Keefe's Divisional Round Picks

Keep in mind I was 0-4 on Wild Card weekend, so bet opposite!


Ravens (+7) vs. Patriots

Seahawks (-11) vs. Panthers

Cowboys (+6) vs. Packers

Colts (+7) vs. Broncos

Good luck.

2011-12 NBA Preview

The 2011-12 season tips off on Sunday, so now is the time to go on record with all my picks for the upcoming year. I'll take a shot at everything from MVP to All-Rookie 2nd Team to of course what team will be hoisting the Larry O'Brien Trophy this summer. Feel free to leave some of your winners in the comments section below. We'll start with team accomplishments followed by individuals awards.

WESTERN CONFERENCE:

1. Oklahoma City Thunder
2. Memphis Grizzlies
3. Los Angeles Clippers
4. Los Angeles Lakers
5. Dallas Mavericks
6. Portland Trail Blazers
7. San Antonio Spurs
8. Denver Nuggets

Western Finals: Thunder over Clippers

EASTERN CONFERECE:

1. Miami Heat
2. Chicago Bulls
3. Boston Celtics
4. New York Knicks
5. Indiana Pacers
6. Atlanta Hawks
7. Orlando Magic/ New Jersey Nets (whoever Howard plays more for)
8. Milwaukee Bucks

Eastern Finals: Heat over Celtics

NBA Finals: Heat over Thunder

Eastern Conference All-Stars

F - LeBron James, Heat

F - Carmelo Anthony, Knicks

C - Dwight Howard, Magic/Nets?

G - Dwyane Wade, Heat

G - Derrick Rose, Bulls

Reserves:

Deron Williams, Nets
Amare Stoudemire, Knicks
Rajon Rondo, Celtics
Paul Pierce, Celtics
Chris Bosh, Heat
Danny Granger, Pacers
Al Horford, Hawks

Western Conference All-Stars:

F - Kevin Durant, Thunder

F - Dirk Nowitzki, Mavericks

C - Marc Gasol, Grizzlies

G - Kobe Bryant, Lakers

G - Chris Paul, Clippers

Reserves:

Russell Westbrook, Thunder
Rudy Gay, Grizzlies
Blake Griffin, Clippers
Pau Gasol, Lakers
Steve Nash, Suns
Kevin Love, Timberwolves
Eric Gordon, Hornets

Rookie of the Year: Kemba Walker, Bobcats

All-Rookie 1st Team:

Kemba Walker, Bobcats
Ricky Rubio, Timberwolves
Jimmer Fredette, Kings
Enes Kanter, Jazz
Kyrie Irving, Cavaliers

All-Rookie 2nd Team:

Derrick Williams, Timberwolves
Brandon Knight, Pistons
Iman Shumpert, Knicks
Kawhi Leonard, Spurs
JaJuan Johnson, Celtics

Defensive Player of the Year: Dwight Howard, Magic/ Lakers?

All-Defensive 1st Team:

Dwight Howard, Magic
LeBron James, Heat
Rajon Rondo, Celtics
Serge Ibaka, Thunder
Dwyane Wade, Heat

All-Defensive 2nd Team:

Chris Paul, Clippers
Shawn Marion, Mavericks
Tyson Chandler, Knicks
Andre Iguodala, 76ers
Darren Collison, Pacers

6th Man of the Year: James Harden, Thunder

Most Improved Player: DeMarcus Cousins, Kings

Coach of the Year: Lionel Hollins, Grizzlies

MVP: Kevin Durant, Thunder

All-NBA 1st Team:

Kevin Durant, Thunder
LeBron James, Heat
Dwight Howard, Magic/ Mavs?
Chris Paul, Clippers
Dwyane Wade, Heat

All-NBA 2nd Team:

Blake Griffin, Clippers
Carmelo Anthony, Knicks
Marc Gasol, Grizzlies
Derrick Rose, Bulls
Russell Westbrook, Thunder

All-NBA 3rd Team:

Dirk Nowitzki, Mavericks
Amare Stoudemire, Knicks
Al Horford, Hawks
Deron Williams, Nets
Kobe Bryant, Lakers

-Keefe

Jimmy the Greek's Week 15 Picks

I'm a basketcase right now. Three weeks left and I was in third place, down three to the leader in my dad's office pool. Payout is a couple grand to first place, so winning this thing would be a nice little payout. Which means I'm overthinking every freakin pick I make. The result? I swung and missed on both the Colts and Saints so far this week. And the lead is up to four. As for the rest of the week, here are the picks:

Bills (+6.5) over Patriots
This will be a grinder of a game. The Bills have an atrocious run defense, but with Ty Warren and Vince Wilfork out, Fred Jackson and Buffalo's run offense should find some seams. Pats win, but it'll be a 20-16 type of affair.

Rams (+10.5) over Texans
I'm going Rams here simply because everyone expects the Texans to blow them out. Steven Jackson is playing, and I'm going with the home team getting the points. Houston has a feeling of dropping a bomb when they shouldn't, and I'm facing my buddy Kevin in week 2 of our two-week fantasy playoffs; he has Schaub and Johnson going. F him.

