Here are the standings:
 
Jemp: 9-7
Alx: 9-7
Pep: 9-7
Screw: 8-8
Reeb: 7-9
 
Not the most electric start to the pick’em, but it’s a nice even playing field right now. Despite not being the highest scoring week of football, it was still a great week 1 and I can’t wait to see how teams follow it up in Week 2. This is the time for the 0-1 teams to prove if they are more like the 2022 Bengals or the 2022 Broncos. Let’s pick some games.
 
Vikings at Eagles:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Eagles,  Screw: Eagles
I think everyone looked to the Vikings this year and knew there was going to be regression from the 13 wins they had a season ago, but not many people expected them to lose to the Bucs. The result makes you think this might be a lost season for the Vikes, but I’m not so sure. Kirk and the offense actually played really well, they just had a few weird turnovers. A mishandled snap, a sack fumble, and an interception that was pried out of the hands of KJ Osborn as it looked like the Vikings were going to go up a TD right before halftime. I do think the Vikings have a chance here, but I’m gonna go with the Eagles despite the close call against the Pats.
Prediction: Eagles win 27-24
 
 
Packers at Falcons:
Jemp: Falcons,  Reeb: Packers,  Pep: Falcons,  Screw: Packers
Packers fans are elated thinking they have another Hall-of-Famer after Jordan Love’s first start. The Falcons are probably not as optimistic about Desmond Ridder. Shockingly after spending the offseason signing blocking receivers and tight ends and drafting a running back with their first round pick, the Falcons ended up being just as run-heavy as last year. Who could have guessed? However, Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier both looked awesome, and they go against a Packers defense that has been notoriously bad against the run under Matt Lafleur. Then again, maybe this is the year the Packers defense lives up to their potential after a good start against the Bears. I’m loving this matchup, but I think I’ll give the slight edge to the Pack on the road.
Prediction: Packers win 24-21
 
 
Raiders at Bills:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Raiders,  Screw: Bills
It was a rough start for Josh Allen. The Jets defense is legit, but Allen has to know that the Jets had no chance in that game if he just doesn’t turn the ball over. That being said, his mentality of always playing all out is probably what makes him great. Also he is going against a Raiders defense that is much more suspect. They just gave up 16 points to the Broncos which is like giving up 40 to the Bills. Pep can’t quit the Raiders and you have to admit that all Jimmy G does is win, but I don’t think it’s enough against these Bills.
Prediction: Bills win 27-24
 
 
Ravens at Bengals:
Jemp: Ravens,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bengals
I love these early AFC North battles. Neither of these offenses got off to a blistering start. The Todd Monken offense led to a whopping 22 pass attempts for Lamar, 4 more than Desmond Ridder. Granted, it was against the Texans, so maybe they just didn’t feel the need to air it out much. While the Ravens had their struggles, they looked like the greatest show on turf compared to the Bengals. Joe Burrow had his worst day as a pro, and he wasn’t the only Bengal to have problems with the Browns defense. However, the combination of the rain, the Browns, and the lack of preseason leave me feeling unconcerned with the Bengals. Plus we saw this last year and they rebounded just fine. I think they take care of business at home, especially with all these Ravens injuries.
Prediction: Bengals win 27-24
 
 
Seahawks at Lions:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Lions,  Screw: Lions
Last year this was a shootout due to some great offenses playing against terrible defenses. However, this year these offenses are showing some cracks. The Lions leaned on their great offensive line in the opener, but their lack of weapons was evident, as they couldn’t find anyone outside of Amon Ra to make a big play. Maybe some more touches for Jahmyr Gibbs would help, but they need a receiver on the outside. The Seahawks are the exact opposite as they are full of playmakers on offense, but both their second year tackles got hurt and they just couldn’t protect Geno in the second half. Aidan Hutchinson and company could feast this week.
Prediction: Lions win 20-17
 
 
Chargers at Titans:
Jemp: Chargers,  Reeb: Chargers,  Pep: Titans,  Screw: Chargers
Typical Chargers loss where they look great and compete and blow it at the end. However, the Kellen Moore offense looked great and the Titans don’t have Tyreek Hill on their team, so maybe the Chargers defense won’t get torched again. Ryan Tannehill had a nightmare start to his season, costing his team the game against the Saints. The Chargers are clearly the better team in this matchup, but I can’t help worry that they could have a let down. Right after the shootout in a game they should win, feels like a recipe for a Chargers loss. But I’m a sucker for the Chargers so I’ll take them anyway.
Prediction: Chargers win 27-14
 
 
Bears at Buccaneers:
Jemp: Bucs,  Reeb: Bucs,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Bucs
I feel weird that I have to come out and defend the Bears, but I feel like they weren’t as bad as people make them out to be. This could also be because I had such low expectations for them, but let’s remember that they were the worst team in football last year. Justin Fields still had his issues, but I think there was progress. At least he threw 37 times for 216 yards. Not very efficient, but at least those are real quarterback numbers. Last year he had the Desmond Ridder stats of like 17 pass attempts for 120 yards. This is progress. Maybe I’m crazy but I think the Bears have a shot here against a Bucs team that I’m not buying yet.
Prediction: Bears win 21-17
 
 
Chiefs at Jaguars:
Jemp: Jaguars,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
I really wish I knew if Kelce was going to play before picking this game. It is really hard to imagine the Chiefs starting 0-2, but Patrick Mahomes must be green with envy at the weapons Trevor Lawrence now has. What would Mahomes have given to have had Zay Jones on his team against the Lions? However, it might just solve everything to get Kelce back, and I wouldn’t count out the Chiefs anyway even if he doesn’t play. Had it not been for the tipped pick six, they would probably have won on Thursday against a good Lions team.   
Prediction: Chiefs win 30-27
 
 
Colts at Texans:
Jemp: Texans,  Reeb: Colts,  Pep: Colts,  Screw: Texans
The AFC South battle of rookie quarterbacks. Neither CJ Stroud nor Anthony Richardson were fantastic in their respective debuts, but they weren’t train wrecks either. Richardson showed off the elite athleticism fantasy managers were so excited about. He also showed off the questionable accuracy and decision making that was discussed. However, he wasn’t alone in that as all the rookie QBs had their growing pains in Week 1. Stroud was no exception, as he struggled to get his team in scoring positions. I could see this one going either way, but I think I’ll take the Colts.
Prediction: Colts win 19-17
 
 
49ers at Rams:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: 49ers
What a performance by the Rams. Sean McVay and Matthew Stafford put on a show, making guys like Puka Nacua and Tutu Atwell look like the new Cooper Kupp and Brandin Cooks. Now they just need Van Jefferson to be Robert Woods. They also got some good play out of their offensive line, which is something I didn’t fully expect. Unfortunately, I don’t expect it again this week because they have Nick Bosa and company coming to town. And that young defense will also have to deal with all those offensive stars, including Brandon Aiyuk who might be emerging as a top 10 receiver this year. Plus the NFC West flowchart says niners all the way.
Prediction: 49ers win 34-14
 
 
Giants at Cardinals:
Jemp: Giants,  Reeb: Giants,  Pep: Giants,  Screw: Giants
This is exactly what the Giants need after a tough day in the office. Although they might need to be a little careful. The Cardinals played hard last week… some might say a little too hard if you look at the shots they were taking at Sam Howell.  I’ll give Jonathan Gannon credit for motivating this team to try to prove the doubters wrong, but I’m not sure they have the horses. I don’t think it’s impossible for the Giants to blow this one, but it just feels too early in the season for a Cardinals win.
Prediction: Giants win 17-13
 
 
Jets at Cowboys:
Jemp: Cowboys,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: Cowboys
It was a brutal weekend in Metlife. First, the Cowboys obliterated the Giants on Sunday Night Football, and then the Achilles tear heard round the world. Maybe it’s my fault for finally finishing a season of Hard Knocks and starting to buy the hype. It’s a sort of cruel comedy that took place that night, but you can’t deny that it is nevertheless comedic. If you watched Hard Knocks you know how hard the Jets themselves were fawning over Aaron Rodgers, and then to have him last one single throw is honestly some genius level satire. Now it’s up to Zach Wilson to save the season, or rather, to not tank the season. The rest of this team is built for a playoff run, but unfortunately Zach Wilson didn’t look any better than before, so I’ve got to take the Cowboys here.
Prediction: Cowboys win 20-17
 
