Not Another Predictions Column! Playoffs: Wildcard Round

AFC: WEEKLY UPSET GAME - JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS @ PITTSBURGH STEELERS

These two teams just met recently and played a hard-fought battle in which the Jaguars emerged victorious, in Pittsburgh. After being ahead for most of the game, the Steelers came back and tied it. Unfortunately for the Steelers, the Jaguars scored again and won 29-22. The injury bug has been biting the Steelers hard – running back Willie Parker and tackles Marvel Smith & Max Starks are all injured. Both of these teams lost games they should have won last week, but various starters were resting. The Ravens defeated the Steelers 27-21, and the Texans outscored the Jaguars 42-28. Quarterback David Garrard has been rocking steady all season long for the Jaguars, limiting his mistakes and capitalizing on his opportunities. No one that I have seen is giving the Steelers much of a chance in this game, pointing out a few different factors to support that opinion. One, that the Jaguars defeated the Steelers not more than a month ago. Two, the Steelers are reeling from various injuries, whilst the Jaguars are at full-strength. Three, the Jaguars have a better record (11-5) then the Steelers (10-6). Guess what? Those reasons do not mean anything to me. We are officially in January football now, and January football is completely different from pre-January football. Regular season records mean nothing (New England, are you listening?). Regular season feats mean nothing (Still there, Bill Belichick?). Defensive rankings mean nothing (think Indianapolis Colts circa 2006). The playoffs wipe all slates clean. Jacksonville made the playoffs, but they are one & done as the Steelers win it this week.

AFC: TENNESSEE TITANS @ SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

Vince Young wears the jersey number 10. Why is that number significant? Well, it happens to be one number higher than the number of touchdown passes he’s thrown this season. Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme threw eight, and he did that in three games. Somehow, though, the Titans kept winning games this season. The Chargers have won ten of their last twelve games, and LaDainian Tomlinson rushed for 1474 yards with 15 touchdowns. That’s an off-year how, exactly? Philip Rivers had a topsy-turvy season, sometimes playing really well; and at other times struggling, but he still passed for 21 touchdowns and 3100 yards. Due to an ankle injury, Vince Young’s favorite receiver Roydell Williams will not play in this game. Justin Gage will thus be Young’s main target in this game. Gage is an interesting wide receiver prospect who has been hampered by injuries before, but really has just never ended up in a system that suits him with a quarterback that suits him. That quarterback may end up being Vince Young, or perhaps someone else. The Titans barely managed to defeat the Colts’ back-ups last week, though Vince Young missed most of the game with an injury. San Diego and Tennessee played in the regular season – the Chargers escaped with an overtime victory, but they felt that that was the most physical game of the season for them. Expect another close battle this time around, but without a different result. Chargers win, thus knocking out both of the wildcard teams in the AFC.

NFC: NEW YORK GIANTS @ TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

If I were a Giants fan, right now I would be just a little worried. Eli Manning actually showed up in a big game last week against the Patriots, seriously making the Patriots work to reach 16-0. Such a performance was unlike Manning, and it would be no surprise at all if he flops this week. However, I refuse to continue to lower myself and only talk about Eli Manning in this space. The Eli Manning issue has been discussed ad nauseam by newspapers and websites all over the country, including the Philadelphia Inquirer. Go read them if you want Eli Manning discussion. Tampa Bay’s young running back Earnest Graham rushed for 898 yards in the regular season, and that is without being a starter the full year, and not playing in the last game of the season. Speaking of which, Tampa Bay should be thankful their backups are not their starters, as the Carolina Panthers dispatched the Bucs 31-23 last week. By the way, apparently the Buccaneers’ main page considers the Panthers to be “a thorn in the Bucs’ side.” We will remember that for next season, Tampa Bay. We will remember. Panthers’ running back DeAngelo Williams piled up 121 yards and two touchdowns against a mixture of Bucs’ starters and backups, and now the Bucs get to deal with big Brandon Jacobs, the Giants’ latest thousand-yard rusher. Another efficient quarterback this season, the Bucs’ Jeff Garcia was not prone to making mistakes. He led the Bucs on a steady path of victories, slinging together good outings. However, I feel that the Bucs’ future may be brighter with Luke McCown at quarterback. I have one anecdote to state before I make my pick for this game: I missed the beginning of the Panthers-Bucs showdown because I was out, but I was listening to it on the radio. Eugene Robinson, one of the analysts on the Panthers Radio Network, said, “I do not believe Luke McCown can make plays with his legs.” I immediately said, “What Luke McCown have you been watching, Eugene?” Typically I agree with many of the things Eugene says in his commentary, but two minutes later, I arrived at home, flipped on the TV, and another two minutes later, there’s Luke McCown ripping off a 30-yard run right by linebacker Thomas Davis. Foot, meet mouth. I have been going with the home teams so far, and I believe that the Bucs have a good chance to win this game, but I do find it hard to pick against the Giants. For this week, I am going with the Giants on the road to be the first wildcard team to win.

NFC: WASHINGTON REDSKINS @ SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

People say the Seahawks are overrated because of their schedule. Well, the Seahawks do not choose their schedule, but they still have to play it. Seattle is often over-looked because of their schedule, because of their location, and because they appear inconsistent. For example, Seattle came into Carolina a few weeks ago and should have thoroughly throttled Carolina. Instead, Carolina pretty much controlled the game throughout. Seattle’s running game is a little inconsistent, but it reminds me of Carolina’s rushing attack in 2005. Many times I defended it back then by saying that in ’05 Carolina’s rushing game did what it had to do to constitute itself as enough of a threat to give Steve Smith the opportunities he needed. Seattle’s rushing game circa 2007 is very similar to that. It does what it needs to do to give Matt Hasselbeck opportunities to find receives like Bobby Engram, Nate Burleson, Deion Branch, and DJ Hackett. Washington is on a roll, motivated by the death of Sean Taylor, the play of their defense, and the steady hand of veteran Todd Collins at quarterback? Hey, quick question, is Collins in the Pro Bowl yet, like Tony Romo was last year? Be consistent, after all, voters! Clinton Portis has been running well, the receivers have been making plays, and the defense has been shutting down offenses. Washington is the team no one wants to play. However, emotional highs do not always work. Emotion runs dry, sometimes, and this is the week that I believe the emotion runs dry. Seattle wins it.

Last week I went 11-5, and went 166-93 for the regular season.

By Robert “RingLeader” Gilbert

[Comments Will Be Taken In The Panther Coalition Forums]

Not Another Predictions Column! Week Seventeen

21-gun Salute To The End Of The Regular Season

Not Another Predictions Column! Week Seventeen


Saturday Night Football Tricast: New England 15-0 @ New York Giants 10-5

Everyone and their brother is talking about this game. Even the NFL has begrudgingly allowed NBC and CBS to simulcast this game with the NFL Network, an historic first. Randy Moss needs only two touchdown receptions to set the new benchmark for wide receivers, thus breaking Jerry Rice’s record. Meanwhile, Tom Brady only needs two touchdown passes to break Peyton Manning’s mark for quarterbacks in a single season. At one point this season Brady was on pace for roughly 62 passing touchdowns, but then the Patriots decided to demonstrate that they are capable of running the ball, showing that that supposed chink in their armor is actually not there. Interestingly, the Patriots are playing the Giants to set the stage for an unbeaten season. The two teams have not played each other since 2003, and the Giants are known for their late-season collapses. However, the Giants did manage a comeback victory against the Bills last week, thus ensuring that Eli Manning is in a playoff game yet again. A scenario playing out in my mind the past few weeks has been a Green Bay-New England Super Bowl with Green Bay knocking off New England, thus rendering New England’s perfect season an utter failure, OR New England defeating Green Bay, thus achieving some level of revenge for Brett Favre’s only Super Bowl victory back in 1996 when he and the Packers defeated the Patriots. This game has naturally had more than its fair share of media hype this week, just as the Battle of the Unbeatens, or Super Bowl XLI ½, with the Indianapolis Colts. Frankly, I fully support the Patriots this year and believe that Spygate is not a big enough deal to blemish their dynasty, which is rapidly approaching legend. What about coaches and fudging injury report lists? That, to me, has more of an effect on a game then videotaping signals does. I have ridden the New England gravy train all year long in this column, and I see no reason to not continue that. New England wins and takes the 1972 Dolphins (the last unbeaten team) off of their pedestal.

Seattle Seahawks 10-5 @ Atlanta Falcons 3-12

Well, the Seahawks are once again the underappreciated team in the media. Being that they are out in Seattle, far away from the rest of the known world, Seattle does not get talked about much. Another reason is perhaps that they get six games a year against such powerhouses as Arizona, St. Louis, and San Francisco. Nevertheless, the Seahawks have won enough games to win another division title and another playoff berth. Conversely, Atlanta has not. Atlanta almost managed their fourth win last week but lost in overtime to the aforementioned Arizona Cardinals. This could be a prime upset game choice, considering the Falcons are playing at home and played better last week than they have in a long time, but Seattle will want to end the season on a high note. Seattle defeats the Falcons.

Weekly Upset Game: New Orleans 7-8 @ Chicago 6-9

The Saints are still clinging to slim playoff hopes, but those will be dashed this week. To seriously have a chance they needed to defeat the Eagles, and they could not do that. Donovan McNabb passed, ran, and fumbled his way towards an Eagles victory last week. IKEA apparently released him. The Bears, rather downheartingly, unleashed a demolition derby on the Packers last week, defeating them 35-7. Special teams were a key factor, as the Bears blocked two punts. Brian Urlacher also contributed an 85-yard interception return for touchdown. Despite the impressive performance, the Bears have been unable to stop the run as of late, and frankly, I continue to find that fact curious. Ron Rivera meant more to that defense then it appeared. Well, Chicago will go out by playing spoiler this week, as they defeat the Saints.

Cincinnati 6-9 @ Miami 1-14

Much to my chagrin Cincy managed to pull out their upset of Cleveland last week, possibly causing Cleveland’s playoff hopes to go down the drain. Cincinnati cannot do much to play spoiler this week, though, as Miami is locked into the #1 overall draft pick and is clearly out of the playoff race. Miami, naturally, has no desire to finish the season with only one win, and their fourth-ranked pass defense will give the Bengals a bit of trouble. Conversely, the Bengals defense hauled in four interceptions from Cleveland’s Derek Anderson last week, so perhaps they are starting to gel. They decided to bite the bullet awhile back by drafting two young corners and immediately giving them a great deal of playing time in the hopes that they would mature into two solid shut-down cornerbacks. Eventually, that will probably pay off, and until then they will have to go throw growing pains, which is what much of this past season has been for the Bengals. Expect Cincinnati to be active in finding linebackers this offseason, though. The Dolphins lose to finish 1-15.

