Here are the standings:
 
Reeb: 188-108
Screw: 185-111
Pep: 176-120
Jemp: 175-121
Alx: 168-128
 
Congratulations to Reeb for clinching 1st place, but unfortunately for him we said this year was a mock pick’em, next year is the real thing. But we’ve still got one last game to pick, so let’s pick the Super Bowl.
 
49ers vs. Chiefs:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: Chiefs
It’s a rematch of Super Bowl LIV. Back then it was a matchup of the high flying Chiefs offense against the dominant 49ers defense. This time, it’s the Chiefs who have the better defense, and the niners that have incredible offense. It has been one of the best offenses we’ve seen in recent years, but it hasn’t been quite as smooth in their playoff run. Surprisingly, it’s been Mahomes who has looked much more comfortable in the playoffs despite the fact that he had never played a road playoff game before. Who could have seen that coming? What’s even more concerning for San Fran is that their defense hasn’t been able to stop Jordan Love or Jared Goff, and their performance over the course of the season has been inconsistent at best. Now the question is if they can stop Patrick Mahomes. I think they can do just enough to make a couple of plays against an inconsistent Chiefs offense, despite a couple of good playoff performances. I think with two weeks to prepare, the 49ers offense will get off to a much better start, and that will be enough to outscore the Chiefs. Or maybe the NFL scriptwriters need to have Taylor Swift celebrating on the field with Travis Kelce after the game. Either way, it should be a good one.
Prediction: 49ers win 27-24

​Here are the standings:
 
Reeb: 186-106
Screw: 183-109
Jemp: 175-117
Pep: 174-118
Alx: 166-126
 
Well, I’ve clinched last place with my desperate attempt to catch Reeb. It’s now officially down to Reeb and Screw for the title. We’ve only got three games left in the season, so let’s pick some games.
 
Chiefs at Ravens:
Jemp: Ravens,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Ravens,  Screw: Chiefs
You can’t ask for much more than Lamar vs. Mahomes to start off your day. While we’ve seen a ton of Mahomes vs. Allen, this matchup has been much more of a rarity. Both are about to be two-time MVPs, but only Mahomes has been to the big game before. Lamar gets his first shot at it this year, and he has the team to do it. I had hailed the Browns as the best defense in football for most of this year, but down the stretch, the Ravens have proved to be the more consistent unit. Their defense gives so many multiple looks that could confuse even the best quarterback. And that is what they will have to face in this one, because after struggling all year to get the offense going, the Chiefs seemed to have magically fixed all their issues in the playoffs. I can’t trust it quite enough to think they can get past the best team in the AFC this year, especially with how good the Ravens offense has looked as of late.
Prediction: Ravens win 27-24
 
Lions at 49ers:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: Lions
Goff vs. Purdy might not have the same pop as the other game, but I’m looking forward to this just as much. The NFC doesn’t have the flashy quarterbacks that the AFC has, but it does feature these two well-rounded teams. The Lions are loaded with weapons and a playcaller who knows how to utilize them all to their maximized potential. The problem is, so do the 49ers. And they actually have a defense to pair with it. The Lions defense hasn’t been a total pushover, but they might be against this 49ers offense. Deebo was back at practice so they could be at near full strength for this one, and that could spell trouble for the Lions. I don’t think Brock Purdy will have another stinker, and I expect the niners offense to roll in the nice weather. The Lions will have to keep up in a shootout, and I think the San Fran defense will make enough plays to get them the win. I know it’s boring, but I’ve said all playoffs that we would be getting a Ravens 49ers Super Bowl, and I’m sticking to that.
Prediction: 49ers win 34-31
 
 
 

Here are the standings:
 
Reeb: 178-106
Screw: 177-107
Pep: 170-114
Jemp: 169-115
Alx: 166-118
 
Well, it wasn’t a great Wild Card… sorry… Super Wild Card round for me in the Pick’em, but I got to watch the Cowboys and Eagles get thumped, so I enjoyed myself. I’m pretty much out of the running here, but technically I’m still alive. Let’s pick some games.
 
Texans at Ravens:
Jemp: Ravens,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Ravens,  Screw: Ravens
What a performance by the Texans last week. CJ Stroud was nearly flawless, making plays under pressure, dropping dimes downfield, and keeping the offense on schedule. That fearsome Browns defense was no match for the Texans offense, but this Ravens defense might be even more of a challenge. While the Browns have plenty of talent on defense, they can be had if you can contain Myles Garrett, who is their only true gamewrecker. The Ravens defense doesn’t have a gamewrecker like Garrett, but their scheme and defensive packages is what makes them so elite. The other problem is that they also have a quarterback playing at an MVP level. Granted, the Texans defense was able to stop the most iconic elite quarterback of all time last week, but Lamar poses a different set of challenges. Seems unlikely that the Texans can pull off another upset against the most dominant team in the league this year, but I might as well take my swings to try to catch up, so why not ride with Stroud?
Prediction: Texans win 26-23
 
Packers at 49ers:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: 49ers
So I could pretty much just copy and paste what I said about Stroud and just change the name to Jordan Love for this game. In fact, they had nearly identical box scores. Stroud was 16/21 for 274 yards, 3 TDs, and no interceptions, while Love was 16/21 for 272 yards, 3 TDs, and no interceptions. I suspected Jordan Love could produce against the Dallas defense, but what was more surprising to me was that the Packers defense was able to get stops against the Cowboys offense. Granted, this could just be another case of the Cowboys choking in the playoffs, but it could also be signs of an improving Packers defense. I still believe the 49ers are the best team in football, but again, I have to take some chances here. It’ll probably leave me in last place, but what does that matter.
Prediction: Packers win 34-31
 
Buccaneers at Lions:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Lions
This game might not feature the top super bowl contenders, but it might be the most fun matchup of the weekend. Who has more fun than Baker Mayfield’s Bucs and Dan Campbell’s Lions? I went with QB vs coach there because while Jared Goff and Todd Bowles are good at their jobs, I can’t exactly picture them being the life of the party. However, they were both feeling good last weekend. I still think this Lions team has more potential, and while I’m still a little hesitant to put them in the Super Bowl, they certainly have an outside shot at it. Then again, they don’t completely outclass the Bucs. I said the same thing when they played the Rams last week, and we got a very even matchup. Since I need to catch up, I’m obviously taking the Bucs, but this one should be a tight one.
Prediction: Lions win 31-28
 
Chiefs at Bills:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Bills,  Screw: Bills
Another Chiefs vs. Bills playoff showdown, but they don’t go into this game the same way they did the last time around. These used to be the two most explosive offenses in the league, and now they are much more methodical. The question is, how good are the offenses? The Chiefs have had so many questions surrounding their offense, but last week they were pretty dominant in bad weather. It wasn’t the high-flying offense they had with Tyreek Hill, but it was an incredibly efficient performance. The Bills have been a similar type of offense since Joe Brady took over. Not flashy, but effective. Ultimately, I’ve seen more consistency out of the Bills this year, which is weird to say considering how they started. I’ve at least seen more consistency lately, so I’m taking the Bills. Also because Reeb took the Chiefs and he’s in first, but this is probably the pick I feel best about. And by best, I mean like 52% sure.
Prediction: Bills win 27-24
 
 

Here are the standings:
 
Screw: 171-101
Reeb: 170-102
Jemp: 163-109
Alx: 162-110
Pep: 162-110
 
It’s starting to look like a two-man race at the top, but remember playoffs count for double points. With some very close matchups, that means this could still go any which way. It’s a great Super Wild Card slate this week, so let’s pick some games.
 
