When it comes to the society we live in, who are your heroes? You can rattle off the entire military services, fire fighters, police officers, teachers, nurses, doctors… they are the first that come to mind. It’s the real world so we don’t have superheroes wearing a cape and underoos. On the field playing a game many worship what athletes do, especially at younger age. Some could say the 1990’s baseball steroid era started it when those players that were gigantic built and chiseled like a brick house resembled some of your great Marvel or DC superheroes. We all know many athletes are just spoiled primadonnas treated like Richie Rich with a silver spoon in their mouths all their lives. When it comes time to be a hero, any average Joe six pack can have his or her day. When someone that looks the part of the Avengers saves a life, we may start believing in Superman and Santa Clause as they exist on this planet. On January 4th this year, a former running back jumped into the ocean and saved his kids. Most anybody that’s a father and mother would rise up to the challenge and do anything for their kids, especially if they are in harm’s way. The 36-year-old Peyton Hillis who retired from the NFL in 2015 is paying the price after saving his kids and was placed on ventilator in the ICU. Like the M&M saying that Santa exists on the candy commercial, and the Claus saying they do exist referring to the talking hard hell chocolate candy. Heroes do exist and they come in all shapes and sizes.
Peyton Hillis was 6’2″ tall, and a 250 lb tail back coming at you out of the back field like a Mack truck. Hillis, an Arkansas native born and raised, played his College ball as a Razorback at the University of Arkansas. Hillis then was drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2008. Hillis played seven seasons in the NFL with 4 different organizations. Hillis played two years in Denver & then went to Cleveland. He played two seasons there, moved on to Kansas City for one season,and ended up finishing in New York playing two seasons as a Giant. Hillis’ best years came in Cleveland and 2010 was his best year of his career. Hillis ran wild all over the field running over defenders as he galloped for over 1,000 yards in which he racked up 1,177 yards to be exact and found the end zone with 11 rushing touchdowns. Perhaps in 2011, Hillis being on the cover of John Madden’s football video game jinxed the rest of the running back’s career as his average per rush went down and he played less games dealing with injuries. Running backs don’t have a long life in the NFL so 7 years is nothing to sneeze at. Hillis, over his NFL career, racked up 2,832 rushing yards on 696 carries while scoring 23 touchdowns.
On January 4th, off the coast of Pensacola, Florida, Peyton Hillis and his kids were probably enjoying a nice day on the beach. Then the nightmare of any parent appeared in front of Hillis’ eyes. One moment the kids are playing in the ocean splashing, swimming, & having a good ole time. Then the next moment a rip tide is taking your kids deeper into the ocean as the splashing turns into screams for help because they are drowning while being pulled away from the coast line. According to local county reports, there were 2 children and 2 adults in the water struggling when a bystander came in to help. No time to think, just react and Hillis went into the ocean and pulled his kids out of the water saving their lives but paying the cost at the same time. Superman would have flown away after saving the lives, but this is real life. Hillis was taken to the hospital where he suffered kidney and lung damage from his heroic act of just awesomeness. The kidneys and lungs are why Hillis was placed on a ventilator. Hillis remains hospitalized, but according to his girlfriend Angela Cole on Instagram, the ventilator has come off so that is good news. The former running back, a hero, should recover fully. Cole said they still have a ways to go though. Imagine Hillis diving into the waters like he ran over defenders on the field swishing and knifing through waves to rescue his kids to pay the price at the end. Well worth the price. Many kids will idolize athletes like they are real heroes. Peyton Hillis is a hero, not like the Lebron James’ of the World. In a situation like Hillis’ I think many people would be a hero when their own flesh and blood is on the line. I like to think Hillis would have helped a stranger in that situation, even if his kids were not drowning at the time. Only certain people can react and do the unthinkable. Many people in sticky situation can freeze like deer in head lights. The real heroes are listed in the first paragraph above because they do it every day.
#7.SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (9-8) AT #2. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (13-4)
HEAD TO HEAD REGULAR SEASON RECORD: SF (2-0) SEA
PLAYOFF HISTORY: 2013 NFC CHAMPIONSHIP: SEATTLE WON
Seattle made the post-season play in the last game of regular season. The 49ers, using their third quarterback of the season, won the NFC West. The Seahawks were not supposed to make the post-season after trading away their franchise quarterback. It’s the 10th time in 13 seasons that Seattle’s Head Coach has gotten his team into the post-season. Nobody ever heard of Brock Purdy and like changing a light bulb, the 49ers are still running like a well-oiled machine. This game has rain in the forecast. Both teams have strong running games. The 49ers two-headed monster that features Christian McCaffrey and Elijah Mitchell, will carry the heavy load. The Seahawks counter with rookie running back Kenneth Walker III. I like how Geno Smith finally found his game behind center for the Seahawks as he has had his best year of his career. Smith will make a boo-boo as he does in many games. The 49ers defense is one of the best units in the game & should be able to take Walker out of the game. The rain may limit the passing game between the two teams. Which favors the Purdy cat’s game as the 49ers will control the clock’s long drives without making the costly mistakes. The Seattle defense is the weakest link in this match up & gives the 49ers the edge and something very hard to do: beat the same team three times in one season. The 49ers are clearly the better team on both sides of the football.
OUR PICK: 49ERS
AFC
#5. LA CHARGERS (10-7) AT JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (9-8)
HEAD TO HEAD REGULAR SEASON RECORD: JAX (1-0) LAC
PLAYOFF HISTORY: FIRST EVER MEETING
The Jaguars blew out the Chargers in their only meeting of the year. This game features two of the youngest gunslingers in the AFC. Justin Herbert brought the Chargers to the post-season in his third season. In Trevor Lawrence’s second year with a new head coach, a long haired surfer, has gotten the Jaguars back to the post-season. The Jaguars needed to win last week versus the Titans to clinch the AFC South. The Chargers played a meaningless game in the last week versus Denver in a loss. Brandon Staley has been criticized all week playing his some key players in that game versus Denver which resulted in injuries. No wide receiver, as Mike Williams for the Chargers, was carted off the field. The Chargers, who just got defensive end Joey Bosa back, pulled a groin and is questionable in this Saturday night game.
The Jaguars have been one of the hottest teams in the second half of the season winning 6 out of their last 7 contests. Former Eagles Head Coach Doug Pederson has turned around this sorry arse Jacksonville franchise against an average Chargers defense. I love the Jaguars defense led by the other Josh Allen of the AFC.
This game I’m deciding by old school coaching beating new school. Brandon Staley at times takes stupid risks like instead of taking the points on a field goal, he’ll go for the touchdown. It’s like he does not believe in the kicking aspect of the game, even punting. Doug Pederson’s track record is much better and the Jaguars are at home which is why the Chargers have to travel across the country to play this game.
OUR PICK: JAGUARS
THE SUNDAY GAMES
AFC
#7.MIAMI DOLPHINS(9-8) AT #2.BUFFALO BILLS (13-3)
HEAD TO HEAD REGULAR SEASON: MIA (1-1) BUF
PLAYOFF HISTORY: Bills are 3-1 versus Dolphins in post-season which includes beating Miami in the 1992 AFC Championship.
The Dolphins squeaked by the Jets last week with Skylar Thompson behind center to get Miami into the back door of post-season. The Bills prevented the Patriots from getting into post-season. The Dolphins will be without their number one quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, who makes this Dolphins offense click. The Dolphins are down to their third string quarterback, Thompson.