Detroit 7-8 @ Green Bay 12-3

I would like to thank my grandmother for the Christmas present she gave me. She gave me a Brett Favre jersey, which I will wear this Sunday. So, Grandma, thank you very much! Packers’ running back Ryan Grant is only 101 yards away from rushing for 1000 on the season. Detroit is not known for their stifling run defense, so it is entirely possible and perhaps even likely that Grant gets that mark. Hopefully he does. These two teams last met on Thanksgiving, when the Packers won behind an impressive performance from Brett Favre. Detroit snapped their losing streak last week, as I expected, but it was too little, too late. There is no ten-win season, there is no magical playoff berth, there is nothing but the stark realization that once again the Lions fell apart and accomplished nothing for another year. That old adage, “there’s always next year” is on the tongues of every Lions fan left, all six of them. Greg Jennings needs 80 receiving yards to hit 1000 – he gets them en route to a Packers victory.

Jacksonville 11-4 @ Houston 7-8

Jacksonville is one of the only teams in the league that I can think of that is currently winning because they have a strong defense and amazing rushing attack. An efficient quarterback who rarely makes mistakes is also a major factor to their success, but a round of applause to Jacksonville coach Jack Del Rio for continuing to succeed with what is appearing to be a method of play slowly phased out of the modern NFL. Houston is a team that struggles to find consistency, and seems to be unstable at the quarterback position. Frankly, that team just needs a major overhaul at all but a few positions. Houston should get run all over this week as the Jaguars roll into the playoffs, the team that no one wants to play. Jags win it, to finish 12-4, a record that should win most divisions but does not win this one when the Indianapolis Colts also play in it.

CAROLINA 6-9 @ TAMPA BAY 9-6

Well, here it is, ladies and gentlemen. The final Panthers game of the season will be played in Raymond James Stadium against one of the Panthers’ archrivals. I want a 21-gun salute at the end of this game, because it signifies the end of another Panthers’ season. Next year promises to be brighter, with the return of Jake Delhomme, the maturation of Jon Beason at midde linebacker, the addition of Chris Harris to the secondary, and the hope of offseason adjustments to bolster the squad. In the interim, however, it is time for Matt Moore to get his second career win. Steve Smith is 46 yards away from 1000 receiving yards on the year, and the goal is to get him that on the first offensive play of scrimmage against Tampa Bay. Contrary to popular belief, this IS Matt Moore’s third start in the NFL, not second. Panthers running back DeShaun Foster looks to finish another season short of 1000 yards rushing, needing 170 yards in this last game to reach that mark. Former first round pick DeAngelo Williams has been outshining Foster lately and looks to continue that this week. Tampa Bay is expected to rest most of their starters for the playoffs. Carolina will take advantage of that and pull out the win.

Buffalo 7-8 @ Philadelphia 7-8

Stunningly, I have actually been rooting for the Eagles for the last two weeks. I was pulling for them against Dallas and also against New Orleans. Both of these teams have been eliminated from postseason contention but they still have shots at .500 seasons. Donovan McNabb had an awesome run against New Orleans where he fumbled and the ball was pushed into the endzone and his receiver recovered it for a touchdown. Plays like that are always pretty sweet. Brian Westbrook has been on fire this year, with nearly 1300 rushing yards and over 700 receiving. Westbrook should be considered one of the elite backs in the NFL if he is not already, and he has now stayed relatively healthy for two successive seasons. Buffalo seems to have found their new quarterback in Trent Edwards out of Stanford. Whether or not this means J.P. Losman will be shown the door is unknown. Here is a little-known story for you: Everyone knows the Bills drafted Paul Posluszny, and everyone knows he was playing well at middle linebacker before he broke his arm. What everyone does not know is that his replacement was John DiGiorgio, an undrafted rookie out of Saginaw Valley State. DiGiorgio has 109 tackles, 1 sack, 1 interception, and six passes deflected in relief of the injured Posluszny. Those are extremely good numbers for any linebacker, but particularly for a linebacker who was not the starter for the entire season. DiGiorgio is perhaps the biggest success story for the Bills this year, bigger than rookie running back Marshawn Lynch or rookie quarterback Trent Edwards. Buffalo could pull this one out, but it being a home game for Philadelphia, I will go with the Eagles.


San Francisco 5-10 @ Cleveland 9-6

San Fran is on a two-game winning streak due in large part to the stellar play of their new quarterback, Shaun Hill. Despite all that has been said about Frank Gore’s ‘disappearance’ this season, he still has 1008 yards rushing with five touchdowns. Cleveland lost a game they could ill-afford to lose last week against the Bengals, and now questions surround whether or not Derek Anderson can win the big game. People, please remember this is his first season as a starting quarterback – everything cannot be expected right away. Cleveland has but one hope remaining to make the playoffs. Every Browns fan in the world just became an Indianapolis Colts fan. The Colts need to beat the Titans on Sunday Night Football, and the Browns are in. If the Colts lose to the Titans, there is no way for the Browns to make the playoffs this season, and all their efforts will have been for naught. Everyone knows I have supported the Browns this season, and I will continue to do so. Cleveland wins.

Pittsburgh 10-5 @ Baltimore 4-11

Someone needs to explain to me how a team that has a quarterback with a franchise-record 32 touchdown passes and only 11 interceptions has a passing game ranked 25th in the NFL out of 32 teams. I am talking about the Steelers here – Ben Roethlisberger has been having pretty much the best statistical season of his career. Despite its ranking, it will need to be leaned on more in the playoffs without star rusher Willie Parker carrying the team due to his broken leg. Najeh Davenport, the former Packer, is picking up the slack in Parker’s absence. The Ravens have been on a colossal losing streak this year. No matter whom they have played, no matter what they were favored by, they have lost. There may be some with a forlorn hope that Baltimore can win this week, but not me. Steelers take the victory on the road.

San Diego 10-5 @ Oakland 4-11

The Chargers have won eight straight games against the Raiders. They will be looking to push that to nine straight on the road to the Super Bowl. LaDainian Tomlinson is one carry away from 300 carries on the season, has 1400+ yards rushing, and 15 rushing touchdowns. Not exactly a down year, but not quite what he accomplished last season. JaMarcus Russell is expected to make his first career NFL start this week, against the NFL’s leading defense in terms of interceptions. The Chargers have picked off 29 passes this season, 10 of those by Antonio Cromartie. As such, they should be relishing the chance to pressure Russell all day long, and this will lead to a San Diego victory to close out Oakland’s season.

Weekly Upset Game #2: Dallas 13-2 @ Washington 8-7

I will go with a second upset this week, as Cowboys’ coach Wade Phillips is expected to rest many of his starters in this game. The Redskins are red-hot now that Todd Collins has started to play at quarterback, winners of three straight and masters of their own destiny. I would like to officially go on the record and say that I believe that many years down the line we will find that someone has been paying off the referrees in many Dallas Cowboy football games. I do not mean to blame the umpires, or complain about them, but when Chris Collinsworth holds a moment of silence at how obvious a call should have been, you know it is going too far. This is no isolated incident, either. Nevertheless, poor officiating can be overcome, and nearly was by Carolina last week. Washington will overcome it this week if they need to, because Washington will win and become a playoff team, making three teams from the NFC East in the playoffs.

St. Louis 3-12 @ Arizona 7-8

The Rams’ star running back Steven Jackson is only 53 yards away from 1000 yards rushing on the season. His has been a season marked by injury, plagued by loss, and this has equated into underwhelming statistics compared to his heroic numbers of last year. Speaking of heroic statistics, Arizona quarterback Kurt Warner has rejuvenated himself with 24 passing touchdowns this season and over 3000 yards passing. However, Arizona cannot consider him a quarterback of the future, so they will have a quandary on their hands with Warner and Matt Leinart next year. Arizona closes out the season 8-8 under new coach Ken Whisenhunt.

Minnesota 8-7 @ Denver 6-9

Rookie sensation Adrian Peterson has not had much opportunity to do anything recently as Minnesota has been throwing the ball and opponents have been loading the box forcing Travaris Jackson to beat them with his arm. He is basically out of the NFL’s rushing crown this year, as LaDainian Tomlinson leads him by a little over 100 yards. However, when Adrian Peterson has topped 200 rushing yards twice already this season, you can never completely count the possibility out. Denver has been a major disappointment this year, getting blown out by scores unheard of in the Mike Shanahan era. The Broncos were nearly shut out last week before finally managing a field goal. Minnesota needs to win and they need Washington to lose to make the playoffs, after having been in the driver’s seat of the sixth seed for several weeks. That is unlikely to happen, but the Vikings finishing with a winning record is likely. Minnesota wins.

Kansas City 4-11 @ New York Jets 3-12

Rookie receiver Dwayne Bowe is 18 yards away from starting off his career with a 1000-yard season. Wonder if their fans are happy they finally got a receiver? Damon Huard nearly led the Chiefs to a comeback win over the Lions last week, but I do not believe he read my column. I said the Chiefs would lose, and they lost. This is not exactly Moses parting the Red Sea, considering the Chiefs losing is not an uncommon event this season, but it is still always nice to be right. Thomas Jones has quietly rushed for 1000 yards for the Jets this season, which shows even further how pitiful it is that the Panthers have not managed a 1000-yard rusher since 2003. Speaking of 1000-yard rushers, the Chiefs do not have that this year either. They will not have a win this week on top of that, as the Jets get a home victory to close out the season.

Sunday Night Football: Tennessee Titans 9-6 @ Indianapolis Colts 13-2

Lost in the media hype over the Patriots are the Colts, who have only lost two games themselves. Peyton Manning and the crew have been winning, as is their custom. The Titans are in control of their own future: if they pull off the upset, they will be in the playoffs. If they lose, the Browns are in. This game WILL be televised in Tennessee, by the way (inside joke). The Colts defeated the Titans in a close 22-20 scrum back in Week Two, which feels like it was nearly four months ago. Oh wait. Never mind. Okay, it feels like it was 15 weeks ago. Oh wait. Never mind. I do not like the Titans, and I want them to lose so Cleveland can make it in the playoffs. I learned an interesting fact in my reading this week. All 22 of the Colts’ starters last week have spent their entire careers with Indianapolis. The Titans have a strong rushing attack, but their passing game is anemic, and when you play Indianapolis, you need a passing game. This is the last regular season Sunday Night Football game of the season, and the Colts will send it out in style with a victory over the Titans.

I would like to offer a special thank you to my loyal readers for reading NAPC! all season long. Herewith we have come to the end of the third regular season of NAPC!’s existence. Next week we will enter the NAPC! Playoff Edition phase of the column.

Last week I went 12-4 and am 155-88 overall.

