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Here are the standings:
Reeb: 203-81 Jemp: 191-93 Screw: 184-100 Alx: 183-101 Pep: 182-102 So I’m now mathematically eliminated from catching Reeb, but at least I’m out of last place. I’m very annoyed that the Packers got every bad break and lost that game against the Eagles. Plus I knew I wanted to take the Rams but feel like I had to go against Reeb. Granted, there was no shot I was going to take the Texans if I wasn’t trying to catch up so I guess it all evens out. But now we get into the real games, and probably the best week of the NFL playoffs. Let’s pick some games. Texans at Chiefs: Jemp: Chiefs, Reeb: Chiefs, Pep: Chiefs, Screw: Chiefs Well that Texans game was unexpected. But I don’t know if I feel any differently about the Texans. We knew they had a good defense, and it had possibly its best performance forcing 4 interceptions out of Justin Herbert. Their offense was still mediocre at best, and if it gets off to the same slow start as last week, then I expect the Chiefs to put this game away. They won’t run away on the scoreboard, but they will have full control of the game and not make the same mistakes as the Chargers. I think this Chiefs team is more vulnerable than in past years, but ultimately they are still the Chiefs and the Texans aren’t the team that can pick them off. Prediction: Chiefs win 27-20 Commanders at Lions: Jemp: Lions, Reeb: Lions, Pep: Lions, Screw: Lions Well it’s been a nice season for the Lions. They get the first round bye, just to run into a buzzsaw in the divisional round. Jayden Daniels will tear this banged-up Lions defense to shreds. Don’t think I’ve forgiven Ben Johnson for the whole debacle last year when he turned down the Commanders job. Now he’ll have his Super Bowl chances ruined by the team he rejected. Prediction: Commanders win 100-0 Rams at Eagles: Jemp: Rams, Reeb: Eagles, Pep: Eagles, Screw: Eagles Great win by the Eagles last week. They cleverly produced no offense so they could have the Packers implode. Impressive stuff. At least Oren Burks came up big with the forced fumble on the opening kickoff, and then he played most of the game on defense as well after Nakobe Dean got hurt, and he’ll likely get the start this week. Good for Oren as a fellow South County Secondary School alum. However, The Eagles will have to actually produce some offense this time around because the Rams are no joke. Matthew Stafford has been more inconsistent this year, but when he’s on, he can take out anyone, especially when he’s throwing to Puka Nacua. And if that wasn’t enough, the Rams defense is playing their best football. I think the Rams are finally becoming the team we all wanted and can take out these Eagles. Prediction: Rams win 23-20 Ravens at Bills: Jemp: Ravens, Reeb: Ravens, Pep: Ravens, Screw: Ravens Wow, you guys are really going to let me lone wolf the Bills at home? Don’t mind if I do. Granted, I totally understand why everyone is taking the Ravens, because while both these offenses are phenomenal, it’s the Ravens defense that has really stepped up as of late. The Bills defense held down Bo Nix, but they are an underwhelming unit and I think they will have a tough time against Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. However, that doesn’t matter because even with the Ravens defense improvements, no defense can stop Josh Allen when he’s in a groove. I expect this to be a quarterback duel for the ages. It’s unfortunate that whichever of these quarterbacks loses will get criticism for choking in the playoffs again, but these are just two great quarterbacks and only one can move on. I’ll take Josh Allen at home, but I expect them both to ball out. Prediction: Bills win 34-31 Here are the standings:
Reeb: 193-79 Jemp: 183-89 Screw: 180-92 Pep: 178-94 Alx: 175-97 We’ve made it to the playoffs, where every game counts double. Maybe we should make each game worth 10 points to give me a chance to come back. But the Commanders are in playoffs so I can’t complain. Let’s pick some games. Chargers at Texans: Jemp: Chargers, Reeb: Chargers, Pep: Chargers, Screw: Chargers So this is where I first have to ask myself if there is a chance for me to win the pick’em. Because this is a prime opportunity for a lone wolf, but I really don’t want to ride with the Texans. They have a solid defense and maybe this is the moment that CJ Stroud shines, but we haven’t seen it from their offense all year, so why would we expect it now? On the other hand, the last time the Chargers were on the road in the first playoff game against a mediocre AFC South team, they managed to blow a 28 point lead. Granted, I think this is a different Chargers team. Jim Harbaugh came in here and changed the culture… I think. There isn’t really some sort of voodoo curse on this team… right? I don’t believe in that kind of stuff… but I’d like them to prove it in this game. In the meantime, I’ll lone wolf the Texans for fun… or maybe a lack of fun. Prediction: Texans win 24-23 Steelers at Ravens: Jemp: Ravens, Reeb: Ravens, Pep: Steelers, Screw: Steelers On paper, this should be an easy win for the Ravens. They have been a dominant offense all year, and their defense has improved exponentially in the back half of the season. I spent all offseason trying to dispel the notion that the Ravens can just “figure it out” when it comes to a lack of players on their offensive line and on defense, but sure enough, that’s exactly what they did. They are on a completely different trajectory than this Steelers team that has had its offense fall apart, and the defense lose some of its swagger. That being said, this is a dream matchup for the Steelers. They probably can’t beat any of the good AFC teams, but their best chance is against the team they know best. This is where Mike Tomlin can shine, and critics of playoff Lamar can come out once again. But all that is just a narrative, and you know me, I’m all about watching ball. The Steelers should make this closer than it should be, but I think the Ravens get it done in the end. Prediction: Ravens win 27-20 Broncos at Bills: Jemp: Bills, Reeb: Bills, Pep: Broncos, Screw: Broncos I was initially pretty surprised that Pep and Screw went with the Broncos here, but then I gave it a bit more thought. While the Bills seem like they are in a different league, you still have to remember how their defense has let the Rams and Lions go up and down the field. The Broncos might not be on that level, but they do have a pretty good offensive mind themselves, and they just run rampant on the Chiefs defense. Sure, the Chiefs were without their best defensive players, but it wasn’t like their whole defense was out. Then on the other side, the Broncos have a strong defense that could limit Josh Allen, if we don’t get the searing hot version we had a few weeks ago. If we get him, then no one can stop him. But regular old Josh Allen is vulnerable, and can’t overcome a no-show from his defense. But of course there is no way I’m picking Bo Nix to beat Josh Allen. Prediction: Bills win 31-24 Packers at Eagles: Jemp: Eagles, Reeb: Eagles, Pep: Eagles, Screw: Eagles Now here is a great place for me to lone wolf. It pained me to take the Texans because I want the Chargers to do well and advance. But it never pains me to pick against the Eagles, and this is an easy spot where I think they could falter. Now, the Eagles are the better team in almost every aspect, but only just barely. The Eagles have the best running game in the league, but the Packers are right behind them. Both passing attacks have been a little hit or miss, and Philly’s defense might be slightly better than Green Bay’s. However, I trust the Packers coaching staff much more, and I’m hoping we can get a better version of Jordan Love here. Both quarterbacks in this one are coming off injury, but I expect them both to be out there at about full strength. I like the Packers to steal this one on the road. Prediction: Packers win 34-31 Commanders at Buccaneers: Jemp: Commanders, Reeb: Commanders, Pep: Commanders, Screw: Commanders We get another Week 1 rematch here, and Jayden Daniels’ first ever playoff start. Let’s hope it goes better than a certain other Washington quarterback’s first playoff start. I think Jayden is built for this moment and takes out the Bucs with ease. Prediction: Commanders win 100-0 Vikings at Rams: Jemp: Vikings, Reeb: Rams, Pep: Vikings, Screw: Vikings Damn, I really wanted to take the Rams here, but if I’m going to catch Reeb, I’ve got to take the Vikings. To be fair, that has worked out pretty well for me lately, as the Vikings keep taking care of the mid tier NFC teams. However, I don’t feel like they are much better than the Rams. We saw this team take out the Seahawks and Cardinals down the stretch, and in neither game did I feel like they were in another class than those teams. The Vikings won those game on last minute field goals, and I gave them credit for that, but I never felt they were in the same league as the Lions. And sure enough, they crumbled when they played them last week. It’s a much more even matchup against these Rams, but this is truly a game that could go either way. But I’ll take the Vikings and hope Darnold doesn’t choke. Prediction: Vikings win 23-20 Here are the standings:
Reeb: 183-73 Jemp: 172-84 Screw: 170-86 Pep: 167-89 Alx: 163-93 I can’t believe we have already made it to the end of the regular season. It always feels like the season goes by so fast. But I can’t complain since we are moving towards another Commanders Super Bowl, so let’s pick some games. Browns at Ravens: Jemp: Ravens, Reeb: Ravens, Pep: Ravens, Screw: Ravens Week 18 is usually the hardest to pick, because we don’t know which teams will be resting and packing it in, and which will be playing for more. But that isn’t a problem in this game, because the Ravens have to win to clinch the AFC North before the Steelers play, and the Browns already packed it in a few weeks ago. The Ravens could probably rest their players and still win this game, but with Lamar it’s a no-brainer. Prediction: Ravens win 28-0 Bengals at Steelers: Jemp: Bengals, Reeb: Steelers, Pep: Bengals, Screw: Bengals This game has much more intrigue than the first Saturday game, but if the Ravens win, then the Steelers won’t have anything to play for. However, it sounds like the Steelers will be gearing up for this one regardless, which is what I would expect out of a Tomlin-led team. However, since these two teams last played, they have headed in opposite directions. The Steelers have lost three straight and the Bengals have won four straight. I desperately want to see this Bengals team in the playoffs, because it’s so much fun to watch Joe Burrow. We could get an AFC playoffs with Mahomes, Lamar, Josh Allen, Justin Herbert, and Joe Burrow? That would be pretty cool. Oh yeah, and Russ will be there too. I know it’s a long shot for the Bengals to get the help they