Bills will shut down Skynet with their defense, forcing the 7th round draft pick into mistakes.
The Dolphins offense is just a shell casing without TUA TIME. Skylar Thompson will be terminated by the end of this game in a very cold Buffalo stadium. The Dolphins defense has played well, but Josh Allen and the Bills offense will score points.
The X-factor Bills are playing with high emotions for their fallen teammate, Damar Hamilin. The Bills will get that extra juice being at home in front of the Bills mafia.
OUR PICK: BILLS
NFC
#6.NEW YORK GIANTS (9-7-1) AT #3.MINNESOTA VIKINGS (13-4)
HEAD TO HEAD REGULAR SEASON: No meetings
PLAYOFF HISTORY: Giants are 2-1 versus the Vikings in post-season history. Last meeting, at the 2001 NFC championship game Giants won 41-0 Vikings.
This is a battle between two rookie head coaches. Brian Daboll turned around the Giants while Kevin O’Connell turned around the Vikings. These two teams are kings of winning games by one score games. Vikings won 11 of them. While the Giants have gone 8-4-1 in one score games. Vikings with Captain Kirk Cousins can generate points as Minnesota can score quickly and can come back on many teams like the Indianapolis Colts. The Giants like to grind it out in very close games and win it at the end of regulation. When the Vikings lose, they lose bad. Many, including myself, thought both these teams would fizzle away but here we are talking about them in the post-season. This is a very even match up between these two teams. The Giants defense probably has the edge over the Vikings. The Vikings offense is better than anything the Giants have. I like the home field advantage for the Vikings in this one as Captain Kirk takes care of business in a big game but not in prime time under the lights.
OUR PICK: VIKINGS
NFC
#6.BALTIMORE RAVENS(10-7) AT #3.CINCINNATI BENGALS(12-4)
HEAD TO HEAD REGULAR SEASON: BAL (1-1) CIN
PLAYOFF HISTORY: First ever meeting.
Yes, we just saw this game in the last week of regular season as the Bengals won and clinched the AFC North. Historically, the Ravens and Bengals has been one of the best rivals in the league. The Ravens once again will be without their starting quarterback, Lamar Jackson.
Can Roquan Smith, a former Bear who got a contract extension with the Ravens, and that Baltimore defense, win this game? The Ravens defense is the key if Ravens want the upset. The Ravens back up quarterback, Tyler Huntley, is banged up. The Bengals have a scary offense. The Bengals feel slighted by the league in their playoff adjustments when the game versus Buffalo got cancelled due to Damar Hamilin going down.
The Bengals believe they should have been the number one seed in the NFL with a win over the Chiefs and were beating the Bills at the time the game was stopped with Damar laying on the turf. Without the Ravens able to generate enough offense and the motivation behind this Bengal team, I have to go Cincinnati.
OUR PICK: BENGALS
THE MONDAY NIGHT GAME
NFC
#5.DALLAS COWBOYS(12-5) AT #4.TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS(8-9)
HEAD TO HEAD REGULAR SEASON: TB (1-0) DAL
PLAYOFF HISTORY: Cowboys are (2-0) all-time versus the Buccaneers in post-season. Last meeting goes back to 1983 when Cowboys beat the Buccaneers 30-17 in NFC wild card game.
The Buccaneers backed into the playoffs and Tom Brady was very lucky he is not at home today watching the post-season on his couch. The Cowboys have not won a road playoff game since the early 1990’s. The Buccaneers have the home game in this one because they won the NFC South, the worst division in football, and make it to the post-season with a losing record. The post-season is a clean slate: a new season and we all know Tampa Tom thrives in the post-season.
The Cowboys on paper look like the superior team. The Cowboys have a defense that can kill the opposing team’s quarterback. The Cowboys have weapons on offense. The Buccaneers have an aging defense and play makers on offense, you might call them has-beens. The key for Dallas is what are we going to see out of Dak Prescott?
The Cowboys have struggled the last few weeks where Dak has thrown a pick in almost every game. The Cowboys coming off a bad loss to the Commanders where Washington’s defense made the Cowboys look like a bad team that’s home for the post-season. The Cowboys had to eek out a game against Houston in overtime, not too long ago. I hate both of these teams. I’m going with history in this one. It’s hard to knock out Tom Brady’s teams in round one of the playoffs. Dallas has problems on the road and Dak is not playing well right now. I see the Buccaneers stealing one at home. Then adding more bad history to the Cowboys’ post-season woes.
When you look up the words, football & stupid, a linebacker from Green Bay may have his picture right under it. Green Bay Packers’ linebacker Quay Walker is the only person to get ejected from a game multiple times in one season in the NFL since 2000. At Sunday Night Football, the last game of the season between the Lions and Packers, Walker was ejected from the game shoving one of Detroit’s medical staffers. Lions physician T. Sean Lynch was checking on running back D’Andre Swift who was hurt on the play & then was shoved from behind by Walker.
Walker is not too swift as he did this right in front of an official who then flagged him for unsportsmanlike conduct. Then you know Walker is not playing with a full deck because he did this less than a week after Buffalo Bills trainer Denny Kellington helped save Damar Hamlin. He gave him CPR on the field after he went into cardiac arrest. Let’s not forget he put the Green Bay Packers in a tough spot with the penalty giving the Lions first and goal at the Packers 5 yard line. The Lions would score to take the lead and eventually win the game as the Packers needed this game to make the post season with a win. Walker may have not seen this happen as he was throwing a hissy fit in the tunnel on the way to the locker room after being ejected.This is not the first time Walker has shoved someone else not in a uniform during a game.
Quay Walker was drafted in the first round in the 2022 draft out of Georgia University. It was one of the draft picks the Packers got from the Raiders when they traded away Devante Adams to Vegas in the off-season. The 22 year old line backer had a great rookie season making 121 tackles, 1.5 sack, 3 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, and 7 pass deflections. Walker has played all 17 games and led the team in tackles this season. Walker also tied A.J Hawk’s rookie season record for most tackles with 121. Obviously Walker is a talented player, playing for a big university and being selected in the first round, while showing results on the field. Do Walker’s intangibles equal his football stupid on any given Sunday?
In week 8, the Packers were on the road in Buffalo. Quay Walker made a tackle of Bills running back James Cook’s seven yard run pushing him out of bounds. Before leaving the the Bills sideline, Walker pushed Zach Davidson, a tight end from the practice squad, a player not even dressed or was not involved with the play. The referee threw the flag and the New York offices told them to eject Walker from the game before the next play. The Bills were set up in prime time field position & eventually scored to go up 21-7 at the end of the first half. Walker would apologize after both situations making excuses at the same time to protect his character. It’s like those fake Sammy Sosa apologies over his Chicago Cubs career when he would make mistake after mistake, but still feel like he did not do anything wrong mentally.
If you’re a Green Bay Packer fan, this is the norm watching this team. How many times, as a Packer fan or just a football fan, does Aaron Rodger blow smoke up his own arse hole at us? Like everyone in the world is a moron except Rodgers. Maybe if Rodgers did not say, “We can’t lose a game like that against that team, though.”