By Robert “RingLeader” Gilbert

[Comments Will Be Taken In The PantherCoalition Forums]

Not Another Predictions Column! Week Sixteen

NAPC! Week Sixteen


Dallas 12-2 @ Carolina 6-8

Two teams that are both coming off of surprise performances – the Dallas Cowboys and the Carolina Panthers. In Dallas, the Cowboys just dropped a surprise game to the Philadelphia Eagles, losing 10-6. Meanwhile, the Panthers pulled off a huge upset over the Seattle Seahawks primarily through the efforts of a stingy defense and rookie quarterback Matt Moore. Moore was efficient and effective as he passed for over 200 yards and completed 19 of 27 passes. Carolina will most likely be playing this game without the services of Julius Peppers at defensive end. However, since Peppers has been non-existent much of this season, that may not be that much of a problem. Third round pick Charles Johnson will likely see increased playing time with Peppers injured. Everyone this week is talking about whether or not Jessica Simpson attending the Dallas Cowboys game last week affected Tony Romo’s level of play. Whether or not it did, there are rumors that she will attend this game, and frankly, Carolina needs all the help they can get, so I hope she attends. As always, Carolina wins, keeping their playoff hopes alive.


Cleveland 9-5 @ Cincinnati 5-9

The lack of a defense definitely caught up with Cincy this year, as consistently they have lost games because their defense could not prevent opposing teams from scoring. The last time these two teams squared off, it resulted in an infamous 51-45 scoring bonanza in which Cleveland had the 51. Among the ridiculous statistics in that game was Jamal Lewis and his 216 rushing yards. Carson Palmer passed for six touchdowns, as well. The Browns’ defense is also suspect, but has been playing better then the Bengals’ unit. Last week the Browns won a snow bowl against Buffalo, defeating the Bills 8-0 in a blizzard. Conversely, the Bengals dropped a game to the Shaun Hill-led 49ers. Rookie corner Leon Hall of the Bengals leads all rookies with four interceptions, however. Cleveland is still fighting for their division title, so they will be fired up to defeat a division rival in the Bengals this week. Cleveland wins.

Kansas City 4-10 @ Detroit 6-8

Well, the Lions have fallen apart, people. They have lost six straight games after starting off the season 6-2. At one point in time ten wins looked like a certainty for the Kitna-led Lions, but it is apparent the Lions were merely pretenders, not contenders, this season. The Lions have been officially eliminated from the playoff race, as have the Chiefs, so both teams are mostly just playing for pride at the moment. Neither team has been able to run the ball effectively, consistently, this season. However, the Lions have been able to pass the ball much more proficiently then the Chiefs. Jared Allen made it to his first Pro Bowl with an 11-sack season for the Chiefs, greatly helping out their pass rush this year. The Chiefs should be able to put up a solid fight in this one, but the Lions will pull off a win.

Houston 7-7 @ Indianapolis 12-2

The Texans are still fighting for a .500 season, but facing the Colts is a daunting task. Indianapolis has not been quite as stunning as usual this year, but they are still winning games and still definitely a threat. Bob Sanders, the safety who is the heart and soul of the Indy D, will be a free agent after the season and Bill Polian will have to decide if Sanders is worth the price tag he will command in the open market. Mario Williams, the star defensive end for the Texans, was snubbed in the Pro Bowl voting this week. Despite leading the AFC in sacks with 13, he is not penciled in for a trip to Hawaii. Houston will fight hard in this game, but it will not be enough, as the Colts improve to 13 wins on the season.

Green Bay 12-2 @ Chicago 5-9

The reigning NFC Champion Chicago Bears will most definitely be finishing this season with a losing record, and a myriad of question marks at the quarterback position. Rex Grossman, Brian Griese, and Kyle Orton have all started at quarterback this season for the Bears. Frankly, Orton should just start the rest of the season for Chicago. By the way, if you have not heard, the Packers clinched a first-round bye with their win last week. Brett Favre is 97 yards away from throwing for 4000 yards this season. Last time these two teams met, the Bears spoiled my prediction that week and pulled off an upset of the Packers with a 34-yard touchdown strike to Desmond Clark – and the world wept. That was Brian Griese’s debut this season, and it filled the Bears with hope that this would not be a wasted season. Sorry, the honeymoon ended. I might give Orton a victory next week, but right now the Bears need to take some revenge from the Packers. Green Bay wins it.

New York Giants 9-5 @ Buffalo Bills 7-7

Despite dropping a game in a blizzard to Cleveland last week, the Bills are still fighting for a winning record. Rookie quarterback from Stanford, Trent Edwards, has been playing well and seems to have put incumbent J.P. Losman out of a job. This disappoints no one but J.P. Losman and Lee Evans, who typically enjoyed Losman’s constant attention. The Giants are starting to come loose around the seams, but should still be in the playoffs again. Whether or not that is enough to save Tom Coughlin’s job is unknown. Eli Manning is still the king of inconsistency and acts like it. These two teams do not play each other much – case in point, the last time these two teams played Drew Bledsoe was the starting quarterback for the Bills. This is a promising upset game selection, but the Giants should still have enough in the tank to defeat Buffalo, so I will roll with them.

Oakland 4-10 @ Jacksonville 10-4

Despite being snubbed for the Pro Bowl, Fred Taylor, part one of the Jaguars’ two-headed rushing attack, will still travel to Hawaii because of Willie Parker’s fractured fibula. Jacksonville is fighting to make the playoffs and needs to win games against teams like Oakland. Oakland, at this point in time, is only worrying about playing spoiler. Maurice Jones-Drew, part two of the Jaguars’ aforementioned rushing attack, may be the best thing to ever happen to Fred Taylor. Fred Taylor has now rushed for 1000+ yards in two consecutive seasons despite splitting time with Jones-Drew, and Taylor has four consecutive 100-yard games. Jacksonville will not have to do much in this game but run the ball – Oakland has trouble stopping the run. Jaguars win it, keeping them in the hunt for the playoffs.

WEEKLY UPSET GAME: Philadelphia 6-8 @ New Orleans 7-7

Carolina needs Philadelphia to continue winning this week and knock off the Saints in order for Carolina to remain in the hunt for the final playoff spot in the NFC. The Eagles pulled off a surprise upset last week of the Dallas Cowboys, and look to play spoiler this week. The Saints’ defense will have difficulty containing Brian Westbrook, who is on fire. By the way, I would like to tip my hat to Westbrook for stopping at the one-yard line against Dallas, thus assuring themselves of the victory. It was a great move by a great player. Donovan McNabb is still capable of managing a game, as he showed, but I am not sure that a game can be put squarely on his shoulders anymore. Reggie Bush is attempting to come back this season, but he is listed as questionable on the injury report. Philadelphia’s defense continues its stifling play and at least limits the Saints’ offense whilst the Philly offense scores just enough to win. Eagles win this week.

Tampa Bay 9-5 @ San Francisco 4-10

San Francsico has had Tampa Bay’s number in recent years, particularly at Monster Park. This would have been a tempting upset game choice, but it does not effect Carolina’s postseason chances, so why take the chance? Shaun Hill won his start against Cincinnati last week on the NFL Network, and now he gets a shot at the division-leading Buccaneers. He will have to dodge rookie defensive end Gaines Adams, who leads all rookies with six sacks. Earnest Graham, running back for the Bucs, is 123 yards away from cracking 1000 on the season. I will go out on a limb and say that he will get all of that this week against San Francisco en route to a Bucs’ win.

Atlanta 3-11 @ Arizona 6-8

What a year it has been for Arthur Blank and the Atlanta Falcons. If it were not Mike Vick killing a dog, DeAngelo Hall fighting with teammates, a coach abruptly leaving, or Bill Parcells turning Atlanta down, it was another. It has been a topsy-turvy three-win season for the Falcons, which should make for an interesting off-season. Marty Schottenheimer’s name has been leaked as someone the Falcons are interested in going after. Meanwhile, Arizona has had their own tumultous season, playing with the quarterback roulette wheel themselves. Kurt Warner has revived his career and has been playing well, for the most part, but is still plagued by the occasional game-losing mistake. Larry Fitzgerald was voted into the Pro Bowl this week – and there is no one more deserving of a Pro Bowl selection. Fitzgerald is one of the classiest players in the NFL and one of the best at what he does. All-Pro running back Edgerrin James got his 1000 yards last week, and now looks to pad his numbers a bit. He will, as Arizona wins at home this week.

Miami 1-13 @ New England 14-0

The Patriots are still in pursuit of that undefeated season, and in their way at the moment are the lowly Dolphins. The Dolphins did manage to avoid the ignominious distinction of a season in which they lost all their games by knocking off the Ravens in OT last week, but that was not for a lack of trying. Greg Camarillo and Cleo Lemon bailed the Dolphins out, though. Lemon hit Camarillo on a 63-yard touchdown strike in which Camarillo burned most of the eleven players on the field for the Ravens’ defense. Tom Brady is still five touchdown passes away from breaking Peyton Manning’s record, and only has two games left to do it in. You can bet he is working on it, and it is possible he breaks it in tomorrow’s action. Last week, however, the Patriots were busy demonstrating that they are capable of running the ball, which made the rest of the NFL shudder even more. The Dolphins will pull out all the stops in this game, but it will not be quite enough, as the Patriots will seek to embarrass them again. New England wins and improves to 15-0.

Baltimore 4-10 @ Seattle 9-5

The Seahawks dropped a shocker in Carolina last week, falling prey to a swarming defense and excellent offensive execution by Carolina’s new quarterback sensation Matt Moore. However, the Ravens did them one better by falling flat on their faces and losing to the Dolphins who had previously not won a game on the season. Seattle looks to regain face over Christmas weekend with their fans, who were shaking their heads at the apathetic performance turned out by Matt “We’re gonna win” Hasselbeck and Co. Rookie quarterback and former Heisman trophy winner Troy Smith will get the start for the Ravens this week, which must scare the Seahawks considering the last rookie quarterback they faced ripped through their secondary and made it look effortless. Look for the Seahawks’ defensive coordinator to remember to blitz this week, and if he does, it will make Troy Smith look like he did in his last college game. Seahawks win it and improve to 10 wins on the season.

New York Jets 3-11 @ Tennessee Titans 8-6

Well, Eric Mangini’s Jets are not making a playoff run this year, for sure. On the contrary, the Titans, led by Vince Young, are still in contention for a wildcard spot in the AFC. Vince Young threw two touchdown passes last week, both to Roydell Williams. Lendale White is 40 yards from 1000 on the season, and considering he is facing the 30th rush defense in the NFL this week AND is playing at home, he ought to be able to hit that milestone this week. Chad Pennington looks to be starting for the Jets this week, as Kellen Clemens hurt his ribs in the loss to the Patriots last week. Pennington has gotten a raw deal in New York in my opinion, and deserves to get a look elsewhere in the League. The Jets were a thought for upset game, but Tennessee is playing for their playoff lives. Titans win.

WEEKLY UPSET PART 2! (Sun. Night)Washington 7-7 @ Minnesota 8-6

Yep, you got it. Two upset game selections this week, because Carolina needs some help to make it to the playoffs, and I am giving it to them. Quarterback Todd Collins has kept the Redskins alive in the playoff hunt, and looks to continue keeping them alive by knocking off the Vikings, who are currently in possession of the final playoff spot in the NFC. The Redskins will have to contain Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson, but if they can do that, they should not have much of a problem knocking the Vikings off. Travaris Jackson and the Vikings managed to knock off the Bears last week despite turning the ball over four times. Unfortunately, or rather, fortunately for Carolina, the winning streak ends this week. Washington knocks off the Vikings in surprising fashion on Sunday Night Football.