Browns at Texans:
Jemp: Browns,  Reeb: Browns,  Pep: Browns,  Screw: Browns
What better way to start the playoffs than a matchup between the league’s most exciting quarterback, and CJ Stroud. I think everyone is glad to see CJ Stroud in the playoffs, but this is a tough matchup. Davis Mills and Case Keenum can attest to that. Now it is Stroud that gets to deal with Myles Garrett and company, and I fear he doesn’t quite have the weapons to do it. Joe Flacco, on the other hand, has plenty of firepower to dismantle the Texans improved defense. Amari Cooper proved last time that he was all that was needed in that regard. Somehow I don’t expect Cooper to get 250+ yards again, but he’ll do enough to beat this promising young Texans team. This is also a matchup of potentially the top two Coach of the Year candidates (although Sean McVay would get my vote), so maybe if Demeco loses this one, he can beat out Stefanski for the award. Either way, the future is bright in Houston, just not for these playoffs.
Prediction: Browns win 23-16
 
Dolphins at Chiefs:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
Nobody believes the Dolphins can win in the cold. The Dolphins have a terrible record in games under 40 degrees, and this one is going to be way under. I’ve also been skeptical all year about the Dolphins ability to beat good teams, but is this Chiefs team a good team? Their offense has had a full regular season to round into form, and it hasn’t done it yet. The Dolphins are at least a team where I know who they are, and I expect them to come out with a chip on their shoulder. Everybody thinks they can’t play in the cold, but all these players are from around the country, and the ones who don’t like the cold will get over it in the playoffs. Sure, the injuries on defense are also a concern for the Dolphins, but I think Mike McDaniel schemes up enough offense to pull this one off. Tyreek Hill will have his big revenge game here too.
Prediction: Dolphins win 22-17
 
Steelers at Bills:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Bills,  Screw: Steelers
Screw keeps asking me if he is delusional for his confidence in the Steelers here. I tend to think yes since this is still a team with Mason Rudolph as their quarterback. The Steelers surely have a chance here, but confidence? That seems like a bridge too far. The Bills have not been pristine during this winning streak to get into the playoffs, but they are clearly the better team here. There is also supposed to be snow in this one, and Josh Allen has thrived in the snow. The Bills offense always seems to be at its best when Stefon Diggs can use his route-running on a slick surface. Joey Porter might have a tough time keeping up.
Prediction: Bills win 31-17
 
Packers at Cowboys:
Jemp: Cowboys,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: Cowboys
Man, I’d love to take a Packers upset here. Unfortunately, I’m a little too spooked by Joe Barry’s defense going against this Cowboys team at home. Ceedee Lamb might have 400 yards. The Packers defense has been better the last couple of weeks, but that was against Jaren Hall and Justin Fields. The Cowboys are too solid up front, and the Dak Prescott to Ceedee Lamb connection has been unstoppable. The best chance for the Packers is for Jordan Love to keep up in a shootout, which he might be able to do right now. Love had some rough patches in his first season as a starter, but he’s ending the year playing his best ball and looking like he could be a top 10 quarterback for years to come. However, while I think he can make plays against this Dallas defense, I also think Micah Parsons or Daron Bland will come up with a big play that is enough to get the Cowboys the win at home.
Prediction: Cowboys win 34-24
 
Rams at Lions:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Lions,  Screw: Lions
There is so much interconnectivity between these two teams, but I know what we are all looking forward to is the Josh Reynolds revenge game. There was also that Matthew Stafford for Jared Goff trade that happened a few years back. It seemed as though the Rams got the better of the deal as they ended up with a Super Bowl, but now it might be the Lions turn. Goff has been better and lasted longer as the Lions quarterback than anyone could have expected. Now he has them in position for a playoff push, and all he has to do is get past his old team and coach. But it won’t be so easy. The Rams were left for dead at the beginning of this year, having a team filled with no-namers and late-round picks. But McVay has coached those guys up and found some absolute gems. Puka Nacua set the rookie receiving record, Kyren Williams led all running backs in rushing yards per game, and Kobie Turner led all rookies in sacks. Honestly, I think these are two pretty even teams, but I think the Lions are slightly better, plus they are at home, so I’ll take them in a close one.
Prediction: Lions win 27-24
 
Eagles at Buccaneers:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Bucs,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Bucs
Who would have thought that the PFJ team would be leaning Bucs in this matchup? I guess that is what happens when you get your doors blown off by the Giants. Everything seems to be going wrong with the Eagles, from the 1-5 end to the year, to the vibes in the locker room. I’ve even heard whispers that Nick Sirianni could be in jeopardy if he loses this game. Seems a bit of an overreaction to fire a coach who took you to a Super Bowl a year ago and then back to the playoffs the next year, but as a Commanders fan, I’d love it. But while the Eagles hit a new low last week, I don’t think they are quite that bad in reality. I expect them to bounce back from that performance to at least be the slightly above average team they have been for most of the year. And that should be good enough to beat this Bucs team. Let’s not forget they were embarrassed by the Saints two weeks ago, and then were lucky to get by the Panthers last week. I’ll take the Eagles to win here and then get trounced next week by whoever they end up playing.
Prediction: Eagles win 24-20
 
 

Here are the standings:
 
Screw: 160-96
Reeb: 158-98
Jemp: 157-99
Alx: 153-103
Pep: 152-104
 
Strong 14-2 week by Reeb closely followed by a 13-3 week from Screw to stay in first. But now we have the most crucial week in the pick’em. Week 18 where we’re trying to figure out which teams are packing up and which want to finish strong to trick people going into next year. It’s the last week before the playoffs, so let’s pick some games.
 
Steelers at Ravens:
Jemp: Ravens,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Steelers,  Screw: Steelers
Well we still don’t know if the Ravens will play their starters in this one, which makes it a little tough to pick. My guess is that they at least rest their key guys in the second half, which makes me lean towards the Steelers here. The Steelers are on a heater with Mason Rudolph at quarterback, putting up 30+ points in back-to-back weeks. Kenny Pickett has only put up 30 points once in his career and it came on a garbage time touchdown with 45 seconds left to lose 37-30 against the Bengals. I think it is safe to say that Pickett won’t be the Steelers starter next year, but I guess if Rudolph can get this team into the playoffs then maybe he has a shot to at least compete for the job. He’ll need some help, but I think he pulls this one out.
Prediction: Steelers win 23-20
 
Texans at Colts:
Jemp: Colts,  Reeb: Texans,  Pep: Texans,  Screw: Texans
This a great game for Saturday Night Football, as it could determine the AFC South winner if the Jaguars stumble. I think both of these teams have been fun this year and have a bright future, but I doubt either of them is a true AFC contender. That being said, if I have to pick one this week, I think I’m taking the Colts at home. It’s hard to pick against CJ Stroud, but the offense just isn’t as potent with all the injuries they’ve suffered, and who knows if Stroud and Nico Collins are back to 100%. The Colts have suffered some injuries as well, but I weirdly have faith in them here. Gardner Minshew could easily have me eating those words, but I’m picking them in this one.
Prediction: Colts win 28-24
 
Browns at Bengals:
Jemp: Browns,  Reeb: Bengals,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Browns
Well it looks like the Browns are resting everyone, so I guess I’ll take the Bengals. I could easily see the Bengals blowing this one anyway. Their struggles against the Browns have been well-documented and I don’t think Jake Browning necessarily helps there. But no Myles Garrett probably does, along with as many other key starters that they can afford to rest, so I’ll take the Bengals at home.
Prediction: Bengals win 19-17
 
Vikings at Lions:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Lions,  Screw: Lions
Dan Campbell is a madman so we know he isn’t resting anyone. I know the Lions were robbed last week, but going for the two-point try from the 7-yard line is insane. I feel like not enough people are just like “well that’s Dan Campbell,” rather than actually criticizing him for that. Like imagine they were down and had 4th and goal from the 7 and went for the touchdown instead of the field goal. Everyone would lose their minds at that decision, but no one blinks an eye at this? It’s nearly the same exact situation. I love Dan Campbell as much as the next guy but I’m not sure about coaching football like you’re playing Madden and just want to get the game over with. But I do think they take care of the Vikings who are desperately auditioning for quarterbacks at this point.
Prediction: Lions win 34-17
 