need, but I think they can win this one. I don’t see this Steelers offense putting up 40 again, no matter how bad the Bengals defense is. Prediction: Bengals win 34-30 Panthers at Falcons: Jemp: Falcons, Reeb: Falcons, Pep: Falcons, Screw: Falcons The Falcons are the only team in the NFC that can still sneak into the playoffs. Good thing they saved all of their timeouts for this game. Michael Penix has shown his potential with some elite throws in his two starts. Unfortunately those throws come few and far between, and for every great throw he makes two errant ones. He has plenty of time to improve… next year, because I expect this year is over for the Falcons, and I’m picking them to lose because why not? The sad part for the Falcons is that their defense has finally come together, but I think it’s too late. Granted, they might win this game because of that, but Week 18 is just weird, so I’ll take the lone wolfs where i can get them. Prediction: Panthers win 24-21 Commanders at Cowboys: Jemp: Commanders, Reeb: Commanders, Pep: Commanders, Screw: Commanders Jayden Daniels is unsurprisingly leading the Commanders to the playoffs while these Cowboys can watch them from home. They’re all packed up and ready to take their vacations. Prediction: Commanders win 1,000-0 Bears at Packers: Jemp: Packers, Reeb: Packers, Pep: Packers, Screw: Packers It’s pretty impressive that the Bears are going to finish this year on an 11 game losing streak. The Packers don’t have much to play for here, but Matt Lafleur says he’s playing his guys and I think Malik Willis could easily dispatch this Bears team if he needs to. The Bears are running out of people to fire and I expect this coaching staff is anxious to be relieved of their duties. Prediction: Packers win 27-14 Texans at Titans: Jemp: Texans, Reeb: Texans, Pep: Texans, Screw: Texans The Texans say they are playing their starters because they want to enter the playoffs with some momentum, but I’m not sure a win against the Titans will give them any of that. They already lost once to this Titans team, so congratulations if they salvage a split with them. The Titans are saying they are going to play both of their quarterbacks… for some reason? I guess if they are trying to tank, they want a reason to switch out either guy if they are playing too well? But I don’t think they will have that issue. Prediction: Texans win 23-17 Jaguars at Colts: Jemp: Colts, Reeb: Colts, Pep: Colts, Screw: Colts This game could not be less relevant. I’ll take the chance for the lone wolf. Prediction: Jaguars win 27-24 Bills at Patriots: Jemp: Bills, Reeb: Bills, Pep: Bills, Screw: Bills Well the Bills are resting most of their guys for this game, so the Patriots might have a chance. They are giving Josh Allen the start because he wants to preserve his consecutive starts streak, but I expect they’ll pull him pretty quickly. I think Drake Maye can beat the Bills backups… maybe? He did almost beat the starters last time around, so he at least has a chance. Please lose this one for me Mitch. Prediction: Patriots win 26-23 Giants at Eagles: Jemp: Eagles, Reeb: Eagles, Pep: Eagles, Screw: Eagles I can’t believe the Eagles are going to rest Saquon in this one. He has a chance to break a rushing record that has stood for 40+ years against his former team. I get they want to make sure Saquon is healthy for the playoffs, but there is more to football than just winning championships. Saquon breaking the rushing record will probably be remembered more than the Eagles winning the Super Bowl, and playing Saquon is only a minor risk to that goal anyway. Granted, I don’t care either way, because I don’t want the Eagles to win the Super Bowl and I couldn’t care less if Saquon gets the record, but that’s just my two cents. But the Eagles can win this game with their starters, backups, or just some random guys off the street. Prediction: Eagles win 24-10 Saints at Buccaneers: Jemp: Bucs, Reeb: Bucs, Pep: Bucs, Screw: Bucs Watching the Saints makes me gag a little. I guess their trick play last week was kind of fun, but they aren’t going to beat this Bucs team. The Bucs can clinch a playoff spot, and they’ll be trying to get Mike Evans his 1000 yards, so I’ll take the Bucs at home. Prediction: Buccaneers win 27-10 Chiefs at Broncos: Jemp: Broncos, Reeb: Chiefs, Pep: Broncos, Screw: Broncos This game is interesting, because the Broncos need it desperately, and the Chiefs don’t at all. They will be sitting Patrick Mahomes, which means the playoff fate of the Dolphins and Bengals sits in the hands of Carson Wentz. But the good news is that he will still have Andy Reid at the helm, and I think that’s good enough for the Chiefs to win this one. Bo Nix is going through a bit of a rookie slump, and since I want the Bengals in the playoffs, I’ll take the Chiefs. Prediction: Chiefs win 24-21 Chargers at Raiders: Jemp: Chargers, Reeb: Chargers, Pep: Chargers, Screw: Chargers I thought I would be able to get away with lone-wolfing the Raiders here, but it looks like the Chargers are going to play their starters. The Raiders play hard, but Jim Harbaugh is way too intense about every game to lose to an inferior Raiders team. Prediction: Chargers win 31-17 Seahawks at Rams: Jemp: Rams, Reeb: Rams, Pep: Rams, Screw: Rams The Rams have clinched the NFC West, and seem content to rest people even if it means moving back to the 4 seed. The Seahawks are going to miss out of the playoffs by the slimmest of margins, but if these teams really geared up for this one, I’d pick the Rams to win anyway. Prediction: Seahawks win 23-10 Dolphins at Jets: Jemp: Dolphins, Reeb: Jets, Pep: Dolphins, Screw: Dolphins It sounds like it will be Tyler Huntley again, which makes me want to take the Jets here. However, the Jets are such a dumpster fire that they could find a way to lose to me playing quarterback. You never know what Jets team will show up, but I know what the Dolphins look like when Tua isn’t there at quarterback. I know they won last week, but the Browns with DTR are even more of an embarrassment. Prediction: Jets win 20-10 49ers at Cardinals: Jemp: Cardinals, Reeb: Cardinals, Pep: Cardinals, Screw: 49ers The Josh Dobbs revenge game? I guess that is interesting. I don’t know, the 49ers looked kind of good last week, and I think Josh Dobbs can be fun. With both teams out of it, this could go any which way, but I’ll take the niners. Prediction: 49ers win 24-20 Vikings at Lions: Jemp: Lions, Reeb: Lions, Pep: Lions, Screw: Lions At least we get one great game out of Week 18. The Vikings and Lions are duking it out for the number one seed in the NFC. And I have another chance to lone wolf the Vikings. However, this time they are on the road against a superior team. I know the Lions defense is in rough shape, but the Lions have the best offense in football, and I think they beat Sam Darnold in a shootout, despite how well he is playing. Prediction: Lions win 38-34 Here are the standings:
Reeb: 171-69 Screw: 160-80 Jemp: 158-82 Pep: 157-83 Alx: 150-90 Well it’s time to start the 12 days of football as the NFL has taken over this holiday season. Soon Christmas will be renamed Mahomesmas, which is what Cris Collinsworth celebrates every Sunday. But PFJ is all here for it, so let’s pick some games. Chiefs at Steelers: Jemp: Chiefs, Reeb: Chiefs, Pep: Chiefs, Screw: Steelers Why do I ever think I can pick against the Chiefs? I always know it’s a bad idea, but I do it anyway. Typically I’ve always picked them, but this year they’ve been so weird that I keep thinking that they are going to fall off. But whenever they seem like they are bottoming out, they have one of their best games of the year. Their offense methodically wore down that tough Texans defense, and at this point I think they will do the same to the Steelers. You’d think that the Steelers pass rush would eat against these Chiefs tackles, but I expect more witchcraft out of Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid, and they get it done on Christmas. Prediction: Chiefs win 21-16 Ravens at Texans: Jemp: Ravens, Reeb: Ravens, Pep: Ravens, Screw: Texans And we get a second AFC showdown on Christmas day between Lamar Jackson and CJ Stroud. More importantly it’s the Diontae Johnson revenge game, who I’m sure will make a huge impact in this game. He probably knows the Ravens playbook backwards and forwards with all the hard work he did in Baltimore. But the Texans still can’t get their offense together and the Ravens defense has quietly improved since their bye week, so I’ll take the Ravens on the road. Prediction: Ravens win 27-20 Seahawks at Bears: Jemp: Seahawks, Reeb: Seahawks, Pep: Seahawks, Screw: Seahawks Are the Bears really going to end this season on an 11 game losing streak? If I were a betting man, I would say yes. And I am in fact a betting man. Surprisingly firing all of the coaches has not turned this team around. I wonder who Shane Waldren is going to be rooting for in this game? At least that is something Geno and Caleb can talk about when they shake hands after the Bears lose another one. Unfortunately for the Seahawks they are unlikely to make the playoffs even with a win here, but they will at least keep themselves alive. Prediction: Seahawks win 28-21 Chargers at Patriots: Jemp: Chargers, Reeb: Chargers, Pep: Chargers, Screw: Chargers I feel like Drake Maye’s season is going a little under the radar because he’s on such a terrible team. But it should be noted how much better he has made this offense since he replaced Jacoby Brissett, because they are fun to watch every week. And by fun, I mean they at least have some fun moments. Considering the rest of the offense, I think Maye has a bright future. I’d probably take him over Caleb Williams right now. But, the Chargers look like they are ready to make a playoff push, so we all still like the Chargers on the road. Prediction: Chargers win 23-20 Broncos at Bengals: Jemp: Bengals, Reeb: Broncos, Pep: Broncos, Screw: Bengals I want to believe that the Bengals still have a chance to make the playoffs, but they still need so much help. But they can keep themselves alive with a win here no matter what else happens, and I’ve seen some crazy stuff in the last week of the regular season. I remember when Carson Wentz blew it to the Jaguars, a feat the Colts might have to recreate if the Bengals want a chance. But first thing is first, they have to beat this Broncos team, which honestly has been a better team on balance this year. The Broncos don’t have an elite offense like the Bengals, but it is good enough to go up and down the field against the Bengals. And Joe Burrow will have to keep up against a really good Broncos defense. But I picked Bo Nix over Justin Herbert last week, and I’m not making the same mistake this week picking him against Joe Burrow. Prediction: Bengals win 34-31 Cardinals at Rams: Jemp: Rams, Reeb: Rams, Pep: Rams, Screw: Rams The Rams took down Aaron Rodgers last