Denver 6-8 @ San Diego 9-5

The Broncos have been maddeningly inconsistent this season, and I have greatly disliked picking their football games. Meanwhile, their division rival, the Chargers, have also been maddeningly inconsistent, but at least it has been easier to deal with. LaDainian Tomlinson has rushed for over 1300 yards this season, though it has not felt like it after last year’s banner season. The Broncos are still holding on to the hope of a .500 season, but it is unlikely to happen. Rookie Selvin Young at the running back position has been awesome to watch, though. Is Michael Turner worth the first round pick teams were thinking of trading for him last year? He has only 53 touches this season for 5.0 yards per carry and only one touchdown. Antonio Gates has nearly double the receptions of the next closest guy on the team, Vincent Jackson. I guess we know whom Philip Rivers likes to throw to. Gates is 102 yards away from 1000 on the season. Look for Gates, Chris Chambers, and LaDainian Tomlinson to lead San Diego to a victory this week.

Last week I went 8-8 and am 143-84 overall. Merry Christmas to all my readers! Have a wonderful holiday, and GO CAROLINA!

By Robert "RingLeader" Gilbert

[Comments Will Be Taken In The PantherCoalition Forums]

Not Another Predictions Column! Week 15

Not Another Predictions Column! Week 15



Cincinnati 5-8 @ San Francisco 3-10

After a brief absence, NAPC! returns. My readers, I apologize for not penning my column, but I was involved in a trip to Tennessee, senior year finals, and a research paper. My picks were still made on the forums, though, for posterity’s sake. Apparently, the Bengals won a game last week, but then, they were playing the St. Louis Rams. Many teams have won that match-up this year. Naturally, though, their opponent this week is not much tougher. The San Francisco 49ers’ quarterback position is in such a state of flux currently that they actually signed former Carolina Panthers quarterback Chris Weinke to back-up current starter Shaun Hill. Rudi Johnson reappeared on planet earth for Cincy in their victory over St. Louis last week with almost 100 rushing yards and a touchdown. There is not much to say about this match-up – San Francisco’s starting Shaun Hill, Cincinnati Carson Palmer. That should answer the question of who wins satisfactorily. The Bengals win it.

Tennessee 7-6 @ Kansas City 4-9 WEEKLY UPSET GAME

Despite the situation Kansas City has had at quarterback this season, they have two players who are on track to hit the 1000-yard receiving mark on the season. Tight end Tony Gonzalez is within 46 yards, and rookie wide receiver Dwayne Bowe has 821 yards on the year. Their running game, however, has not come around thus far. Superstar running back Larry Johnson has found it hard to get into gear this year, averaging only 3.5 yards per carry and picking up 559 yards rushing on the season. The Panthers’ DeShaun Foster has more rushing yards. Tennessee lost to San Diego last week in a rather close affair. To illustrate just how much I forget the Titans exist, I was actually in Tennessee last weekend in a restaurant with the Titans game on, and I was wondering why the Titans’ game was being shown. At first I thought it was because the restaurant owner was a Chargers fan. However, after about 60 seconds, it occurred to me that I was in the state of Tennessee, so naturally Tennessee’s games get shown on TV. So much for geography. Well, this is my weekly upset game. I have had difficulty picking Kansas City this year, but they should be able to win this week.

Baltimore 4-9 @ Miami 0-13

Jake Delhomme played for three weeks and he has more than 2/3 the touchdown passes the two starting quarterbacks in this game have, Kyle Boller (Ravens) and Cleo Lemon (Dolphins). Both of these teams are eliminated from the playoffs, although in Miami’s case we all knew that awhile ago. They may as well just play the young guys. Oh wait, that is what they have been doing. Never mind. Considering Ronnie Brown went down quite a while ago, it is a testimony to the ineffectiveness of the Dolphins’ passing game that Brown is still the second-leading receiver on the team (and also leading rusher). Willis McGahee has rushed for almost 1100 yards this year with the Baltimore Ravens, and has even found the endzone seven times. Nevertheless, the team’s leading receiver, Derrick Mason, has manged to find the endzone only thrice. The Dolphins’ quarterback, Cleo Lemon, has rushed for more touchdowns than that. It would be nice for Miami to get a win, but it will not happen this week. Ravens win it, but not by much.

New York Jets 3-10 @ New England 13-0

I was going to start off this section of the article with something along the lines of “How bad do you think Eric Mangini wants this game?” but then I realized, “How bad do you think Bill Belichick wants to kill Mangini’s Jets this game?” Once I thought about that, I realized that Belichick has the tools to do so – Mangini does not. Quite frankly, if I were Mangini, I could really see applying for the Witness Protection Program. Ray Barone ought to have the number. New England should be pulling out all the stops in this game, and it should definitely be enjoyable to see. That is, if you are not one of the ten Jets (or is it Giants?) fans remaining. Tom Brady is five touchdown passes away from breaking Peyton Manning’s single-season passing touchdown record. I am not sure the over-under on his breaking that record this week, but it should definitely be happening in front of his home crowd, as the Patriots play at home this week and also next week. I really do not think many New England fans miss Drew Bledsoe, do they? As a rhetorical statement, I have long thought that Tom Brady and Bill Belichick should retire at the same time so that the question of which one the credit should really go to can never be completely answered. I believe they are both an intrinsic part of the success of the Patriots and that neither would have had quite the same level of success without the other. New England improves to 14-0 by defeating the Jets this week.

Buffalo 7-6 @ Cleveland 8-5

gro-VER! gro-VER! gro-VER! Oh wait, wrong Cleveland. Buffalo is still fighting for slim play-off hopes, and Cleveland themselves are positioning for a shot at a good playoff run. Derek Anderson has 26 touchdown passes and is playing his way towards a big payday either this offseason or 2009. Jamal Lewis has nine rushing touchdowns – he should call up DeShaun Foster and explain that the point of rushing the football is to score touchdowns for your own team, not to fumble it to the other team and let them score touchdowns. It is a noble cause, I will admit, but the fans get tired of it quickly. Back to Derek Anderson: while he does not lock on just one receiver, it is clear he favors one receiver over the other when it comes to touchdown passes. Braylon Edwards has 13 touchdown receptions compared to Kellen Winslow’s 5. I must publicly apologize to rookie quarterback Trent Edwards of Buffalo: when I first heard Stanford had a quarterback projected to be drafted in the top two rounds of the NFL draft, I laughed. I should not have, he has proven he has a place in this League. My apologies Trent. Now, I am not so sure J.P. Losman is happy about this, but you can never please everyone, now can you? My apology does not stretch far enough to give the Bills a win this week, unfortunately, Trent. Bowns win at home, improving to 9-5 and guaranteeing a winning season for the first time since 2002.

Seattle 9-4 @ Carolina 5-8

The last time these two teams met in the regular season was roughly three years ago. However, every Panthers fan remembers the match-up in the NFC Conference Championship Game two years ago. In that game, running back Nick Goings was knocked out with a concussion early on, and the Seahawks’ defense throttled the Panthers offense as the Seahawks’ offense rolled over the Panthers defense. There’s not a Panthers fan around who wants to think about that game any longer than they have to. There is also not a Panthers fan around who has not thought about just how bad they wanted Seattle to lose to Carolina in the next go-round. Now, I am not sure that any Panthers fan ever anticipated that the rematch would come with Vinny Testaverde at quarterback, but that may be a good thing. Vinny has never lost to Seattle, and seems to get all the calls against them. That said, he has not practiced in two days and is listed as probable on the injury report. According to a Seattle paper, the reason Vinny hasn’t practiced is that he is old. I guess tact went out of style. By the way, as an aside, members of the Panther Coalition’s sister site, SeahawkBlue.com, are making the trip to Charlotte for the game. Safe travels, my friends. Not to the surprise of anyone, I pick Carolina to win this game because I am an eternal optimist. And it IS a rule, after all.

Arizona 6-7 @ New Orleans 6-7

Hey, check it out! Wanna-bes! The Cardinals and the Saints – pre-season media darlings – are both likely going to be sitting at home come January. What little running game the Saints had just went away, since Reggie Bush will be out for the duration of the season. This game should be a great shoot-out without either team really being able to stop the pass. I am happy to see David Patten has revived his career in New Orleans with 40 receptions this season for 600+ yards. I was worried that after the Redskins signed him and he was hurt that that would signify the beginning of the end, but Drew Brees is good at maximizing what he can get out of his wide receivers. Edgerrin James quietly rushed for over 1000 yards last year and is on pace to do the same this season. If the Cardinals could just find a few defensive players, they would really challenge for a playoff spot. A consistent quarterback would probably help as well. I like Kurt Warner, and I do not like New Orleans, so this is an easy pick. Arizona wins on the road.

Atlanta 3-10 @ Tampa Bay 8-5

Well, technically, Tampa could still lose their last three games and Carolina could win their last three, tying them at 8-8 apiece. Yeah, right, and I want to hold on to 16 as long as I can. Eternal optimist, though, do not forget. Besides, that could save some of the Carolina coaching staff their jobs, and that is probably not a good thing. Poor Atlanta fans – first they lose their superstar, then they have their coach turn on them, what next? On the other hand, I do not believe any of the other three teams in the division will mind a multi-year rebuilding process for Atlanta, if Tampa, New Orleans, and Carolina can be so lucky. Sorry Falcons’ fans! I do believe that if Tampa Bay wins this game, they clinch the division. At least, that is what a little birdie told me. Earnest Graham is closing in on 1000 yards rushing – he only needs 202 more yards and he has three games to do it in. Well, two, since Carolina will not let him. Tampa Bay wins it this week.

GREEN BAY 11-2 @ St. Louis 3-10

Show of hands for how many people want Green Bay in the Super Bowl? I see at least two, and they are both mine. Brett Favre has thrown 24 touchdown passes this season – there are entire teams with fewer touchdown passes. And despite not having a rushing game, the Packers’ Ryan Grant still has roughly 750 yards rushing on the season and averages five yards a pop. I saw that Brock Berlin, former University of Miami stand-out quarterback, started a game for the Rams last week against Cincinnati. I had not heard anything about his NFL career for a while, but I am rather happy that he got an opportunity. How did he do? Well, 17 for 28, 153 yards, and an interception. Pretty much what Carolina expects from their quarterbacks these days. Marc Bulger is starting this week, though, which does give St. Louis a chance to pull off the upset. It will not happen, though. Green Bay improves to 12-2 on the year.