Aaron Rodgers said that in the first meeting of the year versus the Lions in Detroit that resulted in a loss. The Lions were playing this Sunday night game knowing that Seattle had won the game late that afternoon and knew they were knocked out. Lions could of caved in, but they played hard for the reason to see the Packers on the couch during the playoffs. If Rodgers can say and do what he wants, why can’t Quay Walker do what he wants to do? This all comes back to the head guy who is supposed to be in charge, Matt LaFleur. LaFleur was seen yelling at Walker after he shoved the Lions trainer on the field. When has Lafleur gave his 60 million dollar a year quarterback a lashing for all his mistakes he has made with his foot jammed in that big mouth of his? The Packers are like those stupid Bengal teams of the past where the inmates ran the asylum. Green Bay needs to blow it all up and start from scratch because they are the definition of football stupid.
The storybook ending for the Kansas City Chiefs, like always it seems, will be a win in the final week & they will clinch the number one seed in the AFC. Patrick Mahomes is 8-1 versus the Raiders. Jarrett Stidham did pretty well in his first start last week replacing Derek Carr versus the 49ers. The Chiefs will get that storybook ending and get the number one seed. Raiders have nothing to play for and Kansas City has dominated this rivalry since Mahomes arrived on the scene.
OUR PICK: RAIDERS
TENNESSEE TITANS AT JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
The battle for the AFC South title means the winner will be in the playoffs. This matchup is the tale of two halves as the Titans were 7-3 at one point while the Jaguars were 3-7. The Titans come in losing six in a row while the Jaguars have won 4 in a row. The Titans are down to former Steeler quarterback Josh Dobbs who would be making his second NFL start both with the Titans. Titans running back Derrick Henry will keep the Titans close in this game. I like the Jaguars defense to be the X-factor in this one and helps Jacksonville get back to the playoffs.
OUR PICK: JAGUARS
THE SUNDAY SLATE
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS AT BUFFALO BILLS
This should be an emotional game for the Buffalo Bills while dealing with one of their fallen comrades on Monday Night football which shocked the world. The team and the entire nation got great news about Damar Hamlin’s health as he’s breathing on his own and talking. Hamlin facetimed his teammates this week which should give this Bills team a lift. Meanwhile the Patriots need to win this game to make it to the playoffs. The Bills need the Chiefs to lose and with a win, would get the number one seed. Bills still need to play and win this game to keep their number two spot, with the Bengals in their rear-view mirror. Last time the Bills won 13 games you’d have to go back to the 1990’s when Jim Kelly led teams & did it three times. The Bills have won 3 of the last 4 contests versus the Patriots which includes a playoff game. Does Bill Belichick have a plan for this kind of emotional lift his team will face? I like the Bills rallying for their teammate and being at home, they should be able to beat up on the Patriots.
OUR PICK: BILLS
MINNESOTA VIKINGS AT CHICAGO BEARS
This game really means nothing for either team. The Vikings, win or lose, will be in the same playoff spot. The Bears would like to lose and the Texans win to get the number one draft pick in April. The Bears chances are good with Nathan Peterman getting the start with Justin Fields’ shut down for the final game of the season. Peterman is awful with 3 touchdown passes compared to 13 interceptions in 4 NFL career starts. I like the Vikings 2nd string team mixed with a few starters to beat any of the Bears number one’s.
OUR PICK: VIKINGS
HOUSTON TEXANS AT INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
The battle for draft pick status. Last time these two teams met, it ended up in a draw. The Texans would get the number 1 draft pick with a loss or a Bears win. The Colts’ reasons for hiring Jeff Saturday most experts would say were to get a better draft pick to find a new franchise quarterback. For the Colts, they have teams like the Broncos, Cardinals, and Rams hovering around them in the draft order. Who will end up winning this clunker? The Texans have been playing better and Lovie Smith could be on the hot seat, would likely defy logic, and get the meaningless win here.
OUR PICK: TEXANS
NEW YORK JETS AT MIAMI DOLPHINS
Both the Jets and Dolphins looked like two teams that were going to make it into the playoffs and make noise in the post-season. Both teams have lost 5 games in a row. The Dolphins have a shot at the final playoff spot but need to win the game. The Jets are eliminated and have not scored an offensive touchdown in the last three games. The Dolphins playoff hopes rest on a third string quarterback, Skylar Thompson.
I like the Jets prevailing in this one as they will have Mike White behind center and be motivated to derail the Dolphins playoff hopes and bring them to the couch with them watching the post-season on TV. The Jets defense will make Skylar’s day uncomfortable, all day long.
OUR PICK: JETS
CAROLINA PANTHERS AT NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Finally, the Saints get hot as they have won three games in a row. “Johnny come lately” as we can say “Andy come lately,” as in Dalton. The Panthers had the Buccaneers on the ropes last Sunday and did not finish the job as they let the worm, Tom Brady, back into the playoffs. This is another game that means nothing. The Saints do not have a first rounder in the draft, and they are the hotter team coming in. In his first year as head coach, Dennis Allen would like to end it 8-9 instead of taken on double digit losses while ending the season winning 4 in a row.
OUR PICK: SAINTS
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS AT ATLANTA FALCONS
This is another game that means nothing to both teams. The Buccaneers clinched the dreaded NFC South last week and cannot improve their playoff status. The Falcons will march out their rookie quarterback, Desmond Ridder, in search of his first NFL victory behind center. Tom Brady is going to start this week 10-0 all-time versus the Falcons. The Falcons would rather lose this one, than win it and find the better draft spot. Brady sees this game as a fine tune up before post-season.
OUR PICK: BUCCANEERS
CLEVELAND BROWNS AT PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Deshaun Watson had his best game in a Browns uniform last week. The Steelers have yet another chance to sneak into the back door of post-season play. Mike Tomlin’s team is 8-8 and do not take on losing seasons. The Browns sent home Jadeveon Clowney for what he said about the coaching staff. Watson will be in a hostile environment in Pittsburgh, a division rival. The fans will be ready to shower him with obscenities. I like the Steelers defense as a unit that has played very well down the stretch. I like how rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett has conducted business on the field by taking what he sees & then forcing the issue.
OUR PICK: STEELERS
BALTIMORE RAVENS AT CINCINNATI BENGALS
The Bengals are pissed off at how the playoffs unfolded with the game being cancelled last Monday Night due to Damar Hamlin’s injury. The Bengals feel like they got the short end of the stick from the league. The Bengals have been playing like a well-oiled machine and can put up points on the Ravens defense. The Ravens will be without Lamar Jackson & that makes this pick easy. Bengals all day. First being slighted by the league. The Ravens back up Tyler Huntley cannot match scores with Joe Burrow.
OUR PICK: BENGALS
DALLAS COWBOYS AT WASHINGTON COMMANDERS
Do the Commanders have anything left in the tank to upset their division rival? The Cowboys are fighting for the division title and have a shot at the number one seed in the NFC. The Commanders weeks ago looked like they were going to make the post-season but fell on hard times losing three games in a row. The Commanders were officially eliminated. I don’t think the Commanders have anything left. They will be like a deer in headlights and turn into roadkill at the end of this one.
OUR PICK: COWBOYS
NEW YORK GIANTS AT PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
The Giants last week in a big win clinched a playoff spot. The Eagles have not been soaring like they have been, losing two in a row. The Eagles have lots to play for in the final week of regular season. The number one seed for which they have to first win the NFC East. The Giants really can’t improve their playoff status but can play spoilers and bring the Eagles down to their level. The X-factor is the return of Jalen Hurts behind center for the Eagles. Many thought the Eagles offense was designed so you can change the quarterback like a light bulb. Hurts is the oil in the Eagles machine. Eagles prevail and grab the number one seed while winning the NFC East.
