Welcome to Week 5. As I walking into work this morning I noticed there’s a Ferris Wheel sitting in the middle of the greenway on Atlantic Ave. It’s probably the most random thing I’ve ever seen. It’s about 20ft high, has 10 or so dual seating compartments and looks to be about as much as fun as being a Cubs fan at Wrigley last night. I don’t know if the guy running this thing was on his way to a carnival, got lost and figured he’d just set up shop here and make some money, but I’m intrigued to see if anyone trusts to get on it. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a homeless guy sitting on a crate pedaling for change in his Dunkin Donuts cup while hits the “Stop” and “Go” button.
By the way, was I the only one that didn’t watch the VP debate last night? I got all jacked up for another episode of The Office before realizing the debate basically took over basic television last night. Thankfully there was nothing on before 9 and 10pm, so I watched Unfaithful on Lifetime. If you haven’t seen it, check it out. Richard Gere kills some stud for banging his wife. Great theatre.
Onto the picks. For Random Rob, I threw darts again. If it landed on a white area, “Home team.” If it landed on a black area, “Away team.”
In the words of Mike Goldberg…And here we go!
Keefe’s picks
Last week: 5-8, overall 31-29
Lions +3.5 over Bears
Lions aren’t good, but a home dog? They lose by a FG, and I still win. Come on Calvin Johnson!
Packers -7.5 over Falcons
How about Aaron Rodgers and Matt Ryan having the same number of starts in the NFL? The two young Q’s go head to head, but how healthy will Rodgers be? The alternative of Matt Flynn and Brian Brohm is about as promising as Matt Cassel and Kevin O’Connell… wait.
Chargers -6.5 over Dolphins
How many times does Ronnie Brown lineup at Q?
Giants -7.5 over Seahawks
Seattle got some receivers last week, but it won’t matter against New York. I hate Eli Manning and the Giants more than any other player/ team, but I can’t pick the Seahawks here. A rare both teams coming off of Byes here… No Plaxico either, maybe I should change my pick.
Redskins +5.5 over Eagles
The spread should never be higher than 3 this year in the NFC East. Well besides the Skins getting worked on by the Giants week 1. It’s been a different team since.
Panthers -9.5 over Chiefs
I think the Chiefs come back down to Earth this week. Carolina is quietly winning games and putting themselves in a great spot for the post season.
Titans -3.5 over Ravens
Titans looking to stay undefeated with the big question on everyone’s mind. Will Vince Young be the number 2 or number 3 QB? Stay tuned.
Texans +3.5 over Colts
The Colts are down this year, but coming off a Bye week. Houston has given them trouble even when they were at the top. This is my upset special. Enjoy.
Broncos -3.5 over Buccaneers
We’ll see if this high powered Denver offense can get back on track this weekend. Cutler is a great young QB with a fantastic 1-2 punch at WR, I think they bounce back in a big way.
Bills +0.5 over Cardinals
Can the Bills really go to 5-0? I say yes.
Patriots -3.5 over 49ers
This will be the first week the Pats score more than 20 points post Brady. Coming off the bye week Belichick will have them ready to go.
Cowboys -15.5 over Bengals
That’s a ton of points, but who on Cincy is going to stop anyone on Dallas? Terrell Owens puts last week behind him and has a monster game. Marion Barber better get more than 8 carries by the way. Will Ocho Cinco “kiss the star?”
Steelers +4.5 over Jaguars
The Jags may win but they won’t cover. They never do. I’m not impressed with either team having Super Bowl aspirations.
Saints -3.5 over Vikings
Vikings always hype up their run defense. Well Chris Johnson put in 2 TDs on the ground last week. Deuce could still score, but Bush is more of a wideout anyway. Advantage Saints.
Besse’s picks
Last week: 7-6, overall 32-28
Lions +3.5 over Bears
Matt Forte should have a solid game here. But the Lions at home, a new GM, and Calvin Johnson maturing into a top notch receiver right before our very eyes gives us…! Another Lions loss, by a Robbie Gould field goal late in the 4th.
Falcons +7.5 over Packers
Whether Aaron Rodgers plays or not doesn’t even matter at this point. He won’t be healthy. The Falcons may not win the game, but they’ll make it damn close.
Chargers -6.5 over Dolphins
Ronnie Brown will come back to Earth. I’m actually predicting Ricky Williams has more all-purpose yards. But LT will probably have more all-purpose yards than the two of them combined. Chargers in a romp.
Giants -7.5 over Seahawks
Seattle gets some manpower back on the wings, and while it will help Hasselbeck deliver the goods, Eli and Co. will have just enough. I picked up Amani Toomer in a couple fantasy leagues and expect a nice game out of him in the absence of Plaxico Burress. I suggest you do the same.
Redskins +5.5 over Eagles
I agree with Rich here. I feel like every NFC East game should be decided by a field goal. Even though Springs and Taylor are out for the Redskins, I still think that offense will keep them in the game. Eagles win…wait for it…by a field goal.
Panthers -9.5 over Chiefs
I really like this Panthers team, and picked them as my sleeper for the NFC this year. A lot of weapons on offense and the defense has shut down the run. Look for more of this winning combination this week.
Ravens +3.5 over Titans
If it wasn’t for Joe Flacco and Jarret Johnson imploding against the Steelers, the Ravens would have won that game and still been undefeated. Win or lose, this one is decided on a field goal.
Colts -3.5 over Texans
The Colts should win enough races to soundly hold off the Texans in this weekend’s track meet. Coming off a bye week, look for big production from the likes of Manning, Wayne and Clark.
Buccaneers +3.5 over Broncos
Jon Gruden is underrated as a coach. He always seem to put out competitive teams with sub par talent. Speaking of sub par, that’s what I’m hoping to be with my golf game tomorrow. I doubt it, just as much as I doubt the Broncos covering here.
Cardinals -0.5 over Bills
Buffalo flies cross country only to get hustled by the Cardinals. No way does that secondary allows 56 points in consecutive weeks, and the Bills should not be 5-0. Let’s hope the Cardinals don’t allow that travesty to occur.
Patriots -3.5 over 49ers
Week off for the Pats, so I expect Bill to walk into that stadium, have his way with the 49ers, then leave with no remorse. Kind of sounds like a rapist. Can I say that?
Bengals +15.5 over Cowboys
This could be a bloodbath if Carson Palmer doesn’t play. But I’m banking on two things: a) he does play and b) if he doesn’t play, someone, anyone, I don’t care who it is, gets Housh some touches and a TD reception. He’s been killing me in fantasy.
Steelers +4.5 over Jaguars
If the Jaguars happen to win, it’s by no more than a field goal. I think Big Ben has a nice week here and continues to get back on track. Moore should fill in fine for Willie Parker,
Saints -3.5 over Vikings
Big fan of Drew Brees. He could toss for 400 yards and a couple scores to a trio of wideouts with no hands. He’s been that good. Speaking of which, anyone watch that armless guy at the WSOP? Dude was playing with his feet. I wouldn’t want to win a pot from that guy with his feet all over those chips. “Take it down, pal, nice hand,” as I fold quad Aces.