 
Commanders at Broncos:
Jemp: Commanders,  Reeb: Broncos,  Pep: Commanders,  Screw: Broncos
Well Russell Wilson looked better under Sean Payton, but it still ended up with 16 points for the Broncos. Now they go against the undefeated Commanders. They’ll need to recover six onsides kicks to have a chance in this one.
Prediction: Commanders win 100-0
 
 
Dolphins at Patriots:
Jemp: Patriots,  Reeb: Dolphins,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Dolphins
Sneaky great game here. Tua and Dolphins looked just like they did in the early goings of last season, with their speedy receivers and creative passing attack leaving the defense reeling. But that was the Chargers defense. The Patriots defense showed up in a big way against the Eagles, and now we have to see if Belichick can contain Tyreek Hill. He’s always done a better job than most, and he has some pretty good defensive tools to work with now. If Mac and the offense can keep up what they did on Sunday, then this can be a good Patriots team.
Prediction: Patriots win 23-20
 
 
Saints at Panthers:
Jemp: Saints,  Reeb: Saints,  Pep: Saints,  Screw: Saints
Are we already getting the questionable Monday Night games? Who ok’d an NFC South matchup in week 2? I was a little discouraged after watching the Panthers. I thought they could surprise some people, but their lack of offensive skill talent was a little too evident.  Now they have to play against a team with Chris Olave, Michael Thomas, and the great Rashid Shaheed. Maybe once Adam Thielen gets healthy, the Panthers can turn it around. If it’s not too late by then.
Prediction: Saints win 20-10
 
 
Browns at Steelers:
Jemp: Steelers,  Reeb: Steelers,  Pep: Browns,  Screw: Browns
This second game on the MNF doubleheader is a little more interesting. The Steelers might have disappointed in Week 1, but this is their chance to show that it was just a speedbump against a juggernaut. The problem is that their offense might not have it any easier against this Browns defense. They dominated the Bengals, and nothing cements a DPOY campaign like doing some crossover dribbles before the snap count. I feel like the odds for Myles Garrett now have jumped to like -200 just solely based on that. Well, also the fact that he’s really good at football. And I think he’ll be on full display again this week.
Prediction: Browns win 23-10

AND WE ARE BACK. Finally, football is here and ProFootballJokes is steeped with anticipation. Thursday Night can’t get here fast enough, and the minute I hear “Seven Hours of Commercial Free Football Starts Now” come out of Scott Hanson’s beautiful mouth on Sunday, I feel like my life will be complete once again. But none of it would be complete without the PFJ pick’em, so let’s pick some games.
 
Lions at Chiefs:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
I imagine Jemp can’t wait to watch his Lions on opening night. Their finish to last season along with a nice offseason has brought unprecedented hype around this team. So much so that they are the NFC North favorites which I can’t remember happening in my lifetime. So what could go wrong in an opening matchup against the defending Super Bowl champions? The Chiefs were expected to roll into this season, but the injury to Travis Kelce could pose a problem. Suddenly the corps of Skyy Moore, MVS, and Kadarius Toney seems like more of an issue. But I expect Kelce to play and the passing game to somehow be fine anyway. I guess it’s not a mystery when they have the greatest quarterback alive. Patrick Mahomes vs. Jared Goff might not sound like a huge contest, but let’s not forget that the last time these two squared off it was possibly the greatest regular season game in NFL history, and it was Goff who came out on top. But I don’t expect him to do it this time.
Prediction: Chiefs win 31-27
  
Panthers at Falcons:
Jemp: Falcons,  Reeb: Falcons,  Pep: Falcons,  Screw: Falcons
Most people probably aren’t excited for an NFC South clash, but I think this could be a fun one. We get to see two high-profile rookies as the centerpieces of their offenses. The Panthers hope to have drafted their franchise quarterback of the future, while Arthur Smith said “Who needs a quarterback when we’re just going to run the ball every play?” While it may seem like a questionable strategy on his part, his running system has been very hard to stop. Tyler Allgeier somehow produced 1,000 rushing yards last season despite starting the season as the clear backup and spending most of the year as part of a 3-4 man committee. Bijan won’t have that issue and could lead the league in rushing as a rookie. And the best part is now the Falcons might have a competent defense to pair with their running game, after adding the likes of Calais Campbell, Jessie Bates, Kaden Elliss, and the great Jeff Okudah. However, all that being said, it’s the Panthers I’m even more excited for. I think the roster is much better than people think, and Frank Reich and this coaching staff will put together a fun offense for Bryce Young. I think the Panthers could be this year’s Jaguars. To be fair, that could mean getting off to a slower start, but I can’t resist lone-wolfing them here.
Prediction: Panthers win 24-23
 
Bengals at Browns:
Jemp: Browns,  Reeb: Bengals,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bengals
I’ve spoken at length on the podcast on how loaded the AFC North is this year, but the Browns are the biggest wild card. Specifically, the play of Deshaun Watson ranges from Josh Allen to Desmond Ridder. Watson was a top 5 quarterback in the NFL from the time he hit the field as a rookie to the end of his Houston tenure, then proceeded to be a bottom 5 quarterback in 2023. Since we have no clue which one of those guys shows up this year, it’s so hard to project this team. However, if the former shows up, this team is as loaded as any in the NFL. The Eagles are thought to have the best combination of o-line and d-line in the NFL, but I think the Browns could give them a run for their money. They might not have the depth that the Eagles have on defense but their front four is as good as any in the league, and their offensive line strength has been a constant throughout the Stefanski era. I think I’ll go with the Browns here due to their upside and the fact that the Bengals have struggled against this team. Don’t worry Reeb, I still think the Bengals are a top AFC contender, but I can just see a tough week 1 again. Or Deshaun Watson throws up all over his shoes and the Bengals dominate.
Prediction: Browns win 27-24
  
Jaguars at Colts:
Jemp: Jags,  Reeb: Jags,  Pep: Jags,  Screw: Jags
So who is excited to see Anthony Richardson in action? I’ll admit I was much more optimistic when I thought Jonathan Taylor was going to be in this offense. But maybe in three years Shane Steichen can turn him into Jalen Hurts. I’m guessing it won't happen this year. On the other side, Trevor Lawrence is all set for his own quarterback transformation. He made leaps and bounds last year after the Urban Meyer disaster, and now we just want to know if he can elevate into the elite Josh Allen/Joe Burrow tier of quarterbacks. Adding Calvin Ridley to the mix should certainly help, but the main problem with the Jags is their lack of star power. When “the other” Josh Allen is your best defensive player, it’s not the best sign. This doesn’t matter for this game or for winning the AFC South, but come playoff time, I’m not sure if this team really has a chance to beat any of the other AFC division winners.
Prediction: Jaguars win 27-13
  
Buccaneers at Vikings:
Jemp: Vikings,  Reeb: Vikings,  Pep: Vikings,  Screw: Vikings
Well I know everyone is talking about regression for the Vikings this year, but I don’t think it will happen this week against Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers. I agree they will regress from the 13 wins they had last season, but I still think this could be a very good team. Their offense has the potential to be a top-5 unit, and maybe Brian Flores can magically make their defense rank like 20th? That’s about the best they can hope for, but that could be enough to win this division. And it will definitely be enough to beat the Bucs.
Prediction: Vikings win 34-20
  
Titans at Saints:
Jemp: Titans,  Reeb: Titans,  Pep: Saints,  Screw: Titans
The Derek Carr vs. Ryan Tannehill matchup seems emblematic of this game. These are two mediocre teams in bad divisions that will have a shot at the playoffs thanks to their schedule. I think the Saints have a little more upside based on their personnel, but I trust the Titans coaching way more. While it initially seemed like the Titans were planning on tanking the season, they went out and at least attempted to address their weak points without trading away veterans like Tannehill and Derrick Henry. I know that most rankings have the Titans as the worst offensive line in the NFL, but they do have four new starters, so there is some upside there. These feel like two 7-8 win teams, but I’ll take the Titans to start out the season strong as they always do under Vrabel.
Prediction: Titans win 20-17
 
49ers at Steelers:
Jemp: Steelers,  Reeb: Steelers,  Pep: Steelers,  Screw: Steelers
I think this Steelers hype has gone too far. Kenny Pickett’s second year preseason rivaled that of Blaine Gabbert’s in 2012, so suddenly everyone is picking them to beat the 49ers. I’m not one to say the preseason doesn’t matter at all, but let’s not get overhyped about a couple of good drives. The Steelers still have the fourth best roster in their own division, and the 49ers look as good as ever. Sure, their offensive line doesn’t look spectacular, and maybe they lost a little depth on their defensive line, but this team is far superior to the Steelers. Granted, the 49ers have had some Week 1 struggles, including losing to the Bears last year, but I’m not buying into that. I can’t believe these jokers are letting me lone wolf the niners.
Prediction: 49ers win 27-17
  