Jacksonville 9-4 @ Pittsburgh 9-4

Just what I needed – a Jacksonville game to pick where they are going up against a team almost their mirror image. I still consider Jacksonville to be on probation in my column. Pittsburgh has been a little inconsistent for my tastes as well, but generally I can predict them accurately, so I am not worried on that front. Willie Parker and Adrian Peterson are vying for the rushing crown this year, with Parker currently in the lead. Yep, he WAS the third-string running back for UNC. Yep, I do not understand it either. He IS an inspiration to third-string college players everywhere, though. That said, Najeh Davenport has more rushing touchdowns than Parker this season, three to two. Both of these teams play excellent defense (unless the Steelers use a safety to ‘cover’ Randy Moss), they both run the ball well, and they both have efficient quarterbacks. However, Ben Roethlisberger is more capable of taking over a game than David Garrard, and this game may come down to quarterback play. Nevertheless, David Garrard just does not make mistakes very often at all. Pittsburgh is 7-0 at home this season, so I will play that card and give Pittsburgh an 8-0 home record on the 2007 season with a win over Jacksonville.

Indianapolis 11-2 @ Oakland 4-9

The Colts came alive last week with a 44-20 drumming of the Baltimore Ravens. Rookie first round draft pick Anthony Gonzalez caught six passes for 130+ yards and two touchdowns against Baltimore. Raiders running back Justin Fargas needs only 80 yards to eclipse the 1000-yard mark for the first time in his career. The Raiders have had a good rushing attack, but their passing game has been virtually nonexistent in most games this season. Unlike the Vikings, Oakland does not have the ability to pull that off. Indianapolis clinches their division if they win – because of that, Indianapolis wins this week.

Detroit 6-7 @ San Diego 8-5

Five weeks ago Detroit was 6-2 and looking at a potential playoff berth and 10-win season, as quarterback Jon Kitna infamously proclaimed they were capable of. However, the luck has run out. Detroit has lost five weeks in a row and now look like the Detroit of old, not the 6-2 ‘powerhouse’ Detroit. As Detroit fans are used to saying, “There’s always next year.” Sure, they could still win out and finish with a winning record, but they needed to win 10 games after Kitna made his prediction. It is possible for them to win out and then win a playoff game, though, giving Detroit 10 wins on the year. Then Kitna could claim that he was including the playoffs in his prediction. (PLAYOFFS? YOU’RE TALKIN’ PLAYOFFS?) I suppose my apologist attitude toward the Lions is undeserved. They did fall apart, after all. Meanwhile, San Diego has finally started winning games, and looks to win the division again. In fact, the Chargers clinch the division with a win over Detroit this week. San Diego wins it at home, improving to 9-5.

Philadelphia 5-8 @ Dallas 12-1

Andy Reid is sticking with Donovan McNabb at quarterback. Frankly, that seems like a bad idea to me, but what do I know. This is probably McNabb’s farewell tour in Philadelphia, though, before getting released or traded this offseason (Chicago, perhaps?). Once again, Brian Westbrook has proved himself the heart and soul of the Philadelphia offense with over 1000 yards rushing and 600+ receiving yards, not to mention 12 combined rushing and receiving touchdowns. Cowboys’ tight end Jason Witten is 45 yards away from 1000 on the season, and I bet he wants to get those 45 yards at home against Philly. Tony Romo has thrown 35 touchdown passes on the season, with 60% of them going to Terrell Owens and Witten. Donovan McNabb has throw 14, with none of them going to Terrell Owens or Jason Witten. That may have something to do with them not playing on the same team. As much as I dislike Dallas, there is really no way they should lose this game. Dallas wins it.

SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL: Washington 6-7 @ New York Giants 9-4

Has Tom Coughlin solidified his job standing with the Giants? They have not yet had their annual collapse under Coughlin, and look like they might be able to finally make it through a year without it. Todd Collins is starting at quarterback this week for the Redskins in place of injured starter Jason Campbell. According to Washington’s offensive coordinator Al Saunders, Collins knows his system better than any other quarterback alive. By the way, anyone looking for a defensive line coach may seriously want to consider hiring the Giants’ line coach away, if at all possible. Chris Cooley is the Redskins’ leading receiver in terms of receptions, yards, and touchdowns. Antwaan Randel El has yet to score a receiving touchdown this season for Washington. If the Giants win it will all but end the Redskins’ postseason hopes. Well, I’m down with that. Giants win it to improve to 10 wins.



MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL: Chicago 5-8 @ Minnesota 7-6

Friends, it is part two of the Adrian Peterson v. Adrian Peterson bowl! The Bears’ second string rusher is starting in place of the injured Cedric Benson, and the Vikings’ stunning rookie is coming off the worst performance of his young NFL career, with only three yards rushing against San Francisco. Something I have been advocating for all year was for the Bears to start Kyle Orton at quarterback, which they are doing this week. It will be interesting to see how he does after not playing for two years, basically. Vikings’ defensive tackles Pat and Kevin Williams (no relation) both managed interceptions last week against San Francisco, a feat unlikely to be matched for quite a long time. Minnesota is in the drivers’ seat to claim the last wildcard spot and make the playoffs. There is an outside chance that their ‘other’ rusher, Chester Taylor, will notch 1000 yards himself. Taylor needs 284 yards and has three games to get it in. Quarterback Travaris Jackson has thrown only six touchdown passes this season, but I suppose you do not care how you win, just so long as you win. Minnesota wins this week, clinching at least a .500 season and sending the reigning NFC Champions into a losing record for the year.

Last week I went 11-5 and am 135-76 overall.

By Robert “RingLeader” Gilbert

[Comments Will Be Taken In The PantherCoalition Forums]

Not Another Predictions Column! Lite Edition

NAPC! Lite Edition:
Week Eleven

WEEKLY UPSET GAME: Tampa Bay 5-4 @ Atlanta 3-6

Well, with two consecutive victories, the Falcons have improved to 3-6 and kept their playoff hopes alive. If they knock off Tampa Bay, it would really pollute the NFC South. If both New Orleans and Carolina were to win, there would be three teams at 5-5 and one team at 4-6 in the NFC South. If New Orleans and Carolina were both to lose, then there would be three teams at 4-6 and Tampa Bay with a slim one game lead over the rest of the division at 5-5. This certainly would cloud the divisional championship picture and make for an extremely tight race, as is to be expected in the NFC South. Divisional games will become key, as will all NFC games. It was announced that despite Joey Harrington’s performances in the two successive Falcons’ conquests Byron Leftwich will remain the starter upon his return from injury. Leftwich has returned to practice this week. Leftwich did not even last for an entire half of a game when he was first injured. This should not come as a surprise, since even his college days Leftwich has had injury troubles. His ankles, in particular, do not appear to be able to take much of a pounding. Since I want Carolina to get all the help it needs, I will go with Atlanta to pull off the upset at home and please the home crowd.

Cleveland 5-4 @ Baltimore 4-5

I called this game exactly right last week. The Browns DID give the Steelers a valiant effort – every bit of what I expected. Derek Anderson proved his mettle despite the loss. I hope Cleveland makes the playoffs and shocks the world. With Kellen Winslow, Braylon Edwards, Joe Jurevicious, and Jamal Lewis, the Browns have a number of options on offense and can mix and match depending on the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. Moreover, if for some reason the offense starts stalling, the Browns only need to turn to their special teams and give the ball to return ace Joshua Cribbs, who is aiming for his tenth straight game with a kick return of over 30 yards, to give the Browns a spark. The Ravens are going down, fast. Kyle Boller is starting for the injured Steve McNair this week, the offense is inept, and the defense is starting to crack. Willis McGahee has not rushed for over 100 yards since Week Seven – perhaps he gets on track versus the Browns’ weak defense, but it will not be enough. Browns win it on the road.

New York Giants 6-3 @ Detroit 6-3

Now, you want to talk about a huge game? Then look at this one. Both of these teams are in the same boat – each has been playing well and each has achieved a 6-3 record, but both trail division leaders with 8-1 records. Detroit, as well as Cleveland in the AFC, is looking to stun the world and make the playoffs. Both the Giants and the Lions need victories – not only to stay in some sort of running for their division titles, but to stay on top of the rest of the pack in the wildcard race. Eli Manning is set to become the only Giants quarterback outside of Phil Simms to post 3000+ yards and 20+ TDs for three consecutive seasons. These two teams have done a great job of spreading the ball between their top two receivers – the Giants’ Plaxico Burress and Jeremy Shockey have 41 and 43 catches respectively, whilst the Lions’ Roy Williams and Shaun McDonald have 49 and 44 catches respectively. There are 20 receiving touchdowns scored amongst these four. Detroit’s luck disappeared on the road against Arizona, but back at home, where they are undefeated, their luck is sure to appear again. Detroit wins.

Miami 0-9 @ Philadelphia 4-5

Andy Reid on Dolphins’ rookie QB John Beck: “I think he’s a very good football player.” Thanks, Andy, that might explain why he was drafted in the second round of the NFL Draft. So, the Dolphins announced earlier this week that John Beck would start in place of Cleo Lemon this week against Philadelphia. I have just one question: Who will he throw to? No, wait, I got it, WES WELKER! Oh, that’s right, they traded him. How about Chris Chambers? Nope, they traded him too. Uh, how about Randy McMichael? Oh, that’s right, the Rams took him. I have never seen one team get rid of so many offensive playmakers before. Now, with the team’s leading rusher (who is also still their leading receiver) and leading passer sitting on injured reserve, John Beck is out there throwing passes to Marty Booker and Ted Ginn, JR. Amazing, isn’t it? In other Dolphins news, running back Ricky Williams was re-instated to the NFL this week and returns to the Dolphins. He is eligible to play in their game on November 26th. That may give the offense some sort of lift. Apparently IKEA let Donovan McNabb return for this past week’s game. The Eagles should not need him this week, though. Eagles win it.

Oakland 2-7 @ Minnesota 3-6

The world can breathe a sigh of relief – Adrian Peterson is not seriously injured and will return later this season. In the interim, former starter Chester Taylor takes over the rushing duties. Taylor should find a good amount of running room against the league’s 29th rushing defense. Meanwhile, the Raiders look to be in trouble offensively coming into this game. The Raiders have a rushing attack, but Minnesota’s defense does one thing well – stop the run. The Raiders do not have a passing attack, unless throwing it to the other team counts. The Raiders will struggle to find points, particularly on the road. There may actually be an outside chance I attend this game – I will at least be in Minneapolis on Sunday. The Vikings will win it, but it will be ugly.

San Diego 5-4 @ Jacksonville 6-3

San Diego had the game against Indianapolis handed to them on a sterling silver platter and did everything they could to return the game to Indianapolis on a 24-karat gold platter. However, Indianapolis rejected that offer, and San Diego won anyway. Peyton Manning throwing six interceptions on a day when Carson Palmer and Tom Brady threw a combined zero touchdown passes is definitely something not seen often in this league. San Diego does not appear to be the same team as last year. Offensively, they should be one of the best in the league, but Philip Rivers appears to have regressed this season and is in a terrible funk. The Jaguars’ should receive a lift this week as starter David Garrard is expected to return from his ankle injury. Garrard has yet to throw an interception on the season, but young Antonio Cromartie may have something to say about that. The Chargers’ rush defense has a fearsome monster to stop between Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew, and even Greg Jones/LeBrandon Toefield, for that matter. Frankly, I have to go with Jacksonville in this game. Jaguars win it.