Random Rob’s picks
Last week: 8-5, overall 37-23
Bears
Falcons
Dolphins
Seahawks
Redskins
Panthers
Titans
Colts
Broncos
Bills
49ers
Bengals
Jaguars
Saints
Don’t forget to check out Kimbo Slice and the rest of the cast on CBS’ Saturday Night Fights with the poetic Gus Johnson at the mic. Should be a great night of fights!
-Bess
Friday, October 3, 2008
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
31 Nights of Horror
October is here, and that means its international scary movie month. I’ll give you 31+ Horror movies to watch from now until Halloween. What does this have to do with sports? Absolutely nothing. I’m a fan of all these movies, and recommend you do your best to watch as many as you can this month. Of course it’s basically impossible to watch that many films in a given month, not even mentioning the fact that there’s playoff baseball, NFL, college football, and even the start of the NBA season. Well do what you can. (Each number corresponds with the appropriate day of the month.)
1. A Nightmare on Elm St. (1984)
We’ll kick off the movie marathon with a timeless classic. The emergence of Freddy Kruger, and he’s been putting the scare in kids for 24 years and counting. Also the film debut of one Johnny Depp.
2. Feast (2005)
This is one that you’ve probably never seen, but you’ll be glad you did. It was the winner of that Project Greenlight or whatever with Affleck and Damon a few years back. Bunch of people stuck in a bar in the middle of the desert when crazy creatures show up. Can’t miss.
3. Cape Fear (1991)
One of the few remakes that may actually be better than the original. Robert De Niro has a fantastic performance as Max Cady.
4. Psycho (1960)
It’s in black and white, but it’s a classic. Norman Bates is an absolute creep show, one of the best Horror movies of all time.
5. Urban Legend (1998)
Say what you want about Urban Legend, but I liked it. Takes place in a fictional school in NH and stars one Rebecca Gayheart.
6. Evil Dead II (1987) The Evil Dead (1981)
The Evil Dead’s are both horror classics. Bruce Campbell began his reign as a horror icon in these films. Watch them both if you want, if you had to only see one, I’d lean towards II. They’re pretty similar with II done just a bit better in my opinion.
7. Army of Darkness (1992)
The third installment of the Evil Dead trilogy is Army of Darkness. More blood, more gore, more action, more one liners. My personal favorite of the three. “First you wanna kill me, now you wanna kiss me. Blow.” -Ash
8. House of 1000 Corpses (2003)
Rob Zombie’s first feature film. There’s a lot going on here, and it’s pretty crazy, but give it a chance. You’ll be glad you did particularly when watching the film that comes next.
9. The Devil’s Reject’s (2005)
The sequel to House of 1000 Corpses, The Devil’s Rejects drops some of the wild fantastical story lines from the first, and focuses more on the Firefly’s, a serial killing family. This is in my top 5 all-time Horror movies. You don’t have to watch Corpses to understand what’s going on, but it adds to the characters.
10. Friday the 13th (1980)
Its Friday the 10th this month, really the best we can do. Part of that slasher triumvirate that has produced countless and mostly terrible sequels along with the Nightmare and Halloween franchises. This again, is the original, look for a young Kevin Bacon as one of the councilors at Camp Crystal Lake.
11. Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)
This is actually the debut of hockey mask wearing killer Jason Voorhees, therefore it has to be on the countdown and on its own night.
12. Grindhouse (2007)
Not even sure if this qualifies as a horror movie. Grindhouse is the double feature that includes Robert Rodriguez’s Planet Terror and Quentin Tarantino’s Death Proof. If you only have time for one go with Planet Terror. Rose McGowen is great as is the story and ensemble.
13. From Dusk til Dawn (1996)
Speaking of Rodriguez and Tarantino here is another collaborative effort from those two. Rodriguez directed the film that Tarantino wrote and co-stared in. Really two films in one as it starts out with George Clooney and Tarantino as bank-robbing/ killer brothers on the run that end up at a bar with their hostages that turns out to be a feeding ground for vampires. And it might even be better than it sounds. This starts off our string of Vampire films.
14. Dracula (1992)
You can’t have a horror movie list that doesn’t involve at least one Dracula film. I went with Bram Stoker’s Dracula starring Gary Oldman, Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, and Anthony Hopkins, and directed by Francis Ford Coppella. It’s the original story, and I figured you’d have a better chance of watching this one then the 1931 version starring Bela Lugosi.
15. Interview with the Vampire (1994)
In my mind probably the best performance by a child star as Kirsten Dunst, at 11 or 12, steals the show from Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt. A great film to wrap up the mini vampire marathon.
16. Sleepy Hollow (1999)
Who doesn’t enjoy the headless horseman? Anyone? Tim Burton directs this creepy tale that stars Johnny Depp and Christina Ricci. “Heads will roll.”
17. Scream (1996)
In the middle of the month, make it a complete Scream weekend. Can’t believe this movie has been out for 12 years now, but you know what, it’s still good. Some horror fans love it others think it’s a mockery, I fall in the former. This is one of my top-10 films all-time, any genre.
18. Scream 2 (1997)
Clearly not as good as the first, but horror and sequels go together like roller coasters and nausea.
19. Scream 3 (2000)
I’ll do it, I’ll put the 3rd one on the list. Follow the ghostface killer (not the guy from Wu-Tang) through these Wes Craven led works of art. I admit, they get worst as they go on, but still worth a watch this October.
20. Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
This movie is nuts. Crazy, creepy, scary, satanic, dark, you name it. You’ll feel for Rosemary, guaranteed.
21. Seven (1995)
Not sure if this is technically a horror movie. Seven does have some memorable gruesome images and a diabolical and unique serial killer, so I’m going to include it. Brad Pitt and the great Morgan Freeman try to track down John Doe who kills using the 7 deadly sins.
22. I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)
Is it cheesy? Yeah, maybe a little bit. One of the countless slasher films that came out immediately following the success of Scream, but in my opinion it’s one of the best out of that group. Teens stars, brutal deaths, what more could you want?
23. Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Only horror movie to sweep the Oscars. Everyone has seen this movie, all you need to say is Hannibal Lector.
24. Candyman (1992)
Say his name 5 times in the mirror. You won’t.
25. Saw (2004) Saw II (2005)
I remember seeing the first one in the theater during college and being blown away. Then the second one, and the third one… haven’t seen the fourth yet, and the fifth is on the way. Wow. Even Nightmare, Friday the 13th, and Halloween took some time off while making all their sequels. No rest for the Saw people. Definitely watch the first one, they’re short, so maybe squeeze in another couple.
26. Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
The film quality is crappy and you’ll wonder what the hell you’re watching, but it’s a classic. One of the most well renowned B-movie horrors of all-time. There’s been remakes recently, but this the debut of Leatherface.
27. The Ring (2002)
Top-5 scariest movie on this list. It just creeps the hell out of me. Let’s move on.
28. Night of the Living Dead (1968)
Another classic right here. You could swap it out with any George A. Romero zombie movie, but this is the first. I also really enjoyed the 2004 remake of Dawn of the Dead. Can’t go wrong with either.
29. The Shining (1980)
Talk about some crazy stuff going on. After you’ve seen it a couple of time, really look for things that you may have missed. Just weird. I never read the book, so I don’t know what that was like. Jack Nicholson is as scary as they come and his wife, played by Shelley Duvall is frightening just to look at.
30. The Exorcist (1973)
People passed out in the theaters when this movie was released in 1973. You combine the Devil with religious views and you’re just asking for trouble… or one of the highest grossing horror films of all time.
31. Halloween (1978) Halloween II (1981) Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988)
What else would you watch on Halloween. Make it an unprecedented triple-feature while you’re passing out candy this year. There’s I believe 9 films that carry the “Halloween” name, but these are the best 3 by far. The third one doesn’t even involve Michael Myers, so go original, II (which takes place literally right after the first ends), and then go 4. It’s the only way to cap off a ridiculous month of horror movies.
1. A Nightmare on Elm St. (1984)
We’ll kick off the movie marathon with a timeless classic. The emergence of Freddy Kruger, and he’s been putting the scare in kids for 24 years and counting. Also the film debut of one Johnny Depp.2. Feast (2005)
This is one that you’ve probably never seen, but you’ll be glad you did. It was the winner of that Project Greenlight or whatever with Affleck and Damon a few years back. Bunch of people stuck in a bar in the middle of the desert when crazy creatures show up. Can’t miss.
3. Cape Fear (1991)
One of the few remakes that may actually be better than the original. Robert De Niro has a fantastic performance as Max Cady.
4. Psycho (1960)
It’s in black and white, but it’s a classic. Norman Bates is an absolute creep show, one of the best Horror movies of all time.
5. Urban Legend (1998)
Say what you want about Urban Legend, but I liked it. Takes place in a fictional school in NH and stars one Rebecca Gayheart.
6. Evil Dead II (1987) The Evil Dead (1981)
The Evil Dead’s are both horror classics. Bruce Campbell began his reign as a horror icon in these films. Watch them both if you want, if you had to only see one, I’d lean towards II. They’re pretty similar with II done just a bit better in my opinion.
7. Army of Darkness (1992)
The third installment of the Evil Dead trilogy is Army of Darkness. More blood, more gore, more action, more one liners. My personal favorite of the three. “First you wanna kill me, now you wanna kiss me. Blow.” -Ash
8. House of 1000 Corpses (2003)
Rob Zombie’s first feature film. There’s a lot going on here, and it’s pretty crazy, but give it a chance. You’ll be glad you did particularly when watching the film that comes next.
9. The Devil’s Reject’s (2005)
The sequel to House of 1000 Corpses, The Devil’s Rejects drops some of the wild fantastical story lines from the first, and focuses more on the Firefly’s, a serial killing family. This is in my top 5 all-time Horror movies. You don’t have to watch Corpses to understand what’s going on, but it adds to the characters.10. Friday the 13th (1980)
Its Friday the 10th this month, really the best we can do. Part of that slasher triumvirate that has produced countless and mostly terrible sequels along with the Nightmare and Halloween franchises. This again, is the original, look for a young Kevin Bacon as one of the councilors at Camp Crystal Lake.
11. Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)
This is actually the debut of hockey mask wearing killer Jason Voorhees, therefore it has to be on the countdown and on its own night.
12. Grindhouse (2007)
Not even sure if this qualifies as a horror movie. Grindhouse is the double feature that includes Robert Rodriguez’s Planet Terror and Quentin Tarantino’s Death Proof. If you only have time for one go with Planet Terror. Rose McGowen is great as is the story and ensemble.
13. From Dusk til Dawn (1996)
Speaking of Rodriguez and Tarantino here is another collaborative effort from those two. Rodriguez directed the film that Tarantino wrote and co-stared in. Really two films in one as it starts out with George Clooney and Tarantino as bank-robbing/ killer brothers on the run that end up at a bar with their hostages that turns out to be a feeding ground for vampires. And it might even be better than it sounds. This starts off our string of Vampire films.
14. Dracula (1992)
You can’t have a horror movie list that doesn’t involve at least one Dracula film. I went with Bram Stoker’s Dracula starring Gary Oldman, Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, and Anthony Hopkins, and directed by Francis Ford Coppella. It’s the original story, and I figured you’d have a better chance of watching this one then the 1931 version starring Bela Lugosi.
15. Interview with the Vampire (1994)
In my mind probably the best performance by a child star as Kirsten Dunst, at 11 or 12, steals the show from Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt. A great film to wrap up the mini vampire marathon.
16. Sleepy Hollow (1999)
Who doesn’t enjoy the headless horseman? Anyone? Tim Burton directs this creepy tale that stars Johnny Depp and Christina Ricci. “Heads will roll.”
17. Scream (1996)
In the middle of the month, make it a complete Scream weekend. Can’t believe this movie has been out for 12 years now, but you know what, it’s still good. Some horror fans love it others think it’s a mockery, I fall in the former. This is one of my top-10 films all-time, any genre.18. Scream 2 (1997)
Clearly not as good as the first, but horror and sequels go together like roller coasters and nausea.
19. Scream 3 (2000)
I’ll do it, I’ll put the 3rd one on the list. Follow the ghostface killer (not the guy from Wu-Tang) through these Wes Craven led works of art. I admit, they get worst as they go on, but still worth a watch this October.
20. Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
This movie is nuts. Crazy, creepy, scary, satanic, dark, you name it. You’ll feel for Rosemary, guaranteed.
21. Seven (1995)
Not sure if this is technically a horror movie. Seven does have some memorable gruesome images and a diabolical and unique serial killer, so I’m going to include it. Brad Pitt and the great Morgan Freeman try to track down John Doe who kills using the 7 deadly sins.
22. I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)
Is it cheesy? Yeah, maybe a little bit. One of the countless slasher films that came out immediately following the success of Scream, but in my opinion it’s one of the best out of that group. Teens stars, brutal deaths, what more could you want?
23. Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Only horror movie to sweep the Oscars. Everyone has seen this movie, all you need to say is Hannibal Lector.
24. Candyman (1992)
Say his name 5 times in the mirror. You won’t.
25. Saw (2004) Saw II (2005)
I remember seeing the first one in the theater during college and being blown away. Then the second one, and the third one… haven’t seen the fourth yet, and the fifth is on the way. Wow. Even Nightmare, Friday the 13th, and Halloween took some time off while making all their sequels. No rest for the Saw people. Definitely watch the first one, they’re short, so maybe squeeze in another couple.
26. Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
The film quality is crappy and you’ll wonder what the hell you’re watching, but it’s a classic. One of the most well renowned B-movie horrors of all-time. There’s been remakes recently, but this the debut of Leatherface.
27. The Ring (2002)
Top-5 scariest movie on this list. It just creeps the hell out of me. Let’s move on.
28. Night of the Living Dead (1968)
Another classic right here. You could swap it out with any George A. Romero zombie movie, but this is the first. I also really enjoyed the 2004 remake of Dawn of the Dead. Can’t go wrong with either.
29. The Shining (1980)
Talk about some crazy stuff going on. After you’ve seen it a couple of time, really look for things that you may have missed. Just weird. I never read the book, so I don’t know what that was like. Jack Nicholson is as scary as they come and his wife, played by Shelley Duvall is frightening just to look at.
30. The Exorcist (1973)
People passed out in the theaters when this movie was released in 1973. You combine the Devil with religious views and you’re just asking for trouble… or one of the highest grossing horror films of all time.31. Halloween (1978) Halloween II (1981) Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988)
What else would you watch on Halloween. Make it an unprecedented triple-feature while you’re passing out candy this year. There’s I believe 9 films that carry the “Halloween” name, but these are the best 3 by far. The third one doesn’t even involve Michael Myers, so go original, II (which takes place literally right after the first ends), and then go 4. It’s the only way to cap off a ridiculous month of horror movies.
-Keefe
Friday, September 26, 2008
The Sports Brief's Week 4 NFL picks
Anybody watch “The Office” last night? Easily a top five episode of all time full of great moments. My personal favorite was when Kelly hit the floor like a bag of bricks during the weigh-in. Michael Klump was pretty ridiculous, as well. You could probably list a hundred different enjoyable tidbits from that episode and still leave something out.
The Jim/Pam proposal was a bittersweet moment for me, though. Tara had predicted at the end of last season that Jim not proposing meant they were going to have the two of them drift apart in Season 5. I refused to believe it, but when I saw Pam go off to Design school, the writing was on the wall. Then there was the scene where that dork commented on his “ex-girlfriend” being right behind them, pleading that no one look. Obviously they did and it turned out to be an 80-year old professor. I called it on the spot that Pam would get with that guy because he was just like Jim. Tara refused to agree, saying it wouldn’t be the jokester from the hallway, so we bet a dinner at Turner’s on it. Moments later Jim and Pam were having trouble making plans and Jim mentioned they hadn’t seen each other in 10 days. I gave a fist pump and an “I told you so” across the couch, then ate my foot when he dropped to a knee outside the gas station in the pouring rain. Pretty solid work on Jim’s part, I give him credit. But I’m wondering if this nullifies our bet or if I’ve lost. I argue that Tara and I both agreed they would drift apart, and the bet was on whether or not Pam would get with that geek from the hallway. Regardless, I’m pissed I didn’t win the bet. I thought I had that one pegged from a mile away.
Onto the picks…
Keefe and I tied last week, but he maintains honors due to his victory in Week 2. For Random Rob, I put four pieces of paper in a cup with the words “Home”, “Away”, “Favorite” and “Underdog” on them. Each game I drew one of the slips out of the cup and based on the word, selected a team to which that word applied. For example, I drew “Underdog” for the Browns/Bengals tilt, so the Browns got the nod since they are getting 3.5 points.
Keefe’s picks
Last week: 10-6
Overall: 26-21
Browns +3.5 over Bengals
Battle of 0-3 teams from Ohio. Derek Anderson could very well be playing for his job, remember last year’s battle with 11 TDs in the air? Expect a lot of points once again.
Vikings +3.5 over Titans
Vikings great run D will make Chris Johnson and Lendale White much less effective thus making Kerry Collins open it up, may very well equal their first loss.
Broncos -9.5 over Chiefs
Chiefs might just be the worst team in football not named the Rams. Cutler and Marshall continue their record breaking ways.
49ers +6.5 over Saints
I expect another high scoring affair here. No Coleston, no Shockey, no cover.
Cardinals +2.5 over Jets
You see the Jets on MNF? Not as good as I predicted them to be. Darrelle Revis is good, but he can’t stop both Fitzgerald and Boldin.
Packers +1.5 over Buccaneers
Is Brian Griese going to throw the ball 67 times again? He might, no Al Harris will be a big loss for the Packers’ D, but not enough in this one.
Falcons +7.5 over Panthers
I like Michael Turner. The sneaky Falcons will at least keep this one close.
Texans +7.5 over Jaguars
I know the Jags finally won a game last weekend, but I am not a fan. I think they’re the most over hyped team in football. Texans have struggled, but I think their defense keep them in it.
Chargers -7.5 over Raiders
Chargers made some plays on D last week. LT doesn’t look 100%, but Sproles does and the Raiders are terrible. Is Lane Kiffin still the coach?
Bills -8.5 over Rams
Buffalo 4-0? Looks like it. What quarter does Trent Green get hurt? I’ll do middle of the 3rd. Keep an eye on this.
Cowboys -11.5 over Redskins
Dallas certainly looks like the best team in football after the first 3 weeks. Despite a division game, I think they still roll.
Eagles -3.5 over Bears
The NFC East may have 3 of the top 5 teams in all of football. Donovan will get back on track passing the ball after a grind it out victory over the Steelers last week.
Ravens +7.5 over Steelers
Monday Night Football could be ugly with Joe Flacco at the helm. But no Willie Parker, can Mendenhall hold on to the ball? The Ravens could even go 3-0, not as bad a game as I first thought.
Besse’s picks
Last week: 10-6
Overall: 25-22
Browns +3.5 over Bengals
I think Cincy wins on a late field goal. But bet the Over and bet it heavy. This has the makings of another wild shootout, much like last year’s game. Anderson will save his job for another week, but Palmer, Housh and Ocho get the best of the Browns.
Vikings +3.5 over Titans
Vikings defense is potent and will not only shut down the run, but force Kerry Collins into some ill-advised throws. Low scoring affair here, but the Vikings win outright.
Broncos -9.5 over Chiefs
Shannon Sharpe may need to call the National Guard for this one, much like he did against the Pats several years ago. It will be ugly in so many ways.
Saints -6.5 over 49ers
I love the way the Saints played last week in a heartbreaking loss to the Broncos. At home against the 49ers, I think it’s a shootout but Brees and Bush will pull ahead late and cover.
Cardinals +2.5 over Jets
I don’t like the Cardinals traveling cross country for the second straight week, but I don’t like the Jets, period. Warner and Co. will light up the skies and Favre’s bum ankle won’t be able to keep pace. Cardinals secondary has been stingy, by the way. Anyone else notice that yet?