Cardinals at Commanders:
Jemp: Commanders,  Reeb: Commanders,  Pep: Commanders,  Screw: Commanders
Finally it’s time for us to watch Sam Howell dismantle the lowly Cardinals. Jonathan Gannon won’t name the starting quarterback probably because he’s still trying to convince someone to take the beating that Chase Young and co. are gonna put on them. 
Prediction: Commanders win 999-0
  
Texans at Ravens:
Jemp: Ravens,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Ravens,  Screw: Ravens
I feel bad for CJ Stroud as he is being completely overlooked. Nobody wants him in fantasy or give him any consideration to win rookie of the year and certainly not to make the playoffs. This is his chance to shock the world and defeat a potentially gettable Ravens defense. However, it’s the Ravens who like to lay smackdowns on unsuspecting teams in Week 1, and Stroud doesn’t have much help even if he ends up being great. I hope he and the Texans surprise some people this year, but I don’t expect it this week. I guess I can’t really expect to be surprised though.
Prediction: Ravens win 33-13
  
Packers at Bears:
Jemp: Packers,  Reeb: Packers,  Pep: Bears,  Screw: Bears
Some are calling this the most anticipated Packers Bears showdown since the 2010 AFC championship game. Those people are deranged, but they do exist. That being said, there are plenty of people hyped up for Justin Fields this year. He was electrifying last year with his long touchdown runs and his…, well pretty much just those. Now we just have to see if he can pass the ball efficiently. He now has a better offensive line and receiving corps, so this is the year he has to prove it. I’m a bit skeptical, but I get why people are comparing it to Jalen Hurts’ breakout last year. I’m more excited to watch these new look Packers. I have no idea if Jordan Love will be any good, but I can’t wait to find out. I think Matt LaFleur is going to prove to people this year that he is in fact a good coach which people seem to have forgotten despite him starting his coaching career with three straight 13-win seasons. I don’t think the Packers get that high this year, but if Jordan Love can play then I think they are certainly relevant in this division. There is the mildest take I’ll give today.
Prediction: Packers win 24-21
 
Raiders at Broncos:
Jemp: Raiders,  Reeb: Broncos,  Pep: Raiders,  Screw: Broncos
I know there aren’t many people out there looking forward to watching the Broncos since they probably caused thousands of people to hate football last year. Imagine being a kid watching your first football game and seeing the Broncos lose 12-9 against the Colts on TNF. However, if we really do believe that was a totally botched coaching job by Nathaniel Hackett, then Sean Payton must make them at least a little better right? And to be fair, they lost a lot of close games last year, so if Payton can close that gap, then this team could overachieve. The great thing about Week 1 is that anything is possible, and I want to see what the Sean Payton Broncos look like. Maybe it’s the same Russ from last year, but god I hope not.
Prediction: Broncos win 23-17
 
Eagles at Patriots:
Jemp: Patriots,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Eagles,  Screw: Eagles
Jemp is lone-wolfing against the defending NFC champions. I admit I considered it, as I do expect the Eagles to take a small step back, and the Patriots just feel like a spoiler team this year. Maybe getting rid of Patricia was all they needed to have a functional offense, and the defense could be great this year. However, the lack of weapons on offense has never been more apparent, and the offensive line isn’t the strength it used to be. The Eagles still have one of, if not the best roster in football, so I can’t pick against them this early. They should be on upset alert though.
Prediction: Eagles win 20-17 
 
Dolphins at Chargers:
Jemp: Chargers,  Reeb: Chargers,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Dolphins
This is another fun Week 1 matchup. The Chargers are looking to wash off the stink of them crumbling last year, and the many, many years before that. Maybe this could be their year! The saving grace for this team is that they have an elite quarterback in Justin Herbert, and maybe Kellen Moore can unlock this offense. Mike McDaniel seemed to do that for the Dolphins last year, but injuries derailed their season. And unfortunately they are banged up again, but at least they have their quarterback healthy. Let the Tua vs. Herbert debate run wild, but I’ll take the Chargers at home.
Prediction: Chargers win 31-27
 
Rams at Seahawks:
Jemp: Seahawks,  Reeb: Seahawks,  Pep: Seahawks,  Screw: Rams
I know I’ve said I’m excited to watch a lot of teams, but I can’t help it, I’m just really pumped for football to start. And there aren’t many teams I’m looking forward to watching more than the Seattle Seahawks. I think Geno Smith could go off in this offense throwing to DK, Lockett, and now JSN. Nearly everyone had JSN as the top receiver in this draft class, but I view him as a truly elite prospect, and I think he could have a Justin Jefferson-type rookie season.  Combine that with two established pro bowl receivers and a good young running back in Kenneth Walker, and this could easily be a top 5 offense. The Rams could not be. They had two good players in Aaron Donald and Cooper Kupp, and now it looks like Kupp is out. I know the Rams usually beat the Seahawks or at least play them tough, but this team is outclassed at every level.
Prediction: Seahawks win 27-10
  
Cowboys at Giants:
Jemp: Cowboys,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Giants,  Screw: Cowboys
The NFL had to salivate after the Giants and Cowboys made the playoffs last year, knowing that they could put them on Sunday Night Football without complaint. Sure, the Giants were a bit of a fluke, but they have great coaching and a $40 million quarterback. The rest of their roster is still a bit dubious but they have attacked the receiver position with the philosophy of quantity over quality. The defense has some playmakers in Dexter Lawrence and Kayvon Thibodeaux, but there are also plenty of holes. On the other end, I’m not sure what the Cowboys want to be, other than not the number 1 offense, but their personnel gives them more options. I’d like to pick the Giants here, but I just don’t believe it.
Prediction: Cowboys win 27-20
 
Bills at Jets:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Jets,  Screw: Bills
I finally did it. I finally got through an entire season of Hard Knocks, and it has me absolutely gassed for the Jets. I drafted Garrett Wilson on as many fantasy teams as I could, and I’m even starting to lose my distaste for Aaron Rodgers. This Jets team does in fact have the ability to compete for this division and even for a Super Bowl. But for as much hype as the Jets bring this year, the Bills have seem to have lost all of theirs. Last year, they were consensus Super Bowl favorite, and their team is mostly the same now. They looked like the best team in the NFL in September of 2022, and now their team is nearly identical in 2023. They are weirdly underrated, but I guess we all just like the new shiny toy over old reliable. But I guess I’m a sucker as well because I’m taking the Jets at home.
Prediction: Jets win 24-21

Here are the standings:
 
Reeb: 192-103
Jemp: 181-114
Alx: 179-116
Pep: 176-119
Screw: 175-120
 
There might not be any drama in our pick’em, but we do get a hell of a game in the Super Bowl. I know that seems a bit secondary, but I’m still looking forward to it. Let’s pick the World Champ.
 
Chiefs vs. Eagles:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Carl Cheffers,  Pep: Commanders,  Screw: Eagles
I can’t blame Reeb for still being a little salty about the AFC championship, as you can see from his Super Bowl pick. I guess he can be cavalier with his pick when he has clinched the pick’em trophy. It’s a metaphorical trophy, kind of like his salary. But we are getting a great matchup between the two 1 seeds. The Eagles are such a well-rounded team and were essentially injury-free going into the playoffs, so it’s no surprise that they ended up here. And the Chiefs have Patrick Mahomes. There is no question that these two teams deserve to be here, but the Eagles have been more consistent throughout the year. Their running game is so hard to contain, and their receivers are bound to burn you if you leave them one-on-one. They have waves of pass rushers and a great secondary that can matchup with nearly anyone. Then again, the Chiefs are a different animal than the Giants and the QB-less niners. Jalen Hurts hasn’t looked quite right since he came back from injury, and he will need to be at his best to keep up with Mahomes. Mahomes has his own injury to deal with, but I’m less worried about him. The Eagles are great but I expect Andy Reid has something special cooked up for the Eagles, and I can’t pick against Mahomes.
Prediction: Chiefs win 30-27

​Here are the standings:
 
Reeb: 190-101
Jemp: 179-112
Alx: 179-112
Pep: 176-115
Screw: 173-118
 
So yeah, it looks like Reeb is gonna win this one. But I could probably just cheat the standings and he wouldn’t notice, so let’s see how this week turns out. The good news is that we truly are getting the 4 best teams in football playing this week with a chance to go to the Super Bowl. Let’s pick some games.
 