OUR PICK: EAGLES
LA RAMS AT SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
The Rams might have suffered the worst Superbowl hangover of all-time after winning the entire thing last year. The Seahawks need to win and get some help to get back to the post-season. Pete Carol has never gone two seasons in a row not making it to the playoffs. Will Baker Mayfield have a big game to improve his stock for next off-season? Former Seahawk, Bobby Wagner, needs ten tackles to set a new Rams all-time season record in tackles in a single season.
I like the Seahawks getting it done in this one. Geno Smith will have a big game to improve his stock for next season as a starting quarterback somewhere. The Rams will be dotting their I’s and crossing their T’s on their upcoming vacation plans.
OUR PICK: SEAHAWKS
LA CHARGERS AT DENVER BRONCOS
By the time this game comes rolling around in the late afternoon, everything could be wrapped up regarding playoff seeding. The Chargers could rest some guys. The Broncos played the Chiefs tough last week but lost. After being blown up by the Rams, they show some heart. The Chargers running back, Austin Ekeler, could make history and join a small group of running backs to have had 20 touchdowns in two consecutive seasons in a row. I like the Chargers in this one even if they rest players. Not picking Denver even if the Chargers have a bus crash.
OUR PICK: CHARGERS
ARIZONA CARDINALS AT SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
Coming into the final week of the regular season, the 49ers have a chance at the number one seed in the NFC but need help like the Cowboys and Eagles losing their games. Even if everything is set for the 49ers before their game and they decide to rest players versus the Cardinals and have nothing at stake, I like San Francisco. The Cardinals have the beer guy starting behind center in this one. The Cardinals checked out in week 4 of regular season.
OUR PICK: 49ERS
THE SUNDAY NIGHT GAME
DETROIT LIONS AT GREEN BAY PACKERS
The final game of regular season which of course includes playoffs aspirations for both teams. You thought the Green Bay Packers were dead in the water. You thought it was going to be a post-season without Aaron Rodgers. Here we go and if Packers win, Rodgers and Green Bay make the post-season. The Lions have been impressive this season. They need to knock off the Packers and have the Seahawks lose to get in. If Seahawks do win their game, I think the Lions will still want to knock out the Packers just for kicks. The way the NFL goes, Tom Brady got back in the post-season last week with his Buccaneers winning. This means Rodgers will get the Packers back in the post-season, knocking out the Lions and Seahawks in the process.
The Chicago Bears are shutting down Justin Fields for the last game of the season due to a hip injury he suffered last week versus the Detroit Lions. Fields will miss out on breaking Lamar Jackson’s single season rushing record of 1,206 yards rushed by a quarterback. This season Fields was electric running the football & making shifty moves to dupe the defender and then putting on the afterburners taking it to the house. Fields’ legs ran for 1,143 yards missing Jackson’s record by 94 yards which he could have gotten against Minnesota’s defense in the final regular season game of the year. Fields scored 8 rushing touchdowns with his legs as he was a one-man army out there on the field this year for the Bears. What about Fields’ passing game? With the Bears’ awful offensive line, he had to run like Forest Gump to stay alive out there. Fields is definitely a talented quarterback, but is he the answer in Chicago for years to come?
It is known and a fact around the league that the Bears have not had a star quarterback since the 1940’s when Sid Luckman was behind center. This is why everyone drooled when the Bears traded for Jay Cutler. Cutler had the rocket arm. Cutler reset the Bears passing records which is not saying much. It did not take long to know Cutler was a bum. Still to these days, Cutler has a cult following. I wonder if Bears fans have their beer goggles on when it comes to Justin Fields. Fields has played two seasons in Chicago after the Bears drafted him out of Ohio State and has made progress. I like his deep ball as Fields throws some dimes hitting his receivers on the fly pattern which gives you goosebumps. What about the crossing routes? The short passes? Rex Grossman had a nice deep ball. Thank the Lord the Bears had a defense during Good Rex and Bad Rex who are reminding you of Two Face, the villain from Batman. What about Fields’ ability to stay in the pocket knowing he is going to get whacked and fires a pass at the last second to hit his guy in stride? When Justin Fields had to pass at the end of many close affairs the Bears were involved in this season, he did not do well. Crumbled like a house of cards. Many fans and the Bears organization will give Fields a hall pass because he has a weak receiver core and a dreadful offensive line.
The best dual-threat quarterbacks in the league are Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, and Josh Allen. Once upon a time ago, Lamar Jackson scared you with his legs and his arm. Jackson in 2019 tossed 36 touchdown passes. In 2020, Jackson threw 26 touchdown passes. The last two seasons, Jackson’s interceptions are up as he has thrown only 33 touchdown passes combined as he has also missed several weeks with injuries. Jackson is a beast, and you would want Justin Fields to be like Lamar. In Fields’ rookie season, his record as a starter was 2-8 as he completed 58.9 % of his passes for 7 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions. That was a different Bears regime. In Fields’ second season, the quarterback record is about the same, 3-12, but he shown a slight improvement on completion as the percentage is up to 60.4%. This season he has 17 touchdown passes compared to 11 interceptions. In two seasons, Fields has a 5-20 record behind center and his completion percentage is 59.7 as he has 24 touchdown passes and 21 interceptions. Lamar Jackson has a career 63.7% completion rate where Fields is not there. Michael Vick was a play maker with his legs. When you took away Vick’s running game, he could not beat you alone with his arm as he completed 56.2% of his passes. Fields is much better than Vick but not by much. Again, Fields is doing his thing with crappy receivers and a bad offensive line. Let’s not forget two different coaching staffs.
I still have not seen enough of Justin Fields to determine if this is my guy for the next ten seasons. Great dual-threat quarterbacks can beat you with their legs and arm. In crunch time, these quarterbacks have to beat you with their arm. I did not see Fields do well in all those close games that were either tied or down by one score. The best quarterbacks in the league like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen in crunch time, come up big for their teams. Look at Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers, pocket passers, but when the team needs that game-winning drive, they responded how many times in their careers. I noticed Lamar Jackson this season in the 4th quarter had big leads that were blown. Jackson became one-dimensional and with his arm could not get the Ravens the victory in the last drives of the games. Right now, I see Fields more of Jackson, Michael Vick, you could even say Robert Griffin III rather than Allen or Mahomes. Only two years in the league, Fields has missed games due to injuries. Run first quarterbacks take too many hits which Fields has done over both seasons he has played in the NFL. Top quarterbacks in this league play every game except in games they sit out to rest with nothing to play for. Top quarterbacks pass first run when needed. I hope with a good offensive line and some good receivers, Justin Fields becomes that franchise quarterback for the Bears. If I was Chicago where quarterbacks have been nothing but your kryptonite, I would draft a quarterback not in the first round but the second or third because we have all traveled this road before. Cutler Avenue and a very bumpy Rex Boulevard have immediately needed road construction, which is a fact always, the Chicago way, on every major highway.
The longest playoff drought in the NHL is the Buffalo Sabres. The Sabres have been MIA in the Stanley cup playoffs since the 2010-11 season. The Sabres have had many bad teams during that span. The Sabres earned many top draft picks from their poor play. Many younger players the team could not develop or eventually had to trade because they did not have a team around them like Jack Eichel being dealt to the Las Vegas Golden Knights. Last season, they needed a goalie and signed Craig Anderson, a guy on the tail end of his hockey career. Anderson would get some playing time for the Sabres as he had 31 starts for Buffalo with a 17-12 record. In your 40’s, you like to get some playing time & not just rot away on the bench. As you know with young teams, your wisdom is important for the players looking at you like their coach or father figure. This year at 41 years old, Anderson still is in the net for the Sabres and suddenly Buffalo is a team that is making some noise in the NHL. Could this young talented Sabres team with some may say a washed-up goalie, break that longest playoff drought in the NHL and make it to the the playoffs?