Kansas City 4-5 @ Indianapolis 7-2

*Whistling bomb drop noise* That would be the Indianapolis Colts, as just two weeks ago this team was being billed as one of the best teams of all time. Now they have lost two straight and are being challenged for divisional supremacy by the Jaguars, quarterback Peyton Manning had six interceptions in his last game, and Adam Vinatieri missed two field goals of under forty yards, either of which would have won the game. Second-year quarterback out of Alabama (ROLL TIDE ROLL), Brodie Croyle, receives his first career start this week, on the road in the RCA Dome. This should give Kansas City a little bit of a boost, but it will be interesting to see what happens with the running game. The Indianapolis defense is playing at a wonderful intensity level – a lesser defense would have given up many more points to San Diego what with the Colts’ offensive woes. Indianapolis should, however, snap this losing streak and win at home this week.

Arizona 4-5 @ Cincinnati 3-6

Arizona is only one game out of the division lead in the NFC West, but Cincinnati is essentially out of the running unless they start winning games at a major rate. This game should have a lot of points scored, although the Cardinals’ defense played very well against Detroit. Nevertheless, this is a road game for the Cardinals’ defense, not a home game, and they will have to contend with Chad Johnson, Chris Henry, and TJ Houshmandzadeh. They also will have to deal with Kenny Watson and Rudi Johnson at running back, although Johnson seems to be in an odd funk himself this season. Cincinnati did manage to defeat the Baltimore Ravens solely by fieldgoals, but they should be able to score more easily against Arizona. I’m going with the hometown Bengals here.

Carolina 4-5 @ Green Bay 8-1

The Carolina Panthers have a tough battle this week, taking on the legendary Brett Favre and the high-flying Green Bay Packers in historic Lambeau Field. Vinny Testaverde will be starting at quarterback for the Carolina Panthers, but star wide receiver Steve Smith will likely be in a limited role with a shin contusion. This certainly does not make things any easier for Vinny. If Smith is severely limited, expect rookie receiver Dwayne Jarrett to see more touches than usual. Just because it would seriously mess with people’s minds, I am predicting a break-out game for Jarrett. The Packers defense possesses two of the best cornerbacks in the league, Al Harris and Charles Woodson. Woodson has scored two defensive touchdowns and has three interceptions on the year. Deke Cooper, free safety for Carolina, is listed as probable on the injury report and will likely still play despite his injured shoulder. No one in the world is giving Carolina a chance in this game – except for me. Carolina wins it by a miracle.

Due to being in Minnesota and having limited time to write this space, the remaining games will just have the picks and no analysis. Sorry for the inconvenience – next week there will be a full-length NAPC!.

New Orleans 4-5 @ Houston 4-5

Houston wins at home, and I expect this to be an ugly game.

Pittsburgh 7-2 @ New York Jets 1-8

Tempting upset game choice, but no. Steelers win, and it should not be close at all.

Chicago 4-5 @ Seattle 5-4

Apparently we are not done with seeing Rex Grossman yet – and Rex is not done losing, either. Seattle wins at home.

St. Louis 1-8 @ San Francisco 2-7

St. Louis is starting to hit their stride on offense – Rams win this.

Washington 5-4 @ Dallas 8-1

Should be an exciting game – and it will be, for Dallas fans. Dallas improves to 9-1 on the year.

SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL: New England (unbeaten, 9-0) @ Buffalo 5-4

Looking like a great matchup here, but the Bills are overmatched. New England comes off their bye and wins.

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL: Tennessee 6-3 @ Denver 4-5

Apparently I am a fan of upsets – I really think Denver will win this game at home, but their rushing defense may be what undoes them. However, Denver wins it. Total points scored on MNF: 36

Last week I went 7-7 and am 91-56 on the season.

By Robert “RingLeader” Gilbert

NAPC! Week Ten

Not Another Predictions Column! Week Ten

WEEK OF THE UPSETS!

Atlanta 2-6 @ Carolina 4-4

Apparently, the Panthers are playing hot potato at the quarterback position. Any quarterback in for an extended period of time gets hurt and another number gets called out on this roulette wheel. This week it might be undrafted rookie Matt Moore starting in relief of an injured Testaverde and an injured David Carr. Matt Moore has just seven pass attempts on the season, but has proven that he can get the ball down the field and can thread a needle. However, he is about as inexperienced as it gets, and he proved that with an interception last week against Tennessee. Moore, though, averages 11.3 yards on those seven attempts – more than double what David Carr averages per attempt. For comparison, Vinny Testaverde averages 5.4 yards per attempt, the lowest number of his extensive career. David Carr has been ruled out of this week’s game with a concussion, and Vinny Testaverde, who had been practicing just fine this week, did not practice on Friday due to increased pain in his right Achilles’ tendon. Frankly, if he plays, I am not expecting him to last the game. However, Moore has shown some good things in his limited playing time. His receivers have made plays for him that they have not made for any other quarterback aside from Jake Delhomme. Keary Colbert and Drew Carter have both caught deep balls from Moore, who has no problem slinging it up to his receivers and living life on the edge. I can definitely back a guy like that. This week Carolina will be playing against star defensive end John Abraham, perhaps the best defender on the Falcons’ defense. He has made himself into a Panther-killer both last year and this year, totally dominating Panthers’ left tackle Travelle Wharton. In fact, his was the sack that completely aggravated Jake Delhomme’s elbow ligament injury. He so thoroughly dominated Wharton last year that Wharton ended up tearing his ACL in the game, putting him out for the entire season. Wharton still struggled with him in the matchup earlier this season, but I really cannot blame him. I blame the coaching staff, who have to see that Wharton cannot handle Abraham on his own. Numerous times in the first matchup against Atlanta this year, I saw the Panthers attempt to block Abraham with only a running back or a tight end, not even having an offensive lineman on him. If Carolina tries to pull that number again, Abraham will continue to dictate to the Panthers what they can and cannot do on offense. The Panthers’ running game is getting closer to 1000 yards on the season, as DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams have combined for almost 850 yards thus far. Look for them to get over the 1000 yard mark in this game en route to a Carolina victory. One quick note on the Panthers’ return game: It stinks. Guess what? The punt returner I wanted in the draft, Steve Breaston, is averaging 10.5 yards a punt return to lead all NFC rookies.

Green Bay 7-1 @ Minnesota 3-5

Brett Favre is amazing. He has 2406 yards passing on the season and 13 touchdowns with 8 interceptions. His team is 7-1, tied for the best record in the NFC. All of his receivers are making plays – Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, and James Jones. He is even getting some okay production from his running game. Green Bay’s defense has also played well and is assuredly an underrated unit. Know who else is amazing? Rookie running back Adrian Peterson is. The Vikings’ fantastic young stud already has over 1000 yards rushing and two 200+ yard games. He is on pace to smash Eric Dickerson’s rookie rushing record of 1808 yards with a 2000+ yard season. If Green Bay can contain him (in other words, hold him to under 200 yards and under three touchdowns), they will win. It is that simple. The Vikings’ pass defense is atrocious, and their best corner, Antoine Winfield, is hampered with a hamstring injury. Essentially, it boils down to Brett Favre’s passing attack vs. Adrian Peterson’s legs, vision, speed, and power. While Adrian Peterson is incredible, Brett Favre’s been doing this a lot longer than Peterson has. Brett Favre and the Packers improve to 8-1 this week.

Denver 3-5 @ Kansas City 4-4

I have had a hard time predicting this division this year. The teams in this division have, for the most part, been mediocre. They win a few, then they lose a few. Denver, in particular, has surprised me. I expected them to be better this year, but their defense has unraveled since the release of MLB AL Wilson in the off-season. Their offense has played fairly well, and un-heard of running back Selvin Young has displayed some marvelous running ability. He refuses to go down and keeps churning his legs, trying to find an opening. He averages 5.3 yards per carry on only 42 attempts. Wide receiver Brandon Marshall has displayed some excellent play-making ability this season, with 609 receiving yards on 45 catches. Kansas City has managed to win four games, though I am not quite sure how. Rookie receiver Dwayne Bowe and tight end Tony Gonzalez are carrying that offense, and doing a good job of it. The defense has also been playing well, led in major part by fourth-year defensive end Jared Allen. Somehow or another, Kansas City is leading their division right now, and they will stay on top of it with a victory this week over Denver.

Buffalo 4-4 @ Miami 0-8

I told you Marshawn Lynch would have a good game last week, and he did. He had 153 yards rushing, a rushing touchdown, and a passing touchdown in the Bills’ defeat of the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bills are contesting for a wildcard spot in the playoffs now, and need to keep winning. J.P. Losman is retaining the starting position in Buffalo at QB right now with two consecutive victories under his belt. As is expected when he is playing, receiver Lee Evans had a big day last week with 165 yards receiving. There is not much I can say about Miami. Their defense is all right, but their offense has nothing. Cleo Lemon is starting at QB right now, but the clock is ticking on when rookie John Beck out of BYU gets to see some playing time. With running back Ronnie Brown injured, the Dolphins have lost their leading rusher AND their leading receiver this year. They do not have much of a passing game, and now Jesse Chatman is spear-heading the rushing attack. My heart goes out to the players and the fans of this team – losing is not fun, and to be hearing whispers of a possible 0-16 season must be about as down-heartening as one can imagine. That said, I am not feeling misty-eyed enough to pick them over Buffalo this week. The Bills take a road victory and climb above .500 on the season.

St. Louis 0-8 @ New Orleans 4-4

Apparently, losing to the Panthers (led by David Carr) was a catalyst to start the Saints winning. This was not an intended by-product of said Carolina victory, and further proof that winning is a drug that should be applied wisely. The Saints’ offense has woken up, which is a scary thought for the rest of the NFL. However, they still do not have a defense, and against teams with a good offense, that will come back to haunt them. Nevertheless, they rode the combination of stellar offense vs. middling defense to a 10-6 record last year. The Rams really just want to win a game, for once. They and Miami are in an ignominious battle for last place overall in the NFL. To win this game, they will need to shut down, or at least limit, New Oreans’ passing attack, and they will need to get some big plays out of their offense. Well, at wide receiver they have one of the best playmakers of all time, Torry “Big Play” Holt. Another thing that would help the offense out would be the return of Steven Jackson circa 2006, not the 2007 model. I am not going with this upset, though. New Orleans, unfortunately, extends its winning streak to five games.