week, but they are the enigma to me. It was a game of few possessions last week, so I suppose their offense was fine, but I still don’t know what team is going to show up each week. Now they get the rematch from Week 2 when Kyler Murray went nuclear on them. It would be nice for my fantasy championship hopes if he could do that again, but I somehow doubt it, as these are two very different teams. The Rams defense is actually relatively consistent week to week, as they can compete up front but struggle to cover good receivers. I guess we will see if Marvin Harrison Jr. can take advantage of that. Granted, he had his best game as a pro against this team last time, so maybe he can do it again. I still like the Rams at home though. Prediction: Rams win 27-24 Jets at Bills: Jemp: Bills, Reeb: Bills, Pep: Bills, Screw: Bills This seems like a pretty straightforward game to pick, as the Bills are a Super Bowl contender and the Jets still suck. The Jets somehow scored 9 points last week without punting. That’s just impressive. The only weird part about this game is that there is a chance the Bills could rest some starters if the Chiefs win on Christmas. They would be out of contention for the 1 seed, and there isn’t much of a difference between the 2-4 seeds. But I believe in the Jets to even find a way to lose to Mitch Trubisky, so I’ve got the Bills. Prediction: Bills win 35-20 Raiders at Saints: Jemp: Raiders, Reeb: Raiders, Pep: 0-0 Tie, Screw: Saints Guys it’s Christmas and my gift to myself is to not have to write about this game. Prediction: Raiders win 17-13 Colts at Giants: Jemp: Colts, Reeb: Colts, Pep: Colts, Screw: Colts The only good thing about this Giants team is that it has given me great defenses to stream in fantasy. I’d picked up the Falcons and Colts to start in my playoff runs, and Drew Lock was very generous last week for me. Hopefully he can do it again this week so I can take home a few metaphorical fantasy trophies. Also this Colts team might sneak in the playoffs because they have the Giants this week and the Jaguars next week. All they need is the Broncos to lose to the Bengals and Chiefs and they’re in. If that happens the Bills want to be a little more serious about hanging onto the 2 seed, because this team does not deserve to make the playoffs. I love to see Jonathan Taylor going off but they still can’t pass the ball, which seems like an issue. Prediction: Colts win 24-10 Cowboys at Eagles: Jemp: Eagles, Reeb: Eagles, Pep: Eagles, Screw: Eagles It’s really weird having to publish this so early with Wednesday football, as I have no idea if Jalen Hurts will be able to play in this game. And despite how much I wanted to rail against the Cowboys, this team isn’t that bad. The defense is now legitimately good and the offense isn’t a trainwreck with Cooper Rush. Then again, the fact that they have gone back to being mediocre is more fitting and probably more detrimental to the Cowboys future. They aren’t going to the playoffs and they aren’t getting a particularly good pick. Plus, they probably just run this back next year with Dak, McCarthy and friends. Anyway, I think the Cowboys can give the Kenny Pickett Eagles a run for their money, but the Eagles are still better overall either way, so I’ll take them at home. Prediction: Eagles win 27-17 Panthers at Buccaneers: Jemp: Bucs, Reeb: Bucs, Pep: Panthers, Screw: Bucs The Bucs are no longer in the driver’s seat for the NFC South title, but if they win this week, they should be good because the Falcons will get an auto-loss against the Commanders. But this Panthers team is no easy out. Bryce Young had a great bounce back game last week winning the battle of the short kings. This week he gets a rematch against another sub-6-ft QB, and he knows he probably should have won the last time around. I think this will be a fun game, but I just like how this Panthers team is playing. I’d like to see the Bucs make the playoffs because they are more fun than the Falcons, but I think the Panthers might be better right now. Prediction: Panthers win 30-27 Titans at Jaguars: Jemp: Jaguars, Reeb: Titans, Pep: Titans, Screw: Titans Sign me up for a Titans Jags buried on this Sunday 1pm slate. I know last time around we got a 10-6 affair, but I think this time around we will crank up the points. Mason Rudolph is in for the Titans, and Mac Jones is slinging it to Brian Thomas. Can’t wait to watch this one with the PFJ crew. Prediction: Titans win 34-31 Dolphins at Browns: Jemp: Dolphins, Reeb: Dolphins, Pep: Dolphins, Screw: Dolphins If Jameis was playing, I would probably take the Browns here, because I don’t want this Dolphins team in the playoffs. It’s so boring, and just good enough to beat all these bad teams. But the Browns are way too bad with DTR in at quarterback, so I’ll take the Dolphins on the road. Prediction: Dolphins win 23-10 Packers at Vikings: Jemp: Packers, Reeb: Packers, Pep: Packers, Screw: Packers Wow I didn’t expect to see all these picks for the Packers. But I get it, the Packers are playing as well as anyone right now. Their defense has been great down the stretch here. Sure, they gave up some points to the Lions, but the Lions might have the best offense in football. Sam Darnold has played well, but that offense isn’t on the Lions level. And while the Vikings defense has been great all year, I don’t know if they can stop the Packers run game. The Packers are dicing teams up right now, and I think they are the better team here. But I want the Vikings to win so the Commanders move up a seed and so the Week 18 game between them and the Lions is more fun. Not a great reason, but they are a good team at home, so why not lone wolf them? Prediction: Vikings win 34-31 Falcons at Commanders: Jemp: Commanders, Reeb: Commanders, Pep: Commanders, Screw: Commanders Well if Kirk was playing, I might have been nice enough to predict points for the Falcons, but with Penix, this team is going to get demolished. Prediction: Commanders win 300-0 Lions at 49ers: Jemp: Lions, Reeb: Lions, Pep: Lions, Screw: Lions Oh, what could have been. This looked like potentially the game of the year coming into the season. The NFC championship rematch of two powerhouse teams. Instead, we have a broken 49ers team hosting the NFC favorite. But the Lions have to be given credit, because while the niners have folded due to injuries, the Lions are still thriving. Sure, their defense has some holes, but they still look like one of the NFL’s elite teams. I still see this team going on a run. Prediction: Lions win 38-24 Here are the standings:
Reeb: 159-65 Screw: 150-74 Jemp: 148-76 Pep: 144-80 Alx: 140-84 I might be way behind in the picks but at least I was tied for the best record last week. Now I’m feeling good and picking way more upsets so I’ll probably blow that this week, but who cares. We get to watch some football. So let’s pick some games. Broncos at Chargers: Jemp: Chargers, Reeb: Chargers, Pep: Chargers, Screw: Broncos A pivotal matchup in the AFC playoff hunt. Realistically, both of these teams are probably in, but the fact that one of them will get a loss this week keeps hope alive for Colts, Dolphins, and Bengals fans. I know Reeb might pretend like he has completely given up, but I bet there is still some hope in there to be crushed. That’s probably why he is picking the Chargers, because the Broncos play the Bengals and Chiefs after this, so they are the more likely team to lose out. The Chargers have the Patriots and Raiders, so that seems more far-fetched. However, to me it seems like the Broncos are just hitting their stride, while the Chargers are falling apart. Granted, Bo Nix and the offense didn’t play well last week, and it seemed like they might lose to the Colts, but overall, they still have one of the best defenses in football, and an offense that can score, albeit inconsistently. I’d like to see the Chargers bounce back, but I’m feeling better about the Broncos right now. Prediction: Broncos win 21-17 Texans at Chiefs: Jemp: Chiefs, Reeb: Chiefs, Pep: Chiefs, Screw: Texans Nothing like some Saturday Football to overshadow the College Football Playoffs. We get to watch CJ Stroud against… maybe Carson Wentz? Patrick Mahomes practiced fully on Tuesday and Wednesday, so it seems like he could go, but why force him in when the Chiefs have three games in eleven days? Especially when he’s taking so many hits and has to go up against Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter. The Texans offense might not be all it was cracked up to be, but the defense is pretty good, as demonstrated when they shut down the Dolphins last week. It feels like Mahomes will play, but on the off chance that he doesn’t or isn’t fully healthy, I’m going to take the Texans. No way Mahomes can win on a gimpy ankle right? Prediction: Texans win 23-20 Steelers at Ravens: Jemp: Ravens, Reeb: Ravens, Pep: Steelers, Screw: Ravens The Steelers are entering their toughest stretch of the season, but they can clinch the AFC North with a win in this one. It feels like the Ravens are the better team and won’t let that happen, but the Steelers have their number. Lamar has played like Superman this year, but is there an answer for his kryptonite? This Steelers defense has always found a way to shut him down. However, they couldn’t stop the Eagles last week, and I think Lamar is playing too well for him to fold against these Steelers a second time. What a start to Saturday Night Football. Prediction: Ravens win 24-21 Giants at Falcons: Jemp: Falcons, Reeb: Falcons, Pep: Falcons, Screw: Falcons Well the Falcons managed not to lose to the Raiders, but Kirk still got benched. I can’t say it is undeserved, but it’s sad to see him go out like this. Now we are into the Michael Penix era. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Penix coming out of college, but he was successful in college and now he gets to play against the equivalent of a college team. Prediction: Falcons win 20-13 Lions at Bears: Jemp: Lions, Reeb: Lions, Pep: Lions, Screw: Lions Well this will be a real test of the Lions defense. Sure, they couldn’t stop the Bills and the Packers put up points against them, but if they let Caleb Williams go up and down the field against them, then they are really in trouble. Caleb had some success in that Thanksgiving game, but the fact that they held him down in the first half made me believe they still had enough for this team to be a Super Bowl favorite. I still think the Lions are a top contender, but maybe not THE top contender anymore. And they should take care of the Bears without a problem. Prediction: Lions win 34-27 Browns at Bengals: Jemp: Bengals, Reeb: Bengals, Pep: Bengals, Screw: Bengals Joe Burrow said the Bengals needed to start getting some breaks and it seems like their luck is turning. They get that weird blocked punt turned muff in the Cowboys game, then they get to play against Will Levis, and now they play the Browns just after they bench Jameis Winston. Sure, Jameis would probably gift them a couple of picks, but he might have another 500 yard day against this defense. I don’t think DTR is doing that. Prediction: Bengals win 27-14 Titans at Colts: Jemp: Titans, Reeb: Colts, Pep: Colts, Screw: Colts It is that time of year where Rudolph has to come in to save the day. Unfortunately, there is no saving this Titans team who is long since eliminated from playoff contention. Then again, they might be good enough to beat this Colts team, which is still hamstrung by their lack of a passing game. You never know when Anthony Richardson is going to put on a show, but those performances have been way too few and far between this season, so I like the Titans in the upset. Prediction: Titans win 23-21 Rams at Jets: Jemp: Rams, Reeb: Rams, Pep: Rams, Screw: Rams Is Aaron Rodgers proving he can stay in the league? He has played pretty well the past few weeks, and at least showed that he still has all the physical tools. I doubt he comes back as the Jets quarterback, but I would think he wants to play. Maybe he can flourish on a team that isn’t a disaster. But we all feel like these Rams are coming into their own, and this is a huge coaching mismatch, so we all like the Rams. Prediction: Rams win 27-20 Eagles at Commanders: Jemp: Eagles, Reeb: Eagles, Pep: Commanders, Screw: Eagles Well it looks like it’s time for the Eagles’ winning streak to come to an end. Jayden Daniels and Scary Terry should dismantle this terrible team. Prediction: Commanders win 100-0 Cardinals at Panthers: Jemp: Cardinals, Reeb: Cardinals, Pep: Panthers, Screw: Cardinals This might not be the most exciting game of the week, but these teams at least have a little something to play for. The Cardinals still have an outside chance at the playoffs, and even if they fall short, they want to show that they are building something in the Jonathan Gannon era. The Panthers are trying to build on what Bryce Young has shown since he returned to the lineup. He took a step back last week, but he was far from the hopeless Bryce Young from the first few weeks. If he can make a few plays even on his bad days, then he still has a chance to be this team’s franchise quarterback. I think he likely remains their starter next year, but playing well down the stretch could solidify that. Prediction: Cardinals win 27-24 Vikings at Seahawks: Jemp: Vikings, Reeb: Vikings, Pep: Vikings, Screw: Vikings Well the good news for Seahawks fans is that it looks like Geno is going to play in this one. It’s bad news for me because I have the Vikings defense on a few fantasy playoff rosters and I was really looking forward to them getting to play against Sam Howell. I agree with everyone that the Vikings are the better team here, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the Seahawks won either. The Vikings haven’t been blowing teams away, and if you let the Seahawks stay in the game, Geno could easily prove he is the better failed Jets quarterback. But I’m not bold enough to pick this one today, I’ll take the Vikings with everyone else. Prediction: Vikings win 27-24 Patriots at Bills: Jemp: Bills, Reeb: Bills, Pep: Bills, Screw: Bills Josh Allen is the hottest quarterback in the league right now, and he’s playing extremely well too. I can’t remember any other quarterback that turned his offense as unstoppable as Josh Allen does when he’s on a heater. However, I feel like the play of Josh Allen has distracted us from the failings of this defense. They have gotten completely steamrolled in two straight games. If we have concerns about the Lions defense, we should be equally concerned about the Bills. The Bills lost essentially the same game as the Lions just a week ago because their defense couldn’t get a stop. This past week it was the Bills who got off to the fast start, but one mistake from the offense could have cost the Bills that game. Josh Allen can’t stay this perfect all season, and this defense could be the reason this team can’t make it to the Super Bowl. But this week I think they are good against the Patriots. Prediction: Bills win 38-24 Jaguars at Raiders: Jemp: Jaguars, Reeb: Jaguars, Pep: Jaguars, Screw: Jaguars You guys don’t need me to comment on this. I might as well take the lone wolf here, because who the hell knows. Prediction: Raiders win 23-20 49ers at Dolphins: Jemp: 49ers, Reeb: Dolphins, Pep: Dolphins, Screw: Dolphins Let’s get these Dolphins out of here. I know the 49ers are devastated by injuries and they just put up a stinker against the Rams, but it was a weird weather game and I think Kyle Shanahan can cook up some offense against this Dolphins team. They still have George Kittle and Jauan Jennings, and I think that’s enough for Kyle to take down his former protege. I’m really counting on Nick Bosa being back for the 49ers defense so they have some sort of pass rush, but if that happens, I think they should win this one. Prediction: 49ers win 26-23 Buccaneers at Cowboys: Jemp: Bucs, Reeb: Bucs, Pep: Bucs, Screw: Bucs I didn’t expect this Bucs team to win the NFC South, but I think they might just run away with it. They should be favored in all their remaining games, and their defense just played its best game of the season. The offense continues to be fun, and while the Cowboys defense isn’t a pushover anymore, I still think the Bucs can score against anybody. I think the Bucs makes quick work of this team. Prediction: Vikings win 30-21 Saints at Packers: Jemp: Packers, Reeb: Packers, Pep: Packers, Screw: Packers I guess it’s fine to have a low-key Monday Night game just before Christmas. Many people are probably already visiting their families and they just want something in the background they don’t need to pay too much attention to. That basically describes every Saints game, as long as the clock is operating properly. However, I bet there are a lot of fantasy playoff games that will come down to Josh Jacobs, so people might be invested in him. Prediction: Packers win 28-17 Here are the standings:
Reeb: 146-62 Screw: 139-69 Jemp: 137-71 Pep: 132-76 Alx: 127-81 Can we get some upsets please? I’m out here trying to come back by picking some lone wolfs and the favorites keep winning. Let’s get back to some chaos here in Week 15 and pick some games. Rams at 49ers: Jemp: Rams, Reeb: Rams, Pep: Rams, Screw: Rams Now that is the Rams offense I wanted to see. I said they had been disappointing and apparently that was the motivation they needed. I know Puka Nacua is clearly a PFJ reader. Puka absolutely dominated the Bills and fended off a pristine Josh Allen game. If the Rams can go toe-to-toe with the Bills, then they can compete with anyone. However, this niners team isn’t going away either. Isaac Guerendo looked like every other 49ers running back. He went off and then got hurt. However, it appears he is going to play in this one despite the short week. And let’s not forget that Kyle Shanahan has a very good record against Sean McVay. This is a fun battle in the NFC West, but I’m picking the Rams because I want to see them continue to soar. The niners are too beat up to have the same ceiling as the Rams this year, but I’m still a little skeptical if the Rams can keep up the offensive output they had last week. But we all know they have the talent for it, so I’m going with the Rams. Prediction: Rams win 31-24 Chiefs at Browns: Jemp: Chiefs, Reeb: Chiefs, Pep: Chiefs, Screw: Chiefs I give up on picking against the Chiefs. I still feel like this could be a game that Jameis somehow wins. We know he is putting up production every week, but he hasn’t been delivered from picks just yet. He should have been a little more general with his prayer after the Broncos game. He is obviously going to throw for a ton of yards to keep the Browns in this one, but the Chiefs will win by some voodoo magic at the end. Prediction: Chiefs win 26-24 Bengals at Titans: Jemp: Bengals, Reeb: Bengals, Pep: Bengals, Screw: Bengals Well I think the Bengals playoff chances increased with their win last week to like 4% or something like that. It would have been fun to see Joe Burrow and JaMarr Chase in the playoffs. JaMarr looks like the best receiver in football right now, something I always thought he would be at some point. But it doesn’t matter right now, because the Bengals have a defense that can’t stop anyone. I expect even Will Levis will put up points against them. But if anyone is better at finding ways to lose than the Bengals, it’s these Titans. Prediction: Bengals win 31-21 Commanders at Saints: Jemp: Commanders, Reeb: Commanders, Pep: Commanders, Screw: Commanders Do I think Jake Haener or Spencer Rattler has a chance against these Commanders? Coach Rizzi won’t even commit to a starter because he knows either will get throttled by Washington. Prediction: Commanders win 200-0 Ravens at Giants: Jemp: Ravens, Reeb: Ravens, Pep: Ravens, Screw: Ravens And the Ravens get their second bye week in a row. I know it’s low-hanging fruit, but I couldn’t resist. The Giants can keep striving for that number one pick and Lamar can go back to beating every NFC team he plays after taking an L to the Eagles. Maybe even Justin Tucker can get back on track. Prediction: Ravens win 30-10 Cowboys at Panthers: Jemp: Cowboys, Reeb: Cowboys, Pep: Panthers, Screw: Panthers Is any non-playoff team more fun to watch than the Panthers right now? This team gives it their all every week and Bryce Young has been completely transformed. He doesn’t just keep the offense on schedule, he is creating plays on his own and elevating his receivers. Now even the Panthers defense is playing with their hair on fire despite not having any players that the average NFL could name. Well I guess people probably know Jadeveon Clowney, but it’s A’shawn Robinson that is leading this team in sacks. This team is due for a win, and the Cowboys are the perfect team to get one against. Prediction: Panthers win 24-20 Jets at Jaguars: Jemp: Jets, Reeb: Jets, Pep: Jets, Screw: Jets Will Aaron Rodgers ever win another game? This is the best opportunity he is going to have, as he goes into Duvall to face Mac Jones. Granted, this Jaguars team just took down the vaunted Titans, so it won’t be easy. The Jets are so much more talented than the Jags right now, but the Jets can find a way to lose any game, so nothing would surprise me here. Well, if Mac Jones threw like 5 touchdowns against the Jets, then that would surprise me. But anything else is fair game. Prediction: Jets win 27-13 Dolphins at Texans: Jemp: Dolphins, Reeb: Dolphins, Pep: Texans, Screw: Dolphins I’m curious as to how the Texans will respond coming off of their bye. They have certainly been disappointing this season, but I think they have more potential than the Dolphins and could have figured something out over the break. Maybe this is wishcasting, but they are home favorites here, and the Dolphins aren’t some juggernaut that they can’t beat. I think CJ Stroud