Jaguars at Titans:
Jemp: Jaguars,  Reeb: Jaguars,  Pep: Titans,  Screw: Jaguars
Well the Jaguars played their best game in quite some time last week and it was all thanks to the quarterback. And by that I mean Bryce Young, because he made their defense look like the ‘85 Bears. Granted, the Titans offense could do the same, but they are slightly more competent, and Will Levis has at least had a few moments. I kind of expect this Jags team to fall and let the Steelers in the playoffs, so I’m taking the Titans at home.
Prediction: Titans win 20–17
 
Jets at Patriots:
Jemp: Patriots,  Reeb: Patriots,  Pep: Patriots,  Screw: Patriots
The Patriots have a chance for a top-2 draft pick, but this might be the last game Bill Belichick ever coaches for them. That means Bill can get his revenge by ruining that chance with one final win against the New York Jets. And there is nothing Bill enjoys more than stomping the Jets. Also the Patriots are just the better team at this point, because they have been functional under Zappe. The Jets offense is anything but, so we all like the Patriots at home. In fact, I think Belichick is gonna lay a beatdown to remember.
Prediction: Patriots win 38-0
 
Falcons at Saints:
Jemp: Saints,  Reeb: Saints,  Pep: Falcons,  Screw: Saints
Well, I’m gonna save some time here. The Bucs aren’t going to lose to the Panthers, so this game doesn’t matter. Both these teams are huge disappointments, and I hope to god that both of these coaches are gone next year, even though there is a good chance they both stay.
Prediction: Saints win 24-20
 
Buccaneers at Panthers:
Jemp: Bucs,  Reeb: Bucs,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Bucs
Please don’t blow this Bucs. It would be the most NFC South thing for the Bucs to blow this game and open the door for Saints and Falcons, but the Panthers are too inept. They gifted the Jags a freebie last week and they should do the same for the Bucs this week. Does anyone even know the name of their interim coach? I didn’t think so.
Prediction: Bucs win 23-10
 
Bears at Packers:
Jemp: Bears,  Reeb: Packers,  Pep: Packers,  Screw: Packers
This a tough one. I kind of think the Packers are a fun team (at least as far as 7 seeds go), but the Bears might be the better team here. I still think it’s laughable that the Bears would pass on a quarterback with the first pick in next year’s draft, but Fields has certainly been better in the second half of the season. He’s still a below average starter but his athleticism allows him to give an offense just enough when paired with a quality defense. However, I don’t think he can get into a shootout with anyone, so the question is if this Bears defense can contain the Packers offense. While the Packers offense has been fun, and pretty good, I tend to think the Bears defense is better. Then again, the way the Packers spread the ball around and scheme up offense, they might be a tough matchup for this Bears defense. When in doubt, I’ll pick against the Packers defense, so I’ll take the Bears on the road.
Prediction: Bears win 24-20
 
Broncos at Raiders:
Jemp: Broncos,  Reeb: Raiders,  Pep: Broncos,  Screw: Raiders
The Jarrett Stidham revenge game. Honestly, that’s not even a joke. Jarrett Stidham was given a chance by the Raiders last year to start, and did everything he could to earn the job. He laid a smackdown on the best defense in the league, and the team still moved on from him. I can’t say I disagreed with the decision at the time, but looking at how their quarterback situation has gone this year, it may have been a mistake. Stidham wasn’t exactly Joe Montana last week, but he did take care of the Chargers without his best receiver. It looks like Sutton will be back this week, so I’m taking Stidham. The Raiders have played well under Pierce, but I can’t keep rolling with AOC.
Prediction: Broncos win 20-17
 
Eagles at Giants:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Eagles,  Screw: Eagles
This is a weird one because the Eagles were hinting they might rest starters, but they still have a shot at the NFC East if the Cowboys lose. Maybe they’ll be scoreboard watching to see when/if to pull guys? But obviously the Commanders are gonna smack the Cowboys so they should have an easy path to the division here.
Prediction: Eagles win 24-17
 
Seahawks at Cardinals:
Jemp: Cardinals,  Reeb: Seahawks,  Pep: Seahawks,  Screw: Seahawks
What a performance by the Cardinals last week. I know the Eagles have been struggling, but Kyler led a nearly perfect offense other than the one pick-six on a miscommunication. This is while his top receiver is Greg Dortch. It probably says more about the Eagles than the Cardinals, but Kyler certainly planted his case for being the Cardinals starter next year. I expect he will be either way, but he can cement it with a win against the Seahawks to keep them out of the playoffs. I’m taking Seattle, but not confidently.
Prediction: Seahawks win 24-23
 
Chiefs at Chargers:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
So, do I dare take the Chargers here? The Chief will be resting some guys here, but I don’t know if that’s enough to take the Chargers. Then again, the Chiefs have been struggling even with their guys, do they completely fall apart without Patrick Mahomes leading the way? You know, I’m trailing and need some luck to get back into first, so I’ll take a chance and ride with Easton Stick. 
Prediction: Chargers win 23-16
 
Rams at 49ers:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: Rams,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: 49ers
So it’s backups against backups here. Who is better? I have no clue. But Shanahan has typically owned these matchups, so I guess I’ll take the niners. They do have more depth anyway so they should just be the clearly better team.
Prediction: 49ers win 35-13
 
Cowboys at Commanders:
Jemp: Cowboys,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: Cowboys
Easy way to close out the season. 
Prediction: Commanders win 200-0
 
Bills at Dolphins:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Bills
Well a very fun Sunday Night matchup. It’s crazy that the Bills are three-point favorites on the road against the AFC 2 seed. They’ve just squeaked by the Chargers and Patriots last week, but Vegas views them as the clearly superior team in this one. I don’t disagree that their best is better than the Dolphins best, but we’ve had too many games of the Bills disappointing for me to not be nervous. That being said, I’m taking the Bills here. It’s crazy that after the season they’ve had compared to the Dolphins, they could end up winning the division.
Prediction: Bills win 28-24
​

Here are the standings:
 
Screw: 147-93
Jemp: 147-93
Reeb: 144-96
Pep: 142-98
Alx: 142-98
 
What a fun Christmas. Football was going all weekend and Christian McCaffrey and Brandon Aiyuk gave me exactly what I wanted for Christmas. Reeb knows what I’m talking about. Anyway, we’re moving into the New Year, so let’s pick some games.
 
Jets at Browns:
Jemp: Browns,  Reeb: Browns,  Pep: Browns,  Screw: Browns
What better way to finish TNF this year than a Joe Flacco revenge game. The Jets had their chance to sign Flacco, but how were they to know he would be an upgrade over Zach Wilson and Tim Boyle? It’s probably a good thing for Joe since he might not have been a sensation behind that Jets offensive line, but now he’s leading everyone favorite AFC Super Bowl contender. Plus I’d be shocked if the Jets scored a touchdown against this Browns defense.
Prediction: Browns win 23-0
 
Lions at Cowboys:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: Cowboys
TNF might be a bust but at least we get a great Saturday game. The Cowboys are on a two game skid, but now they are back home where they have wrecked teams. But that will be no easy task against these Lions, who have their offense rolling on the back of Amon Ra St Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs. I expect a shootout here as I don’t see the Cowboys being able to stop the Lions power running game, and I don’t see the Lions defense being able to stop the Cowboy offense at home. However, if either defense can come up with a game changing play, I expect it will be the side with Micah Parsons.
Prediction: Cowboys win 38-35
 
Patriots at Bills:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Bills,  Screw: Bills
Close call for the Bills against the Chargers last week. They scraped by, but I think a lot of Bills fans wouldn’t have been surprised by the letdown after the big win against the Cowboys. This is no gimme either, as the Patriots are playing better with Zappe, and they already beat the Bills once this year. But I think this Bills team is too good to be left out of the playoffs. And they couldn’t possibly let the Pats beat them at home, right?
Prediction: Bills win 23-14
 