When Craig Anderson came into the league, he was wearing the Indian Head sweater. Anderson was born in Park Ridge, Illinois and was playing for his childhood team, the Blackhawks. At that time the Blackhawks were not very good as the dynasty of Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews were about ten years away. Anderson started his NHL career in the 2002-03 season and could not get a start in net as his playing time came in relief of the starter. In the 2005-06 season, Anderson went on waivers three times moving from Chicago to Boston, then to St. Louis before finally returning to Chicago. Eventually Anderson was sent back to the minor leagues. At that time Anderson knew he had to get better. It was not until the 2007-08 season where Anderson became the back up goalie for the Florida Panthers and finally got some starts in the net. The long journey of trying to stick to an NHL team and being the back up guy came to an end as Anderson got starting job for the Avalanche in the 2009-10 season. Then Anderson became a permanent fixture for almost entire decade as a Senator in Ottawa where he remained as a starter.
Craig Anderson signed with Buffalo & may have not had any better offers. The team desperately needed a goalie and they probably wanted his veteran leadership to help all their young players. Some people don’t like teaching or helping young players. I’m sure Anderson still had gasoline left in the tank and wanted to play as he earned his 300th victory last year in a Sabres uniform. This season, Anderson is 7-5-1. Anderson does have one shut-out this season in net as well as he’s showing off his fountain of youth via his Tom Brady style of play. Anderson laughs at the fact he is the oldest player in the league right now since Joe Thornton and Zdeno Chara retired from the game and hung up their skates for good.The Sabres players and coaches love him. Anderson has been mentoring and basically training his replacement as he understands the journey to stick in the NHL. Passing on any insight to the younger guys to help their game gives them a better chance in the future. The Sabres fans are enjoying watching their guy, Tage Thompson, who is tearing up the league right now with 30 goals already. Last year Thompson had 38 goals. The Sabres have a nice core of younger players that feature Dylan Cozens, Rasmus Dahlin, and Owen Power. In 36 games this season, the Sabres are 19-15-2 and making a climb in the standings. The Sabres are 9-3-1 since early December. Craig Anderson ,whom no one knows if he will return next season, has a career record of 315-269-72 with 43 shutouts. There’s hopes that win total will continue to rise which would be good for the Sabres’ chances of cementing themselves in the playoffs in the next few months. It’s always nice to be around something special when it starts maybe Anderson will hang around long enough to see the finish which in Buffalo winning the Stanley Cup.
This game means nothing to the Tennessee Titans who have fallen on hard times losing their last 5 games. Dallas came off week 16 with a big victory over the Eagles. The Titans will rest players because the game in the last week of the season versus Jacksonville is for all the marbles, the AFC South. Even if Jacksonville wins this week versus the Texans. Winner takes all. Dallas is still trying to keep up with the Eagles as well as take the top wild card spot if Philadelphia pulls out a victory in the next two weeks to clinch the NFC East.
OUR PICK: COWBOYS
THE SUNDAY SLATE
ARIZONA CARDINALS AT ATLANTA FALCONS
Both bird teams have struggled losing a combined 9 games in a row. Both teams eliminated from playoff contention. The Falcons are rolling with their rookie quarterback Desmond Ridder. Making his third start of the year he has not thrown a touchdown pass or an interception. Who is David Blough?
Blough is a former Lion who has a career 5 starts under his belt at the NFL level. Blough has lost all 5 starts and is the 4th Cardinal quarterback of this season to get a start behind center. I like the Falcons running attack to control this game on the ground and help the rookie gets his first notch in the win column.
OUR PICK: FALCONS
CAROLINA PANTHERS AT TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
You notice both south divisions are the worst two divisions in football this year. Can Tom Brady get this struggling Buccaneer team into the playoffs? Can the Panthers sweep the Buccaneers? The Buccaneers have been grinding out close and low scoring games like last week’s match up versus the Cardinals. The Panthers can run the ball right down your throat one week & then the next week the rushing attack goes flat. The Panthers generate more scoring these days than Tampa Tom’s gloomy offensive attack. The Buccaneers looked like they have aged everywhere. The Panthers defense can make some plays and I like their chances of making the Buccaneers make mistakes. A fumble or a tip ball for interception will be the difference for a Panther win.
OUR PICK: PANTHERS
CHICAGO BEARS AT DETROIT LIONS
The Panthers took over the king of the jungle by overthrowing the Lions last week. The Bears will give anybody a battle as they gave the Bills a fight in the first half in last week’s action. The Lions were one of the hottest teams coming into last week’s action and are still alive in the playoff chase. Justin Fields does not have the killer instinct. Better for the Bears to get a top draft pick. I like the Lions roaring back this week with a stadium of hungry fans wanting to see this team make it back to the post-season.
OUR PICK: LIONS
CLEVELAND BROWNS AT WASHINGTON COMMANDERS
Deshaun Watson has not hit the 200 mark in passing yards yet, in his return from the massage table diaries. The Commanders are 7th overall against the pass. The Commanders are making a switch at quarterback as Carson Wentz will replace Taylor Heinicke. Can Wentz give the Commander offense a jolt to help their playoff chances? The Browns are crumbling with Myles Garrett having a melt down last week. Garrett was benched.
I like Washington getting the spark much needed by Wentz and breaking a two-game losing streak to get back into the thick of things in the NFC playoff picture.
OUR PICK: COMMANDERS
DENVER BRONCOS AT KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
The Broncos are in disarray as they fired their coach last week after the spanking from the Rams on Christmas day.
The Bronco players were complaining to be practicing in pads this week. The Broncos have checked out so no way they can pull off a win over this Chiefs team.
OUR PICK: CHIEFS
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS AT NEW YORK GIANTS
Maybe the Colts need a guy named Jeff Sunday rather than Saturday because this team has checked out and on game day don’t even know what day it is. The Giants will be back in the playoffs and get the win to seal the deal. I’m sure we get plenty of Colts drama in the off-season. Who’s their next quarterback?
OUR PICK: GIANTS
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS AT HOUSTON TEXANS
Is it too late for Lovie Smith in Houston? Looks like Jacksonville has found their man behind center as Trevor Lawrence finally is figuring things out in the NFL. This game does not mean much to the Jaguars as the Titans next week is the game for the division. The Texans have been battling teams in the last few weeks as they finally got a hard-fought victory against the Titans. I like the Jaguars playing hard this week and winning this meaningless game to not ruin their mojo right now as they have won three straight.
OUR PICK: JAGUARS
MIAMI DOLPHINS AT NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Nobody knows how to kick a team better when they are down than Bill Belichick. The Dolphins are on the big slide in the game of chutes and ladders losing their last 4 games. The Patriots have lost two in a row. Tua Tagovailoa is out in this one with yet another concussion. Can Teddy Bridgewater deliver? The Patriots are scurvy cockroaches as they been stepped on, but they are still alive and in the thick of things.
Patriots pull off a stunner at home.
OUR PICK: PATRIOTS
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS AT PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
I don’t trust the Saints or Andy Dalton winning two games in a row especially against a great Eagle team and that defense. Gardner Minshew will be getting the start once again as Jalen Hurts has been ruled out. Minshew is a very capable back up and should have no problem getting the Eagles in the end zone against the Saints defense. Eagles rebound quickly after Dallas’ loss last week.