has a good game coming off the bye and takes out these Dolphins. Prediction: Texans win 23-20 Colts at Broncos: Jemp: Broncos, Reeb: Broncos, Pep: Broncos, Screw: Broncos This might be the most significant game of the week in the AFC. If the Broncos win, they just about lock up a playoff spot, but a Colts win could create a glimmer of hope for the Colts and other AFC fringe teams like the Dolphins and Bengals. I definitely don’t think the Broncos are invulnerable, but I still have a tough time trusting Anthony Richardson to make enough plays, especially against this Broncos defense. Sure, Jameis was able to light them up, but he is about the polar opposite of Richardson. Maybe the Colts have a good gameplan out of the bye, but I like the Broncos at home. Prediction: Broncos win 24-20 Bills at Lions: Jemp: Lions, Reeb: Bills, Pep: Lions, Screw: Lions Could this be a Super Bowl Preview? It certainly looks like the game of the week and we can expect a boatload of points. The Bills just had a shootout with the Rams and came up short despite the best ever fantasy performance by a quarterback. I’m not sure how this Lions defense can slow down Josh Allen with all the injuries they have suffered. But, this Lions offense is still rolling, and Dan Campbell refuses to ever punt. I think Jack Fox is more likely to throw a pass than to actually punt the ball in this game. I could see this one going either way, but I still think the Lions are the best team in football and they are at home, so I’ll go Detroit. Prediction: Lions win 38-35 Steelers at Eagles: Jemp: Steelers, Reeb: Steelers, Pep: Steelers, Screw: Steelers You guys are going to let me lone wolf the Eagles again? I mean, I hate the Eagles and hope they lose, but I have no doubt in my mind they are a better team than the Steelers. I understand they are a hot mess in terms of vibes and team unity, but none of that matters when they hand the ball to Saquon Barkley. The Steelers can always throw a wrench in anyone’s plans, but it’s harder for TJ Watt and company to make game-changing plays when the Eagles are just running the ball. Vic Fangio’s 2-deep defense should also limit Russ’s moon ball so this could just be a terrible matchup for the Steelers. Prediction: Eagles win 27-17 Patriots at Cardinals: Jemp: Cardinals, Reeb: Cardinals, Pep: Cardinals, Screw: Cardinals It seems the Cardinals may have blown their chances at winning the NFC West, but at least a win against this Patriots team can make them feel a little better. I shouldn’t say they are completely out of it, but they need to gain three games on the Seahawks with only four games left. Not to mention the other two teams in the division. And all that being said, they shouldn’t take this Patriots team lightly. Drake Maye is playing good football, and if the bad Cardinals show up, these Pats certainly have a chance. But for the sake of my Kyler Murray fantasy teams, I’m taking the Cardinals at home. Prediction: Cardinals win 24-21 Buccaneers at Chargers: Jemp: Chargers, Reeb: Chargers, Pep: Chargers, Screw: Chargers This is a fascinating one, because I’m not sure what to make of either of these teams. The Bucs are now leading their division, and at times they can look like a well-oiled machine on offense. But other times, Baker is making head-scratching decisions and they stall out. They also have a defense that good passing attacks can take advantage of. But are the Chargers a good passing attack? Justin Herbert is playing great, but he desperately needs Ladd McConkey back, and even then, he doesn’t have enough weapons. I at least have some faith in the Chargers defense, which is why I’m taking them at home. Prediction: Chargers win 28-20 Packers at Seahawks: Jemp: Seahawks, Reeb: Packers, Pep: Packers, Screw: Packers We have a bunch of pivotal games in the playoff race this week, and this is one of them. The Seahawks are trying to hang on to the NFC West, and the Packers still aren’t guaranteed a Wild Card spot. This NFC is tough and while they played well against the Lions, their record doesn’t reflect moral victories. I think this is a relatively even game, but I think the Packers have a slightly higher floor and ceiling, so I’ll take them on the road. Prediction: Packers win 27-24 Bears at Vikings: Jemp: Vikings, Reeb: Vikings, Pep: Vikings, Screw: Vikings It’s the battle of the USC quarterbacks. Two highly touted draft prospects who have seen their ups and downs, but Darnold has gotten through the downs and he is as high as Josh Gordon right now. He threw 5 touchdown passes last week, 3 to Jordan Addison and 2 to JJettas. Darnold is out there getting people into the fantasy playoffs, while Caleb is pumping garbage time touchdowns to Odunze who everyone left on their bench. The Bears offense seems to take about a half of football to actually start moving the ball at all, which is a touch strategy in the NFL. I’d say it isn’t recommended at any level of football in fact. Prediction: Vikings win 30-21 Falcons at Raiders: Jemp: Falcons, Reeb: Falcons, Pep: Falcons, Screw: Falcons Well, my prediction of a bounce-back game for Kirk didn’t exactly pan out. He didn’t play terribly, but again threw a couple of bad picks. They weren’t nearly as disgusting as the ones against the Chargers though, so that’s progress. Fortunately, the Raiders are the perfect opponent for him to get right. Antonio Pierce probably knows he is a dead man walking and is just trying to hold on for dear life. And I don’t think the Falcons are too concerned about the Desmond Ridder revenge game. But if Kirk doesn’t perform here, then it might be the end of ole’ Kirko Chainz. Prediction: Falcons win 28-17 Here are the standings:
Reeb: 136-59 Screw: 127-68 Jemp: 127-68 Pep: 122-73 Alx: 119-76 Fantastic holiday and while there were a bunch of thrilling games, most of the results were chalk. I went 13-3 and had the worst record of the group. It was not a good week to go against the grain. But, now we are into Week 14 with six teams on bye for some unknown reason. Anyway, let’s pick some games. Packers at Lions: Jemp: Lions, Reeb: Lions, Pep: Lions, Screw: Lions The rare Thursday Night game where neither team is on a short week. The NFC North is heating up, because while the Lions have been the top dog in the NFC for the whole year, the Packers and Vikings have managed to stay right on their heels. And while the Lions continue to rack up wins, they have also been racking up injuries. Even so, their offense is nearly at full strength, and still looks like the best unit in the NFL to me. I’m shocked they are only three point favorites at home, despite the Packers being a formidable foe. Prediction: Lions win 34-24 Jaguars at Titans: Jemp: Titans, Reeb: Titans, Pep: Titans, Screw: Titans It is blasphemous that this isn’t on Thursday Night Football. It’s the perfect Jaguars Titans TNF matchup, but Amazon Prime is all about trying to get good games now. It’s sad what has happened to the great tradition we once loved. Instead this gets buried with all the other 1pm games, and I doubt Scott Hanson is going here except when he absolutely has to. But I don’t think any of us can bring ourselves to pick Mac Jones, so I’ll take the Titans at home. Prediction: Titans win 24-17 Jets at Dolphins: Jemp: Dolphins, Reeb: Dolphins, Pep: Dolphins, Screw: Dolphins Get me away from this Jets season. There is no chance that I pick them in this one, but I kind of want to pick them to cover. As much of a mess as they are, they aren’t that bad a team. They’ve been competitive with the mid-level teams, they just always blow it in the end. I expect something similar here, although the Dolphins might be sharper back in sunny Miami. Tua is playing good football, but this Dolphins team isn’t going anywhere. Prediction: Dolphins win 27-20 Falcons at Vikings: Jemp: Vikings, Reeb: Vikings, Pep: Vikings, Screw: Vikings I know some people who would have given Kirkland Cousins a DOOM last week. I can’t believe I’m making these references now, but I need something to cope with the disaster of a game that Kirk had. Kirk has been in a bit of a slump, but I don’t remember him having a game like that since he played the Bears in 2018. However, I have faith in Kirk to shake it off and bounce back in a revenge game here against the Vikings. He can’t let Sam Darnold outplay him, and while this Vikings team has been good, they are bound to drop one here sooner or later. I think Kirk is the man to do it. Prediction: Falcons win 24-21 Saints at Giants: Jemp: Saints, Reeb: Saints, Pep: Saints, Screw: Saints I refuse to waste words on this game. Giants. Tanking. Saints. Win. Prediction: Saints win 21-13 Panthers at Eagles: Jemp: Eagles, Reeb: Eagles, Pep: Eagles, Screw: Eagles Now here is a game that matters. The Eagles have proven they belong as a Super Bowl contender, and the Panthers have proven they belong as an NFL team. Both of these things were very much unproven earlier in the season. The Eagles should roll over the Panthers in this one, but I think Bryce Young needs to keep up his level of play to remain the Panthers starting quarterback next year. Right now, I think he is on track to keep that job, because he has been playing exceptionally well. But somehow I don’t think this Panthers defense can stop Saquon Barkley. Prediction: Eagles win 34-20 Browns at Steelers: Jemp: Steelers, Reeb: Steelers, Pep: Steelers, Screw: Steelers I know we are past Thanksgiving now, but I think we should all be thankful for Jameis Winston. No one provides entertainment like Jameis, whether he’s ripping deep bombs, throwing pick sixes, or giving the most ridiculous soundbites to the media. Is he actually a good quarterback? Not really, but he’s miles better than his predecessor. He already took down this Steelers team, but I sincerely doubt he can do it again. But he did ask God to deliver him from pick sixes, so maybe that helps. Prediction: Steelers win 27-20 Raiders at Buccaneers: Jemp: Bucs, Reeb: Bucs, Pep: Bucs, Screw: Bucs Antonio Pierce just can’t catch a break. He might not really know what he’s doing as a head coach, but he had the Chiefs in his sights and his team just couldn’t pull it off. The Bucs are a much better team than the Raiders and they are way more clutch, so I think they win the battle of the pirates. Prediction: Bucs win 30-17 Seahawks at Cardinals: Jemp: Cardinals, Reeb: Cardinals, Pep: Cardinals, Screw: Seahawks I’m surprised there are so many Cardinals supporters here, as I feel like it has been the Seahawks that have been on the upswing. Just a couple weeks ago I lone-wolfed the Seahawks in this matchup and they delivered. However, I think these are two pretty even teams and I just feel like they will split. Plus I might as well break ties in favor of the home team. The Cardinals nearly knocked off the Vikings last week, and I think they remember how to finish now. Prediction: Cardinals win 24-23 Bills at Rams: Jemp: Bills, Reeb: Bills, Pep: Bills, Screw: Bills I keep hoping we will see the version of the Rams that I expected at the beginning of the year, but each week it seems less and less likely. They aren’t bad, but I thought they could have one of the best offenses in the league, and in reality they are much closer to average. To be fair, average could still win them the NFC West, but it won’t win them this game, because the Bills are as hot as any team in the league. Josh Allen is galloping towards an MVP, and another big win here could help his case. Prediction: Bills win 38-27 Bears at 49ers: Jemp: Bears, Reeb: 49ers, Pep: 49ers, Screw: 49ers I’m surprised we have so many 49ers backers here. I know the 49ers have the coaching advantage, but we always see a little boost to teams after their coach is fired. And other than that, the Bears actually have players who aren’t hurt. The niners have lost so much on offense that there only chance to win this game is to ride Isaac Guerendo. And who knows? Maybe that will work, but I don’t want to bet on it. Prediction: Bears win 27-20 Chargers at Chiefs: Jemp: Chiefs, Reeb: Chiefs, Pep: Chargers, Screw: Chiefs I’ve broken my rule about picking against the Chiefs way too much this year, but I can’t help thinking the Chargers have a shot here. Everyone seems to have a shot against the Chiefs, until they don’t. And it’s hard to believe in the Chargers pulling out a close game against the Chiefs. However, while the Chargers have their own issues, they also have a great coach and quarterback duo, and I think they actually match up well versus Kansas City. They played them tough the last time and that was when all their best players were hurt. This time around, they are mostly healthy, so I’ll foolishly take the Chargers to win in Arrowhead. Prediction: Chargers win 24-21 Bengals at Cowboys: Jemp: Bengals, Reeb: Cowboys, Pep: Bengals, Screw: Bengals Well, the Bengals have disappointed me for the last time this year, because I think they are officially out of the playoff mix. Obviously they are still mathematically alive, but even if they win out, I think the Broncos have been too solid to drop that many games. It is crazy that the Bengals have the worse record between these two teams, but I don’t think they drop one to them. I actually think the Bengals have been pretty consistent other than the disaster in Week 1. Since then, they’ve beaten every bad team and lost to every good team. The Cowboys are a bad team, so I’ll take the Bengals on the road. Prediction: Bengals win 28-20 Here are the standings:
Reeb: 122-57 Screw: 114-65 Jemp: 112-67 Pep: 108-71 Alx: 106-73 You know what time it is! It’s the time of year that brings us joy and removes all fear. It’s Thanksgiving and we’ve got a full weekend of football. How can anyone not think this is the best holiday? Let’s pick some games. Bears at Lions: Jemp: Lions, Reeb: Lions, Pep: Lions, Screw: Lions It’s a Thanksgiving tradition like none other. At midday, you are smelling that Turkey in the oven and tune in to watch the Lions get smashed before dinner. But these aren’t your grandma’s Detroit Lions. This year, the demolition in Detroit will look a little bit different, because Dan Campbell holds no prisoners. This year, the Lions will be biting kneecaps and turkey legs, as they are the unstoppable force that keeps rolling through the NFC. Sure, we expected them to win last year and they were steamrolled by an up and coming Packers team, but even last year’s Lions team pales in comparison to this one. Caleb Williams and this Bears offense is on the rise, but not enough to beat these Lions. Prediction: Lions win 34-17 Giants at Cowboys: Jemp: Cowboys, Reeb: Cowboys, Pep: Cowboys, Screw: Cowboys While it’s tradition for the Lions to lose on Thanksgiving, the Cowboys usually play their best (Except when RGIII lights them up for 4 touchdowns). However, it has been a sad season for these lowly Cowboys, and they seemed as bad as anyone once Cooper Rush entered the starting lineup. However, they have been granted a gift from the heavens to play a team that is even more pathetic than they are. The Cowboys have won 7 straight against the Giants and 14 of the last 15. This is a Giants team that is so down bad, that they are worried about the fact that Tommy Devito won’t be able to suit up for this one. But maybe Drew Lock is the hero the Giants need right now. I don’t know, I stupidly picked the Giants last week and they hit rock bottom. I think they can rebound against a Cowboys team that is just as bad. I’ll lone wolf the Giants. Prediction: Giants win 20-17 Dolphins at Packers: Jemp: Packers, Reeb: Packers, Pep: Packers, Screw: Dolphins I love this matchup of Mike McDaniel vs. Matt Lafleur. These are probably the two most successful offshoots of the Shanahan/McVay offense, yet they’ve done it in very different ways. McDaniel has brought so much flash to an offense that popularized the “cheat” motion, which can function at the highest level when everything is under control. But it is Matt Lafleur that has created a meat and potatoes offense that can win even when Malik Willis is in at quarterback. I expect the Packers to take care of business here, but if the Dolphins can pull this one out, then I can begin to take them seriously. Prove that they can beat a good team in cold weather and then maybe I’ll buy that this isn’t the same old Dolphins. Prediction: Packers win 27-20 Raiders at Chiefs: Jemp: Chiefs, Reeb: Chiefs, Pep: Chiefs, Screw: Chiefs Expect your local shopping malls to be as packed as ever, because no one is staying home to watch Desmond Ridder or Aidan O’Connell try and beat the Chiefs. Sure, the Chiefs might pull their usual bullshit and make the game closer than it should be so they can pull it out at the end. But I doubt that they even need to do that in this one. I just don’t see how the Raiders put up more than 14 points against the Chiefs defense with either of these signal callers. Prediction: Chiefs win 23-13 Chargers at Falcons: Jemp: Chargers, Reeb: Chargers, Pep: Falcons, Screw: Chargers Justin Herbert played a spectacular game on Monday Night that made me think he was going to be in the running for MVP, until it was clear all his efforts were futile. Quentin Johnston did his best Kadarius Toney impression and showed the weakness of this Chargers team. When Jalen Reagor isn’t your most mistake prone receiver, you know you have a problem. That being said, I don’t think it shows up in this one, because this Falcons defense is a joke. And while I do like those, I don’t think they can stop the Chargers. I do wonder what the loss of JK Dobbins will do to the offense, but I still have to pick the Chargers here, as much as I want to believe in Kirk. Prediction: Chargers win 27-24 Steelers at Bengals: Jemp: Steelers, Reeb: Steelers, Pep: Steelers, Screw: Bengals If the Bengals have a miracle left in them, now would be the time. Joe Burrow got a chance for a reset over the bye week, and now he has TJ Watt and company coming to town. I actually think the Bengals match up pretty well against the Steelers. The Steelers are not a defense that they can expect to score against at will, but the Bengals offense is good enough to put up point against anyone. As for the Steelers offense, I don’t think they are built to take advantage of bad defenses. They are a boom-bust offense with those Russell Wilson moon balls, which aren’t what most defenses are used to defending. Because of this, they tend to put up similar production regardless of the defense they are playing, which is great when they play good defenses, but disappointing when you play a bad defense like the Bengals. Then again, I don’t think the Bengals are good enough to blow the Steelers out and the Steelers always seem to win close games, while the Bengals seem to lose them. Still, I’ll ride with the Bengals, because I don’t want to see them fade away. Prediction: Bengals win 24-21 Cardinals at Vikings: Jemp: Vikings, Reeb: Vikings, Pep: Vikings, Screw: Vikings I feel like we definitely would have had some Cardinals backers if this game was played a week ago. Then they went to Seattle and forgot how to play offense. Now they have to go to another tough environment against a team that has been the epitome of consistency. Sure, it wasn’t that pretty, but they took care of the Bears last week, just like they do nearly every week. Yet, the Cardinals are so wild that they’ll probably be good this week and win. But I can’t pick them with how up and down they’ve been, especially in Minneapolis. Prediction: Vikings win 27-24 Colts at Patriots: Jemp: Colts, Reeb: Colts, Pep: Colts, Screw: Colts 15 years ago this was the best rivalry in the NFL, but I don’t think Maye v. Richardson has the same gravitas as Brady v. Manning. These are two teams just hoping that their young quarterbacks will develop, but I don’t feel the need to sit through their growing pains. In the meantime, the Patriots are just a worse team so I’ll take the Colts on the road. Prediction: Colts win 31-17 Seahawks at Jets: Jemp: Seahawks, Reeb: Jets, Pep: Seahawks, Screw: Seahawks I’m not sure how much I trust the Seahawks, but it’s way more than I trust the Jets. There are a lot of dumpster fires in the NFL right now, but none is as big and as smelly as these New York Jets. I don’t think anyone want to be there right now, and Aaron Rodgers is probably already in talks of where he’s going next year. He probably should retire, but I feel like his ego will make him try to prove he can succeed somewhere else. But we already know he isn’t succeeding here. Prediction: Seahawks win 24-10 Titans at Commanders: Jemp: Commanders, Reeb: Commanders, Pep: Commanders, Screw: Commanders Will Levis had one of the weirdest games I’ve ever witnessed. He took eight sacks, lost a fumble and threw a pick six, and after the game everyone is like “Will Levis really showed some improvement.” That is just the Will Levis experience. But he has no chance in this one because he has to go to Landover. Prediction: Commanders win 100-0 Texans at Jaguars: Jemp: Texans, Reeb: Texans, Pep: Texans, Screw: Texans I always forget how many bad teams are in the NFL right now until I write the pick’em. The Jaguars with Mac Jones at quarterback are not a serious operation. However, there is a chance that Trevor Lawrence plays this week, and if that’s the case, I’m not sure I trust the Texans to win this one, which is kind of sad. The Jaguars weren’t good with Lawrence, but they were at least competitive, and that might be good enough to steal one from this Texans team. But without knowing he is playing I can’t bet on the longshot for them to win anyway. Prediction: Texans win 26-13 Rams at Saints: Jemp: Rams, Reeb: Rams, Pep: Rams, Screw: Rams This game is actually pretty interesting. I want to take the Rams because they are fun and I’d like them to win the NFC West, but I don’t know if they are actually much better than this Saints team. Since Coach Rizz