Bucs -1.5 over Packers
Jon Gruden is proving himself once again as one of the best, and most underrated coaches in the game. His defense will prevail in this one, pressuring Aaron Rodgers much like the Cowboys did last week.
Panthers -7.5 over Falcons
Panthers have kept Tomlinson, Forte and Peterson at bay the first three weeks of the season. They’ll load up 7 or 8 in the box this week and force Matt Ryan to make some uncomfortable throws. And Steve Smith will break out.
Jaguars -7.5 over Texans
Jaguars at home coming off a big win over Indy. I don’t expect a let down. The running game will have another big week and cover in a mini shootout.
Chargers -7.5 over Raiders
Lane Kiffin has kept the Raiders competitive in Week 2 and 3 and should probably be 2-1 right now. Regardless, his team will get lit up by San Diego and give Al Davis a reason to fire him. I don’t agree with the rumors swirling around Kiffin’s firing now and I won’t agree with it when it happens, either.
Rams +8.5 over Bills
Rams will win outright in a big upset. This could be a track meet in St. Louis, and while I’m concerned for Trent Green’s livelihood this week, I think he’ll survive and win.
Redskins +11.5 over Cowboys
Dallas has made some careless mistakes and shown flashes of vulnerability. I still think they’re the best team in the NFL and the favorite to win the Super Bowl, but the Redskins will put up a fight. The outcome won’t be decided until the final minutes, so look for the Skins to cover.
Eagles -3.5 over Bears
The Bears should really draft a quarterback this year. A good one. This is a great matchup for Philly, and whether Westbrook plays or not won’t really matter. Buckhalter is as good a back as any in this league when healthy, so the offense shouldn’t skip a beat.
Ravens +7.5 over Steelers
This could be as bad a Monday Night game as we’ve seen in a longtime. Flacco at QB, Big Ben playing hurt and Willie Parker out. It will be exciting only because neither team will be able to score and thus it will be close. Bet your mortgage on the under.
Random Rob’s picks
Last week: 8-8
Overall: 29-18
Browns
Titans
Broncos
Saints
Cardinals
Packers
Panthers
Jaguars
Chargers
Bills
Cowboys
Eagles
Ravens
-Bess
The Jim/Pam proposal was a bittersweet moment for me, though. Tara had predicted at the end of last season that Jim not proposing meant they were going to have the two of them drift apart in Season 5. I refused to believe it, but when I saw Pam go off to Design school, the writing was on the wall. Then there was the scene where that dork commented on his “ex-girlfriend” being right behind them, pleading that no one look. Obviously they did and it turned out to be an 80-year old professor. I called it on the spot that Pam would get with that guy because he was just like Jim. Tara refused to agree, saying it wouldn’t be the jokester from the hallway, so we bet a dinner at Turner’s on it. Moments later Jim and Pam were having trouble making plans and Jim mentioned they hadn’t seen each other in 10 days. I gave a fist pump and an “I told you so” across the couch, then ate my foot when he dropped to a knee outside the gas station in the pouring rain. Pretty solid work on Jim’s part, I give him credit. But I’m wondering if this nullifies our bet or if I’ve lost. I argue that Tara and I both agreed they would drift apart, and the bet was on whether or not Pam would get with that geek from the hallway. Regardless, I’m pissed I didn’t win the bet. I thought I had that one pegged from a mile away.
Onto the picks…
Keefe and I tied last week, but he maintains honors due to his victory in Week 2. For Random Rob, I put four pieces of paper in a cup with the words “Home”, “Away”, “Favorite” and “Underdog” on them. Each game I drew one of the slips out of the cup and based on the word, selected a team to which that word applied. For example, I drew “Underdog” for the Browns/Bengals tilt, so the Browns got the nod since they are getting 3.5 points.
Keefe’s picks
Last week: 10-6
Overall: 26-21
Browns +3.5 over Bengals
Battle of 0-3 teams from Ohio. Derek Anderson could very well be playing for his job, remember last year’s battle with 11 TDs in the air? Expect a lot of points once again.
Vikings +3.5 over Titans
Vikings great run D will make Chris Johnson and Lendale White much less effective thus making Kerry Collins open it up, may very well equal their first loss.
Broncos -9.5 over Chiefs
Chiefs might just be the worst team in football not named the Rams. Cutler and Marshall continue their record breaking ways.
49ers +6.5 over Saints
I expect another high scoring affair here. No Coleston, no Shockey, no cover.
Cardinals +2.5 over Jets
You see the Jets on MNF? Not as good as I predicted them to be. Darrelle Revis is good, but he can’t stop both Fitzgerald and Boldin.
Packers +1.5 over Buccaneers
Is Brian Griese going to throw the ball 67 times again? He might, no Al Harris will be a big loss for the Packers’ D, but not enough in this one.
Falcons +7.5 over Panthers
I like Michael Turner. The sneaky Falcons will at least keep this one close.
Texans +7.5 over Jaguars
I know the Jags finally won a game last weekend, but I am not a fan. I think they’re the most over hyped team in football. Texans have struggled, but I think their defense keep them in it.
Chargers -7.5 over Raiders
Chargers made some plays on D last week. LT doesn’t look 100%, but Sproles does and the Raiders are terrible. Is Lane Kiffin still the coach?
Bills -8.5 over Rams
Buffalo 4-0? Looks like it. What quarter does Trent Green get hurt? I’ll do middle of the 3rd. Keep an eye on this.
Cowboys -11.5 over Redskins
Dallas certainly looks like the best team in football after the first 3 weeks. Despite a division game, I think they still roll.
Eagles -3.5 over Bears
The NFC East may have 3 of the top 5 teams in all of football. Donovan will get back on track passing the ball after a grind it out victory over the Steelers last week.
Ravens +7.5 over Steelers
Monday Night Football could be ugly with Joe Flacco at the helm. But no Willie Parker, can Mendenhall hold on to the ball? The Ravens could even go 3-0, not as bad a game as I first thought.
Besse’s picks
Last week: 10-6
Overall: 25-22
Browns +3.5 over Bengals
I think Cincy wins on a late field goal. But bet the Over and bet it heavy. This has the makings of another wild shootout, much like last year’s game. Anderson will save his job for another week, but Palmer, Housh and Ocho get the best of the Browns.
Vikings +3.5 over Titans
Vikings defense is potent and will not only shut down the run, but force Kerry Collins into some ill-advised throws. Low scoring affair here, but the Vikings win outright.
Broncos -9.5 over Chiefs
Shannon Sharpe may need to call the National Guard for this one, much like he did against the Pats several years ago. It will be ugly in so many ways.
Saints -6.5 over 49ers
I love the way the Saints played last week in a heartbreaking loss to the Broncos. At home against the 49ers, I think it’s a shootout but Brees and Bush will pull ahead late and cover.