49ers at Eagles:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: Eagles
We get to start off Sunday with the two most complete teams in football going head to head. The Eagles trounced the Giants last week showing off every reason they had the best record in football. Their chariot of pass rushers got after Daniel Jones, while their offense looked near unstoppable with their creative run game and their elite receivers. It seemed unfair to match up that team with the Giants who piecemealed together a competent roster. However, the 49ers aren’t the Giants, because while they didn’t appear quite as dominant as usual last week, no team has been better since Thanksgiving than the niners. The Eagles defense might be good, but it pales in comparison to Demeco Ryans’ unit. And while Purdy isn’t the same quarterback as Jalen Hurts, being surrounded by the most versatile group of skill position players in the NFL in a Kyle Shanahan scheme makes for a pretty explosive offense. The Eagles are as good as anyone when they are at their best, but San Fran has shown up each and every week since Purdy entered the lineup, and I still don’t doubt that they are the clear best team in football.
Prediction: 49ers win 30-27
 
Bengals at Chiefs:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Bengals,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bengals
Is Burrow vs. Mahomes the new Brady vs. Manning? Mahomes has proven he’s the greatest quarterback in the world, yet Burrow continues to own him head to head. Now he’s at a greater disadvantage after suffering a high-ankle sprain last week. Mahomes started last week like a madman making his signature ridiculous Patrick Mahomes plays down after down. Then he got hurt and looked mortal. His numbers were still great after that, but it seemed like Andy Reid had to coach around the Mahomes injury, rather than letting Pat go to work. I’m not surprised that worked against the Jaguars, but they’ll need more Mahomes magic to beat the Bengals, and even then, there is no guarantee. It might be early to have these discussions about such young quarterbacks, but this feels like a legacy game for both of them. Another victory for Joey B against Mahomes en route to a Super Bowl would go a long way, while Mahomes finally conquering the Bengals on one leg would certainly be something we’d always remember him for. Ultimately, I’ve got to take the Bengals, who are playing well in all aspects, and I expect Burrow to come through in the clutch again.
Prediction: Bengals win 24-21
 
 

​Here are the standings:
 
Reeb: 182-101
Jemp: 175-108
Pep: 174-109
Alx: 171-112
Screw: 167-116
 
Well I think I’m waving the white flag here. I’m six games back with seven to go, and I can’t pick against Reeb in all of these games in good conscience. A little frustrating that I could have just picked against him in all three games that I thought were going to be close and been within striking distance. But I love Kirk and Herbert too much to pick against them, so I guess I’m just writing this for the fans now. Jemp and Pep still have a mild chance of winning so let’s pick some games.
 
Jaguars at Chiefs:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Jaguars,  Screw: Chiefs
Trevor Lawrence fever is higher than ever after his wild playoff debut. He certainly looks a lot like Andrew Luck after being touted as the best prospect since the Stanford great. However, he still has been somewhat up and down this year and he’s playing against one of the most prolific quarterbacks anyone has ever seen. However, I do picture a scenario where Trevor Lawrence battles his way through this gauntlet to get to the Super Bowl, beating Herbert, Mahomes, then Allen or Burrow. And then he just can’t get past Brock Purdy. I think it’s more likely that he just doesn’t get through Mahomes though. Mahomes has been to the AFC championship every year that he’s been a starter, and I don’t think that streak stops now.
Prediction: Chiefs win 34-30
 
Giants at Eagles:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Giants,  Screw: Eagles
I was bummed that Kirk lost in the first round of the playoffs, but I can’t help but like this Giants team. The Daniel Jones hype has gotten a little out of control, considering how much of it is due to him feasting on the Vikings defense twice. However, the Giants defense is much improved, and they’ve found themselves some gems at receiver after a long season of musical chairs at that position (where Kenny Golladay could never find a seat). Isaiah Hodgins is a pretty good player and Darius Slayton is a competent NFL starter. I know that isn’t the highest of praise, but it’s a lot better than what I could have said about the group early in the year. There is still a large talent gap between them and the Eagles, but Philly also hasn’t been the same team towards the backend of the season. I would love to see Brian Daboll take advantage of that and get this upset. However, I think if Jalen Hurts is healthy, then he should be able to feast on this Giants secondary with AJ Brown and Devonta Smith.
Prediction: Eagles win 27-24
 
Bengals at Bills:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bengals,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bills
A rematch of the game that never was. If the Bengals had won that game, this one would be in Cincinnati instead of Buffalo, but I’m sure Bengals fans would never complain about that. Both of these teams looked fallible last week after scraping by backup quarterbacks. The biggest difference was that the Bengals not only showed some weakness, but they also lost their left tackle, leaving their offensive line in worse shape than it was during last year’s playoff run. The Bills biggest issue is their turnovers, along with the fact that they lack options on offense. Surprisingly Cole Beasley and John Brown haven’t quite rounded out their receiving corps into a fearsome unit. While I’m concerned about the Bengals offensive line, the Bills don’t have the defense that the Ravens do. The Bengals have the better defense and I think they pose more problems to the Bills than the Bills do on the other side of the ball.
Prediction: Bengals win 23-20
 
Cowboys at 49ers:
Jemp: Cowboys,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: 49ers
The NFL must be salivating over having this matchup in primetime on Sunday. You can’t ask for much more than Cowboys 49ers playoff football. Especially when these teams are this loaded. However, I think people are almost underestimating the 49ers, because to me they are the best team in football by a wide margin. Every other team has their issues, and while I could of course see Patrick Mahomes overcoming the odds to beat this team, I think it would be an uphill battle. They have the best defense in football and a host of playmakers on offense that are constantly schemed open. And all of them are incredible at making plays in open space. The Cowboys played well last week and aren’t an easy out for anyone when they play their best. However, they don’t seem to always bring their best, and even when they do, I don’t think they are as good as the 49ers.
Prediction: 49ers win 38-18 (3 touchdowns with 3 missed extra points for the Cowboys)
 
 

​Here are the standings:
 
Reeb: 174-97
Jemp: 169-102
Alx: 165-106
Pep: 164-107
Screw: 161-110
 
Another Super Wild Card weekend in the books as we get further and further from that name making sense. I had a pretty clutch Week 18, but unfortunately Reeb’s was pretty solid too and now he has a commanding lead. But playoffs count double so we are still within striking distance. Let’s pick some games.
 
Seahawks at 49ers:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: 49ers
Well thanks to Super Wild Card weekend, there are a bunch of pretty lousy playoff teams who are most likely going to get waxed in the first round, and why not kick it off with the first of them. Pete Carroll has typically owned the 49ers, but not this year. Brock Purdy and the Niners most recently decimated the Hawks on Thursday Night Football. It ended up 21-13 thanks to a garbage time TD, but never felt remotely close. Brock Purdy is having the run of his life as he has yet to lose an NFL game. He has brought George Kittle back to life and now he has Deebo back to join the fun as well. And let’s not forget he has the best defense in the league backing him up, led by the presumptive DPOY in Nick Bosa. I expect him to have another field day against the Seahawks duo of rookie tackles, and the 49ers to cruise to the divisional round.
Prediction: 49ers win 27-10
 
Chargers at Jaguars:
Jemp: Chargers,  Reeb: Chargers,  Pep: Jaguars,  Screw: Chargers
Now this should be a fun game. Not an incredibly consequential game, as I don’t expect either of these teams to beat any of the AFC powerhouses, but they can give us a good show on Saturday Night. The Jaguars enter the playoffs as one of the hottest teams in the AFC, winning their last five games to make the playoffs. Some people don’t believe in that kind of momentum, but clearly Brandon Staley does as he tried to replicate that energy by playing his starters in Week 18 to feel good going into the playoffs. Unfortunately he forgot that he is coaching the Chargers, so obviously they sustained injuries to two key players, Mike Williams and Joey Bosa. Oh and they still lost to the Broncos, so good work Staley. I still kind of like the Chargers because I just trust Justin Herbert more and the Jags were lucky to sneak by the Titans.
Prediction: Chargers win 27-24
 
Dolphins at Bills:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Bills,  Screw: Bills
Alright I really don’t need to watch Skylar Thompson try to beat the Bills. I know I said I wanted to see a full game from Skylar, but after that Jets game I’ve seen enough and I’m fine with the Dolphins just staying home. They had a nice season and they’ve earned some time away. Why make them get squashed by the Bills? Granted I feel like the Bills aren’t exactly playing their best ball right now either. I know the kickoff returns last week were magical and everything, but if they didn’t get those, would they have even beat the Patriots? It doesn’t really matter this week since they are playing Skylar Thompson, but maybe they can use this week to try to get their act together.
Prediction: Bills win 24-9
 