took over, the Saints are 2-0, and we know this team has some potential as demonstrated by their start to the season. Their defense fell apart under Dennis Allen, but their biggest problem was tackling that may have been attributed to poor effort. And the effort has skyrocketed since Dennis Allen left the building. Still, I don’t think Taysom Hill can continue to carry their offense, so I’ll take the Rams on the road. Prediction: Rams win 24-21 Buccaneers at Panthers: Jemp: Bucs, Reeb: Bucs, Pep: Bucs, Screw: Bucs Was that Bryce Young out there or Drew Brees? It’s astounding the improvement we’ve seen from Bryce in his few starts back. He clearly improved in his first game back from the benching, but he’s gotten better every week and last week was a near masterclass. Unfortunately he was playing Patrick Mahomes, so the Panthers couldn’t pull out the win, but that is good for Panthers fans anyway since they finally have a first round pick again. He still has very little around him, so I’m obviously taking the Bucs, but he could actually keep this job next year which seemed impossible after the benching. Prediction: Buccaneers win 28-20 Eagles at Ravens: Jemp: Ravens, Reeb: Ravens, Pep: Ravens, Screw: Ravens Easily the game of the week here, as this is a potential Super Bowl preview. Both of these teams played in primetime last week and proved why they are true contenders. These are the probably the two best rushing attacks in the NFL right now, with Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry in a battle for OPOY and potentially MVP as well. I’m surprised everyone is taking the Ravens because I feel like the Eagles are the better team right now. Both offenses are deadly with how well they can run the ball, but the Eagles defense is really coming together, while the Ravens defense is still shaky. The only issue in this one is that while the Eagles have a much better defense overall, the Eagles are built to stop the pass, while the Ravens are built to stop the run. That bodes well for the Ravens as both these offenses are built on the running game. But I can’t pass up this opportunity to lone wolf a team that I think is better, even if they are on the road in a tough matchup, and I hate them with every fiber of my being. Prediction: Eagles win 30-27 49ers at Bills: Jemp: Bills, Reeb: Bills, Pep: Bills, Screw: Bills Well I obviously would not have picked the niners last week if I knew Brock Purdy wasn’t going to play when I wrote the pick’em. However, the niners are so banged up that I don’t think they were winning this with Purdy either. I understand why we thought this was going to be a great Sunday Night Football game, but now I don’t know if it will be. Hopefully Purdy can come back so we can give the 49ers some chance, but even then I would have to pick the Bills at home. Prediction: Bills win 31-14 Browns at Broncos: Jemp: Broncos, Reeb: Broncos, Pep: Broncos, Screw: Broncos Jameis Winston revenge game against Sean Payton? This might not be Eagles Ravens, but I think it could be a fun game. While the Broncos have been rolling lately, I’m not sure if I trust them to win every game they should, and Jameis can always play the role of spoiler. Can I count on him to do that? Absolutely not. He just got the improbable win last week, but a coin can come up heads twice in a row. I’m down in the pick’em and I’m just tossing things out there, so I’ll lone wolf the Browns on the road. Prediction: Browns win 28-24 Here are the standings:
Reeb: 112-54 Screw: 106-60 Jemp: 105-61 Alx: 100-66 Pep: 99-67 Another tough week in the pick’em for me, as Pep and I have now fallen well below the rest of the group. But we get another great week of football here, and I’m excited to get to it. Let’s pick some games. Steelers at Browns: Jemp: Steelers, Reeb: Browns, Pep: Steelers, Screw: Steelers The Steelers are coming off a huge win in a dogfight against their division rival Ravens, and now they have to go on the road on a short week to play the Browns. Sure, they are the far superior team, but couldn’t you just see Jameis pulling this one out? He might throw five near picks, but they’ll somehow slip away from the defenders and he’ll torch the Steelers for 400 yards through the air. I can see it, but I can also see him getting beaten up by TJ Watt and company, and the Steelers making those plays on interceptions. I’ll let Reeb lone wolf the Browns here. Prediction: Steelers win 19-17 Vikings at Bears: Jemp: Vikings, Reeb: Vikings, Pep: Vikings, Screw: Vikings Well you can’t deny that firing Shane Waldren helped the Bears offense. They still lost the game, but they actually scored a couple of touchdowns and nearly had the game. Then it might have been divine intervention that didn’t allow the Bears to beat the Packers. Now they get another tough test with the Vikings coming to town. Caleb Williams enviously looking over at the support Sam Darnold has, while Sam looks back thinking Caleb knows nothing of bad situations. Bears fans can only hope that Caleb continues to look better in the post-Shane Waldren era, but I think Brian Flores will have his way with this Bears offense. Prediction: Vikings win 24-10 Lions at Colts: Jemp: Lions, Reeb: Lions, Pep: Lions, Screw: Lions I think we’ve gotten to the point where we aren’t picking against the Lions until further notice. And not in the way that Shane Steichen said Joe Flacco was the starting quarterback until he said otherwise. I expect to wait at least a couple of weeks before I change my mind on this. Steichen barely made it a couple of days, but it appears he made the right call. Anthony Richardson played his best game of the season, and took out the New York Jets. I think he can play well again, but beating the Lions is a little bit more difficult than beating the Jets. Prediction: Lions win 37-20 Patriots at Dolphins: Jemp: Dolphins, Reeb: Dolphins, Pep: Dolphins, Screw: Dolphins I’m tempted to take the Patriots here. Drake Maye continues to impress, and I think he has now elevated the Patriots offense to being better than their defense. That’s a pretty low bar to clear, but still impressive given what he has to work with. The Dolphins are just unbelievably boring to me. I’ve seen the Dolphins be this new, exciting, explosive offense that takes the league by storm and can’t keep it rolling through the season. Now, they are just fine. The offense has returned to being solid with Tua back there, and the defense has tightened up a little bit. But they aren’t built to compete with the real AFC teams in January so I just don’t want to bother with them now. But they’ll probably win this one. Prediction: Dolphins win 27-23 Buccaneers at Giants: Jemp: Bucs, Reeb: Bucs, Pep: Bucs, Screw: Bucs The Bucs have to be feeling good after the Falcons just lost again and they have the Giants, Panthers, and Raiders in their next three games. But now they have to deal with Tommy Cutlets. The Giants finally came to their senses and realized that Daniel Jones is not the future of their franchise, so they didn’t want to risk one injury forcing them to keep him for another year. They then had a choice on turning to Drew Lock or the man who invigorated all Giants fans for about three weeks last year. Those were probably the best three weeks Giants fans have had since 2016. Now we have to see if he can recapture that magic. He has better weapons now thanks to Malik Nabers, and he gets a very beatable secondary this week. I know it’s a longshot, but I’m falling behind in the standings so I’m lone-wolfing the Giants. Prediction: Giants win 27-24 Cowboys at Commanders: Jemp: Commanders, Reeb: Commanders, Pep: Commanders, Screw: Commanders Wow, this Cowboys team is hard to watch. Not for me, but I’m sure Cowboys fans have a tough time watching them. I could watch them flounder all day long. I can’t wait to watch the Commanders rip them apart. Prediction: Commanders win 100,000,000-0 Chiefs at Panthers: Jemp: Chiefs, Reeb: Chiefs, Pep: Chiefs, Screw: Chiefs The Chiefs are coming off their first loss of the season, and they have to follow it up by traveling to Carolina? I’m sure the Panthers coming off their bye will have a flawless strategy for dealing with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. But somehow, I think these plucky Chiefs will persevere and pull this game out on the road. Prediction: Chiefs win 27-10 Titans at Texans: Jemp: Texans, Reeb: Texans, Pep: Texans, Screw: Texans The Texans keep taking care of bad teams, but I wonder if they will ever beat a good one? We won’t get to find out this week, because they are playing the Titans, but I’d like to see them revitalize this passing game. Joe Mixon has carried this offense, as he’s playing the best football of his career. But with Nico Collins reentering the fold, maybe CJ Stroud can recapture some of his rookie magic. I don’t think he’s played poorly this year, but he’s fallen into some bad habits, and he hasn’t made that jump we hoped for. As for the Titans, well, let’s just hope Will Levis doesn’t embarrass himself. Prediction: Texans win 24-17 Broncos at Raiders: Jemp: Broncos, Reeb: Broncos, Pep: Broncos, Screw: Broncos There are a lot of lopsided games this week, but this is the last one. The Broncos seem to keep getting better and the Raiders seem to keep getting worse. All the changes to the Raiders coaching staff didn’t seem to make much of a difference last week. It wasn’t their worst game by any means, but I didn’t see much of a reason for optimism. I don’t know that Antonio Pierce is making it to his second year at this point. Prediction: Broncos win 27-10 49ers at Packers: Jemp: 49ers, Reeb: Packers, Pep: Packers, Screw: 49ers Now this is a fun one. Each time we think the 49ers are about to go on a run, they blow a game in which they had a 4th quarter lead. They seemed in control of that Seahawks game until Geno Smith produced a game-winning drive. They are leaning on Jauan Jennings to be their best player on offense, which is a far cry from what they have been in the past few years. However, I’m not sure about the Packers either. I feel like I still haven’t seen Jordan Love play a complete game this year, and the offense seems to sputter with him under center. He can still make a few sensational plays each week, but he isn’t on the heater on which he ended last year. Also, Kyle Shanahan has historically owned Matt Lafleur, so I’ll take the 49ers on the road. Prediction: 49ers win 27-24 Cardinals at Seahawks: Jemp: Cardinals, Reeb: Cardinals, Pep: Cardinals, Screw: Cardinals This is another fun one with the NFC West up for grabs. The Cardinals lead the division at 6-4, but the Seahawks have somehow gotten into striking distance. The Cards were playing their best football going into their bye, and there is no reason to think that they can’t take care of these Seahawks. Lumen Field isn’t the fortress it once was, and Kyler and company have a great chance of taking control of the NFC West. But