Falcons at Bears:
Jemp: Bears,  Reeb: Bears,  Pep: Falcons,  Screw: Bears
Gross. Sorry, I just realized that was my reaction to last week’s Bears game too.  I guess at least the Bears defense has been playing well enough that the offense can just lean on the run game, so I’ll take them at home.
Prediction: Bears win 17-13
 
Raiders at Colts:
Jemp: Raiders,  Reeb: Colts,  Pep: Colts,  Screw: Colts
Antonio Pierce has this Raiders defense flying around right now. Earlier in the year this was a unit that Maxx Crosby was holding together with scotch tape. Now we’ve got other guys making game-changing plays. They’ve had 4 defensive TDs in the past two weeks. Can we expect another 2 this week? It’s not out of the question against Gardner Minshew. The only problem is Aidan O’Connell. He definitely gives me pause in this pick, but I love what the Raiders are doing on defense and the Colts are so banged up on offense that I’ll take the Raiders.
Prediction: Raiders win 20–17
 
Rams at Giants:
Jemp: Rams,  Reeb: Rams,  Pep: Rams,  Screw: Rams
Well the Devito experience has come to an end. It was a small spot of enjoyment for a totally lost season for the Giants. But they’ll always have that Monday Night where Sean Stellato watched Devito lead a game-winning drive. But now we’re back to Tyrod to try to scrape together a few extra wins. On the other side, I’m loving the late season surge by the Rams. This is such a dangerous offense when Stafford, Williams, Kupp, and Nacua are all on the field together. Even Demarcus Robinson has been stepping up and Tutu Atwell should be back soon too. Rams should take care of business here.
Prediction: Rams win 27-14
 
Cardinals at Eagles:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Eagles,  Screw: Eagles
That has to be one of the bleakest wins a team could have on Christmas Day. Not a single Eagle was happy after that one, except maybe D’Andre Swift since he finally found the endzone. And he has some more good news this week. He gets the Cardinals who are so soft against the run that I think I could run for 100 yards behind that Eagles offensive line. I’d get at least 80. Hopefully Kyler can have a nice day against the Eagles shoddy pass defense, but I don’t know if his receiver are good enough to punish that. And since there is no way his defense ever gets a stop I expect the Eagles just to run out the clock pretty quickly.
Prediction: Eagles win 35-20
 
Saints at Buccaneers:
Jemp: Bucs,  Reeb: Bucs,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Bucs
Saints fans will be relieved that this Saints season can finally be put to bed if the Bucs are able to beat them in this spot. Will they actually make any changes this offseason? Who knows? But at least they won’t have to pay attention to this mess of a team anymore. Then again, I could absolutely see them taking out the Bucs here. They’ve had the Bucs number in recent years, and there certainly isn’t much of a talent gap between these teams. The Bucs did beat the Saints earlier this year, but that was the game that Derek Carr was injured and he just peppered Alvin Kamara with checkdowns. Oh, that probably doesn’t narrow it down, but it was the first one of those games. But even though all logic says Baker and the Bucs should take this one at home, this just feels like a weird NFC South game where the Saints rebound.
Prediction: Saints win 23-20
 
49ers at Commanders:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: Commanders,  Screw: 49ers
Tough scene for the 49ers that they take a huge L on Christmas Night, and now they have to play Jacoby Brissett and the Commanders? Jacoby for MVP.
Prediction: Commanders win 100-0
 
Panthers at Jaguars:
Jemp: Jaguars,  Reeb: Jaguars,  Pep: Jaguars,  Screw: Jaguars
This might be even worse than Falcons Bears with the way the Jaguars have been playing. In fact, it’s the Panthers who looked much better last week, and I wouldn’t be at all shocked if they won this one. I’m not bold enough to pick them when they’re essentially tanking for the 1 seed, and maybe Trevor Lawrence is a bit healthier now. Though he did get banged up again last week, so maybe not.
Prediction: Jaguars win 20-17
 
Dolphins at Ravens:
Jemp: Ravens,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Dolphins
The battle for the AFC 1 seed. The Dolphins finally took down a good team last week, and got that monkey off their back. But now they have to travel to Baltimore and face what might be the best team in the AFC. The Ravens have certainly earned that title after the beatdown they put on the 49ers last week. Lamar certainly doesn’t have typically MVP numbers, but in a weird year he could be the answer. But that could change again if the Dolphins win on the back of a big Tyreek or Tua performance. You probably can’t have one without the other, but I don’t see the Dolphins exploding against this Ravens defense.
Prediction: Ravens win 24-17
 
Titans at Texans:
Jemp: Texans,  Reeb: Texans,  Pep: Texans,  Screw: Texans
Well CJ Stroud is on track to play in this one, so we all like the Texans at home. They just beat the Titans with Case Keenum, so I would think they can do it with CJ Stroud.
Prediction: Texans win 24-17
 
Steelers at Seahawks:
Jemp: Steelers,  Reeb: Steelers,  Pep: Seahawks,  Screw: Steelers
A lot of Steelers love after Rudolph saved the day on Christmas weekend. But there’s a little known Rudolph sequel where the week after Christmas he goes back to being a laughing stock. I expect that happens here since the Steelers offense hasn’t suddenly become good. The Seahawks weren’t particularly impressive in Geno’s return, but I still think they are a good, gritty team that can take out the Steelers.
Prediction: Seahawks win 24-16
 
Chargers at Broncos:
Jemp: Chargers,  Reeb: Broncos,  Pep: Broncos,  Screw: Broncos
Wow, I keep thinking we can’t sink any lower, but this might be the worst game of the weekend. Then again, you should never count out late-season Jarett Stidham. He gets thrown into the exact situation he was in last year. A team benching their overpaid starting quarterback because they want to cut him in the offseason and not risk triggering any injury guarantees. I doubt Stidham has any chance to keep the starting job since last year he played about as well as anyone could have expected and the Raiders still moved on from him, but maybe if he does it again, Sean Payton will give him a chance. Though, Aidan O’Connell threw 4 TDs against this Chargers team, so I don’t think anything is impressive against these Chargers.
Prediction: Broncos win 23-21
 
Bengals at Chiefs:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
Is no one worried about the Chiefs? Or is it just that we are more worried about the Bengals? Probably the latter, as they just got trounced by Mason Rudolph. As bad as the Chiefs offense has looked lately, they can’t possibly put up less of a fight than the Steelers? I can’t imagine Patrick Mahomes won’t bounce back here, but I’m definitely concerned about them in the playoffs. 
Prediction: Chiefs win 26-17
 
Packers at Vikings:
Jemp: Vikings,  Reeb: Packers,  Pep: Packers,  Screw: Packers
So we have another quarterback change for the Vikings. Jaren Hall will get his second start, though the first one doesn’t really count since he was promptly knocked out with an injury. The good news for him is that he is playing a defense that even made Bryce Young look good. Hall might be a 5th round rookie, but he gets to throw to Justin Jefferson against a defense that hasn’t been able to stop anyone, and just suspended their best corner. Both of these teams have become such a mess, but I think O’Connell must find a way to take advantage of this Packers defense.
Prediction: Vikings win 28-24
​

Here are the standings:
 
Screw: 138-86
Jemp: 137-87
Pep: 134-90
Reeb: 134-90
Alx: 134-90
 
It’s that time of year. Where we get multiple games three days in a row. Give me all that football over the holiday season. We got some good ones too, so lLet’s pick some games
 