Dolphins (+3.5) over Titans
VY was a GTD and the Dolphins are just as motivated as their opponent this week. I love the Dolphins style of football. Physical, they can run the ball, and Chad Henne is limiting his mistakes. The Titans have been on a nice roll, but they dug themselves too big of a hole and the end of the year schedule is a grind. It will catch up, starting today.

Cardinals (-10.5) over Lions
Bounce back game for Arizona. Fitzgerald is playing. Culpepper starting for the Lions. Gross.

Falcons (+4.5) over Jets
Matt Ryan and Michael Turner are starting for the Falcons. Sanchize returns, but from injury; how will that affect him? Atlanta was eliminated from playoff contention last night, and I like a team playing for pride today. After today, it'll be the Pats and Dolphins left in the AFC East.

Chiefs (-2.5) over Browns
Another team that I think makes a pride statement. They've struggled this year despite high expectations with the arrival of Matt Cassel. Look for Cassel to find his stride with the returning Dwayne Bowe, and Jamal Charles to run rampant.

Broncos (-13.5) over Raiders
I don't even remember who is starting for the Raiders at QB today. That's how bad it is. And I have Marshall going against Kevin. I'm hoping he breaks his own record.

Bengals (+6.5) over Chargers
Never bet against an emotionally charged team. OchoCinco will explode.

Eagles (-8.5) over 49ers
West coast team playing on the East coast and dealing with the remnants of a blizzard? Classic Philly style game with a big play or two mixed in. 27-17 Eagles.

Packers (+0.5) over Steelers
Green Bay is rolling, and Palamalu isn't playing. Rodgers to Jennings (I have Jennings) all day baby!!! Maybe? Please?

Seahawks (-7.5) over Bucs
East coast team playing in the upper northwest? Check that, a really bad east coast team playing in the upper northwest? Hasselbeck will light it up today.

Bears (+10.5) over Ravens
If this was a 9.5 point spread, I'd take Baltimore at home. 24-14 Ravens.

Vikings (-7.5) over Panthers
Panthers may not score a touchdown tonight against that run defense, and Matt Moore is a bad quarterback. Let's go Percy Harvin! And I'm hoping AP gets lost on his way to the field, Kevin has him going.

Giants (-3.5) over Redskins
I like the Giants here to win on the big stage. Their backs are against the wall, especially after Dallas beat the previously undefeated Saints last night. Tom Coughlin will have his squad ready to go, and I think the Redskins recent run of good play is an aberration. They beat a bad Raiders team last week.

Last week: 8-8
Overall: 114-94

-Bess

Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 15 & Strikeforce

Saints (-7) over Cowboys
Eagles (-8.5) over 49ers
Seahawks (-6.5) over Buccaneers

Last week: 3-0
Overall: 23-16

Strikeforce Saturday Night

Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza over Matt Lindland
Gilbert Melendez over Josh Thompson
Cung Le over Scott Smith

Last Week UFC 107: 3-0
Overall: 11-4


RIP- Chris Henry- what a sad and tragic story. The guy had cleaned his life up, and he was only 26, father of 3. How do the Bengals respond to a fallen friend and teammate?


-Keefe

Jimmy the Greek's Thanksgiving Treat

I'm posting these having come upstairs from working out at 12:15pm and learning Stafford and Johnson were both playing. Unfortunately, my picks were locked. And I just watched some idiot Jordy Nelson fumble the opening kickoff, then moments later see Stafford AND Johnson hook up for a 7-0 lead. Fantastic.

Please note these spreads are slightly different from Keefe's, as they come from CBSSports.com.

Packers (-10.5) over Lions
I made this pick with the understanding that Stafford was not playing and Johnson was highly questionable with numerous injuries. Unfortunately, Jim Shwartz is as trustworthy as Eric Mangini.

Cowboys (-13.5) over Raiders
Barber could have a field day, same goes for Felix Jones. I think the Cowboys break out of a recent mini-funk on offense and bust one on Oakland. I'm convinced last week's win over the Bengals was an absolute fluke and Gradkowski's outing was an aberration.

Broncos (+6.5) over Giants
Players only meeting? Good enough for me. Plus I heard Tedy Bruschi on ESPN say the Broncos would rebound and win tonight. If Tedy Bruschi told me the Earth was flat, I would believe him.

Happy Thanksgiving.

-The Greek

Jimmy the Greek's Week 11 picks

Even though the Thursday night game has come and gone, I'll still include that here so you saw my rationale. Let's get to it...

Panthers (-3.5) over Dolphins
Ronnie Brown is out, and Carolina is rolling. If Brown was playing, you would have seen probably the two most dynamic rushing offenses in football, but the Panthers have the edge here. And I think that gives them a definitive edge.

Packers (-6.5) over 49ers
Green Bay is home and coming off an impressive win over Dallas. San Fran looked good against Chicago, but Jay Cutler threw 5 picks. Aaron Rodgers won't do that. The Pack have the 4th best rushing defense, so they should contain Frank Gore and force Alex Smith to throw the football. Expect a 24-14 type win.

Jaguars (-8.5) over Bills
Sometimes a coaching change will inspire a football time. Sometimes having Ryan Fitzpatrick as your quarterback sucks. The latter will be the case here. MJD3 will run wild today.

Redskins (+11.5) over Dallas
Divisional game here, and Washington comes off a big win over Denver while Dallas comes off the aforementioned loss at Green Bay. Dallas wins, but Washington will hang tough and probably register a late FG or TD to cover.