ultimately, I feel like these are two even teams, and I could see Geno pulling out another last minute drive to clutch out a win. I’ve got a chance to lone-wolf a home team, so I’ll take it. Prediction: Seahawks win 28-27 Eagles at Rams: Jemp: Eagles, Reeb: Eagles, Pep: Eagles, Screw: Eagles I want to see the Rams win this, but I feel like I can’t pick against the Eagles right now. They are such a complete team and are playing so well on both sides of the ball. Strangely, the weakest part of their team right now is their defensive line, which was the foundation of their two super bowl runs. However, I think the Rams certainly have a chance here. I wanted the offense to bounce back after two rough games, and boy did they deliver. Nacua and Kupp both went over 100 yards and caught three of Matthew Stafford’s four touchdown passes. If they can keep that up, they will be a force in the NFC, especially with the defense playing so well. Ah screw it, I trust McVay, I’ll take the Rams. Prediction: Rams win 27-24 Ravens at Chargers: Jemp: Chargers, Reeb: Ravens, Pep: Ravens, Screw: Ravens I’m honestly surprised the Ravens are favored on the road here. The Ravens looked like a juggernaut early, but their defense has regressed to the point of being pushovers, and their offense has taken a half step back given how unstoppable they were earlier. The Chargers, on the other hand, have looked better and better each week. The defense is playing great, and Justin Herbert is playing his best football. Ladd McConkey and Will Dissly could give fits to the Ravens in this one, and let’s not forget about the revenge games for both of their running backs. I think Jesse Minter can limit Lamar just enough for the Chargers to pull this one out. Prediction: Chargers win 28-24 Here are the standings:
Reeb: 103-49 Screw: 96-56 Jemp: 95-57 Alx: 93-59 Pep: 90-62 I don’t want to talk about last week. Let’s pick some games. Commanders at Eagles: Jemp: Eagles, Reeb: Eagles, Pep: Commanders, Screw: Eagles A little NFC East action to start the week always feels good. Especially when it means the Commanders can dominate this Eagles team. Sure, the Eagles have improved on both sides of the ball, but they are still no match for Jayden Daniels and company. Prediction: Commanders win 100-0 Packers at Bears: Jemp: Packers, Reeb: Packers, Pep: Packers, Screw: Packers It feels like Matt Eberflus is a dead man walking in Chicago. Maybe scapegoating Shane Waldren buys him a couple more weeks, but I think he could be gone after this one if it goes as poorly as the last few weeks. I don’t think anyone expects the Bears to win here, but maybe if they can at least produce some actual offense, then Eberflus can stick around for a little longer. Whatever the case, it seems like the Bears are doing everything they can to ruin Caleb Williams. Maybe this franchise is just doomed to never have a franchise quarterback. Prediction: Packers win 27-10 Jaguars at Lions: Jemp: Lions, Reeb: Lions, Pep: Lions, Screw: Lions What is the spread on this game? Unless it’s Lions -50 I think I’m taking the Lions to cover. Even then, I’m not so sure. Trevor Lawrence has already been ruled out and the results for Mac Jones last week were about as expected. The Lions may have had a rougher outing against the Texans, but I don’t think the Jaguars can emulate that. But they did rattle Sam Darnold last week, so maybe I’m underestimating them. I doubt it though. Prediction: Lions win 37-13 Vikings at Titans: Jemp: Vikings, Reeb: Vikings, Pep: Vikings, Screw: Vikings Sam Darnold’s MVP campaign has come to a screeching halt, as he has fallen way back down to Earth over the past few weeks. However, the Vikings keep winning games thanks to their great defense and coaching. Even when Darnold is struggling, KOC utilizes his great players to get easy yards and move the ball. They outgained the Jaguars 402 yards to 143 yards last week despite a terrible Darnold game. They won’t get to play teams as bad as the Jaguars every week… but this week they do! Prediction: Vikings win 27-17 Raiders at Dolphins: Jemp: Dolphins, Reeb: Dolphins, Pep: Dolphins, Screw: Dolphins I really hope the Raiders can pull this one off so we don’t have to talk about this Dolphins team anymore. The Dolphins got a big win last week and proved they are certainly better than their terrible record. However, I still feel like this is just a worse version of the Dolphins we’ve seen the past two years under Mike McDaniel, and I don’t need them in the playoff mix. I expect they’ll beat the Raiders and Patriots and get to 5-6 and then people will be talking about the surging Dolphins, but I hope the Raiders can just shut that down this week. But I’m definitely not picking that. Prediction: Dolphins win 24-17 Rams at Patriots: Jemp: Rams, Reeb: Rams, Pep: Rams, Screw: Rams I’m growing more concerned about the Rams offense. They are now pretty close to fully healthy, and yet they are nowhere near the unit we expected coming into the season. They couldn’t score a touchdown against a suspect Dolphins defense on Monday night. I really hope Sean McVay can get this unit back on track, because their defense is holding up its end of the bargain. The Rams defense has elevated to an above average unit thanks to the play of Jared Verse and the rest of their young defensive front. I’m not sure if their offense can live up to its potential, but I definitely think it can be good enough to beat the Patriots. Prediction: Rams win 26-7 Browns at Saints: Jemp: Browns, Reeb: Browns, Pep: Browns, Screw: Saints This is a tough game to pick between two irrelevant teams. It’s funny because both of these teams looked like one of the worst teams in the league before they removed the biggest problem on the team and got an immediate boost. The Saints had that boost last week and defeated their rival Falcons, while the Browns beat their rival Ravens a few weeks ago. Now we get the Jameis Winston revenge game. Honestly, I have no idea who wins this, and I don’t really care that much, but I’ll take Jameis in the revenge game I guess. Prediction: Browns win 20-17 Colts at Jets: Jemp: Jets, Reeb: Jets, Pep: Colts, Screw: Jets This game I find a little bit interesting. The Colts are still alive in the playoff mix, and they’ve gone back to Anthony Richardson after a two week hiatus. I’m not really sure what is going on inside the Colts building, so I’ll just refrain from commenting on the decision-making there. I also wonder what the players' reception to Richardson re-entering the lineup will be. Are they happy to have him, or are some players still questioning his leadership? But even with all this tumult in Indianapolis, they are not the biggest sh*tshow in this game. The Jets are a disaster and I don’t think anyone is happy about anything in that building. But I’m going to pick them one more time because maybe they are more used to being a disaster than the Colts. Prediction: Jets win 23-21 Ravens at Steelers: Jemp: Ravens, Reeb: Steelers, Pep: Steelers, Screw: Steelers Now here is a good one for the lead in the AFC North. The Ravens still look like maybe the best offense in football, but their defense can be had. And as good as the Ravens offense has been, the Steelers have always known how to limit Lamar. This is no easy task for the Ravens offense. However, I think the Steelers might have more difficulty taking advantage of the holes in the Ravens defense than other teams. The Ravens shut down the run, and it isn’t these jump balls along the sidelines that they struggle with defending. Everything the Steelers do well on offense is not the weakness of the Ravens defense. I expect a more defensive battle than we are used to with the Ravens, but I think they come out on top. Prediction: Ravens win 20-17 Falcons at Broncos: Jemp: Broncos, Reeb: Falcons, Pep: Falcons, Screw: Falcons I’m looking forward to this one as I want to see how Kirk bounces back from that Saints loss. Kirktober is over, so we’ll have to see if the Falcons can stay relevant. This is no easy task against a tough Broncos defense, but I still think the Falcons are good enough to put up points. I’m more worried about a Falcons defense that hasn’t been able to stop anyone. Bo Nix is improving each week, and he still has a ways to go, but he can make some plays each and every week. I’m sticking with my guy Kirk but this will be a close one. Prediction: Falcons win 27-24 Seahawks at 49ers: Jemp: 49ers, Reeb: 49ers, Pep: 49ers, Screw: 49ers Will the Seahawks ever beat the 49ers? Back in the day, Pete Carroll used to own Kyle Shanahan, but then the tide shifted and the 49ers have won 6 in a row. Geno has yet to beat this 49ers squad, and I don’t see that changing here. The 49ers just got back their most important piece on offense, Jauan Jennings. He has taken over as the Brandon Aiyuk replacement, and produced once again last week. Also they got this McCaffrey guy back so I think they are fine here. Prediction: 49ers win 27-20 Chiefs at Bills: Jemp: Bills, Reeb: Chiefs, Pep: Bills, Screw: Bills I feel like we are all taking the Bills because we feel like the Chiefs have to lose a game eventually and this seems like a prime opportunity in Buffalo. Reeb has resigned himself to believing the Chiefs will get the right combination of black magic to come out on top. Now I have to debate myself because I said I wasn’t going to pick against the Chiefs anymore. It just seems like good strategy to pick them every week, because I’ll usually be correct. But it’s fun to try and pick the week that they will fall, and I think the Bills can get them here in Buffalo. Prediction: Bills win 28-27 Bengals at Chargers: Jemp: Chargers, Reeb: Chargers, Pep: Bengals, Screw: Bengals I’m very much looking forward to this Sunday Night matchup. Despite the Bengals record, I think they are still one of the most fun teams in the AFC, and I always like watching Justin Herbert as well. These two quarterbacks came out in the same draft class, and they are among the best in the NFL. The Chargers have been consistent all year, beating the teams they should, and dropping a few close ones against good teams. The Bengals have been somewhat up and down, but in actuality, they just can’t get a break against the NFL’s elite. Obviously they blew that Week 1 game to the Patriots, but since then, they’ve played the Chiefs and Ravens to a near draw twice, and just got banged in the end. Their other losses have come to Commanders and Eagles who are both 7 win teams. This Bengals team is still good and I think they get this win on the road on Sunday Night Football. Prediction: Bengals win 34-30 Texans at Cowboys: Jemp: Texans, Reeb: Texans, Pep: Texans, Screw: Texans Gross. Please get this Cowboys team out of primetime. It’s bad enough that we have to watch them on Thanksgiving. Without Dak, they might be the worst team in the NFL. Prediction: Texans win 23-0 |
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