Giants at Vikings:
Jemp: Vikings,  Reeb: Vikings,  Pep: Vikings,  Screw: Vikings
We all know how this game is going to go. One of these teams is going to get off to a big lead and then the other team is going to come back and make it close, and then the Vikings are going to pull it off in the end, because that is what they do. Except when they get blown out, but I don’t think that is happening against the Giants. The Giants are a well-coached team and they do have some young talent to get excited about. Dexter Lawrence just made second team All-Pro, and Kavon Thibodeaux is putting quarterbacks to sleep. But Kirk torched this unit last time they played and I expect him to do it again.
Prediction: Vikings win 30-27
 
Ravens at Bengals:
Jemp: Bengals,  Reeb: Bengals,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bengals
I feel like we got enough Ravens Bengals last week. You would think the AFC North classic would be an ideal first round playoff matchup, until we had to watch Anthony Brown last week and might have to do it again. I expect Tyler Huntley to probably start as he is a game-time call, but even if they had Lamar, we know this offense is lost. They are running Sammy Watkins and Desean Jackson out there. The Ravens defense is good, but not good enough to hold off Joe Burrow and company for sixty minutes.
Prediction: Bengals win 33-12
 
Cowboys at Buccaneers:
Jemp: Bucs,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Bucs
I assume everyone expected the NFC South winner to get hosed in the first round of the playoffs, but the Cowboys are putting that scenario into serious question. I know they were playing the ferocious Commanders defense last week, but that was one of the worst offensive performances I’ve seen all season. And this has been a season with some terrible offense. The Cowboys had 14 possessions last week if you don’t count the final few plays that ran out the clock. They mustered one touchdown for themselves, one for the other team on Dak’s pick six, and two turnovers on downs. The other 10 possessions were all 3 and outs. I want to say that is the most in a game all season but I can’t find that stat anywhere and I don’t feel like checking all 272 games. Anyway, the Bucs have been disappointing, but I can’t help but believe in Tom Brady in the playoffs. At least over the Cowboys who always choke.
Prediction: Buccaneers win 20-17
 
 

​Here are the standings:
 
Reeb: 162-93
Jemp: 161-94
Pep: 153-102
Screw: 153-102
Alx: 151-104
 
It’s been a weird week in the NFL after what happened to Damar Hamlin. It makes my fall in the pick’em seem almost trivial. I thought we should have canceled last week’s pick’em scores out of respect, but that idea got shot down. But we are all wishing the best for Hamlin and there have been positive signs of recovery this week. Hopefully I can do the same for my pick’em. Let’s pick some games.
 
Chiefs at Raiders:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
Time to throw out some apologies to Jarrett Stidham, as Josh McDaniels wants to tell the whole world “I told you so.” Stidham went out there and was slinging that pigskin all over the yard against the best defense in the league. Fantasy owners needn’t have worried about Davante Adams and Josh Jacobs, as they pulled through in your championship game. Granted, the Raiders still lost the game, but that is par for the course for them. Maybe he makes this game fun too before the Chiefs inevitably win.
Prediction: Chief win 27-21
 
Titans at Jaguars:
Jemp: Titans,  Reeb: Jaguars,  Pep: Jaguars,  Screw: Titans
The Jaguars are on a roll and the Titans can’t buy a win, so this one seems pretty straightforward. However, this is totally the type of game the Titans win, with nobody thinking they have a chance and they just ride Derrick Henry to a playoff spot. Josh Dobbs was also a huge upgrade from Malik Willis, so I give them a slight chance since I still think Mike Vrabel is a good coach. But no chance I pick against the Jaguars right now.
Prediction: Jaguars win 27-13
 
Buccaneers at Falcons:
Jemp: Bucs,  Reeb: Bucs,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Bucs
I don’t know. Sounds like the Bucs are going to pull their starters pretty quickly, so I’ll try to gain a game by going with the Falcons. Am I concerned that Blaine Gabbert is still better than any of the Falcons quarterbacks? Absolutely. But I need a miracle to comeback so this is my shot.
Prediction: Falcons win 20-17
 
Patriots at Bills:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Bills,  Screw: Bills
Obviously I have to go with the Bills here, but of course I’m concerned with the emotional aspect after last week. I tend to think that it won’t affect much once they take the field and are ready to play, but it must feel weird for a lot of them. Also, I feel like no one is considering that the Bills could rest players if the Chiefs win on Saturday. They won’t be able to get the bye and #1 seed in that scenario, and all they will have to play for is the opportunity to play the AFC championship in a neutral site rather than in Arrowhead if they play the Chiefs. Is that worth risking your stars, especially with Josh Allen still nursing ankle and elbow injuries.
Prediction: Bills win 27-20
 
Vikings at Bears:
Jemp: Vikings,  Reeb: Vikings,  Pep: Vikings,  Screw: Vikings
The Vikings will probably be resting people here, but the Bears are starting Nathan Peterman.
Prediction: Vikings win 17-0
 
Ravens at Bengals:
Jemp: Bengals,  Reeb: Bengals,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bengals
The Bengals could have some extra emotions in this one too, but they are just so much better than the Ravens right now that I don’t think it matters. Lamar Jackson has been ruled out and I don’t think it would make much of a difference if he played. The Ravens offense is so limited with the playmakers they have, and the defense is good but loves to blow leads at the end of games. I expect they avoid that this week since they won’t have a lead to blow.
Prediction: Bengals win 31-13
 
Texans at Colts:
Jemp: Colts,  Reeb: Texans,  Pep: Texans,  Screw: Texans
Well so much for the Texans putting up good fights. They tried a few weeks and then finally got their win against the Titans, and that was probably enough for them. However, now they get the Colts who are back to Sam Ehlinger at quarterback. The Jeff Saturday experience started out fun and now looks like the worst-case scenario. I figured he couldn’t screw things up that badly, but he has proven me wrong. Lovie Smith might not be the most exciting coach, but at least he’s competent.
Prediction: Texans win 23-10
 
Jets at Dolphins:
Jemp: Jets,  Reeb: Dolphins,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Jets
This is the hardest game for me to pick for the weekend. I really thought both of these teams would make the playoffs midway through the year, and I thought the Dolphins were a true Super Bowl contender. I thought the Jets could get there too if they got better quarterback play, and Mike White gave them that briefly and then we had last week. Maybe it was injury related, but that was pretty bad. Not as bad as Zach Wilson, but still. I actually still kind of like Skylar Thompson, and no offense to Teddy, but I’d like to see a full game of him. Plus the Dolphins are at home, so I guess I’ll take them.
Prediction: Dolphins win 23-17
 
Panthers at Saints:
Jemp: Saints,  Reeb: Panthers,  Pep: Panthers,  Screw: Saints
It’s too little, too late for these teams, but the Saints are playing their best football of the season right now. Marshon Lattimore has finally returned and their defense looks like the unit that we thought they could be. And they have rededicated their offense to the Taysom Hill package, which is the best thing they have going for them. Well, except for Rashid Shaheed.
Prediction: Saints win 24-10
 
Browns at Steelers:
Jemp: Steelers,  Reeb: Steelers,  Pep: Browns,  Screw: Steelers
Mike Tomlin, you crazy bastard, you’ve done it again. He really is going to end up with a winning record if his team can just take out the Browns. Deshaun Watson hit a few throws last week, but for the most part, he looked as erratic as ever. The play where he tried to dump it off to his offensive lineman should be added to the highlights of football follies in NFL films. I don’t see the Steelers losing this one.
Prediction: Steelers win 17-14
 
Chargers at Broncos:
Jemp: Chargers,  Reeb: Chargers,  Pep: Chargers,  Screw: Chargers
Okay, so the Chargers said they are going to rest people if the Ravens lose in the early window, and I expect that to happen, so I’m counting on the Broncos to beat the Chargers backups. They looked decent under their new interim head coach, whose name I still don’t remember and don’t feel like it is worth googling because he’s never getting another coaching job.
Prediction: Broncos win 17-10
 
Giants at Eagles:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Eagles,  Screw: Giants
Eagles need this game and the Giants don’t, plus the Eagles are way better and Jalen Hurts might be back. And even if he’s not, Gardner Minshew can easily beat the Giants. I know I said that the past two weeks and he has lost both, but I’m standing firm here. It was really just one bad game against a surging Saints defense that just got Marshon Lattimore back. Plus Jalen Hurts probably will play anyway so this isn’t even relevant.
Prediction: Eagles win 24-10
 