Falcons (+6.5) over Giants
Both teams desperately need a win here. Michael Turner is out, and Matt Ryan will need to step up with him gone. The Giants have key injuries on defense, and I think that's why Atlanta covers. But I do think the Giants will have success running the football, and coming off a bye week, get the win.

Seahawks (+10.5) over Vikings
Vikings are 23rd in pass defense. Hasselbeck and Houshmanzadeh are hitting their stride. And Justin Forsett could find success running some draw plays to keep the defense honest. I wouldn't be surprised if we see an upset here.

Steelers (-9.5) over Chiefs
Palomalu may be out, but the Chiefs don't have Dwayne Bowe for the next four weeks. Pitt is 1st in the league in rushing defense, and Kansas City is ranked 26th and 25th in rushing and passing defense respectively. Look for Pitt to roll here.

Saints (-11.5) over Bucs
Part of me wants to go with the surging, pesky Buccaneers. But the other part of me realizes the Saints can go off at any time. I think Brees and the Saints offense hits its stride today and rolls, despite some key injuries this week. They'll set up a huge showdown with the Pats on Monday night next week.

Detroit (-3.5) over Browns
Gus Johnson game of the week? Has to be.

Colts (+.5) over Ravens
It's basically a pick 'em, but how is Indy getting the half point in case of a tie? The sexy pick this week is Baltimore pulling the upset, but that defense has been inconsistent and shaky at best this year. I think Peyton rolls.

Cardinals (-8.5) over Rams
Arizona's offense in a dome, on the road? I'll take it. The Cardinals are 4-0 away from home this season, and Kurt Warner returns to St. Louis. This offense could explode today.

Pats (-10.5) over Jets
This could be traumatic for the New York Jets. Even though the game is in Foxboro, it could be reminiscent of the Boston Massacre, this time with the Patriots issuing the fatal, devastating blows.

Chargers (-2.5) over Broncos
Chris Simms starting at quarterback is enough for me. Denver is spiraling at this point, and I don't think they recover this week. The 6-0 start was a nice story, but we had to know it would come to and end. We just never thought it would be this ugly.

Cincy (-9.5) over Raiders
Bruce Gradkowski takes over for the immortal Jamarcus Russel. Ouch. Chad OchoCinco promised Adam Schefter on Twitter this morning that he would carry the load and make sure Schefter's upset pick would NOT ring true. I believe him.

Eagles (-3.5) over Bears
I think Cutler folds under the national spotlight once again. And Philly needs a big win in the worst of ways. Mcnabb seems to like this position, and he'll deliver on the road.

Titans (+4.5) over Texans
A few weeks ago, this game looked gross. But all of a sudden Vince Young has the Titans at 3-6 and making people wonder. Chris Johnson, in the words of Gus Johnson, has running from the cops speed. The Texans come off a bye and Matt Schaub could have a field day against this defense. Should be explosive. I like Tennessee with the points.

Enjoy the games.

-The Greek

Jimmy the Greek makes his return - Week 10 NFL picks

Sorry I've been missing lately...had a couple back-to-back busy weekends and couldn't get anything up. However, while I was gone I happened to win $300 in an office pool picking against the spread. I've still been winning, and I'm rolling into this week looking to keep it going. Hit a little roadbump on Thursday night, taking the Bears (+3.5), but I feel I can justifiably blame it on Jay Cutler throwing 5 picks, including 2 in the end zone. Loser. Here are the rest of the picks...

Dolphins (-9.5) over Bucs
Freeman makes his first start on the road, and I think he and the rest of his team will come back to Earth after an unbelievable upset over Green Bay. Miami is much, much better than this team.

Lions (+16.5) over Vikings
Minny will win comfortably, but this many points just scares me. All it takes is a late score to screw you over, and I feel like that will happen here. Detroit is still a threat to cover large spreads. Is that when you know you've hit a new low? When you're labeled as a team that's a threat to cover a large point spread in your favor?

Jaguars (+6.5) over Jets
A buddy of mine said last night the Jaguars are the best worst team in the NFL. Well spoken. MJD3 will slow down the blitzing of the Jets and Garrard will get some passes off. I don't know if they win, but they'll cover.

Saints (-13.5) over Rams
Blowout.

Broncos (-6.5) over Redskins
Denver rebounds against a struggling 'Skins team. Look for Brandon Marshall to have a big day, and the Broncos defense to step up and save this team from a losing streak.

Bengals (+6.5) over Steelers
Pitt wins this game at home, but Cincy threatens late until a Carson Palmer pick by Palomalu seals the deal. OchoCinco scores and Adam Schefter loves it.

Falcons (-1.5) over Panthers
Matt Ryan bounces back with a great game against Carolina. D'Angelo Williams is a little banged up and the Falcons secondary will pick off Delhomme twice.

Titans (-6.5) over Bills
Tennessee is rolling and will keep it going. Can they win out and sneak into the playoffs? Absolutely not.

Chiefs (+1.5) over Raiders
The Gus Johnson Game of the Week.

Packers (+2.5) over Cowboys
Green Bay bounces back and surprises a lot of people with a win over Dallas. Don't count out Aaron Rodgers. The kid is legit and will have a huge day. Hopefully to Greg Jennings.