Cardinals +2.5 over Jets
I don’t like the Cardinals traveling cross country for the second straight week, but I don’t like the Jets, period. Warner and Co. will light up the skies and Favre’s bum ankle won’t be able to keep pace. Cardinals secondary has been stingy, by the way. Anyone else notice that yet?
Bucs -1.5 over Packers
Jon Gruden is proving himself once again as one of the best, and most underrated coaches in the game. His defense will prevail in this one, pressuring Aaron Rodgers much like the Cowboys did last week.
Panthers -7.5 over Falcons
Panthers have kept Tomlinson, Forte and Peterson at bay the first three weeks of the season. They’ll load up 7 or 8 in the box this week and force Matt Ryan to make some uncomfortable throws. And Steve Smith will break out.
Jaguars -7.5 over Texans
Jaguars at home coming off a big win over Indy. I don’t expect a let down. The running game will have another big week and cover in a mini shootout.
Chargers -7.5 over Raiders
Lane Kiffin has kept the Raiders competitive in Week 2 and 3 and should probably be 2-1 right now. Regardless, his team will get lit up by San Diego and give Al Davis a reason to fire him. I don’t agree with the rumors swirling around Kiffin’s firing now and I won’t agree with it when it happens, either.
Rams +8.5 over Bills
Rams will win outright in a big upset. This could be a track meet in St. Louis, and while I’m concerned for Trent Green’s livelihood this week, I think he’ll survive and win.
Redskins +11.5 over Cowboys
Dallas has made some careless mistakes and shown flashes of vulnerability. I still think they’re the best team in the NFL and the favorite to win the Super Bowl, but the Redskins will put up a fight. The outcome won’t be decided until the final minutes, so look for the Skins to cover.
Eagles -3.5 over Bears
The Bears should really draft a quarterback this year. A good one. This is a great matchup for Philly, and whether Westbrook plays or not won’t really matter. Buckhalter is as good a back as any in this league when healthy, so the offense shouldn’t skip a beat.
Ravens +7.5 over Steelers
This could be as bad a Monday Night game as we’ve seen in a longtime. Flacco at QB, Big Ben playing hurt and Willie Parker out. It will be exciting only because neither team will be able to score and thus it will be close. Bet your mortgage on the under.
Random Rob’s picks
Last week: 8-8
Overall: 29-18
Browns
Titans
Broncos
Saints
Cardinals
Packers
Panthers
Jaguars
Chargers
Bills
Cowboys
Eagles
Ravens
-Bess
Thursday, September 25, 2008
David Blaine: What the?
First off let me say I am an absolute fan of card tricks and all that stuff. If David Blaine or any other person who had just read a book on card tricks walked up to me, I would be entertained for hours. So when DB (you got to like how they made his initials look like a spade last night), does his Street Magic, I'm in. During his primetime special for "Dive of Death," which I'll get into, they showed close to 2 hours of his performances on the street. And I mean on the street. You see some of these crowds he found? It could be considered magic that he survived. Regardless I was just as blown away as everyone else by the money tricks, card mind f's, and lottery ticket predictions. Let's face it, the stuff he's doing is out there, and I have no idea how he does it. But that's where it should end for D. Blaine.
Instead you got a guy who stands in a block of ice for days, stands on a pole high above the Earth, attempts to hold his breath for a NFL quarter, and then last night this "Dive of Death." Did they ever explain the point to this? Ok I get that he hung like a bat upside down for 60 hours... or so we were told. Apparently he was up there less than 50 minutes on this past Monday when he was standing upright. He got water breaks and time to releave himself. That's not magic, that's precautionary. I don't get it. John Saunders, the reluctant MC for the night, made a brief mention of people who had been in Central Park and seen Blaine standing, but according to the distinguished doctors on hand (where did they find these guys), they said that he was never upright long enough to completely orient his body. Ok, fine.
After the "60*" hours was up, Blaine was hoisted into a crane and placed atop the 44 foot apparatice. The countdown clock ticked down, all that remained was the "Dive of Death." So, what was he going to do again? Just dump onto the platform? Well I certainly didn't know, no one ever said what was supposed to happen. With everyone watching Blaine took a step off and started to fall, it didn't take long until you could see the cable attached to him. What the? Blaine briefly touches the giant base only to be pulled gently back up to the sky. Not only did we not know if this was the plan of attack, but they obviously failed to mention any of this to Saunders, who as Besse pointed out, gave the awkward and ultimately premature "That was amazing."
Was it amazing? Maybe the fact that people looked on for hours in Central Park to witness... whatever that was, could be considered amazing. Saunders continued, "and like that he disappears into the atmosphere." Come on. Next thing you know, ABC is running the credits on the screen as I wait for answers that never came.
According to David Blaine himself, who was on with the smoking hot Kelly Ripa and the ageless Regis today, he said, he was supposed to jump and, at 10 feet, be swept away by a bunch of helium-filled balloons. Really? Maybe it's better it didn't work out. How is that any better? What a disaster. "Dive of Death?" with balloons. What is he, a clown now? I just don't get it. Stick to street magic David.
What card am I thinking of?
-Keefe
Instead you got a guy who stands in a block of ice for days, stands on a pole high above the Earth, attempts to hold his breath for a NFL quarter, and then last night this "Dive of Death." Did they ever explain the point to this? Ok I get that he hung like a bat upside down for 60 hours... or so we were told. Apparently he was up there less than 50 minutes on this past Monday when he was standing upright. He got water breaks and time to releave himself. That's not magic, that's precautionary. I don't get it. John Saunders, the reluctant MC for the night, made a brief mention of people who had been in Central Park and seen Blaine standing, but according to the distinguished doctors on hand (where did they find these guys), they said that he was never upright long enough to completely orient his body. Ok, fine.
After the "60*" hours was up, Blaine was hoisted into a crane and placed atop the 44 foot apparatice. The countdown clock ticked down, all that remained was the "Dive of Death." So, what was he going to do again? Just dump onto the platform? Well I certainly didn't know, no one ever said what was supposed to happen. With everyone watching Blaine took a step off and started to fall, it didn't take long until you could see the cable attached to him. What the? Blaine briefly touches the giant base only to be pulled gently back up to the sky. Not only did we not know if this was the plan of attack, but they obviously failed to mention any of this to Saunders, who as Besse pointed out, gave the awkward and ultimately premature "That was amazing."
Was it amazing? Maybe the fact that people looked on for hours in Central Park to witness... whatever that was, could be considered amazing. Saunders continued, "and like that he disappears into the atmosphere." Come on. Next thing you know, ABC is running the credits on the screen as I wait for answers that never came.
According to David Blaine himself, who was on with the smoking hot Kelly Ripa and the ageless Regis today, he said, he was supposed to jump and, at 10 feet, be swept away by a bunch of helium-filled balloons. Really? Maybe it's better it didn't work out. How is that any better? What a disaster. "Dive of Death?" with balloons. What is he, a clown now? I just don't get it. Stick to street magic David.