Saints at Rams:
Jemp: Rams,  Reeb: Rams,  Pep: Rams,  Screw: Rams
It’s the glass half-empty, glass half-full bowl. Rams fans are enjoying the masterful job Sean McVay has done to get this team into playoff position. And then you have Saints fans that desperately want everyone on their team gone, especially the quarterback and coach. And yet, these two teams are both 7-7. But the Rams are at home and feeling a lot better about themselves right now, so I’ll take them to keep rolling.
Prediction: Rams win 23-20
 
Bengals at Steelers:
Jemp: Steelers,  Reeb: Steelers,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bengals
Well I asked the Steelers to stop winning so many games, and they obliged. I appreciate Mike Tomlin being so accommodating, but Steeler fans might not. Reeb said George Pickens seems like he is a couple of games away from going full Antonio Brown and abandoning the team, except he’s like 17 times worse at football than AB. The Bengals don’t have Joe Burrow or Ja’Marr Chase, but I don’t think it even matters against this Steelers team. Mike Tomlin might not even keep his streak of going above .500 because right now I don’t think this Steelers team can beat anyone.
Prediction: Bengals win 24-10
 
Bills at Chargers:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Bills,  Screw: Bills
So, suddenly it looks like the Bills might not only make the playoffs, but they could win the AFC East. They have the Chargers and Patriots, two teams they will be heavily favored against. And the Dolphins play the Cowboys and Ravens next. I’ll probably pick against them in both of those, but even if they go 1-1, then the division comes down to Bills at Dolphins in Week 18. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. First the Bills will need to take down the Chargers… with Easton Stick… and no Keenan Allen… and some dude named Giff Smith coaching the team… Okay we can look ahead.
Prediction: Bills win 35-7
 
Colts at Falcons:
Jemp: Colts,  Reeb: Colts,  Pep: Colts,  Screw: Colts
NFL fantasy managers everywhere rejoiced after the Panthers took down the Falcons. Well, probably not right away, because they were too upset about being knocked out of the playoffs from Bijan’s negative point performance, but now we can all see it might mean the end of Arthur Smith. As long as this Falcons team doesn’t sneak into the playoffs, then I think he’s done terrorizing our fantasy teams. And we all think they lose again this week, so the dream could become a reality.
Prediction: Colts win 27-17
 
Seahawks at Titans:
Jemp: Seahawks,  Reeb: Seahawks,  Pep: Seahawks,  Screw: Seahawks
I think I’m back in on the Seahawks. Their offense had been a huge disappointment until their breakout game against the Cowboys. Unfortunately they had to play their next two games without Geno against the other two NFC favorites, but they didn’t look half bad and Lock even took down the Eagles on Monday Night. Now I expect Geno back and I think this Seahawks team can start a playoff push.
Prediction: Seahawks win 27–17
 
Lions at Vikings:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Lions,  Screw: Lions
That was the Lions team I remember. The Lions offense looked like an unstoppable force last week and the defense didn’t get pushed around. That’s the formula this Lions team needs to lean on. The Vikings also looked better last week despite the loss. They looked like a functional offense under Nick Mullens, but they just aren’t special. Brian Flores deserves so much credit for how he has turned the defense around, but the injuries on offense this year might keep this team out of the playoffs.
Prediction: Lions win 31-20
 
Commanders at Jets:
Jemp: Commanders,  Reeb: Commanders,  Pep: Jets,  Screw: Commanders
Blah blah blah Commanders win.
Prediction: Commanders win 100-0
 
Packers at Panthers:
Jemp: Packers,  Reeb: Packers,  Pep: Packers,  Screw: Packers
Jemp is reveling in the collapse of the Packers after they had been generating so much hype. Then Joe Barry stepped in to make sure nothing interfered with his January vacation. But they couldn’t possibly lose to the Panthers, right?
Prediction: Packers win 23-10
 
Browns at Texans:
Jemp: Browns,  Reeb: Browns,  Pep: Texans,  Screw: Browns
Can Flacco-mania continue this week? Well, with CJ Stroud likely out again, I would guess so. Though, we might also get a Case Keenum revenge game here, so the Browns shouldn’t be overly confident. However, their defense was back to their dominant selves last week, so I expect something similar against a ravaged Texans offense.
Prediction: Browns win 23-10
 
Jaguars at Buccaneers:
Jemp: Bucs,  Reeb: Jaguars,  Pep: Jaguars,  Screw: Jaguars
I’m surprised so many people here are taking the Jags. There is a good chance Trevor Lawrence misses this game, and even if he doesn’t, I’m not sure that they are the better Florida team. The offense was pathetic against the Ravens on Sunday Night. The Bucs defense might not pose the same problems, but I weirdly trust Baker Mayfield to outscore either Jags QB. I know Baker isn’t going to have another performance like last week, but he’s been good on balance this year and I just feel better about this Bucs team. But I’m playing against Trevor Lawrence in fantasy this week so I’d be cool if he just wants to take this week off.
Prediction: Buccaneers win 24-20
 
Cardinals at Bears:
Jemp: Bears,  Reeb: Cardinals,  Pep: Cardinals,  Screw: Bears
Gross. The Bears are probably the better team here, but I’d like to see Kyler get a few wins and I think this is a good opportunity against Justin Fields and the Bears.
Prediction: Cardinals win 16-13
 
Cowboys at Dolphins:
Jemp: Cowboys,  Reeb: Dolphins,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Dolphins
Oh it always feels great to watch the Cowboys get humiliated. The Dak for MVP hype, the Cowboys Super Bowl hopes, all faded away in a matter of hours. I picked the Bills to win, but I was shocked by the egg laid by the Cowboys offense. However, I chalk it up to typical Cowboys choking, something that I expect again in the playoffs. But let’s not forget that the Dolphins still haven't been able to beat any good teams. And they might be without Tyreek Hill again, so I’m confidently taking the Cowboys on the road.
Prediction: Cowboys win 38-24
 
Patriots at Broncos:
Jemp: Broncos,  Reeb: Broncos,  Pep: Broncos,  Screw: Broncos
I’m tempted to lone-wolf the Pats here as they have looked slightly better with Bailey Zappe at QB. Sure, it’s a low bar, but Pats fans should be happy to take that, right? The Broncos are another team that has come back to Earth after their winning streak, but I still think they are good enough to beat the lowly Pats at home.
Prediction: Broncos win 24-17
 
Raiders at Chiefs:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
What a game for the Raiders. Sure, it was the Chargers without Justin Herbert, but 63 points is still pretty cool. Then again, it was the Chargers. But, there is no denying that Antonio Pierce has done a great job with the pieces he has to work with. Maybe if he gets a chance next year with a real quarterback, he can put something together. No offense to Aidan O’Connel, who easily had the best game of his career. But I don’t think he’s beating Patrick Mahomes.
Prediction: Chiefs win 24-17
 
Giants at Eagles:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Eagles,  Screw: Eagles
Watching my guy JSN catch the game-winning touchdown against the Eagles was one of best moments of the year for me. Maybe I’m weird for getting so hyped for a Drew Lock Monday Night win, but I just love watching the Eagles lose. Sadly, I don’t think it happens again this week against the Giants, but who knows? Maybe we get some Devito magic on Christmas. 
Prediction: Eagles win 30-20
 
Ravens at 49ers:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: 49ers
What a game to be played on Christmas Night. Get your family drunk early so they stay out of your way for this game. The top seed in each conference, a potential Super Bowl preview, and a battle of the MVP favorites. I’m not sure how Lamar can win MVP with the numbers he has, but I don’t particularly care about the MVP award anyway. I just want to watch to see if any contender can really push this 49ers team, because right now, I think they are head and shoulders above everyone else in the league. I’d love to see the Ravens give them a game, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see another blowout.
Prediction: 49ers win 31-16

Here are the standings:
 
Screw: 128-80
Jemp: 126-82
Pep: 124-84
Reeb: 123-85
Alx: 123-85
 
What a week of football. It was great watching the games with Jemp and Pep giving our intricate analysis to every moment. We got the crazy Monday Night doubleheader with a very strange Manningcast. This week, we get a full slate of Saturday games, and the start of the fantasy playoffs. Let’s pick some games
 
