pick Jones-Drew and mates.

PIT @ HOU
Steelers: EVW, RE
RM-Tomlin is too good of a coach to let them lose 2 in a row. The line will do much better.
JM-I would love to pick Houston here, but Pittsburgh is bound to find their rhythm at some point.
Texans: DW, JL
GM-Texans defense is better than the Steelers - Houston wins 90-85.
DM-Before last Sunday night, I would have probably leaned toward the Steelers in this one, but they showed some pretty serious flaws against a horrible Colts team.
DL-This is the year for a change on tope of the AFC. Houston will win this week en route to #2 in the standings in the AFC behind the Bills at the end of the season. *Already a season prediction! Wow!

SF @ PHI:
49ers: EVW
 RM-Which team is tougher (not better, tougher)? 49ers, hands down. Plus, they stayed on the East Coast all week to practice rather than travel cross-country twice after last weeks win at Cincy.
Eagles: JL, DW, RE
JM-There is no way the Niners are goign to be able to win on the road here.
DL-This game will be a shootout with the Eagles pulling it out. Vick needs to suck it up and play!!
GM-Philly over the 45er's (they just don't have enough)
DM-Vick says he will play again this week. If so, he's enough to give them the edge at home over the 49ers.

NYG @ AZ
Giants: DW, EVW, RE, JL
RM-Living out here next to the stadium, I know this is a game that Whisenhut will have the Cards motivated and the crowd will be too (they have these "big" games every year - this is the first one)
DM-I should have picked them last week. The Cardinals could still win the NFC West at 7-9.
DL-The Giants will keep the ball rolling and pull this one out in the desert!!
Cardinals:
GM-Cardinals beat the Giants (I don't believe in them yet)
JM-Arizona (i.e. Larry Fitzgerald) will hit their stride against a team that seems to forget home good they are away from home.

ATL @ SEA
Falcons: DW, RE, EVW, JL
DL-Time for the Falcons to pull their heads out of their rumps and play like they are supposed to this year.
DM-Let's face it, Seattle is bad!
GM-Falcons get flying high over the waterlogged Seahawks
JM-Matt Ryan, are you going to show up?
RM-I am so, so tempted to pick the other way here, but don't want to lose ground on the season standings. Long travel for the Falcons.
Seahawks: *If it is rainy weather, we'll all regret not picking Seattle.

MIA @ SD
Dolphins:*Are there more dolphins in Miami or San Diego, anyway?
Chargers: DW, RE, EVW, JL
GM-SD beats the Dolphins in the Best-Place-To-Live Bowl.
DL-Miami looked good in week 1 but that was a fluke against a New England team that is not as tough as they have been in years past. The Chargers will win by a good margin this week.
JM-Phillip Rivers may just throw for 1,000 yards here.
RM-Mathews' recent emergence puts them over the top, even with Gates out.
DM-Miami on the road? I don't think so!

NE @ OAK
Patriots: DW, JL, RE
DM-I still can't believe the meltdown the Patriots had in Buffalo last week (although I was glad to see it!). I have a feeling they may take out some frustration on a much improved Raider team.
GM-Patriots get it straightened up against the Raiders.
JM-As much as I hate to say it, I am enjoying watching Tom Brady do pretty much whatever he wants on the field, and there is no way Oakland will change that.
RM-If NE had won at Buffalo, I'd take the Raiders. Think this is much more balanced than most think, but Beli-cheat won't lose 2 in a row-Brady even cut the model hair-do.
Raiders: EVW
DL-I believe the Pats will lose 2 straight for the first time in many, many seasons!! Changing of the guard will occur in the AFC.

DEN @ GB
Broncos: *Let's go Broncos!!
 Packers: JL, DW, EVW, RE
JM-Kyle Orton may throw for a lot of yards against a horrible secondary, but the Packers are just too good.
DL-The Packers will win again. They are looking good again this year and could go a long way. What do you think about a Packers/Bills Super Bowl in Indy?
GM-Packers tie up the Broncos
DM-The hated Packers should win easily again this week.
RM-Super Bowl re-match! Then it was Elway-Favre, now Orton-Rodgers. Yeah.

NYJ @ BAL
Jets: RE, JL
JM-Mark Sanchez is finally growing up.
Ravens: DW, EVW
GM-Ravens ground the Jets (I thought if you had great corners you couldn't lose! Too bad Rex Ryan)
DM-I will take the Ravens at home in what should be a very good game to watch.
DL-This will be a tough game to pick. I am taking the Ravens at home.
RM-Just take the home team. Plus, the Harbaugh's can coach!
 
IND @ TB
Colts: RE
JM-Could it finaly happen? I'm not talking about winning, but have enough quarterbacks injured that they really have to bring in Pat McAfee as the QB. Oh, yeah! That's what I'm betting on with this jumble of horrible QBs as the Colts' options.
Buccaneers: DW, EVW, JL
DL-The Colts may not win a game this year. Now that we see what happens with an average QB, it is now time to go for the #1 pick in next years draft!!
RM-While I will not be a partisan spectator and hope Painter gets some tempo to the offense (looked that way last week), not against this Bucs team that is relishing the national exposure for once!
GM-Bucs defeat the Colts (this will be a very low scoring game - Colts defense is good but they can't score!)
DM-The Colts should just bring back Jeff George for the rest of this season...he's just as good as Painter and just as old as Collins.