Cardinals at 49ers:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: 49ers
Is this Kliff’s last game? God I hope so. The 49ers defense should be motivated after getting somewhat embarrassed by Jarrett Stidham. Somehow I doubt David Blough will follow in his footsteps.
Prediction: 49ers win 27-0
 
Rams at Seahawks:
Jemp: Rams,  Reeb: Seahawks,  Pep: Seahawks,  Screw: Seahawks
NFL rigged, so the Rams need to win this one for Sunday Night Football to be a win-and-in game for both teams. Refs will be making blind calls for the Rams so that they can pull this one out. They also tend to own the Seahawks, and have at least had moments with Baker at quarterback. I like the Rams to pull out the upset and give us the fun SNF action.
Prediction: Rams win 20-17
 
Cowboys at Commanders:
Jemp: Cowboys,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: Cowboys
Let’s see some Sam Howell. I honestly would have preferred he start last week over Carson Wentz, who unsurprisingly blew the playoff chances for the Commanders… by only winning 99-0. Man, that was embarrassing. 
Prediction: Commanders win 200-0
 
Lions at Packers:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Packers,  Pep: Packers,  Screw: Packers
Well that was definitely the best game the Packers have played all season, but I still think the Lions are the better team here. People seem to have anointed the Packers into this #7 seed, but it’s just due to memories of previous Packers teams that has people scared. Aaron Rodgers is still looking pretty mediocre, and while the run game and the defense is much better now, it still hasn’t been dominant enough to scare any of the true NFC contenders. I admit this game is a tossup, but I think some kneecaps get bitten and the Lions take out their nemesis.
Prediction: Lions win 31-27
 

​Here are the standings:
 
Jemp: 150-90
Reeb: 150-90
Alx: 143-97
Pep: 142-98
Screw: 139-101
 
It’s time to ring in the New Year with some Week 17 football. There are a few teams still trying to punch their playoff tickets that need these last two weeks, as do we here in our pick’em. So let’s pick some games.
 
Cowboys at Titans:
Jemp: Cowboys,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: Cowboys
Our last TNF game is practically a preseason game, as this game barely matters for either of these teams. The Cowboys still technically have a chance at the division, but would need the Eagles to lose to the Saints and Giants which i don’t think is going to happen. The Titans playoff hopes essentially come down to Week 18 against the Jags, unless they tie with them in which case this game could matter. But it doesn’t really matter how seriously they treat this game, because they couldn’t even beat the Texans, so I don’t know who the Titans can beat at this point. Mike Vrabel seems to have lost some magic, and Malik Willis is a disaster, so I’m taking the Cowboys.
Prediction: Cowboys win 27-10
 
Cardinals at Falcons:
Jemp: Falcons,  Reeb: Falcons,  Pep: Falcons,  Screw: Falcons
This has to be one of the worst games of the year, but I guess at least the Cardinals should get Colt McCoy back. I feel like the Falcons should probably just win with their running game, butI feel like here is a chance to win a lone wolf that no one is paying attention to, so I’ll take a flyer on the Cardinals.
Prediction: Cardinals win 17-14
 
Bears at Lions:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Lions,  Screw: Lions
Tough loss for the Lions last week who could have been in control of a playoff spot if they had won. I expect them to take care of the Bears who are just consistent every week. Justin Fields makes a couple of highlight plays, and they always lose. I think they stick to their formula again this week.
Prediction: Lions win 34-24
 
Broncos at Chiefs:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
Does anyone think the Broncos get the interim coach bump? Probably not against the Chiefs who are trying for the #1 seed. There were a lot of disappointing seasons this year, but none more so than the Denver Broncos. I remember how excited Nathaniel Hackett was to have Russell Wilson. Now he is out of a job before the end of his first season, and to add insult to injury, the game manager he hired was promoted to interim head coach. They can start thinking about fixing Russell Wilson for next season.
Prediction: Chiefs win 27-13
 
Dolphins at Patriots:
Jemp: Patriots,  Reeb: Patriots,  Pep: Patriots,  Screw: Patriots
Well it looks like it’s going to be Teddy Bridgewater here, but I believe in Teddy-two-gloves. I know the Dolphins are in a bit of a funk, but they looked pretty good last week prior to the Tua concussion. I feel like Bridgewater is an upgrade to Tua with head trauma, and the Patriots haven’t exactly been lighting it up. I expect a close game and the Dolphins pull it out in the end.
Prediction: Dolphins win 27-24
 
Colts at Giants:
Jemp: Giants,  Reeb: Giants,  Pep: Giants,  Screw: Giants
Surprisingly Nick Foles didn’t give the Colts the spark they needed. The Jeff Saturday experiment seems to be coming to an end. The Giants aren’t the most talented team, but they have gotten by on good coaching and winning close games. They also have a young talented defensive front that is coming into its own that should terrorize this Colts offensive line. Especially since everyone terrorizes the Colts o-line.
Prediction: Giants win 20-10
 
Saints at Eagles:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Eagles,  Screw: Eagles
I guess the formula for the Saints is to play in terrible weather and just run Taysom Hill every play. It worked against the Browns. Unfortunately they aren’t getting the terrible weather this week, so we’ll see if they can still stick with the Taysom HIll strategy. I don’t expect it to be enough to beat the Eagles no matter who they play at quarterback. Gardner Minshew had the Eagles offense looking as good as ever, and had it not been for a few unlucky turnover, they would have won that game and I would have gotten my pick right and won my bet, but I’m not bitter at all. Great decision to spike the ball and lose a down to save a timeout you never used.
Prediction: Eagles win 30-17
 
Panthers at Buccaneers:
Jemp: Bucs,  Reeb: Bucs,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Bucs
This seems like a great place to take the Panthers, since they are playing better than the Bucs right now. However, as bad as the Bucs have been, I can’t help but think Tom Brady will pull this one out. I only think he can pull out these wins against bad teams like the Panthers now, but that is still something. The Bucs will get smacked in the playoffs when they play a real team, but it’s still fun watching some final Tom Brady moments.
Prediction: Buccaneers win 23-17
 
Browns at Commanders:
Jemp: Commanders,  Reeb: Browns,  Pep: Commanders,  Screw: Browns
I guess it’s time for Carson Wentz again. Doesn’t matter, the Commanders could win this one with Logan Thomas playing quarterback.
Prediction: Commanders win 100-0
 
Jaguars at Texans:
Jemp: Jaguars,  Reeb: Jaguars,  Pep: Jaguars,  Screw: Jaguars
What a time for Trevor Lawrence, as he has his team marching towards the playoffs. This offense is humming and despite some feistiness from the Texans, I don’t expect that to stop this week. It’s the Evan Engram and Zay Jones show, and that should be enough to get this team into the playoffs, since the Titans have fallen off a cliff.
Prediction: Jaguars win 27-24
 
49ers at Raiders:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: 49ers,  Screw: 49ers
I don’t know what else I expected from the Raiders. Now they are playing Jarrett Stidham at quarterback for some unknown reason. Maybe just to tank these last two games? I don’t think they needed a quarterback change to lose to the niners, but I guess better safe than sorry.
Prediction: 49ers win 31-3
 
Jets at Seahawks:
Jemp: Jets,  Reeb: Jets,  Pep: Jets,  Screw: Seahawks
The Geno Smith revenge game! If only this happened much earlier in the season, the Seahawks might have had a chance. Geno isn’t playing as well as he did at the beginning of the year, but it’s mostly because everything around him has fallen apart. They can’t run the ball, they can’t pass protect, and they can’t play defense. I don’t think that is enough to beat a Jets team that should be energized to have Mike White back.
Prediction: Jets win 24-17
 
Vikings at Packers:
Jemp: Vikings,  Reeb: Packers,  Pep: Vikings,  Screw: Packers
This is an interesting one because the Vikings don’t have much to play for now except hanging on to the #2 seed, and I’m not sure how much that is worth. The Packers are fighting for their playoff lives, and are on a bit of a winning streak. Granted, they might owe their Christmas day win to a concussion they gifted Tua, and the rest of their winning streak is against the Bears and Rams. So I’m still skeptical of this Packers team, and I’m taking the Vikings.
Prediction: Vikings win 27-24
 
Rams at Chargers:
Jemp: Chargers,  Reeb: Chargers,  Pep: Chargers,  Screw: Chargers
Well I didn’t expect the Rams to put on that performance on Christmas day, even if they were playing the Broncos. I’m not ready to say that they have solved all their issues, but Baker might get a shot on this team next year. I expect he’ll at least be on the roster. I would guess the Rams aren’t good enough to beat the playoff bound Chargers, but who knows right now.
Prediction: Chargers win 20-17
 