Seahawks (+8.5) over Cardinals
Arizona wins comfortably through the air, but Hasselbeck and the Seahawks can score too. They'll keep it close.

Eagles (+2.5) over Chargers
Mcnabb and the Eagles bounce back. SD shouldn't have won last week, but NYG choked in the secondary. If Rivers didn't find Jackson in the back of the end zone, this wouldn't even be a thought.

Pats (+2.5) over Colts
Brady engineers a late TD drive, just moments after Manning engineered one of his own for a short lived lead. An all-time classic.

Ravens (-10.5) over Browns
This is awful.

This week: 0-1
Last week: 10-3
Overall: 74-56

-The Greek

Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 9

Texans (+9) over Colts
Seahawks (-10) over Lions
Bengals (+3) over Ravens

Last week: 2-1
Overall: 9-12

-Keefe

I'll also take Gegard Mousasi, Jake Shields, and Fedor Emelianenko, but you wouldn't win squt with those picks because they are all heavy favorites. If you want an underdog this weekend try Kevin Randleman (+160) vs. Stanislav Nedkov at SENGOKU 11 in Japan. Goodluck!

Jimmy the Greek's Week 7 NFL picks

The Greek is about to head off and work the Northeastern football game. For those of you that haven't been following, The Greek's alma maters, both Northeastern and St. Paul's, are in the midst of seasons of futility. The Huskies are 0-6 and have been outscored 241-70. For those of you keeping score at home, that's an average of about 40-10. In fact they've lost a couple games 54-0 and 56-7 to B.C. and Villanova, respectively. Just awful. But equally as awful have been the Fighting Pelicans of St. Paul's, who stand at 0-4 and have been outscored 101-26, including back-to-back shutouts to start the season. So I'm gonna release a couple lines of my own today...who will lose by a bigger margin? NU plays Hofstra while SPS takes on St. George's. Both games are at their respective home fields, but let's be honest, that won't help anyone. They practically play all road games with the rabid fan bases they're bringing in at home.

In other news, BJal continues to suck at picking games, going back to his losing ways with an embarrassing loss last night. I hope to God he is right with his ND pick today, but I can't handle back-to-back Irish losses, especially the latter to B.C. But let's face it, BJal picking your favorite team is like the kiss of death.

Onto The Greek's Week 7 NFL picks...I'm just giving you the picks this week, no breakdowns. As always, lines are courtesy of the elder Greek's office pool on CBS Sports...

Vikings (+4.5) over Steelers
49ers (+3.5) over Texans
Chargers (-4.5) over Chiefs
Colts (-13.5) over Rams
Pats (-14.5) over Bucs
Packers (-6.5) over Browns
Jets (-6.5) over Raiders
Panthers (-6.5) over Bills
Falcons (+3.5) over Cowboys
Dolphins (+6.5) over Saints
Bears (+1.5) over Bengals
Cardinals (+6.5) over Giants
Eagles (-7.5) over Redskins

-The Greek

Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 7

Well Keefe's Pick 3 is quickly turning into another version of BJal's Lock du Jour. Fresh of an 0-fer I thought about just folding up shop, perhaps setting my sights on an NBA Season Preview, (which I will do before next week), but I'm going to stick with this thing... for now.

I really don't think I could bounce back from another 0-3 week, that's devastating. At least BJal only gets 1 loss at a time. (He did nail UTEP though!). So here we go, another Pick 3.

Packers (-7) over Browns
Colts (-14) over Rams
Falcons (+4) over Cowboys

Hint: Bet opposite.

Last Week: 0-3
Overall: 5-10

-Keefe

Jimmy the Greek's Week 6 NFL picks

It's been a couple rough weeks for the Greek, but this is the week we turn it around here on The Brief. I'll get right to the picks...

Steelers (-13.5) over Browns
Pittsburgh needs a statement game, especially after losing DE Aaron Smith and missing Troy Palamalu. The latter may possibly be in the lineup today, but regardless, this Browns offense is taylor-made for the "statement game".

Saints (-2.5) over Giants
Everyone and their mother probably thinks Eli and the Giants will prevail, but I think this is shaping up to be the Saints year. Their QB is better, Pierre Thomas is a solid NFL RB, and the receiving corp is lights out. Meanwhile, the defense has shown it can go in shut down mode, and Darren Sharper has gone all Ed Reed out there with five picks. Playing at home, look for New Orleans to find a way.

Rams (+9.5) over Jaguars
I think this will be a high scoring game. Both defenses are awful, but the Rams will stay in this because of the Jaguars last ranked pass defense.

Packers (-13.5) over Lions
Detroit is probably without Stafford and Johnson, so this should get ugly quick. Aaron Rodgers is primed for a huge game, but I wouldn't be surprised to see the defense contribute immensely as well with a pick six to go with a couple interceptions and forced fumble or two.

Texans (+5.5) over Bengals
I want to pick Cincy to cover. At 4-1, they should easily be 5-0. But they've been living on the edge, and something tells me the Texans playmakers are going to give them trouble today, especially Steve Slaton. Look for a letdown this week out of Cincy. They may pull it out, but they won't cover.

Panthers (-3.5) over Bucs
Jake Delhomme continues his resurgence, and I think D'Angelo Williams starts to get his swagger back. Tampa Bay sucks.

