Split the ticket last week, and learned a few things. One of them is that I can never allow myself to back Jay Cutler ever again. For some reason when he drops back I fear the worst rather than expect the best. From now on if I feel his team has the edge I will just no play, but will look to bet against him when I can. He is too careless with the ball and when he overthrows someone the ball is always begging to be picked off. Also I don't think that Denver win was evidence Denver is as great as there made out, but rather an indictment of how bad San Diego is. How in gods name do you allow two returns without laying a hand on someone. Onto the picks for the week.
Green Bay -9I am usually not a fan of laying more than TD on the road, but this game is an exception. I don't think this Cleveland offense is capable of putting up more than 10 points. For them to top that they usually need a defensive score, a Cribbs return, or points in garbage time. Throw in the fact swine flu is running through the Cleveland team and they may be forced to play with guys on the practice squad and you have a recipe for disaster. The Browns will be down at least a starting corner, which does not bode well against this Packers passing attack.
Carolina -7This game sums up how sketchy this week is to me. I'm willing to back Jake Delhomme. Of course I feel if this pick hits it will be in spite of him, not because of him. Very simple logic here for this pick. The Panthers do one thing good on offense and that is run the football. The Bills are very poor at defending the run. I also have a hard time passing up a chance to wager on Ryan Fitzpatrick on the road.
Oakland +6Watching the Raiders win last week I saw a team that was playing with some swagger and feeding off a wild crowd. Watching the Jets last week I swore that Mark Sanchez was going to cry at some point. I think the loss of NT Kris Jenkins is going to be devastating for the Jets defense. Tough to replace a body like that in a 3-4 defense. Justin Fargas looked quite impressive in last weeks game, so I look for him to take the pressure off Jamarcus Russell. I don't know why, but east coast teams tend to not fare as well on the west coast. I would also love to see a Tom Cable vs. Rex Ryan post game fight at the 50.
Dallas -4I can't believe that I will be back Delhomme, Russell, and now Romo. This game is going to be won on the line of scrimmage as the Cowboys massive o-line should be able to push around a small Falcons d line. Cowboys should have all 3 of their backs at their disposal.
Last week: 2-2Season: 7-5