Steelers at Ravens:
Jemp: Steelers,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Steelers,  Screw: Steelers
It’s been quite the roller coaster ride for the Steelers, but they now have a chance to get to above .500 and keep Mike Tomlin’s streak alive. Just the Ravens and Browns stand in their way. They also have an outside chance at the playoffs, but they would need to get even luckier than they did last year. It would seem fitting for the Steelers and Ravens to split, as they seem like pretty similar teams right now. They both struggle to find offense, but find ways to grit out these games. There is also a possibility Lamar could return here, but it appears more likely that Tyler Huntley will get another start. I do think the Ravens defense is the best unit in this game, and I think the Ravens find a way to win at home. 
Prediction: Ravens win 16-13
 
Bills at Bengals:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bengals,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bengals
What a week for the best Monday Night Game of the season. Everybody was worried about the Bengals tough schedule down the stretch, but they have been soaring through this gauntlet. I thought coming into this year that the Bengals were a better team than the Bills, and may have been wrong early on, but now that has come to fruition. The Bills are still a good team and Josh Allen is still great, but it’s the Bengals I have more faith in right now. Burrow is on fire, despite going cold in the second half last week, and I think he keeps it up this week.
Prediction: Bengals win 31-27
 

​Here are the standings:
 
Jemp: 139-85
Reeb: 138-86
Alx: 134-90
Pep: 133-91
Screw: 128-96
 
It’s the holiday season and I am asking Santa for a perfect week in the pick’em. So let’s get right into it so we can take off for the holidays. Let’s pick some games.
 
Jaguars at Jets:
Jemp: Jaguars,  Reeb: Jaguars,  Pep: Jaguars,  Screw: Jaguars
What a matchup between the #1 and #2 overall picks from 2021. One is really coming into his own, lifting up his team into relevancy on the backs of Zay Jones and Evan Engram. The other is a guy that his team is reluctantly throwing out there because they can’t find a doctor to clear Mike White. You could say these two quarterbacks are headed in different directions, but Zach Wilson at least made some plays last week. And while the Jags have been surging, the Jets have a much better defense and better weapons on the outside, and I think that is enough for them to take this one at home.
Prediction: Jets win 23-20
 
Bills at Bears:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Bills,  Screw: Bills
The only intrigue in this game is how many fantasy points Justin Fields can put up in a losing effort. It is the fantasy playoffs, so this is pretty important. Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs should also have a field day against this terrible Bears defense.
Prediction: Bills win 34-21
 
Saints at Browns:
Jemp: Browns,  Reeb: Browns,  Pep: Browns,  Screw: Browns
I remember a few weeks ago when I said these are two of the sleeper teams that could make a late-season push. Good times. Now the Saints are barely squeaking past Desmond Ridder and the Falcons and the Browns are throwing out a shell of Deshaun Watson. Watson is making very gradual progress, but this game doesn’t matter so I’ll just take the Browns.
Prediction: Browns win 20-17
 
Texans at Titans:
Jemp: Titans,  Reeb: Titans,  Pep: Titans,  Screw: Titans
Nobody wants to take the Texans here? They have played the Cowboys and Chiefs tight in back-to-back weeks, and now I think they might actually hold Derrick Henry to under 200 yards. I know that sounds like a tall task, but I think they are up for the challenge. Especially since the Titans have been awful as of late. They are throwing Malik Willis out there and this time I think he will in fact need to throw the ball to win. I don’t think he can get it done.
Prediction: Texans win 27-13
 
Seahawks at Chiefs:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
I feel bad for Geno Smith because he got off to such a hot start and now he is coming back to Earth, and it isn’t even as if he is playing poorly. It’s just that he doesn’t have help and I don’t think he is the tide that lifts all boats. That title would belong to Patrick Mahomes who is on the other side of this matchup and he doesn’t lose in December, so I’m taking the Chiefs.
Prediction: Chiefs win 38-24
 
Giants at Vikings:
Jemp: Vikings,  Reeb: Vikings,  Pep: Vikings,  Screw: Vikings
Ah, the regression bowl. These were the two teams everyone said weren’t as good as their records, and have probably been slightly vindicated. However, both of these teams are still in playoff positions, with the Vikings already clinching their division after the biggest comeback in NFL history. I think they manage to win this one without having to come back.
Prediction: Vikings win 27-21
 
Bengals at Patriots:
Jemp: Bengals,  Reeb: Bengals,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bengals
I think we might have to strip Bill Belichick of his GOAT coach title after the fiasco last week. Or we can just blame Matt Patricia because it’s funnier. Either way, the Patriots are on to Cincinnati, and I don’t see them responding the way they have in the past. Joe Burrow is on fire and the Bengals are playing great team football. They are ready for another postseason run while the Patriots will be sitting at home.
Prediction: Bengals win 30-22
 
Lions at Panthers:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Lions,  Screw: Lions
It seems like nothing can stop the Lions right now, so I’m not expecting Sam Darnold to prove me wrong. The Panthers unsurprisingly disappointed last week, and now they should get their clocks cleaned by the Lions. It is another potential cold-weather game for Jared Goff, so that is the only issue, but the Lions were able to coach around that last week and I think they do it again.
Prediction: Lions win 23-17
 
Falcons at Ravens:
Jemp: Ravens,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Ravens,  Screw: Ravens
Well we get Tyler Huntley another week, and again he gets to play against a rookie quarterback who is over his head. I wasn’t expecting much from Desmond Ridder and somehow he still let me down. But to be fair, the Falcons did compete, so I shouldn’t totally rule them out of this one. But I will, since that’s the point of the pick’em.
Prediction: Ravens win 17-10
 
Commanders at 49ers:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: Commanders,  Screw: 49ers
The 49ers are on a roll, but that all ends this week when the Commanders come to town. No amount of bogus calls will stop Heinicke this week.  
Prediction: Commanders win 100-0
 
Eagles at Cowboys:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: Cowboys
I’m surprised so many of us are on the Cowboys. I get it that the Eagles are missing their starting quarterback, but they have a quality backup who walks into an ideal spot. Sure, you miss the running ability of Jalen Hurts, but Minshew can get the ball to AJ Brown and Devonta Smith and let’s not forget the return of Dallas Goedert. It’s the Cowboys I’d be much more concerned about, after nearly blowing a game to the Texans and then losing to the Jags, I don’t know if they can hang with these Eagles.
Prediction: Eagles win 31-21
 
Raiders at Steelers:
Jemp: Steelers,  Reeb: Steelers,  Pep: Raiders,  Screw: Steelers
Finally the Raiders don’t blow a game and instead win in the craziest imaginable way. They finally had some luck go their way and I think it continues into this week. They are a better team than these Steelers and should take care of them if they don’t collapse like they have so many times this season. And like they almost did last week.
Prediction: Raiders win 24-17
 
Packers at Dolphins:
Jemp: Dolphins,  Reeb: Dolphins,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Dolphins
None of us is buying any type of Packers resurgence right now after beating the Rams. I was glad to see the Dolphins offense look like the unit I expected again after two tough weeks. They couldn’t finish it off against the Bills, but they shouldn’t have a problem against these Packers.  The Pack are a middle of the road type team that should be about ready to go home.
Prediction: Dolphins win 27-24
 
Broncos at Rams:
Jemp: Rams,  Reeb: Rams,  Pep: Tie,  Screw: Broncos
Good god, this is the saddest game of the year and we have to watch it on Christmas? Have any teams been more disappointing than these two? And the offenses are especially miserable. The Broncos get Russell Wilson back and at least have a consistent defense, so I’ll take them.
Prediction: Broncos win 10-6
 
Buccaneers at Cardinals:
Jemp: Bucs,  Reeb: Bucs,  Pep: Bucs,  Screw: Bucs
Trace McSorley is starting for the Cardinals, so I’m taking the Bucs. 
Prediction: Buccaneers win 20-0
 
Chargers at Colts:
Jemp: Chargers,  Reeb: Chargers,  Pep: Chargers,  Screw: Chargers
Alright, Jeff Saturday is now going to Nick Foles. Why? I have no idea. Maybe he buys into the fact that Matt Ryan is the cause of the biggest collapse in Super Bowl history and now regular season history as well. Either way, I don’t think the Colts are beating the Chargers.
Prediction: Chargers win 23-16
 

​Here are the standings:
 
Reeb: 127-81
Jemp: 127-81
Pep: 123-85
Alx: 123-85
Screw: 116-92
 
We’re getting into the fantasy playoff and the crucial stretch for the pick’em as well. Reeb and Jemp are sitting pretty up top now, but Pep and I are just waiting for them to falter. Let’s pick some games.
 