Chiefs (+6.5) over Redskins
Washington wins but can't cover.

Ravens (+2.5) over Vikings
Upset special of the week. After last week's last second meltdown, Ray Lewis will have his troops ready to roll. And Brett Favre finally has an off week and loses a game for the Vikings.

Seahawks (-2.5) over Cardinals
I like Hasselbeck and the Seahawks offense when healthy. And I think they'll outgun Kurt Warner and the Cardinals. Plus the line seems like it's baiting you to bet on the Cardinals in a classic "trap game".

Eagles (-13.5) over Raiders
No comment necessary.

Pats (-9.5) over Titans
Please see comments in today's BJal's Lock du Jour.

Jets (-9.5) over Bills
The tension in Buffalo is a bad loss to the Jets away from boiling over. Can you feel it? Can you feel it?????

Falcons (-3.5) over Bears
Another line that seems too obvious. So I'm calling it a trap game, going against the grain and taking it to the bank. Atlanta has too many weapons on offense for Chicago to keep up.

San Diego (-4.5) over Broncos
This is the biggest trap line of the week. If I go 0-3 on these I'll be pissed. But I like this one. I think Denver sees a hangover from it's exciting, emotional win over New England last week. And Phillip Rivers thrives on Monday night. He's due for a big game over a top notch defense.

Last week: 6-8
Overall: 41-35

-The Greek

Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 6

It's been a struggle this year for the "Pick 3." Still searching for the elusive perfect week, here goes nothing...

Bengals (-5) over Texans

Steelers (-14) over Browns

Jaguars (-10) over Rams

No explanations necessary.

Last week: 1-2
Overall: 5-7

-Keefe

Jimmy the Greek's Week 5 NFL picks

Last week was a little rough for the Greek. But those will happen. What's important is having a nice bounceback week, and that's what will happen in Week 5. There seem to be a lot of cupcake games for some of the elite teams like the Giants, Vikings, Eagles, Steelers and Colts, but there are a lot of points flying around for the underdogs, as well. It's an interesting week of spreads, but the Greek has them all figured out for you...

Redskins (+3.5) over Panthers
This is a field goal game either way. Both teams suck equally, and the only reason the Panthers are giving up points is because they're at home. I actually think they win this game and get out of their funk. Actually, you know what? This is a trap game, please hold...

Panthers (-3.5) over Redskins
D'Angelo Williams is going to run wild today. You can count on it. The Redskins are awful and won't do a thing on offense. Expect this to be somewhat of a surprising blowout/breakout/turnaround game for the Panthers while Jim Zorn lines himself up to be the first head coach on the chopping block in 2009.

Cowboys (-8.5) over Chiefs
A nice rebound for Romo and the 'boys. The Chiefs are terrible, there's no other way around it. They can't run, and they only score garbage points at the end of games. I'm sure they will again today, but Dallas will have too big of a lead to forfeit the spread.

Steelers (-10.5) over Lions
I don't know if Stafford is playing or not, but even if he is, he won't be 100%. Which is scary considering he's still a ways from being good. Mendenhall is going to feast like he did last week.

Bengals (+8.5) over Ravens
You're classic lose but cover the spread game. If this was in Cincy, the spread wouldn't be so large and I'd be picking the Bengals to win outright. I actually think they still could; they're playing with heavy hearts after the wife of an asst. coach died, and teams like that are always dangerous.

Browns (+5.5) over Bills
Browns will win outright. All signs point to it. The Bills can't pass the football, and their running game has disappeared the last couple weeks. Meanwhile, Derek Anderson has found a favorite target in Massaquoi. For some reason I just see them pulling it off.

Bucs (+13.5) over Eagles
Mcnabb will struggle just enough to keep Tampa Bay in it. I wouldn't be suprised if a late TD covers. Bill Simmons wrote about the possibility of what one of his readers called a "moral loss" the other day. That's what the Eagles will have. The opposite of a moral victory.

Vikings (-10.5) over Rams
I want to pick the Rams here as a classic letdown game for Favre and the Vikings after last week's Monday night thriller. But I can't. The game is in a dome, and I think their offense, especially Adrian Peterson, will just light up the scoreboard.

Giants (-15.5) over Raiders
I'd pick the Giants even if David Carr was the quarterback. You can't make this spread big enough.

Falcons (+2.5) over 49ers
I like Mike Singletary and his team, but you can't give the Falcons offense two weeks to prepare for you. They have too many playmakers. It'll be a nice, balanced attack, and the defense will play well in a solid 17-13 victory.

Texans (+5.5) over Cardinals
High scoring game, but the Texans cover. The Cardinals secondary has been shaky, so look for the Texans passing offense to take advantage. Cardinals win though.

Pats (-3.5) over Broncos
I think we'll all be surprised with how easily the Pats win this game. I don't know why, it's just a feeling I have. One thing I do know is that the postgame handshake between Belicheck and McDaniels will be more of a hug. For once, Bill still likes one of his former proteges.

Jags (+0.5) over Seahawks
Another high scoring game. Look for these two teams to have an absolute shootout. I think the Jaguars will have enough of an edge to steal this thing on the road, i.e. MJD3.

Colts (-4.5) over Titans
Peyton Manning will continue his dominance in the air and boost his argument for a 4th MVP.