Cleveland 5-3 @ Pittsburgh 6-2

I wanted to make this my upset game, but then I realized that the Browns may be missing two of their starting linemen in this game. Guard Seth McKinney is definitely out, and guard Eric Steinbach may miss the game with a back injury. If Derek Anderson does not have time back in the pocket, it will be hard for him to perform at as high a level as he has been playing at. This will be a game where we really see Anderson’s mettle and what the kid really has. Anderson is second in the NFL in touchdown passes right now (we all know who #1 is). The Browns’ major undoing in this game will not be on the offensive side of the ball, but rather the defensive side. The Browns’ defense is the league’s worst, and the Steelers just rolled over the league’s second-best defense. Picking the Browns, on the road nonetheless, seems to be a move of errant folly this week. For them to win would show the heart of that team and would be a major credit to the coaching staff. Pittsburgh has played well this year, but I still find them a litte inconsistent. They blew the game against Arizona, and they ended up losing to Denver a few weeks ago. Right now, I almost consider the Steelers to be mere pretenders. On the other hand, those games may have just been blips on the radar screen. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger definitely seems to be back in form, with five touchdown passes last week, tying a franchise record. If I am the Browns, I try to hold the ball as long as possible on offense. I expect a valiant effort out of Cleveland, but I believe they will fall just short as the Steelers improve to 7-2.

WEEKLY USPET GAME #1 : Jacksonville 5-3 @ Tennessee 6-2

Tennessee’s defense, a group with a bunch of players most people have never heard of, is currently ranked second in the NFL. They are being led by fearless leader Albert Haynesworth at defensive tackle, who is playing at a level far superior than any of his peers. Haynesworth will be a hot commodity in the free agency period this offseason, as he is in a contract year with Tennesseee. Running back Lendale White managed to scrap out 100 yards rushing against Carolina this past week, but should find the breathing room a little easier to come by against Jacksonville this game as Pro Bowl defensive tackle Marcus Stroud serves his four game suspension. The Titans, however, do not have a passing game. Vince Young has struggled with that concept thus far, with only 855 yards passing and three touchdown passes. The Jaguars do have a strong pass defense, though it was not evident against New Orleans last week. Quinn Gray surprised me and played well at QB against New Orleans, though. Somewhat surprisingly, I feel that the Jaguars will show up this week and knock off Tennessee on the road.

Philadelphia 3-5 @ Washington 5-3

Word out of Philadelphia area is that Donovan McNabb is running scared, like a deer caught in the headlights. How long before the Eagles turn to another QB, or how long before McNabb goes down? If McNabb goes down again, rumors have it that will be the end of his tenure in Philadelphia. I have to say that after seeing McNabb extensively in the game against Dallas, it does appear that he is ‘running scared.’ He appears to be tentative in his decision-making. If I were a Philly fan, I would be calling up all the IKEA stores within a 500 mile radius trying to find where the ‘real’ McNabb was being held. On the other side of the field stand the 5-3 Washington Redskins with their physical defense and strong running game. It took them awhile, but they managed to knock off the Jets last week, who gave them a surprisingly hard fight. Washington needs to get their groove back on after being blown out of the water by the Patriots two weeks ago. Leading receivers Santana Moss and Antwaan Randel El are nursing minor injuries, so look for Clinton Portis and Chris Cooley to receive additional touches this week. With the inconsistent play the Eagles are getting from their linebackers, that should pay off for Washington as they defeat the Eagles.

WEEKLY UPSET GAME #2: Cincinnati 2-6 @ Baltimore 4-4

This should be interesting – a team with no defense (Cincy) vs. a team with no offense (Baltimore). At this moment the Ravens’ pass defense is a little suspect, as some of their starters are a little shaken up. Corner Samari Rolle will miss the game against Cincinnati. Carson Palmer is probably looking forward to this, and one of his favorite targets will be back. Wide receiver Chris Henry, who was serving his eight-game suspension for violating the league’s conduct policy, returns to the lineup this week. Ravens running back Willis McGahee should be able to get the ground game going against Cincinnati, but it appears unlikely that the Ravens will be able to do anything during the air. It should be apparent by now that Steve McNair should retire, but I do not like saying that to anyone. I can respect someone trying to live his dream. After all, people were telling Brett Favre he ought to retire roughly four years ago or so. Those were probably the bookies trying to bet against Green Bay. If Steve McNair has anything left in the tank, he has to start showing it soon, as pretty soon Baltimore will be eliminated from playoff contention. They need to win games against teams like Cincinnati to stay in the hunt, but that does not happen this week. In NAPC!’s second upset game selection this week, Cincinnati wins on the road over Baltimore.

Detroit 6-2 @ Arizona 3-5

Jon Kitna and the Lions just keep on winning. This team has that ‘it’ factor, that ‘moxie’ about it. They find a way to score and they find a way to win. Name me one starter on that defense outside of Shaun Rogers. Tell me who plays corner for them. Tell me who happens to line up at linebacker. No one knows. They are a bunch of no-names and no one considers them to be all that great. Yet, they lead the league in takeaways. I am telling you, straight up, Detroit has ‘it.’ They really do. Aside from Brett Favre and his Packers, there happens to be no other team in the league (outside of the Panthers) that I am rooting for as strongly right now. Detroit makes their own luck, and I am down with that. I look forward to watching them in the playoffs this year to see if that luck transposes into the post-season. As for Arizona, they are fading fast. The offense is being led by Kurt Warner, and if they cannot get a ground attack going, Warner does not appear capable of shouldering the entire team by himself as he could with the Rams. Possible Hall of Fame running back Edgerrin James should find the running room easier against Detroit this week after only managing 15 yards on nine carries against the Buccaneers. It will not be enough. Lions improve to 7-2 on the year.

WEEKLY UPSET GAME #3: Dallas 7-1 @ New York Giants 6-2

This is a record week in NAPC! history. I have not one, not two, but THREE upset game selections this week. It is a bold move, I know, but I have faith in each of these picks. The Giants have really stepped it up since losing to Dallas in Week One, turning into an entirely different team on the defensive side of the ball. Eli Manning and Plaxico Burress have become a great tandem, the one chucking the ball to the other, and the other waltzing into the endzone. The Giants have been on a bye since their adventure in London, where they knocked off the Miami Dolphins (who hasn’t?) 13-10. You can bet they have had this game penciled in red on their calendars since that Week One loss. As for Dallas, well, Tony Romo is an idiot. The whole Hollywood/Celebrity gossip crew is apparently saying that he is getting involved with either Jessica Simpson or Britney Spears, leaving Carrie Underwood out to dry. Well, that is great news for the rest of us guys. Hey Carrie, listen, if you need someone to talk to, dial 867-5309, okay? That’s my number. (Seriously, if you need someone to talk to, PM RingLeader) Keep making smart decisions like that Romo, and let us just see where you end up. That said, I have been enjoying watching Tony play this year. He has made some incredible plays, but my favorite is probably the run for a first down on third down against St. Louis when the snap was sent flying forty yards behind the line of scrimmage. This should be a great game, but I have a feeling the Giants pull it out, making the NFC East divisional race very tight.

Chicago 3-5 @ Oakland 2-6

Remember when Brian Griese was going to turn the Bears around? Me either. Remember when LaMont Jordan was having a career resurgence? Me either. Remember when the Raiders had a passing attack better than a Pop Warner team? Me either. Remember when Kyle Orton won all those games for the Bears at QB? Me either, but they might want to be looking at him. Remember when the Bears had a good defense? Me either. Remember when Muhsin Muhammad was a receiving threat? Me either. Remember when the Raiders were in the Super Bowl last? Me either. Well, actually, I do remember these things, but that is not the point. The point is that if these two teams continue like this, they will be picking in the top ten of the draft next year. Chicago is perhaps the biggest surprise, but now we see the impact Ron Rivera really had on that defense. However, that D is still good enough to slow down the Raiders’ non-existent offense. Bears take one on the road this week and improve to four wins on the year.

SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL: Indianapolis 7-1 @ San Diego 4-4

No, sorry, no fourth upset game this week. Indianapolis gave New England an extremely tough battle last week, but in the end Peyton Manning gift-wrapped the victory to the Patriots and hand-delivered it to Rosevelt Colvin. Harshly put, I know, but no sugar-coating coming from me. The Patriots took the field, marched down, scored the points they needed, and then prevented Manning from doing anything about it. It was a hard-fought game on both sides. Nevertheless, the Colts have to move on to the Bolts this week, as they travel to San Diego. San Diego is 4-4 and somewhat of an enigma. One week they show up, the next, Adrian Peterson treats them like he would a high school defense. Or Duke’s. Not the mayonnaise, the college team. I believe Marvin Harrison is expected to return this week, and the Colts sure could use him since rookie first round draft pick Anthony Gonzalez is out with a hand ailment. The Colts (in particular Peyton Manning) hope to get left tackle Tony Ugoh back this week, and I would too, with Shawne Merriman lining up across from me. Philip Rivers needs to start playing better, and if I were maybe a little more sentimental I might pick the Chargers this week, but I will take Indy to win on the road.

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL: San Francisco 2-6 @ Seattle 4-4

Well, despite appearances to the contrary, the NFC West is still a mediocre division. Seattle is leading it but has lost three of their last four games. Nobody wants to win this division. Or maybe they do, they just do not have the ability to. Someone from this division, fair or unfair, will be in the playoffs whilst a better team in the NFC sits at home because they play in a tougher division. I do not have much to say about these teams. The 49ers have no offense. It just does not exist. They need a wide receiver, and they need an offensive coordinator that knows his stuff. That might help somewhat. I wonder, if the offseason were re-done, would the 49ers still have offered that contract to Nate Clements? Shaun Alexander is averaging a mere 3.3 yards rushing on the season for the Seahawks and has scored only twice. Matt Hasselbeck has lost to the 49ers only twice, and that will hold true after this week, as well. Seahawks win it.

By Robert “RingLeader” Gilbert

Last week I went 8-5 and am 84-49 on the season.

[Comments will be taken in the PantherCoalition Forums.]

Not Another Predictions Column! Week Nine

Not Another Predictions Column! Week Nine

San Diego 4-3 @ Minnesota 2-5

After a slow start to the season, the Chargers’ LaDainian Tomlinson now has 617 yards rushing and is averaging almost 4.5 yards per carry. Just as he did last year, Tomlinson’s backup Michael Turner is still averaging just over 6 yards per carry himself. Tight end Antonio Gates is being his usual playmaking self, and in his first game as a Charger, receiver Chris Chambers scored a touchdown. While Minnesota may have one of the best rush defenses in the league, the Vikings have not faced a two-pronged rushing attack quite like this one. Moreover, the Vikings’ pass defense is not that effective, and they will be dealing with three playmakers among the receivers: the aforementioned Gates and Chambers, as well as youngster Vincent Jackson. Look for rookie Craig “Buster” Davis to get some action en route to a Chargers road victory.