OUR PICK: EAGLES
NEW YORK JETS AT SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
The Jets have lost 4 in a row. The Seahawks have lost 3 in a row. Both teams need to win and pray they get the help they need to find the back door that is chained shut to make it into post-season. Geno Smith, former Jet, brings down the franchise he was drafted by in a big game that puts the final nail in his former team’s seasoned coffin.
OUR PICK: SEAHAWKS
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS AT LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
I have said it from the beginning that Josh McDaniels is a cancer. The 49ers defense will feast on former Patriot Jarrett Stidham getting the start because McDaniels has benched Derek Carr. Watch the Raiders team like the Broncos won’t even play hard in this one as this team is headed down the drain after being a playoff team last year. What a shame. The 49ers have won 8 straight. Make it 9.
OUR PICK:49ERS
LA RAMS AT LA CHARGERS
The Chargers have no fans. Both teams share the stadium. This will be like a home game for the Rams. Can Baker Mayfield deliver again? The Chargers have won three games in a row and have clinched a playoff spot. The Rams are not facing a bad Bronco team here like they did last week. The Rams have struggled before their big win over the Broncos. I’m not there yet jumping on Mayfield’s band wagon. I can’t see Mayfeild matching scores with Justin Herbert.
OUR PICK: CHARGERS
MINNESOTA VIKINGS AT GREEN BAY PACKERS
The Packers have won three games in a row. The Vikings stomped the Packers early in the year like a bad habit. Can the Vikings go on the road and beat their archrival twice in one season? The Packers need a victory to stay alive in the playoff hunt which has a bunch of teams fighting for pretty much one spot. I think the Vikings’ luck will run out. Aaron Rodgers will save this week’s performance as his best of the year and the Packers will slay the Vikings. Kirk Cousins historically does not do well in big games. Packers at home, Vikings will crumble in a close one.
OUR PICK: PACKERS
THE SUNDAY NIGHT GAME
PITTSBURGH STEELERS AT BALTIMORE RAVENS
The Steelers never have losing seasons as they come in at 7-8. The Ravens will be without Lamar Jackson. The Steelers win this week and again next week they may not be in the playoffs, but Mike Tomlin will have another winning season. The Ravens have struggled on offense for several weeks now. This includes when Jackson was the starter. I like the Steelers putting up just enough offense with a strong defensive performance to get a victory against their archrivals on the road.
OUR PICK: STEELERS
THE MONDAY NIGHT GAME
BUFFALO BILLS AT CINCINNATI BENGALS
The Bills and the Bengals are the two hottest teams in the entire league. This would be the first match up where Josh Allen squares off against Joe Burrow. Two high power offenses with lots on the line. The Bengals are trying to win their division. While the Bills are trying to hold on to the number one seed in the AFC. This game will be a dandy as lots of play makers on both sides are on prime time in front of the entire country watching. I like the Bills defense just making enough plays to help Buffalo pull off the road victory in which could be an instant rematch in the post-season. The Bills defense has played well during the winning streak and is not being talked about. The entire country will change their tune as they come out with a stellar performance.
On Christmas Day, the game I did get to sit down and watch was the Denver Broncos at LA Rams. If I was a Denver Bronco fan watching Russell Wilson play every Sunday, I’d lose my mind. Wilson looked like hot garbage out there on the field. I’d sell off my season tickets and turn the channel to watch the Avalanche or the Nuggets. I feel like this move bringing Russell Wilson would only happen to the Chicago Bears. The Bears franchise touches a quarterback & it turns into stone. It sucks to be Broncos fans because of what the team gave up to get Wilson in the Rocky Mountain high state. Then the guaranteed money you have invested in a guy that the team put on a pedestal like some Lord of the Manor. The Broncos threw their new hire at head coach under the bus firing Nathaniel Hackett as he does not even finish his first season. I question that hire in the first place. Hackett and only 4 others since the NFL merger in 1970, were fired without completing the season in their first year. Things in Denver could get even uglier as Wilson has lost the locker room.
Let’s face the facts that the Seattle Seahawks fleeced the Denver Broncos in the Russell Wilson trade. The Broncos gave two first round draft picks, two second rounders, and a 5th rounder. I’m not done as the Seahawks got three players in the deal as well. The Seahawks got a quarterback, Drew Lock, a defensive end in Shelby Harris, and a tight end in Noah Fant. Then the front office gave Wilson a 5 year deal worth 245 million and 165 of that is guaranteed money. Then the front office gave Wilson his own office. What the hell does a player need an office for? Then Wilson gets the rock n roll parking spaces at the facilities. If I was John Elway, another moron that could not find a quarterback if it was right under his nose, I would look in the mirror. It’s not Elway’s job these day as the hottest seat in the league who thought this trade was a good idea is George Paton. Both Elway and Paton should be fired and I don’t care if one was a legend for this franchise. Horse teeth and Paton should be on the next bus out of town. This deal might be compared to the Herschel Walker trade in 1989 with him going to Minnesota from Dallas and the Vikings gave the Cowboys all those picks to build a dynasty. Another stupid trade was the Saints who were led by Da Coach Mike Ditka when New Orleans gave up all their draft picks to the Redskins in 1999 to draft running back Ricky Williams. Pete Carol has to be laughing himself to tears watching this all unfold.
When the Rams with Baker Mayfield are leading the charge, you can see on the sideline of the Broncos the players don’t want to protect Russell Wilson. The Broncos back up quarterback Brett Rypien had words to the Broncos offensive line especially Dalton Risner.
Risner did not like the comments, pushed Rypien, and players had to hold him until he calmed down. Russell Wilson has been sacked 49 times this season. Wilson was sacked a lot in Seattle but always found a way to score points. Seattle Seahawks’ starting quarterback Geno Smith has been sacked only 39 times. That tells you both offensive lines for both teams suck. At least Seattle has extra picks in next year’s draft to fix their problems.
Denver Broncos fans probably had a instant hard on when the news broke that the team was able to land Russell Wilson. Most people ignored what they gave up to land a guy that took Seattle to two Superbowls. I thought Wilson would get the Broncos an instant ticket to the post-season. In ten seasons in Seattle, Wilson was very durable as he played 158 games throwing 292 touchdown passes with only 87 interceptions while completing 65% of his passes. At the age of 34, people thought he was younger than Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers who are still trucking away in the NFL. Wilson’s record as a starting QB in Seattle was 104-53-1 which is incredible. It’s like Pete Carol did a switch and put Geno Smith in Russell Wilson’s body, while Wilson is actually in Smith’s body. It is mind boggling that Wilson is 3-10 as the starter this season completing only 60% of his passes and has only 12 touchdown passes with 9 interceptions unlike his Seattle’s numbers.
What do you do now if you’re the Denver organization? The team now needs a new head coach. Do you trust that boob George Paton to find a better guy than Nathaniel Hackett? Hackett is like the Josh McDaniels. McDaniels rode the coat tails of Tom Brady while Hackett rode the Aaron Rodgers coat tails. I think the Broncos have to fire the GM. Can Russell Wilson find his old Seattle self starting next year? If the Broncos cut Wilson it’s lot of dead money lingering for years on the salary cap. Can you find another team to take Wilson? The Broncos will never get back what they gave up to get Wilson. The team may have to pay most of Wilson’s salary if they find another team to take him. Do you scrap most of the team, get rid of all the haters in the locker room, and build freshly around Wilson? Is the Broncos mess such a big dumpster fire that the only thing that would smolder the flames is running Wilson out of town. I would turn Russell Wilson’s office into Les Nessman’s work space on WKRP.