Jets (-1.5) over Dolphins
I have nothing to say about this game. Perhaps one of the more boring MNF games in a while. Thank god Braylon Edwards got traded to NY. It's the only good storyline they have.

Last week: 5-9
Overall: 35-27

Note: I won't be able to have Tarrific Tara's picks in time for the 1pm games. But she doesn't watch them anyway, so I'll post them later.

-Greek

Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 5

Alright let's see how we do this week. It's been a struggle a la BJal's "Lock de Jour." Ok it hasn't been that bad. The goal is a perfect 3-0 week. This is how it will happen.

Patriots (-3.5) over Broncos
This game is in Denver and I am aware that Josh McDaniels knows everything about Tom Brady and the Broncos D is the best in the league in terms of points allowed. But 5-0? There's no way Denver can be 5-0. I'm telling you right now this 4-0 team will be 4-4 after 8 games. Remember where you heard it. Pats by 10.

Bengals (+8.5) over Ravens
Taking another road team in this one. I know Cincy had to go to OT to beat Cleveland, but that was a road win, and probably the reason this number is so high. I wouldn't predict an outright win by the Bengals but I do like them to cover the number. Ravens by 7.

Panthers (-3.5) over Redskins
The Skins might be the worst 2-2 team in sports history. Their 2 wins are to the Rams and Bucs, by a combined 5 points, and of course they lost to the Lions, first team to do so in oh 20 games. Carolina is no good either, but at home, with DeAngelo Williams and Steve Smith they should cover the number.

Last Week: 2-1
Overall: 4-5

-Keefe

Jimmy the Greek's Week 4 NFL picks

Last week was a banner week for the Greek. Not only did I go 13-3 against the spread, but I correctly picked 15 of 16 winners in the Pigskin Pick'em on wgamradio.com and s-t.com. With that success, I won a $50 gift card to Sky Lounge from the boys at WGAM and a $10 gift card to Dunkin Donuts and 2 free passes to Monster Mini-golf from The Standard Times (s-t.com and my hometown paper). Needless to say, I was a happy prognosticator come Tuesday morning.

This week seems a bit tricky, and to be honest, I feel like I could go 14-0 just as easily as going 0-14. Let's hold our collective breaths...

Colts (-6.5) over Seahawks
Despite the coaching changes, injury to Gonzalez and departure of Marvin Harrison, Peyton Manning is showing why he's a 3-time MVP. This guy could throw for 4,000 yards and 35 TD's if Besse and Keefe were flanked out wide. Seattle is decimated by injuries (again), particularly on defense. See ya later.

Bengals (-5.5) over Browns
I love this Bengals team. Chad OchoCinco is one of the great personalities of the NFL, and he seems rejuvenated and ready to lead this team to the playoffs with a healthy Carson Palmer. The Browns may not win a game in 2009, so who's to think the Bengals can't cover a measily 5.5?

Pats (-2.5) over Ravens
In Week 2, Phillip Rivers threw for over 400 yards against this Ravens secondary. I think Tom Brady comes close to that. This Ravens team is good, don't get me wrong, but they've played the Browns, Chiefs and Chargers. San Diego is the best of that weak bunch, and it took a Ray Lewis miracle stop on 4th down to do it. My buddy Kevin told me he saw an interview with Lewis where he said he wasn't supposed to blitz there...he saw them run that play in film study and just jumped it. That's brilliant, and so is Lewis.

Lions (+10.5) over Bears
I think the Bears win this, but the 10.5 scares me because it has 27-17 written all over it. The Lions will score, but so will da Bears. Forte should get it going and Cutler is finding his rhythm. I like the Lions to cover though.

Texans (-9.5) over Raiders
If Jamarcus Russell of today went back in time and played Notre Dame in the 2006 Sugar Bowl, would LSU still win that game? I honestly don't think so. Look for the Texans to light up the scoreboard, and Steve Slaton to finally find paydirt.

Giants (-9.5) over Chiefs
This could get really, really ugly. The Chiefs suck, plain and simple.

Titans (-2.5) over Jaguars
The Titans run defense should bend but not break against an elite back like MJD3, and I think the same will go for the secondary. The difference will be the Titans offense. The Jaguars D is just as bad, if not worse, and I expect Tennessee to finally hit the win column. This has been a brutal schedule thus far, but a solid showing against a good Jets team means they're turning the corner.

Redskins (-6.5) over Bucs
Tampa Bay has a new head coach, who went and fired his O-coordinator 2 weeks before the season, then benched his quarterback for a guy who races on the NASCAR circuit. I don't who they're playing or how many points they're getting. No thanks.

Jets (+6.5) over Saints
Saints win, Jets cover in an awesome to watch shoot out.

Bills (-2.5) over Dolphins
If Pennington was the QB, I take the Dolphins. But I don't know much about Chad Henne as an NFL quarterback. Which sucks, because after watching Pierre Thomas light up the Bills defense last week, I would love to bank on Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams. I think they both perform well, but Buffalo should at least cover.

Rams (+9.5) over 49ers
I think we see a slight letdown from last week's shocking, last second loss to the Vikings for Mike Singletary's club. I think San Francisco will either survive a scare or lose outright, especially with Frank Gore still ailing and out for today's game.