What card am I thinking of?
(Week 4 NFL picks coming tomorrow)
-Keefe
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
KO clips of the Week
We here at The Brief apologize for the brief hiatus from our highly revered KO Clips of the Week segment. It's been busy times, but we assure you we'll try not to go too long in between postings from here on out. But enough of the sappy monologue, let's get to the knockouts!!!
Here's a personal favorite of mine - thanks to Scotty Chourico for filling in the details on this puppy. Back during my days at New Bedford High we were in the Me & Ed's parking lot in the South End hanging out when some guy pulled up and started yelling at some kid Abram, who happened to be sitting in his car. The guy was obviously pissed off, repeatedly screaming "Where my loot nigga!?!" while "A-bum" put his windows up and locked the doors. But he forgot to close the sunroof. Before we knew it, homeboy was up on the roof foot-stomping the poor bastard. Thankfully he didn't end up like this guy...
This next clip is an MMA fight with one of the more brutal ending I've ever seen. The guy on his back is trying to lock in a reverse triangle, which is nothing short of ridiculous. Unfortunately, the guy on top was a lot stronger than he thought. I can't believe this guy didn't die.
And finally, this may be the gem of the week. Caught on film in New Orleans, this guy was having the time of his life until he got too tough for his own good. Not only does he get KTFO'd once, but he goes back for more. Enjoy the "Blind Date" style captions, and please enjoy the color commentary from the people on the street, particularly the black guy in the red shirt.
Feel free to send us any of your favorite KO clips that we can share. Hope you enjoyed.
-Bess
Here's a personal favorite of mine - thanks to Scotty Chourico for filling in the details on this puppy. Back during my days at New Bedford High we were in the Me & Ed's parking lot in the South End hanging out when some guy pulled up and started yelling at some kid Abram, who happened to be sitting in his car. The guy was obviously pissed off, repeatedly screaming "Where my loot nigga!?!" while "A-bum" put his windows up and locked the doors. But he forgot to close the sunroof. Before we knew it, homeboy was up on the roof foot-stomping the poor bastard. Thankfully he didn't end up like this guy...
This next clip is an MMA fight with one of the more brutal ending I've ever seen. The guy on his back is trying to lock in a reverse triangle, which is nothing short of ridiculous. Unfortunately, the guy on top was a lot stronger than he thought. I can't believe this guy didn't die.
And finally, this may be the gem of the week. Caught on film in New Orleans, this guy was having the time of his life until he got too tough for his own good. Not only does he get KTFO'd once, but he goes back for more. Enjoy the "Blind Date" style captions, and please enjoy the color commentary from the people on the street, particularly the black guy in the red shirt.
Feel free to send us any of your favorite KO clips that we can share. Hope you enjoyed.
-Bess
Friday, September 19, 2008
The Sports Brief's Week 3 NFL picks
This week Keefe gets the honors as he edged out myself and Random Rob by one pick. For Week 3, we went to the dartboard for Random Rob’s picks. I threw darts at the board and if it landed on a black space, that signified RR was picking the home team for the game in questions. If it landed on a white space, RR went with the away team for said pick. Bullseyes and misfires (yes, both of which did occur) represented an abstention and thus, a redo.
And here we go…
Keefe
Last Week: 11-4
Overall: 16-15
Falcons -4.5 over Chiefs
Chiefs are horrible. Tyler Thigpen is the 3rd starting QB in 3 weeks. Look for Michael Turner have a day somewhere in between his first 2.
Bills -8.5 over Raiders
This is the toughest game to pick of the week. The Raiders have looked like 2 completely different teams in the first 2 games. Buffalo is a tough place to play and Trent Edwards is getting more and more comfortable.
Bears -3.5 over Buccaneers
Not going to be a pretty game, but that Bears D and Forte get the job done.
Titans -4.5 over Texans
I liked the Texans at the start of the year, after Hurricane Ike they’ll have a lot more on their mind then just football. Plus Kerry Collins is better for that Titan O.
Panthers +3.5 over Vikings
Carolina is 2-0 and they just got Steve Smith back. Vikings can stuff the run, so it’s the perfect time to get back one of the premier wideouts in the league.
Dolphins +12.5 over Patriots
Don’t get me wrong, the Pats improve to 3-0 this weekend. But after a 7 point win over the hapless Chiefs and a 9 point win over the Jets, why should I think they beat the Phins by 13?
Giants -13.5 over Bengals
Will Carson Palmer throw a TD this week? It won’t matter, the Bengals can’t stop anyone.
Cardinals +3.5 over Redskins
Kurt Warner and the surprise Cards keep on keepin’ on.
Saints +5.5 over Broncos
Saints may want to guard Brandon Marshall. He only had 18 grabs last week. I think Drew Brees does enough to keep it close, somehow there is no “D” is Denver… think about it.
49ers -4.5 over Lions
I got J.T. O’Sullivan going in one of my fantasy teams, so I can’t go against them here against the terrible Lions.
Seahawks -9.5 over Rams
This is a big spread for such a bad team. Hasselbeck gets round 2 of Koren Robinson in Seattle and Keary Colbert. Not great, but the Rams may very well be the worst team in football. Let the St. Louis or USC debates begin.
Browns +1.5 over Ravens
The Browns have to turn it around, right? Anderson, Braylon, Winslow, Jamal Lewis… let’s go! Big game for Romeo.
Eagles -2.5 over Steelers
2 of the best teams after the first 2 weeks, and a Pennsylvania civil war. I’ll take McNabb in a bounce back game.
Jaguars +5.5 over Colts
I don’t like the Jags, said so at the start of the year. They will miss the playoffs. But without Bob Sanders I don’t see the Colts winning by more than 6. I expect a close one.
Cowboys -2.5 over Packers
Cowboys in primetime again. Another great match up here, with 2 of the best teams in the NFC. Packers D will have their work cut out.
Chargers -8.5 over Jets
Brett Favre on Monday Night! Yeah, I’m over it too. San Diego is winless, they’ll come out fast and put away the Bretts early.
Besse
Last Week: 9-6
Overall: 15-16
Falcons -4.5 over Chiefs
Not only should the running game resemble that of Week 1, but the Chiefs could have Keefe under center come week 4.
Bills -8.5 over Raiders
If the Raiders didn’t have to travel so damn far, I might have them covering here despite the fact that both Fargas and McFadden could be out. Bush can play, too, you know. Bills are a better football team, period.
Bears -3.5 over Buccaneers
Bears D could have a field day on this offense. They might actually look impressive as a team this week.
Titans -4.5 over Texans
Something tells me Kerry Collins will be the quarterback of this team for the rest of the season. They’re better with him under center. Texans are facing adversity on and off the field. Tough draw.