49ers at Seahawks:
Jemp: 49ers,  Reeb: 49ers,  Pep: Seahawks,  Screw: 49ers
Tough game to call as the NFC West flowchart says the Seahawks should take this one. However, Geno seems to be coming back down to earth, and the rest of the team isn’t giving him much help. On the other side, Mr. Irrelevant is being buoyed by the best defense in football and an ensemble of playmakers on offense. That isn’t to say Purdy isn’t also playing well, because he looks just as good as Jimmy G out there (until he takes his helmet off that is). Losing Deebo is certainly a blow for the 49ers, but the way their defense has been dominating means I feel like I have to take them even in Seattle.
Prediction: 49ers win 23-17
 
Colts at Vikings:
Jemp: Vikings,  Reeb: Vikings,  Pep: Vikings,  Screw: Vikings
We all really missed the Colts over their bye week, didn’t we? Watching football isn’t the same without watching Matt Ryan get sacked a bunch until he fumbles. The good news for him this week is that he is playing a defense that I think I could throw for 300 yards against. Four of the last five quarterbacks to play the Vikings have thrown for 300+ yards, and the only one who didn’t was Dak Prescott because his team beat them 40-3 so he didn’t need to throw. But I still expect the Vikings to win at home against the Colts.
Prediction: Vikings win 31-24
 
Ravens at Browns:
Jemp: Ravens,  Reeb: Ravens,  Pep: Browns,  Screw: Browns
Lamar Jackson has been ruled out for this one, but at least it looks like the Ravens will have Tyler Huntley to start for them. They managed to squeak by the Steelers last week thanks to their defense, and I think they could do it again. The Browns offense still looks lost with Deshaun Watson at quarterback, and their defense hasn’t been good all year. At least I know the Ravens defense will show up, so I’ll take the Ravens on the road.
Prediction: Ravens win 19-16
 
Dolphins at Bills:
Jemp: Bills,  Reeb: Bills,  Pep: Dolphins,  Screw: Bills
Well Tuanon has taken some hits this week after a couple shaky performances by their hero. The Dolphins offense has been stifled by press man coverage with linebacker help over middle. The Bills haven’t played that kind of defense, but I wonder if they will follow suit this week. Can’t pretend that it isn’t risky when you are playing against the fastest offense in the league, but it’s worked for the Chargers and 49ers, so let’s see if Mike McDaniel has a counterpunch. I think he just might, but I’m still taking the Bills, because I trust Josh Allen more.
Prediction: Bills win 31-24
 
Eagles at Bears:
Jemp: Eagles,  Reeb: Eagles,  Pep: Eagles,  Screw: Eagles
If Justin Fields could pull this one off, it could be a signature win for his career. But I don’t think he will because he has the far inferior team, and he is basically playing against the better version of himself in Jalen Hurts. However, he is faster, so he’ll probably need to break away on a few long TD runs for his team to have a chance in this game.
Prediction: Eagles win 38-10
 
Falcons at Saints:
Jemp: Saints,  Reeb: Saints,  Pep: Saints,  Screw: Falcons
All I wanted for Christmas was to have Marcus Mariota out of my life and it seems I was so good this year that Santa gave me my present early. I sincerely doubt Desmond Ridder will be much better since they didn’t go to him sooner, and he’s a 3rd round rookie quarterback in a bad draft class. But at least it is a new talking point, and maybe he’ll surprise us.
Prediction: Saints win 24-14
 
Lions at Jets:
Jemp: Lions,  Reeb: Lions,  Pep: Jets,  Screw: Lions
This should be a fun game because the Lions are on fire. They are playing as well as anyone right now, but the Jets are no pushovers. They still have a defense that nearly shutout Josh Allen in the first half last week. They certainly need Mike White to be healthy to have a chance, but I think the Jets have just as much talent on offense as the Lions, and a far better defense. We’ll just ignore the differences in offensive line.
Prediction: Jets win 27-24
 
Steelers at Panthers:
Jemp: Steelers,  Reeb: Steelers,  Pep: Steelers,  Screw: Steelers
I almost feel it is a little disrespectful that no one is taking the Panthers after what they have done with Steve Wilks. This is a team right in the chase for the NFC South title. Sure, I made fun of them last week and never believed in them, but they can beat this Steelers team. I haven’t seen anything better out of the Steelers who just lost to the Tyler Huntley/Anthony Brown led Ravens. But I get it because these are two bad teams, but the Steelers have Mike Tomlin and TJ Watt, so I’ll take the Steelers too.
Prediction: Steelers win 20-17
 
Cowboys at Jaguars:
Jemp: Jaguars,  Reeb: Cowboys,  Pep: Cowboys,  Screw: Cowboys
We’ve seen this too many times from the Jaguars for me to fall for them again. They played a good game against the Titans, but the Cowboys have way more talent and the Jags nearly always follow up these nice games with big let-downs.
Prediction: Cowboys win 27-10
 
Chiefs at Texans:
Jemp: Chiefs,  Reeb: Chiefs,  Pep: Chiefs,  Screw: Chiefs
I give the Texans an A for effort last week, but they couldn’t quite close it out. It feels like they probably gave everything they had in that one and are now running on empty against the Chiefs. Not an ideal spot when you are playing against Patrick Mahomes. Let’s see Mahomes take charge of the MVP race again here.  
Prediction: Chiefs win 38-14
 
Cardinals at Broncos:
Jemp: Cardinals,  Reeb: Broncos,  Pep: Broncos,  Screw: Broncos
So this is Colt McCoy vs. Brett Rypien? Could we get a grosser matchup? Honestly this is a tough one to pick because McCoy is the more stable backup, but the Broncos defense is still the best unit in this game. The Broncos offense did start to gel a little last week, but I don’t see it continuing with Rypien this week. I’ll take my guy Colt.
Prediction: Cardinals win 13-10
 
Patriots at Raiders:
Jemp: Patriots,  Reeb: Patriots,  Pep: Patriots,  Screw: Patriots
I’m surprised everyone here is taking the Patriots. I know it’s hard to imagine Josh McDaniels beating Bill Belichick, but it has happened before. Granted, this time around he is coaching a team that just finds every possible way to give games away. And no team steals games like the Patriots under Belichick. However, the Raiders are just a better team overall and I think they are able to handle the Patriots. At least for the first 2-3 quarters. After that, they might start to blow it, but maybe they hold on.
Prediction: Raiders win 31-24
 
Titans at Chargers:
Jemp: Chargers,  Reeb: Titans,  Pep: Chargers,  Screw: Chargers
Well, I guess I’m jumping off the Titans bandwagon as it seems like every time I pick them, they lose. Justin Herbert stepped up to the challenge of defeating Tua, even with his undermanned team. We have to get Herbert in the playoffs for everyone’s sake, so I’m taking the Chargers to win at home.
Prediction: Chargers win 27-24
 
Bengals at Buccaneers:
Jemp: Bengals,  Reeb: Bengals,  Pep: Bengals,  Screw: Bengals
Rough game for Tom Brady. The Bucs couldn’t get anything going against that niners defense and Brady seemed as defeated as I’ve ever seen him. Now he plays Joe Burrow and the surging Bengals. I could totally see this being a game where Brady has to show Burrow that he isn’t up to his level, but I can’t pick the Bucs after what I’ve seen from them this year.
Prediction: Bengals win 27-17
 
Giants at Commanders:
Jemp: Commanders,  Reeb: Commanders,  Pep: Commanders,  Screw: Commanders
I can’t wait to watch Heinicke on Sunday Night Football. He will wipe the floor with the Giants and knock them right out of the playoff chase. 
Prediction: Commanders win 100-0
 
Rams at Packers:
Jemp: Packers,  Reeb: Packers,  Pep: Packers,  Screw: Packers
Ugh, what a Monday Night game. Maybe I can get some holiday shopping done this night. But last time I counted out Baker Mayfield, he gave the performance of his life. Maybe it’s just because I’ve always had a soft spot for Baker, but that comeback was one of the craziest things I’ve ever seen. I had a good amount of money on the Raiders too, but I didn’t even care because that was awesome. Sean McVay deserves a ton of credit as well to create a gameplan that Baker could execute on only two days of preparation. I don’t think he does it again, but I’d love to see him keep it up.
Prediction: Packers win 20-17