Broncos (+3.5) over Cowboys
A true test to gauge where both teams are at. The potent Cowboys offense against a Broncos D that has been solid so far, but perhaps overachieving? And on the flip side, Kyle Orton has yet to turn the ball over. But Dallas played well last week against Carolina, finally getting its first sack. Is it finding its rhythm on D?

Chargers (+6.5) over Steelers
Ugh, this has trap game written all over it. SD getting these points seems too easy. What do they know that we don't? I'm going to be a sucker and take the points. Pitt's D is still suspect and the offense will be slowed without Willie Parker.

Packers (+3.5) over Vikings
I'm sick of Brett Favre and his antics, and the fact that the media continue to stroke his ego. I'll be rooting for Aaron Rodgers all night long.

Last week: 13-3
Overall: 30-18

Tarrific Tara's picks:

Colts
Browns
Patriots
Da Bears
Texans
Giants
Titans
Redskins
Jets
Dolphins
Rams
Cowboys
Steelers
Vikings

Last week: 11-5
Overall: 18-14

Enjoy the games.

-Greek

Jimmy the Greek's Week 3 NFL picks

Not gonna lie, pretty tired and lacking the desire to sit here and break down each game. So I'm just going right into em...

Falcons (+4.5) over Patriots
Jaguars (+3.5) over Texans
Eagles (-9.5) over Chiefs
Lions (+6.5) over Redskins
Upset alert, put your next mortgage payment on the Lions winning this game outright.
Packers (-6.5) over Rams
Giants (-6.5) over Bucs
Browns (+13.5) over Ravens
49ers (+6.5) over Vikings
Jets (-2.5) over Titans
Saints (-5.5) over Bills
Bears (-2.5) over Seahawks
Dolphins (+6.5) over Chargers
Broncos (+1.5) over Raiders
Bengals (+4.5) over Steelers
Colts (+2.5) over Cardinals
Panthers (+9.5) over Cowboys

Last week: 10-6
Overall: 17-15

Tarrific Tara's picks:

Patriots
Jaguars
Eagles
Redskins
Packers
Bucs
Ravens
Vikings
Titans
Saints
Bears
Chargers
Broncos
Steelers
Colts
Cowboys

Last week: 7-9
Overall: 7-9

-Greek

Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 3

Not out to a great start, but it's early. You got to get back on the bicycle and ride. Here we go...

Lions (+6.5) over Redskins
Picking the Lions following a 1-2 week? Yes, I'm doing it. They could snap their long losing streak this weekend. They're at home, and did you see the Skins last weekend? 9-7 over the Rams... the Rams. Maybe Calvin Johnson and the Lions lose this one, but they will cover the number... I hope.

Raiders (+1.5) over Broncos
I just refuse to believe that the Josh McDaniels, Kyle Orton led Broncos will get to 3-0 this year. They just can't. I actually like the Raiders... defense. They played San Diego tough, then beat the Chiefs. (How about 3 straight division games to start the year.) I think Denver will start to level out and do so soon. These home division games are huge, look for the Raider D to step up big this week.

Texans (-4) over Jaguars
I love Houston, hate Jacksonville. The Texans were miserable in Week 1, but I'm going to chalk that up to a good Jets D that surprised me probably more than Houston. Jacksonville is awful, they got blitzed by Arizona at home last week. I don't think a trip to Texas is going to help them. MJD could have a strong weekend performance but I still see the Texans winning by at least a TD and getting to 2-1, making my pick of Houston as the division winner not seem as ridiculous.

Last Week: 1-2
Overall: 1-2

-Keefe

Jimmy the Greek's Week 2 NFL picks

The Greek got off to an impressive start last week, winning 7 of the 1pm games and was positioned for a big week. Then they played the rest of the games and he got shutout of the action, finishing 7-9. Week 2 should be different, as Jimmy has gotten a glimpse of what some "on the fence" teams are bringing to the table. And thus, here we go with the picks...

Vikings (-9.5) 0ver Lions
The Lions defense was porous for sure, but it was also going up against arguably the best offense in the league in the Saints. Unfortunately, the Vikings have great playmakers in Adrian Peterson, Percy Harvin, and of course, Brett Favre. This could get ugly.

Texans (+6.5) over Titans
Something tells me this is a trap game in terms of betting. The Texans looked awful against the Jets last week, and naturally, going against a solid defense like the Titans, people would expect them to flop again. I don't think that will be the case. The Steelers passed at will against Tennessee, and I think that may be the case today for the Texans. They may lose, but they'll cover.

Patriots (-5.5) over Jets
Wes Welker may be out, but Tom Brady looked like he found his stride late in that game as the Pats came back against Buffalo. I think the Pats find a way to pressure Sanchez and the Jets come back to Earth a little. Remember, it was the Texans.

Raiders (+3.5) over Chiefs
Neither one of these teams are very good, but you have to acknowledge how well the Raiders played the Chargers. Matt Cassel makes the start for KC, and I think he'll struggle.

Redskins (-9.5) over Rams
The Rams are so, so bad.

Bengals (+9.5) over Packers
I still believe in this Bengals team. Not enough to win, but enough to cover. Aaron Rodgers should have a nice day, but I think Carson Palmer and Chad OchoCinco will each have productive days to keep their team in it till late.