Chargers at Raiders:
Jemp: Chargers,  Reeb: Raiders,  Pep: Chargers,  Screw: Raiders
Somehow we’ve downgraded from Mitch Trubisky vs. Bailey Zappe. It’s Easton Stick vs. Aidan O’Connell this week. Yikes. Easton Stick gets his first start in the NFL here in his fifth NFL season, and lucky him, he gets to do so with his top 3 receivers out with injury. Oh sorry I lied, Josh Palmer is back for this one, so he’s fine. Josh Jacobs is also expected out, so this whole game is in a sad state of affairs. Al Michaels might not even show up for this one.
Prediction: Raiders win 13-10
 
Vikings at Bengals:
Jemp: Bengals,  Reeb: Vikings,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bengals
How about this Jake Browning guy? Just a few weeks ago, we were all killing the Bengals for having no plan at backup quarterback if Joe Burrow went down, and now we’re wondering why this guy didn’t start the year? Remember how the injured Joe Burrow killed the Bengals over the first few weeks of the season? This team could be running away with a playoff spot if Jake Browning took a few of those starts. Now it is the Vikings who are in quarterback ruin, and now they’re just hoping someone can get the ball to Justin Jefferson without killing him.
Prediction: Bengals win 24-17
 
Steelers at Colts:
Jemp: Colts,  Reeb: Steelers,  Pep: Steelers,  Screw: Colts
Another week of Mitch Trubisky, another terrible week of Steelers offense. Somewhere, Matt Canada is howling with laughter while watching this pathetic Steelers team. They have lost back to back games against 2-10 teams, which is pretty impressive. The Steelers looked like they were going to cruise to a playoff berth a couple of weeks ago, but now I think they limp to 9-8. The Colts are the team I trust way more here, and I think they get it done at home.
Prediction: Colts win 23-10
 
Broncos at Lions:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Lions,  Screw: Broncos
I’m starting to get nervous about this Lions team. The Bears are so limited on offense that all they could do was either run it with Fields or throw it to DJ Moore. The Lions couldn’t stop either, and their own offense started to struggle as well.  This Broncos team is still right in contention for the AFC West and I think they are playing better football than the Lions right now. I still think the Lions have the much higher ceiling as a team, but they’ve been a streaky team under Dan Campbell and this seems like a bad streak for them.
Prediction: Broncos win 27-24
 
Bears at Browns:
Jemp: Browns,  Reeb: Browns,  Pep: Browns,  Screw: Browns
The Browns have spent so long searching for an elite quarterback, and now they have one. Joe Flacco is taking the league by storm 11 years after winning a Super Bowl. Now he has a chance to get another ring. The only problem is that he probably will need the defense from the first half of the year to return. Right now, the Bears might have the better defense in this game based on how the Browns have been playing lately. However, I still don’t trust the Bears offense enough to pick them in this one, and I think Myles Garrett can take this one over.
Prediction: Browns win 22-17
 
Buccaneers at Packers:
Jemp: Packers,  Reeb: Packers,  Pep: Packers,  Screw: Packers
Well I appreciate the Bucs for somehow pulling out a win last week, even though I’m still not quite sure how they did it. The Packers also blew a game to Tommy Devito and the Giants last week so they aren’t a lock to beat anyone at this point. However, I do think the Packers are a good, but not great team who should make the playoffs. And I don’t think I’m picking an AFC South team to beat anyone out of the division for the rest of the year.
Prediction: Packers win 24-17
 
Texans at Titans:
Jemp: Titans,  Reeb: Texans,  Pep: Titans,  Screw: Texans
We’re pretty much just rolling the dice here if CJ Stroud is going to play or not. Nico Collins is also a question mark, so I don’t have much to go on. I guess I’ll take the Titans since they are at home and Will Levis had an impressive game last week? Also the Texans looked pretty terrible against the Jets without Nico, making me think the Titans should be favored if either Collins or Stroud misses this one.
Prediction: Titans win 20-17
 
Jets at Dolphins:
Jemp: Dolphins,  Reeb: Dolphins,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Dolphins
Alright, I’m back aboard the Zach Wilson hype train. Did you see him carve up those Texans last week? All he needed was a quick benching to calm his nerves. Now he’s playing with nothing to lose and I think it could be good for him. While he probably won’t ever be a quality starter in the NFL, he can potentially secure a backup role for years to come with a solid end to this season. At the very least, he’s proven he’s better than Tim Boyle, who has somehow hung around as a backup. That being said, I’m of course taking the Dolphins at home, assuming Tyreek Hill is back.
Prediction: Dolphins win 23-20
 
Chiefs at Patriots:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
I remember back in 2018 when Tom Brady outdueled Patrick Mahomes in a shootout in the AFC championship. How these offenses have changed. Of course, we know the Patriots have had the most pathetic offense in the league this side of the Jets, but the Chiefs are far from anywhere they’ve been with Patrick Mahomes at the helm. We all knew the Chiefs weren’t working much at receiver, but somehow the receivers have been so bad that they are actively sabotaging the offense now. Of course the Chiefs still win this one, but I don’t expect to see a lot of Kadarius Toney in this one.
Prediction: Chiefs win 23-10
 
Giants at Saints:
Jemp: Saints,  Reeb: Saints,  Pep: Saints,  Screw: Giants
Hmm, I did say I wasn’t going to pick any AFC South teams in inter-division games didn’t I? Do we really think Tommy Devito can pull out another one? Let me check my mob connections to see if I can get in touch with his agent. Also, can we put Derek Carr on the bench? He keeps piling up injuries that make him worse than he already is. This offense shouldn’t be this bad with all the playmakers they have. Even Jimmy Graham is making plays for them when he gets the opportunity. Maybe it’s just because I have too much fantasy stock in this offense, but I’m taking the Saints again.
Prediction: Saints win 24-20
 
Falcons at Panthers:
Jemp: Falcons,  Reeb: Falcons,  Pep: Falcons,  Screw: Falcons
The Panthers game is beginning to be the easiest game to pick each and every week.
Prediction: Falcons win 20-10
 
Commanders at Rams:
Jemp: Rams,  Reeb: Rams,  Pep: Rams,  Screw: Rams
Let’s rack up these wins to end the season.
Prediction: Commanders win 100-0
 
49ers at Cardinals:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: 49ers
Tough matchup for the Cardinals coming off their bye. Kyler had a fantastic win against the Steelers right before the break, but now he has to play against the clear best team in football. It would take a major injury for me to pick against the niners at this point, and honestly I’m not sure who they could lose to make me take the Cardinals in this one.
Prediction: 49ers win 34-17
 
Cowboys at Bills:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Bills,  Screw: Cowboys
It’s shocking to me how many people are taking the Bills here. The Bills are actually favored in this one, despite the Cowboys playing much better football for weeks now. The Bills are no pushovers, but the Cowboys have been steamrolling everyone, and their offense seems near unstoppable lately. However, I can’t pass up an opportunity to pick the Cowboys to lose on the road against a good Bills team. They nearly lost to Seattle just a couple weeks ago, and I think the Bills have more firepower than the Seahawks.
Prediction: Bills win 37-34
 
Ravens at Jaguars:
Jemp: Ravens,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Ravens,  Screw: Ravens
This seemed like a great matchup a few weeks ago when I was still hyping up the Jags, but now I’m starting to lose faith. The loss of Christian Kirk was brutal for this team, who made its living over the middle of the field. Now they’ve lost that and their defense has majorly regressed, allowing Jake Browning and Joe Flacco to torch them over the past two games. It would take a heroic performance from Trevor Lawrence to keep up with Lamar in this one, but I’m not sure he has it in him right now.
Prediction: Ravens win 30-20
 
Eagles at Seahawks:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Eagles,  Screw: Eagles
I’m loving this Monday Night game. Both of these teams are coming off games against the 49ers and Cowboys, and it was the Eagles who were embarrassed in both games. The Seahawks were very competitive against the Cowboys, and even somewhat held their own against the niners with Drew Lock. Assuming Geno comes back for this one, I think they can absolutely challenge this Eagles team in Seattle. In fact, I’m lone-wolfing them here.
Prediction: Seahawks win 31-27
​

​Here are the standings:
 
Screw: 121-72
Jemp: 119-74
Reeb: 118-75
Pep: 115-78
Alx: 113-80
 
It was a pretty even week in the pick’em, but this week we get some great games that we’ll be watching during the annual PFJ retreat. Many Jokes will made and Cokes will be drank, and hopefully many picks will be right, so let’s pick some games.
 