Wilson could pretend to have walls. I think Denver is in for some really hard times with all that draft capital gone. The salary cap restrictions if Wilson is cut, traded, or if he continues to under-perform on the field. How many players will want to jump ship playing for a divided locker room and for the lord of the manor? How many players would want to jump on board as free agents to join this soap opera in Denver. No wonder someone titled a movie, Things to do in Denver When You’re Dead. It may be the story of the 2022 Broncos.
Last year at this time of the season, the Las Vegas Raiders were making their playoff push. Then in week 18 for all the marbles Raiders beat the Chargers in the last game of the regular season to insert the silver and black into the playoffs. The Raiders had controversies they had to deal with in the 2021 regular season from the loss of their head coach Jon Gruden. The Raider players made frequent news almost every week in the Police blotter. The Raiders Interim Head Coach Rich Bisaccia found ways to keep this team able to overcome the off the field issues. In the off-season Raiders went with a brand-new regime. The team even made a big trade getting one of the top receivers in Davante Adams from the Green Bay Packers. Adams would reunite with Derek Carr, his former college teammate who he played together with in California at Fresno State where they hooked up with 38 touchdowns as Bulldogs. Unfortunately, the Raiders brought in the cancer from New England to ruin everything this franchise worked hard for in 2021. The Raiders were picked to return to the post-season by many experts, but Josh McDaniels’ system has derailed Vegas this season. Now fans are wondering where their starting quarterback of 91 straight games will be for the final two games of the season. Dude, where’s my Carr? He has been benched for Jarrett Stidham.
What has Josh McDaniels been without Tom Brady? Is Mac Jones his masterpiece? McDaniels’ system has worked well in New England with Tom Brady running the scheme under Head Coach Bill Belichick pulling the strings like the puppet master. McDaniels’ first head coaching job was in the AFC West with the Denver Broncos as he coached two seasons from 2009-10. In two seasons, Denver had seen enough where he went 12-20 in two seasons as Head Coach. In his first season as a Raiders head coach, McDaniels has a record of 6-9. In three seasons, McDaniels’ record as a head coach in the NFL is eleven games under the .500 mark with a miserable record of 18-29. History still repeating itself that coaches under the Bill Belichick coaching tree have been lopped off and died without New England soil. I know McDaniels knew Jay Cutler was a fraud behind center as that may be his only intelligent thing this man has done as a ringleader of a team in the NFL. Now suddenly you’re benching Derek Carr and perhaps convincing the front office to trade him because he is not working well in your system flawed by any other quarterback except the great Tom Brady. Jarrett Stidham has New England ties as the Raiders got him in a trade in the off-season from the Patriots.
I can see a franchise seeing what you have in back up players especially at the quarterback position. The Raiders are still mathematically alive. Chances are not good playing the 49ers this week & then the Chiefs to close out the season. What is Josh McDaniels’ message to his players as he’s waving the white flag? Why does Derek Carr have to step away from the Raiders the final two games? Carr threw his 14th interception last week which ties a career he set last year and leads the NFL in that category this season. Carr this season has a passing rating of 86.3 playing in the McDaniels’ system which has been his worst since his rookie season as a Raider in 2014. Carr holds all the Raider all-time records as a quarterback. Carr’s 91 straight games behind center is second to only Tom Brady for consecutive games played behind center. The Raiders have even given their franchise quarterback a three-year extension before the season started a deal worth 121.5 million. Carr’s 9-year career he has started 142 games has a QB record of 63-79 while throwing 217 touchdown passes to only 99 interceptions. Carr has completed 64.6 5 of his passes and has thrown for 35,222 passing yards. Playoffs and winning seasons are not there for Carr.
Last year, Wide Receiver Henry Ruggs III killed a person speeding while intoxicated. Head coach Chucky (Jon Gruden) was haunted by old emails from his Washington days. The Raiders did not have Devante Adams. Derek Carr went 10-7 with about the same number of touchdowns thrown and interceptions but had a higher passing rating in 2021 not playing under McDaniels’ system. With all that drama in the locker room, you look for your quarterback to lead you through that mess, which Carr did. I’m not sure any legendary quarterback could have won a Superbowl with all the head coaches this Raider team has gone through since 2014. I’d rather have Derek Carr than Matthew Stafford. If Stafford could win the Superbowl getting away from Detroit, I think Carr could find another garage in the NFL and win. Carr should demand to get traded to another team. Let the dominoes fall as players like Devante Adams will most likely want out as his friend will be dealt. Carr will get waxed somewhere else and have a system surrounding his talents. Hopefully a Charles in Charge, not a New England disciple. Raider fans will now watch McDaniels’ droids like Jarett Stidham complete many short passes but not have the heart or guts to throw the ball down field for a big gainer or try to win the game on something big. The losses will pile up as the Raider fans will see Chargers and Chiefs in the playoffs and the worst sting would see Denver get their team turned around as the Raider team tumbles like the tower in the game of Jenga. Next year, the Raiders will finally fire Josh McDaniels as the team will plummet into stink, stank, and finally stunk in the bottom of the barrel of the NFL. Then the team will be looking for the next Derek Carr with another new regime. Send your application in now if you’re interested in the Raider job.
Don’t look now, but the Jaguars are making a push for the playoffs. Not a stinking wild card but the division title as Jacksonville has won two in a row. Meanwhile the Jets are sliding as they lost three in row and 4 out of their last 5 games. The Jets offense has been averaging 13.5 points in those losses. Let’s face the facts that the team hates Zach Wilson who may be headed to Ryan Leaf’s town as a bust. I’m sure you have heard this before that another Jets number one quarterback pick bites the dust. The Jaguars number one pick at quarterback is starting to get it as Trevor Lawrence has 7 touchdown passes & only 1 interception in those last two games.
OUR PICK: JAGUARS
CHRISTMAS EVE GAMES
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS AT KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
The Seahawks have struggled since playing the Buccaneers in Germany several weeks ago. Seattle has lost two games in a row and the defense is giving up more production than the local whorehouse. Kansas City is trying to get that number one spot in the AFC. Patrick Mahomes has won 15 straight games against NFC opponents. Those 15 straight inter-conference wins ties a record set by Saints quarterback Bobby Hebert which is the longest streak since the NFL merger in 1970.
Seattle have struggled to run the ball the last few weeks which makes Geno Smith and that offense one dimensional against a pretty good Chiefs defense. The Seahawks’ glimmering hopes of the playoffs this season goes officially dark.
OUR PICK: CHIEFS
NEW YORK GIANTS AT MINNESOTA VIKINGS
The Giants and Vikings may be the two luckiest teams in the entire NFL this season. Last week, the Vikings made the biggest comeback in NFL history to beat the Colts. The Giants escaped Washington with a big victory, and it helps their wild card hopes. Both teams win the close call games. Vikings defense is hot garbage once again. The Giants offense can’t keep up with the Vikings offense if this game turns into a shoot-out. Vikings are looking to improve their seeding as they have the North clinched. A Giants win can help New York get in the post-season. I like the Vikings cleaning things up and playing a complete game as this game has that playoff feeling.