Panthers (+6.5) over Falcons
Nice rebound game for Jake Delhomme and the Panthers. Another trap game here. Look for a high scoring affair that ends by a field goal.

Cardinals (+3.5) over Jaguars
Peyton Manning passed well against the Jags last week, and Kurt Warner should do the same with all of those options.

Saints (+2.5) over Eagles
I don't understand how the Saints aren't favored, and favored by a lot. Weird spread here.

Bills (-4.5) over Bucs
Tampa Bay sucks too. Bills offense should have a great day. I really like this team, and sadly, we can't be commending them for a win over the Pats on Monday night.

Seahawks (+1.5) over 49ers
Big, big fan of this Seahawk offense with everyone healthy. And it's scary that Julius Jones had a day rushing the ball. Mike Singletary is doing well righting the ship in San Fran, but I think Seattle is just a better team.

Ravens (+3.5) over Chargers
This is a game that will either go to OT or go down to the wire. I'll take the points all day, every day.

Broncos (-3.5) over Browns
Cleveland can't run the ball and Mangini screwed up by keeping that QB situation on lockdown till a few days before the season started. That offense won't click for a few more games. Denver should fare better today offensively.

Steelers (-2.5) over Bears
No Brian Urlacher, no bet on the Bears.

Cowboys (-2.5) over Giants
I think the Cowboys are just better.

Colts (-3.5) over Dolphins
Miami overachieved last year, plain and simple. Even without Anthony Gonzalez, Peyton Manning is still the quarterback. Enough said.

And now, Tarrific Tara's picks (against the same spreads):

Carolina Panthers
Minnesota Vikings
Green Bay Packers
Houston Texans
Kansas City Chiefs
New England Patriots
Philadelphia Eagles
Washington Redskins
Arizona Cardinals
Seattle Seahawks
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Chicago Bears
Baltimore Ravens
Cleveland Browns
New York Giants
Indianapolis Colts

Enjoy the games.

-The Greek

Jimmy the Greeks UFC 103 picks

I'm taking a dump and don't want anything to crust up, so I'm just going to post winners, round and method of destruction. Also, I'm including Tarrific Tara's picks...much like Bill Simmons posts The Sports Gal's weekly choices. I was prompted to do this on Wednesday night when, completely unprovoked, she messaged my phone with the following: "My picks for tonight are Diaz, Maynard, Quarry and Condit." For those of you that don't know, UFC hosted a live event on Spike TV leading into episode one of TUF 10 with Kimbo Slice. And for those of you that still don't know, Tara was perfect with all four picks. I went 2-2. We'll see how she does for the NFL in Week 2. I'll post those either later tonight or tomorrow morning.

Jimmy the Greek

Belfort via (T)KO over Franklin in the 2nd round
Cro Cop over Dos Santos via (T)KO (referee stoppage) in the 2nd round
Martin Kampmann over Paul Daley via submission (armbar) in the 1st round
Josh Koscheck over Frank Trigg via lay and pray decision
Tyson Griffin over Hermes Franca via decision

And since we'll be ordering both PPV's tonight...

Mayweather over Marquez via (T)KO (referee stoppage) in the 6th round

Tarrific Tara

Franklin
Cro Cop
Kampmann
Koscheck
Franca

Mayweather

Enjoy the night of fights.

-JtG

Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 2

Alright it's time to play Pick 3! Going forward I am only going to pick 3 NFL games a week and see if I can make the magic happen. Check out Jimmy the Greek's full Week 2 breakdown coming soon. On to the picks. (Sorry for the crap picture, above, couldn't find much.)

Patriots (-4) over the Jets
No Jerod Mayo, no problem... this week. Everyone is freaking out about how good the Jets looked in Week 1 vs. the Texans. Good for them. They're playing the Patriots this week. New York is treating this thing like the Super Bowl, getting all geeked out, it's going to hurt them. Belichick has fared well in the past vs. rookie QBs (5-1). I also am going to assume New England gets a lot more of the Tom Brady from the last 5 minutes of the Bills game then the previous 55 which = problems for the Jets. Pats 27 Jets 20.

Seahawks (+1.5) over the 49ers
Seattle is coming off an impressive 28-0 win over the Rams, while the 9ers topped last year's NFC champion Cardinals 20-16. Both teams are looking to get to 2-0, but more importantly 2-0 in the division. Hasselbeck threw 2 early picks then settled down nicely tossing 3 TD passes. Julius Jones showed signs of life, and the Seahawks posted the only Week 1 shutout. (against the Rams, I know.) Shaun Hill still the San Fran Q? Right, thought so. Seahawks 24 49ers 10.

Bills (-5) over the Buccaneers
Byron Leftwich and the Bucs head north to face Buffalo. Unfortunately this won't be a snow game or the spread would have to be doubled. Call me crazy, but I actually like the Bills this year. If Leodis McKelvin doesn't fumble they probably beat the Pats in New England last Monday. Tampa is going to be a punching bag in the NFC and might as well forfeit all of their road games. Buffalo needs to get their receivers more involved (Owens & Evans combined 5 catches), and Fred Jackson is a solid back up RB in the NFL. With Aaron Schobel healthy it makes the Bills a sneaky good defensive team. Bills 20 Bucs 13.

Goodluck with your picks this weekend!

Overall record: 0-0