Patriots at Steelers:
Jemp: Steelers,  Reeb: Steelers,  Pep: Steelers,  Screw: Steelers
A historically low Over Under in this game and yet no one thinks it is low enough. The Steelers have averaged 16 points per game which is pretty astonishing considering they are 7-5. And the Patriots have accomplished an even more impressive feat, holding their past 3 opponents to 10 points or less. They lost all of those games. This all to say I smashed the under and I think the only way that fails is if we get a couple defensive TDs. Which certainly isn’t out of the question for Mitch Trubisky and Bailey Zappe, but I had to give myself some reason to watch this game.
Prediction: Steelers win 13-6
 
Buccaneers at Falcons:
Jemp: Falcons,  Reeb: Falcons,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Falcons
Another riveting NFC South matchup. It’s again a battle for the division lead, where the winner will have the inside track to getting smashed by the Cowboys or Eagles in the first round of the playoffs. The Falcon are looking to continue a pretty unconvincing winning streak here, but I think the Bucs get this one. Mostly because no one in this division deserves to be above .500 so I’ll take the Falcons to lose.
Prediction: Bucs win 24-20
 
Lions at Bears:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Lions,  Screw: Lions
Last week it seemed like the Lions were quelling all of our fears last week when they stomped on the Saints in the first half. Then the Saints got going and the Lions let them right back in the game, and all the doubts set in again. Now they get the Bears again who nearly beat them last time and will be looking to prove it wasn’t a fluke. I think it probably was, but Justin Fields has played his best football against the Lions and there’s nothing about this defense that makes me think that isn’t a possibility again.
Prediction: Lions win 34-27
 
Colts at Bengals:
Jemp: Colts,  Reeb: Colts,  Pep: Colts,  Screw: Colts
Honestly this feels a bit disrespectful to Jake Browning. Maybe the fact that I have talked up the Colts each week has influenced the staff’s picks, but I feel like this is a pretty even matchup. Jake Browning was sensational last week, and while I doubt he can quite keep up that level of play, he could certainly end up being as good as Gardner Minshew. I think the Colts are a fun wild card contender but certainly not out of the Bengals league. They nearly lost to the Titans last week for goodness’s sake. You know what, I will lone wolf the Bengals here.
Prediction: Bengals win 31-28
 
Jaguars at Browns:
Jemp: Browns,  Reeb: Browns,  Pep: Browns,  Screw: Browns
So we are likely getting CJ Beathard vs. somone for the Browns. It could be DTR and it could be Joe Flacco, search me. Flacco played about as well as anyone could have expected last week. Off the couch he led the Browns to a whopping 19 points, which might sound sarcastic but that’s pretty impressive for this Browns team. The problem is that their defense has floundered the last two weeks. But I think it bounces back against the Jaguars this week.
Prediction: Browns win 22-17
 
Panthers at Saints:
Jemp: Saints,  Reeb: Panthers,  Pep: Saints,  Screw: Saints
Well the Panthers shockingly aren’t any better without Frank Reich. They were leading for a little bit in this game before they allowed the long Mike Evans touchdown. For the Saints we don’t know if it will be Derek Carr or Jameis Winston, but who cares against this Panthers team.
Prediction: Saints win 21-10
 
Texans at Jets:
Jemp: Texans,  Reeb: Texans,  Pep: Texans,  Screw: Texans
The Jets are such a mess that they cut their disappointing backup QB to sign another disappointing backup QB that was cut by the Rams. The saddest part is that it’s probably the right move, which seems to beg the question, why did they ever roster Tim Boyle at all? And now they are so bad that Zach Wilson has become the Alex Moran of the NFL, begging to be left on the sidelines. But maybe this game they can learn what a competent organization does when they get the 2nd overall pick.
Prediction: Texans win 23-10
 
Rams at Ravens:
Jemp: Ravens,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Ravens,  Screw: Ravens
The Rams are now right back in the thick of the NFC playoff race. They’ve rattled off 3 in a row, but now they get the Ravens off their bye week. It’s probably asking too much for them to win this one on the road. Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams can’t carry this team by themselves.
Prediction: Ravens win 23-10
 
Vikings at Raiders:
Jemp: Vikings,  Reeb: Vikings,  Pep: Vikings,  Screw: Vikings
I’m a little surprised no one is taking a flyer on the Raiders here. The Raiders have been playing tough ever since Antonio Pierce took over, and the Vikings have shown themselves to be vulnerable. The main problem is that I just can’t pick Aidan O’Connell to beat anyone. Josh Dobbs was horrible last game, but I think that was a bit of a fluke. Not that he has ever been a perfect quarterback and he has put the ball in harm's way all season, but he won’t do it that many times every week. Plus he should get JJetas back.
Prediction: Viking win 20-16
 
Seahawks at 49ers:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: 49ers
Despite the loss last week, the Seahawks finally showed the potential I had been waiting for all year. Geno had maybe his best game ever, dropping dimes all over the field while constantly under pressure. I don’t expect him to play that well every week, but I think he can get back to being an above average QB. I also think this could be an upset alert for the niners. Their last losing streak came right after they smashed the Cowboys, and this could be a week that they are exhaling after a big win. But let’s be real, I can’t pick against these 49ers right now.
Prediction: 49ers win 31-24
 
Bills at Chiefs:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Bills,  Screw: Chiefs
This was probably expected to be an epic clash for the AFCs one seed, and instead it’s a desperate attempt to get back on track. The Chief dropped another game last week to an albeit surging Packers team. And I might be the only one in the world to agree with that non-PI call that isn’t a Packers fan. But I digress, I think the Bills are playing good football right now and are the more desperate team. I know the logic failed me when I picked them against the Eagles, but they had a few breaks not go their way and the Chiefs haven’t shown the ability to close like the Eagles this year.
Prediction: Bills win 27-24
 
Broncos at Chargers:
Jemp: Broncos,  Reeb: Broncos,  Pep: Broncos,  Screw: Broncos
So can we get rid of Brandon Staley now? His win last week was as bad as any of his losses and this Chargers team is a total lost cause. I guess the one positive is that their defense was good enough to shutout Bailey Zappe. Congratulations. At least the Broncos are a well coached operation that plays smart football. Even in the loss last week their style kept them in the game until the end.
Prediction: Broncos win 26-12
 
Eagles at Cowboys:
Jemp: Cowboys,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: Cowboys
Okay, this is maybe the best Sunday Night game we’ve had all year. The Cowboys are now within striking distance of the NFC East lead, and they get to host the Eagles coming off a thrashing at the hands of the 49ers. And last week wasn’t an isolated incident for the Birds. They had been living dangerously for weeks and there is no question the Cowboys have been the better team since their last matchup. I wish I could pick both teams to lose but I just think the Cowboys are better right now. But I would not be remotely surprised if they choked.
Prediction: Cowboys win 31-27
 
Titans at Dolphins:
Jemp: Dolphins,  Reeb: Dolphins,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Dolphins
So we are getting two Monday Night games again, probably to distract us from the fact that neither game is any good. Remember when we got Steelers Browns and Panthers Saints in week 2? Probably not, but it wasn’t much fun. But at least I can have each game up on a screen as I watch with Jemp and Pep during the PFJ retreat. Exciting stuff. Anyway, I’d give you some analysis but I think these two picks are pretty self-explanatory.
Prediction: Dolphins win 27-14
 
Packers at Giants:
Jemp: Packers,  Reeb: Packers,  Pep: Packers,  Screw: Packers
See above.
Prediction: Packers win 27-10
 

​Here are the standings:
 
Screw: 113-67
Reeb: 111-69
Jemp: 111-69
Pep: 107-73
Alx: 105-75
 
Well that was a rough Thanksgiving. Not only did a certain game on Thanksgiving day not go according to plan, but I also had the worst week in the pick’em. But overall, this is still a tight race, and I’m ready to pick some games.
 
