Week 9 Picks

We've reached the point in the season where the bad teams have nothing to play for and a few teams are still optimistic enough to give full effort. This week has several games of such ilk. As always, home teams in caps.

JACKSONVILLE (-6.5) over Kansas City

An example of my above premise. The Jaguars need this one to get to .500 and give themselves a sense of false hope. The Chiefs personnel staff will actually be scouting the top college players. They're mostly better than the players they would have to watch if at the game.

CINCINNATI (+3) over Baltimore

Why are the Ravens suddenly unbeatable in the media? Carson Palmer has the Ravens' number and coming off a bye week, the Bengals will be well rested and prepared for an important division game.

INDIANAPOLIS (-9) over Houston

I will continue to pick the Colts, especially against a Texans team whose defense is the liability. I expect Peyton Manning to have a monster day at home.

ATLANTA (-10) over Washington

There is nothing funnier than living in the D.C. area and not being a fan of the team. Talk radio is littered with people bashing Daniel Snyder in every way possible. It's hard not to make fun of this team though at this point.

Green Bay (-9.5) over TAMPA BAY

The Bucs are my last hope for an 0-16 team. The Josh's make that entirely possible.

Arizona (+3) over CHICAGO

The Cardinals are 3-0 on the road. Go figure. I have a sneaky suspicion that the Bears just aren't very good. Their O-Line is crumbling in front of Cutler.

Miami (+10.5) over NEW ENGLAND

I like what the Dolphins are doing and I expect their array of offensive sets will give the Patriots trouble. The first meeting last year resulted in a dismantling by the Dolphins. I don't think it will be the same, but Miami should keep it close.

NEW ORLEANS (-13) over Carolina

Another team that I will continue to back until they lose. Vegas can't make this line high enough. By the way, do the Saints ever play on the road anymore?

Detroit (+10) over SEATTLE

I cannot justify taking Seattle and giving 10 points no matter how bad the Lions are playing. When two below average teams are playing, take the points and run.

SAN FRANCISCO (-4) over Tennessee

Really? Vince Young against a really good defense on the road? This is free money it would appear. I guess Vegas still thinks the Titans care about the season. I've got news for Vegas; they don't.

San Diego (+5) over NEW YORK GIANTS

More free money it seems. I will caution you that no matter which side I take with the Chargers, the other happens. I will continue to ride them though as I still think they are the best team in the league. Eli at home is never a good thing and Phillip Rivers will have a field day with the vulnerable Giants secondary.

PHILADELPHIA (-3) over Dallas

Low line. Dallas has yet to beat anyone, especially on the road. The Eagles appear to be soaring high after dismantling the Giants last week. Expect more of the same.

Pittsburgh (-3) over DENVER

I can't get over the schedule the Broncos have had to play the past few weeks. No wonder I never pick them. They're continuously playing the best teams in football.

Last Week: 6-7

Season: 59-57