OUR PICK: VIKINGS
CINCINNATI BENGALS AT NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
How do the Patriots come back from the sting of that last play of the game they lost to the Raiders last week?
The Bengals are one of the hottest teams in the league winning their last 5. The Patriots playoff hopes is nothing but a short wick on a windy day. Head Coach Bill Belichick’s best game plan of all-time would not help this Patriot team beat the Bengals. Bill Belichick would need to go back in time and drag Tom Brady back from their hey days to win this one.
OUR PICK: BENGALS
BUFFALO BILLS AT CHICAGO BEARS
The Bears have lost seven in a row and were eliminated from the playoff contention last week. The Bills have won five straight and are looking to clinch the AFC East with a win while holding on to the number one seed in their conference. Can Justin Fields run wild on a pretty good defensive unit the Bills have? The Bears defense can’t stop anyone. The Bears offensive line is sketchy. It will be cold in Chicago. Like a second home for the Bills.
OUR PICK: BILLS
ATLANTA FALCONS AT BALTIMORE RAVENS
If you like the running game in football, this is the game for you. Last week Desmond Ridder made his NFL debut in his first start during which he was ok. Lamar Jackson could be back in this one. Both teams have had a hard time scoring points in the last several weeks. The Falcons have lost three in a row and will face a good defensive unit the Ravens have. The Ravens are 3-0 versus the NFC South this season. I like this game being a low scoring affair, but Ravens prevail as they need this win to start cementing themselves into the post-season.
OUR PICK: RAVENS
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS AT CLEVELAND BROWNS
Which team do you think can win two games in a row in this match up? Both the Saints and Browns coming into week 16 with wins. Both teams this season have a hard time stringing victories together. Deshaun Watson won his first game behind center in a Browns uniform. First victory for Watson since 2020 as he been a very busy man and hands on. Both teams’ shots to make post-season are dismal. The Saints have a better chance playing in the dreaded NFC South. Nick Chubb needs two rushing touchdowns to reach the 50th mark. Only Leroy Kelly and Jim Brown have done that in Browns history. It’s Christmas, so I’m going with the Red Rifleman Andy Dalton in this one.
Besides I hate Deshaun Watson. Scum of the earth. It’s good to be a Saint around the Holidays.
OUR PICK: SAINTS
HOUSTON TEXANS AT TENNESSEE TITANS
Both teams combined have lost 13 games in a row. The Titans have fallen on hard times. Ryan Tannehill is most likely out for the season with ankle issues as now the Titans will have to rely on running back Derrick Henry to carry the full load. This game seems simple. Titans break their losing streak and control the AFC South for another week with the Jaguars closing in. However, I have different thoughts. Since 2011, the Texans are 16-7 versus the Titans. Last week the Texans took the Chiefs to overtime. Then the Texans gave the Cowboys a run for their money in week 14. Two of the elite teams in the NFL. The Titans have been sluggish most of the season except during that winning streak after the slow start. I’m feeling an upset. I like the Texans to really make things interesting in the AFC South with a win.
OUR PICK: TEXANS
DETROIT LIONS AT CAROLINA PANTHERS
The Panthers still have a chance because they play in the NFC South. The Lions have won three games in a row, found their courage, and are making a playoff push playing their best football of the year. Lions are 3-3 on the road so in present day they can come into town and beat you. Sam Darnold has taken over duties behind center and the team responded with a few victories out of the gates. I can’t trust this Panther team as I thought they should have won last week versus Mitch Trubisky and the Steelers. I like the Lions to continue to roar. Jared Goff has gone six games without throwing an interception. I like the Lions running game to control this game and show the Panthers they are king of the jungle.
OUR PICK: LIONS
WASHINGTON COMMANDERS AT SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
The Commanders loss to the Giants might sting even more now facing a 49er team that has won 7 straight. The 49ers last week locked up the NFC West & will be looking for more. The Commanders are holding on to their playoff hopes like a booger flapping in the wind on a nose hair. Could we see Carson Wentz behind center for Washington for some kind of jolt to that offense? The 49ers defense is probably the best in the league against a Washington offense that probably ranks on the outskirts of the middle of the pack. Brock Purdy has been operating the 49ers offense like a nuclear power engineer taking what’s in front of him & not taking the risks. The Giants game may haunt the Commanders all off-season.
OUR PICK: 49ERS
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES AT DALLAS COWBOYS
Jalen Hurts is out for the Eagles and the mustache is in. This is a big blow to the Eagles, or is it? Gardner Minshew, former Jaguar, has made 22 starts in the NFL.
The Cowboys and the Eagles love to sack the quarterback, and both defenses can make things hard on the opposing signal caller. Without Hurts playing, the Cowboys should be able to keep Minshew in the pocket. The Cowboys are 7-1 at home while the Eagles are perfect on the road, 7-0. Eagles have 8 pro bowl players on this existing roster. I have a feeling the Eagles system can be very favorable to many quarterbacks as they have all kinds of play makers. The Cowboys will make this a close game. I like the Eagles soaring to a victory and winning the NFC East with a big win without missing a beat at the quarterback position.
OUR PICK: EAGLES
LAS VEGAS RAIDERS AT PITTSBURGH STEELERS
The first thing I will say is a West Coast team, Vegas, traveling across the country to play in the cold of steel town. This is the anniversary of the immaculate reception.
The Raiders clashed with the Steelers in a playoff game in 1972 at Three Rivers stadium when running back Franco Harris caught the deflected pass and ran it in for a score for a Pittsburgh victory. Harris passed away this week at the age of 72. I think the Steelers play over their heads in this one in a tribute to Harris. The Steelers might not even have to play their best game as they are playing a bad Raider team that don’t play well away from Vegas. Factor in the cold as well.
OUR PICK: STEELERS
MERRY CHRISTMAS (SUNDAY GAMES)
GREEN BAY PACKERS AT MIAMI DOLPHINS
The Packers are still alive in the play-off hunt. The Dolphins have lost three games in a row and want to keep their spot they have right now at least as a wild card. Aaron Rodgers will make a statement in front of a national audience and have a big performance. I like the Dolphins at home here. I like this game as a shoot-out, but the fins find a way at the end to shred the cheese.
OUR PICK: DOLPHINS
DENVER BRONCOS AT LA RAMS
On paper this might have been penciled in as a big game before the season started. The Broncos get Russell Wilson back behind center. This game is a clunker. Who cares? Both teams are disappointing, and all the players involved are busy making their off-season plans. I go with the home team in this one. Make sure you spike the egg nog if you have to watch this one.
OUR PICK: RAMS
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS AT ARIZONA CARDINALS
This game is how Tom Brady can be the luckiest jive turkey in the game. The Buccaneers should not be in the post-season. The team has been terrible. Buccaneers remain on top of one of the sorriest divisions of all-time. Now they play the Cardinals, another team that has been a disgrace to the football world & who are down to their third string quarterback. Does Trace McSorley scare anybody? Brady and company in a snooze fest win a game on the road and keep their lead in the NFC South. Double up on the spiked egg nog now watching this one.
OUR PICK: BUCCANEERS
MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
LA CHARGERS AT INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
HAPPY BOXING DAY?
I really don’t think the Colts will be over that gigantic collapse versus the Vikings last week. The Colts will be without running back Jonathan Taylor. The Chargers are making a run for the post-season. I like the Chargers having all their weapons back in the fold for Justin Herbert. Watch that aerial attack thrive inside the Indianapolis dome as Chargers hopes for the post-season stay alive and well.
The Wild shamrock 