Seahawks at Cowboys:
Jemp: Cowboys,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: Cowboys
What looked like a great game a few weeks ago might be another TNF slaughterfest. I was sure this Seahawks offense would get it together, but things went from bad to worse against the 49ers. The offense hasn’t been able to get going all year, and I’m not sure this team can compete with the top teams in the NFC. And as much as it pains me to say it, the Cowboys are one of those teams. Granted, I still believe the Cowboys could collapse at any moment, but they have slammed bad teams, and right now, I think the Seahawks are a bad team.
Prediction: Cowboys win 27-13
 
Colts at Titans:
Jemp: Colts,  Reeb: Titans,  Pep: Colts,  Screw: Colts
I’m telling you, these Colts are so much fun. They currently hold the 7 seed in the AFC playoff picture, and I think they deserve it. Shane Steichen deserves serious consideration for coach of the year right now, as he has steadied a ship with Gardner Minshew as its captain. The only unfortunate part of last week’s game was that Jonathan Taylor now needs thumb surgery. This is a huge blow because Taylor was starting to look like the best back in football once again. However, Zack Moss did a great job filling in before, and I expect them to take care of the Titans this week.
Prediction: Colts win 30-20
 
Chargers at Patriots:
Jemp: Chargers,  Reeb: Chargers,  Pep: Chargers,  Screw: Chargers
Well Bill Belichick is doing some serious damage to his coaching record, but on the bright side, he’s putting the Patriots in position to draft a top quarterback. Mac Jones had another dreadful performance in which he was again benched for Bailey Zappe. Belichick hasn’t committed to either guy for this game, but both are so bad that I’d be shocked if it made a difference. Then again, the Chargers have the innate ability to lost any game they set their mind to, so who knows?
Prediction: Chargers win 20-10
 
Lions at Saints:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Lions,  Screw: Lions
I’m starting to get a little nervous about this Lions team. They have struggled mightily the last two weeks, and this Saints team isn’t a pushover. Well, sometimes they are. For instance, last week Derek Carr threw the game away with a disgusting pick six and then failed to get in the end zone each and every time they had the ball. Chris Olave also suffered a concussion with leaves him highly questionable for this one. That really leaves the Saints with not a lot of options at receiver if he can’t go. Rashid Shaheed can’t carry the group by himself. If Olave can go, then I think the Saints certainly have a shot against a generous Lions defense, but I’m picking the Lions to bounce back here.
Prediction: Lions win 27-24
 
Falcons at Jets:
Jemp: Falcons,  Reeb: Falcons,  Pep: Jets,  Screw: Falcons
Good god, please don’t make me watch another game from Tim Boyle. And versus Desmond Ridder? We are really in a QB wasteland here. Aaron Rodgers was designated to return from IR, but I don’t see a reason for the Jets to send him out there this year. They are pretty much out of the AFC playoff picture, and only Pep thinks they win this one at home.
Prediction: Falcons win 16-0
 
Cardinals at Steelers:
Jemp: Steelers,  Reeb: Steelers,  Pep: Steelers,  Screw: Steelers
Could it be? The Steeler reached a monumental milestone last week, 400 yards of total offense. That might not sound like a huge accomplishment, but Matt Canada was watching in awe trying to figure out how they did it. Sure, they still only put up 16 points, but it was enough for the win, and I expect they’ll win a similar game this week. The Cardinals had a stinker against the Rams, and now Kyler has to try and rebound against this Steelers team that knows how to close out games. I’d love the Cards to pull this one out, but I’m expecting the Steelers to have their usual 17-14 victory.
Prediction: Steelers win 17-14
 
Dolphins at Commanders:
Jemp: Dolphins,  Reeb: Dolphins,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Dolphins
Easy dub for Sam Howell and the Commanders. Just ignore the ongoing exodus of coaches.
Prediction: Commanders win 100-0
 
Broncos at Texans:
Jemp: Broncos,  Reeb: Texans,  Pep: Texans,  Screw: Broncos
Who would have thought that this would be one of the most important games in the AFC playoff race? Both of these teams are just out of the playoffs due to tiebreakers, but the winner of this game is in great position to take a slot. CJ Stroud is taking the league by storm, but it’s the Broncos who have the longest winning streak in the conference. I’m not sure how they keep doing it, but they are solid on both sides of the ball, and just keep playing smart football. They have just enough firepower to win these close games, and I think they do it again in Houston.
Prediction: Broncos win 23-21
 
Panthers at Buccaneers:
Jemp: Bucs,  Reeb: Bucs,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Bucs
The Panthers are the biggest mess in the NFL. Maybe they can hope for the bump that usually comes after firing a coach, but I don’t think this team is lighting cigars due to the departure of Frank Reich. This organization is in shambles and Bryce Young might be the only one who can help get them back on track.
Prediction: Buccaneers win 24-10
 
Browns at Rams:
Jemp: Rams,  Reeb: Browns,  Pep: Browns,  Screw: Browns
Things are getting bleak for the Browns as we could potentially see Joe Flacco start this game for them if DTR can’t go. I wouldn’t feel very comfortable leaving Flacco out there with Aaron Donald on the other side of the ball, and I’m guessing he won’t be too comfortable either. I expect a lot of plays where Flacco just ducks and says “I give up, I give up!”. While the Browns defense will certainly be a problem for this Rams offense, I think McVay can scheme up just enough to outscore the Browns here.
Prediction: Rams win 13-7
 
49ers at Eagles:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: 49ers
America’s game of the week is truly living up to the hype, assuming that we don’t have a quarterback immediately leave with an injury in the NFC Title game rematch. The Eagles keep winning these close games, and they are so dangerous because they have playmakers at all levels. Their defense can be had, but their offense can beat you in so many different ways. But this week they go against an offense that is just as versatile and has the defense to boot. The 49ers continue to look like the best team in the NFL, and I don’t think it stops this week. This team wants to prove they should have gone to the Super Bowl last year if not for the injury to Purdy, and I think they come out on top in this instant classic.
Prediction: 49ers win 31-24
 
Chiefs at Packers:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
It might not be 49ers-Eagles, but I can’t complain about this Sunday Night game. The Packers looked dead in the water a few weeks ago, but suddenly they look like they have risen from the dead. This could be a statement win for Jordan Love and company against a vulnerable Chiefs team. The Chiefs haven’t looked dominant all season, and it always looks like Patrick Mahomes doesn’t have enough help. Still, I can’t pick against Mahomes and Reed in primetime. This is still one of the best teams in football.
Prediction: Chiefs win 27-20
 
Bengals at Jaguars:
Jemp: Jaguars,  Reeb: Jaguars,  Pep: Jaguars,  Screw: Jaguars
Well, this could have been fun if Joe Burrow was playing. But instead we get Jake Browning making the Bengals an afterthought. At least the Jags are back on track after the thumping they took from the niners. This could be a great week for them to flex their muscles and prove they are a true contender.
Prediction: Jaguars win 27-10