Carolina 4-3 @ Tennessee 5-2

Speaking of rushing attacks, Carolina has its own two-pronged assault. Running back DeShaun Foster has twice the carries of DeAngelo Williams, and Foster has produced 466 yards on those carries to DeAngelo’s 303. Foster has been consistent this season, grinding out four yards a touch. Williams has played the home run hitter, and is averaging 5.2 yards. This attack is not as productive as San Diego’s, but it is not bad. However, Tennessee has an incredibly good rush defense and is allowing only 64 yards per game. I remember the last time Carolina played Tennessee. It was in 2003 – and Carolina was undefeated at the time. Tennessee came in, and with the help of a fake punt and a fumbled kickoff return, defeated the Panthers 37-17, and dashed the hopes for an unbeaten season. If anyone is thinking this seems like a rare matchup, that is because these two teams have only met twice, and the overall record is split 1-1. With the surging Saints on the rise and the Buccaneers also in contest for the division title in the NFC South, the Panthers need to keep winning to stay in front. Considering that they are unbeaten on the road, it would be foolish to pick against them. Carolina wins it on the road. Oh, and a quarterback update – David Carr is expected to start come Sunday.

Arizona 3-4 @ Tampa Bay 4-4

I was correct in my prediction last week that last week’s Tampa Bay vs. Jacksonville game would produce Jeff Garcia’s first interception of the season. Not only that, but it also produced Garcia’s second and third interceptions. In what was easily Garcia’s worst game with the Bucs, Garcia threw three interceptions and one touchdown as the Bucs lost to the Quinn Gray-led Jaguars. Admittedly, I did not quite expect that result, but the Jaguars have a tough defense. Edgerrin James is second in the NFC in rushing yards with 603 and has four rushing touchdowns. Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald leads the NFC in receiving yards with 642. Kurt Warner is playing well for the Cardinals and keeping them alive in the playoff race – they are only a game back of the Seattle Seahawks. Newly acquired Bucs running back Michael Bennett scored his first touchdown for the Bucs last week and is slowly garnering a larger role in the offense. Look for him to get in the game a bit more this week. Unfortunately for Carolina, I have to go with Tampa Bay at home this week following a loss. The Bucs win.

Washington 4-3 @ New York Jets 1-7

After getting pummeled 52-7 by New England last week, Washington gets to take on the luckless Jets of the 1-7 record. Coach Eric Mangini has decided to replace Chad Pennington with Kellen Clemens this week against Washington. Frankly, I do not feel quarterback is their problem – their problem is their defense. They give up rushing yards, passing yards, penalty yards, et cetera. They have a good rushing attack on offense, passing game is efficient, but that defense is the Achilles’ heel of the Jets. The fact that linebacker Jonathan Vilma has been out with an injury does not help matters. Safety Kerry Rhodes is questionable with a knee ailment. Offensively, their biggest receiving threat, Laveranues Coles, is doubtful with a concussion. So what do you do? My answer is not “throw in another quarterback.” We’ll see if that approach works for the Jets this week. I doubt it, as the Redskins will want to save some face after their loss last week and will endeavor to crush the Jets under their collective heel. Redskins win on the road.

Jacksonville 5-2 @ New Orleans 3-4

Behind a punding running attack and a hefty defense, the Jaguars downed the Bucs 24-23 last week. New Orleans dominated the 49ers through the air (how’s that Nate Clements 8-year $80mil deal looking now?) to the tune of four Drew Brees touchdown passes. They will have trouble succeeding through the air at quite that level against the Jaguars. Come to think of it, the Saints will have trouble running or passing the ball against Jacksonville, and the Saints do not have a rush defense good enough to slow down LaBrandon Toefield, Fred Taylor, and Maurice Jones-Drew. Quinn Gray probably will not be asked to do much aside from hand the ball off to any of those three. Look for the Jaguars to build a comfortable lead over New Orleans and end this sudden three-game winning spree the Saints went on. Jags take this match.

San Francisco 2-5 @ Atlanta 1-6

Welcome to this week’s Insignificant Contest – while both of these teams are still mathematically in contention, they have little-to-no-chance of going anywhere this year. Alex Smith has returned for the 49ers – did not appear to make much difference. I would say he is in a sophomore slump, but this is his third year in the NFL. There could be some points scored this week, as neither team has a good defense. Alge Crumpler may not see much action this week for Atlanta, and Byron Leftwich is out with yet another ankle injury. Here’s a scary fact for you – the entire San Francisco 49er team has not thrown as many touchdown passes as Jake Delhomme threw in less than three games of play. Any chance of the 49ers looking at new offensive personnel in the draft next year? I consider each of these teams to be about as bad as each other, but I will go with Atlanta over the 49ers.

Cincinnati 2-5 @ Buffalo 3-4

The Bengals have been doing fairly well offensively but continue to play sloppy, uninspired defense. As long as they do that, they will lose more often than they will win. Wide receiver TJ Houshmandzadeh has nine touchdown receptions on the season – three times as many as teammate Chad Johnson, and if he catches just one more on the season he will have a new career-high. The Bills’ rookie quarterback Trent Edwards was injured and now JP Losman will be starting in his place this week. Since the Bills’ defense has struggled some this season, they should lean on their rushing attack this week. That means rookie Marshawn Lynch may have a big day. I am almost expecting a shoot-out this week – but I like Buffalo to win this game at home and improve to .500 on the season.

Weekly Upset Game: Denver 3-4 @ Detroit 5-2

Detroit confuses me. They are tough to beat at home, and they seem to have an insane amount of luck on their side. They have a well-balanced offense, and a secondary that stinks yet leads the league in takeaways. I suppose that means they do not stink – but somehow they still do. I don’t get it, either. Detroit has not started a season 6-2 since 1999 – coincidentally the last time the Lions were in the playoffs. Wonder how many people want to fire Matt Millen now? And Denver needs to to talk to their corners – supposedly one of the best set of corners in the league, with Champ Bailey and Dre’ Bly, but they both were torched for long touchdowns against Green Bay on Monday night. They will get tested by Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson this week, not to mention Mike Furrey and Shaun McDonald. I have been avidly following Jon Kitna’s bold prediction of a ten-win season for Detroit this week, and I have been hoping that the Lions back that up. However, they will not get their sixth win this week, as Denver wins this one on the road.

Green Bay 6-1 @ Kansas City 4-3

This seems somewhat ironic, a team with not much running game but a great passing attack against a team with not much passing game but a great running attack. Brett Favre has never beaten Kansas City in his career – if he does, he will join Peyton Manning and Tom Brady as the only quarterbacks ever to defeat all 31 other teams. Wonder who will beat all 32 teams first? That will be interesting – it’s a wonder Vinny Testaverde has not accomplished that feat yet. I said last week that Favre would find a way to win. I was correct in that assessment of Favre. Little heard of Ryan Grant just became Green Bay’s starting running back, as rookie DeShawn Wynn was placed on injured reserve with a “significant shoulder injury,” to quote Mike McCarthy. He rushed for 131 yards against Denver on Monday Night Football and should have a little bit more running room this week. The Chiefs’ Jared Allen leads the AFC in sacks with eight, and is matched up against Green Bay’s vastly underrated Chad Clifton at left tackle. Whomever wins that match-up the most will likely determine how that game goes. Naturally, I am picking Green Bay to win on the road this week.

Seattle 4-3 @ Cleveland 4-3

There is an interesting discrepancy in standings here. Both these teams have the same record, but if the season were to end today, the Seahawks would be in the playoffs as a division winner whilst the Browns would be sitting at home. Seattle is first in their division and the Browns are third in theirs. The Browns will have an interesting dilemma in the next year or two with Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn both on the roster. Anderson will be a restricted free agent after this season, but don’t be surprised if the Browns end up trading him while his value is high. The Seahawks’ running game has been criticized roundly, but it is still serviceable. This is a game that could definitely have implications of a shoot-out, which the Browns have had experience with this season. Frankly, I’m pulling for the Browns to keep on winning this year, and so I’m picking Cleveland to win this week to have a three-game winning streak.

Houston 3-5 @ Oakland 2-5

Daunte Culpepper will supposedly be replaced by Josh McCown this week, contrary to other reports you may have seen. Houston happens to be the only team the Raiders have never beaten – the Raiders are 0-2 all-time against them. The Texans are injury-riddled, with starting quarterback Matt Schaub out, wide receiver Andre Johnson still out, and offensive guard Kasey Studdard out. That should help the Raiders’ defense out a little bit, but Sage Rosenfels has not played badly lately. He is starting for Schaub this week. This game will probably be pretty ugly, and frankly, I’m pretty much at a loss as to who wins it, so I’m going to flip a coin. Heads, Houston wins. Tails, Oakland wins. My quarter came up as tails – so Oakland wins to improve to 3-5 this week.

New England 8-0 @ Indianapolis 7-0

Ah, the hype machine. Battle of the Unbeatens. Good vs. Evil, according to Greg Easterbrook. The ‘Cheatriots’ vs. the good ole boys from Indy. Bill Belichick vs. Tony Dungy. Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning. Guess what? Everyone knows I do not like hype and I do not try to support the hype. I like both these teams, I’m really enjoying the Patriots season, I see no problem with what they are doing (and I’m prepared to defend that statement), but I’m also really enjoying the Colts season. This will be a great game to watch, probably pretty high-scoring, and I expect some unnecessary roughness penalties. However, since I’m not going to fuel the hype-machine, I am not going to analyze this game. I will mention that Colts owner Jim Irsay made a great announcement to Colts’ fans on Tuesday afternoon, offering a chance for five lucky Colts’ fans to win genuine Super Bowl rings whilst helping Indiana charities. I do like both these teams, and I really do not want to pick a winner. So, shockingly, for the first time in the history of NAPC! – I refuse to predict a winner for this game. I’ll credit this as an N/A in my overall record. At the end of the season I’ll be one game short, and people will wonder why. The answer is that I refuse to pick this game. I’m going to sit back and enjoy it either way.



Sunday Night Football: Dallas 6-1 @ Philadelphia 3-4

After a much-needed bye, the Cowboys now get to travel on the road from Texas to Philly. The Eagles won against Minnesota last week, though it was close. Ironically, the last game the Cowboys played was also against Minnesota, and they won as well. Dallas and Green Bay are neck and neck for the overall lead in the NFC, and neither one looks to falter anytime soon. Tony Romo was rewarded with a new contract this past week, so he remains on top of the world, seemingly. Dallas will probably be able to score on Philly moreso than Philly on Dallas, so that seems to clear that one up. Dallas wins on the road.

Monday Night Football: Baltimore 4-3 @ Pittsburgh 5-2

These two teams have the number two and number one defenses in the league, respectively. Whoever wins this game will be atop the AFC North. There was a great article in this past week’s Sports Illustrated about Ben Roethlisberger and his return from injury. I definitely recommend that you go find a copy and read it. It details his relationship with his late college coach, and goes into some detail on why he is doing so well this season. Running room will be hard to find in this game, and both teams’ passing games will probably see some struggles. I would not expect many points to be scored this week, but Pittsburgh scores just enough to win.

Last week I went 9-4 and am 76-44 on the season.

By Robert “RingLeader” Gilbert

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