Panthers +3.5 over Vikings
AP may be out, and Steve Smith returns for the Panthers. Not a good combination for the Vikings.
Patriots -12.5 over Dolphins
Cassel will open it up with Moss downfield and torch the Dolphins D.
Bengals +13.5 over Giants
I still think the Bengals can turn this offense around. But the Giants will torch that defense. This could actually be a shootout, and I think the Giants win but fail to cover.
Redskins -3.5 over Cardinals
Long trip for Warner and the Cards. They’ll make a game of it, but the Redskins looked much better last week and will continue to improve in a solid win here.
Saints +5.5 over Broncos
Highest scoring game of the week with both defenses better off staying home. Broncos punch one in late again to improve to 3-0.
49ers -4.5 over Lions
49ers get another bad defense this week and should capitalize. Kitna will most likely throw for 300 yards, but he’ll probably toss another 3 picks out there, too.
Seahawks -9.5 over Rams
Hasselbeck and the Seahawks get to forget about their offensive woes for one week, looking like a legitimate offense with practice squad wideouts against the Rams.
Browns +1.5 over Ravens
I like Cleveland to gut one out against the Ravens here.
Eagles -2.5 over Steelers
Should be a terrific football game. Too bad it’s not on primetime. Reggie Brown may be back for the Eagles, and Mcnabb and Westbrook should had enough tricks in their bag to prevail here.
Colts -5.5 over Jags
Colts will pull out a solid victory and send Jacksonville to 0-3. Sadly, I had the Jags winning the division. Woops.
Cowboys -2.5 over Packers
I love TO.
Chargers -8.5 over Jets
This could be a fun game for both offenses. I like to think that the Chargers are just a better football team, though, whether Tomlinson is there or not. Sproles is explosive and should help maintain a nice rhythm on offense.
Random Rob
Last week: 9-6
Overall: 21-10
Falcons (-4.5)
Bills (-8.5)
Bears (-3.5)
Titans (-4.5)
Vikings (-3.5)
Pats (-12.5)Giants (-13.5)
Cardinals (+3.5)
Saints (+5.5)
Lions (+4.5)
Rams (+9.5)
Ravens (-1.5)
Steelers (+2.5)
Colts (-5.5)
Packers (+2.5)
Chargers (-8.5)
And here we go…
Keefe
Last Week: 11-4
Overall: 16-15
Falcons -4.5 over Chiefs
Chiefs are horrible. Tyler Thigpen is the 3rd starting QB in 3 weeks. Look for Michael Turner have a day somewhere in between his first 2.
Bills -8.5 over Raiders
This is the toughest game to pick of the week. The Raiders have looked like 2 completely different teams in the first 2 games. Buffalo is a tough place to play and Trent Edwards is getting more and more comfortable.
Bears -3.5 over Buccaneers
Not going to be a pretty game, but that Bears D and Forte get the job done.
Titans -4.5 over Texans
I liked the Texans at the start of the year, after Hurricane Ike they’ll have a lot more on their mind then just football. Plus Kerry Collins is better for that Titan O.
Panthers +3.5 over Vikings
Carolina is 2-0 and they just got Steve Smith back. Vikings can stuff the run, so it’s the perfect time to get back one of the premier wideouts in the league.
Dolphins +12.5 over Patriots
Don’t get me wrong, the Pats improve to 3-0 this weekend. But after a 7 point win over the hapless Chiefs and a 9 point win over the Jets, why should I think they beat the Phins by 13?
Giants -13.5 over Bengals
Will Carson Palmer throw a TD this week? It won’t matter, the Bengals can’t stop anyone.
Cardinals +3.5 over Redskins
Kurt Warner and the surprise Cards keep on keepin’ on.
Saints +5.5 over Broncos
Saints may want to guard Brandon Marshall. He only had 18 grabs last week. I think Drew Brees does enough to keep it close, somehow there is no “D” is Denver… think about it.
49ers -4.5 over Lions
I got J.T. O’Sullivan going in one of my fantasy teams, so I can’t go against them here against the terrible Lions.
Seahawks -9.5 over Rams
This is a big spread for such a bad team. Hasselbeck gets round 2 of Koren Robinson in Seattle and Keary Colbert. Not great, but the Rams may very well be the worst team in football. Let the St. Louis or USC debates begin.
Browns +1.5 over Ravens
The Browns have to turn it around, right? Anderson, Braylon, Winslow, Jamal Lewis… let’s go! Big game for Romeo.
Eagles -2.5 over Steelers
2 of the best teams after the first 2 weeks, and a Pennsylvania civil war. I’ll take McNabb in a bounce back game.
Jaguars +5.5 over Colts
I don’t like the Jags, said so at the start of the year. They will miss the playoffs. But without Bob Sanders I don’t see the Colts winning by more than 6. I expect a close one.
Cowboys -2.5 over Packers
Cowboys in primetime again. Another great match up here, with 2 of the best teams in the NFC. Packers D will have their work cut out.
Chargers -8.5 over Jets
Brett Favre on Monday Night! Yeah, I’m over it too. San Diego is winless, they’ll come out fast and put away the Bretts early.
Besse
Last Week: 9-6
Overall: 15-16
Falcons -4.5 over Chiefs
Not only should the running game resemble that of Week 1, but the Chiefs could have Keefe under center come week 4.
Bills -8.5 over Raiders
If the Raiders didn’t have to travel so damn far, I might have them covering here despite the fact that both Fargas and McFadden could be out. Bush can play, too, you know. Bills are a better football team, period.
Bears -3.5 over Buccaneers
Bears D could have a field day on this offense. They might actually look impressive as a team this week.
Titans -4.5 over Texans
Something tells me Kerry Collins will be the quarterback of this team for the rest of the season. They’re better with him under center. Texans are facing adversity on and off the field. Tough draw.
Panthers +3.5 over Vikings
AP may be out, and Steve Smith returns for the Panthers. Not a good combination for the Vikings.
Patriots -12.5 over Dolphins
Cassel will open it up with Moss downfield and torch the Dolphins D.
Bengals +13.5 over Giants
I still think the Bengals can turn this offense around. But the Giants will torch that defense. This could actually be a shootout, and I think the Giants win but fail to cover.
Redskins -3.5 over Cardinals
Long trip for Warner and the Cards. They’ll make a game of it, but the Redskins looked much better last week and will continue to improve in a solid win here.
Saints +5.5 over Broncos
Highest scoring game of the week with both defenses better off staying home. Broncos punch one in late again to improve to 3-0.
49ers -4.5 over Lions
49ers get another bad defense this week and should capitalize. Kitna will most likely throw for 300 yards, but he’ll probably toss another 3 picks out there, too.
Seahawks -9.5 over Rams
Hasselbeck and the Seahawks get to forget about their offensive woes for one week, looking like a legitimate offense with practice squad wideouts against the Rams.
Browns +1.5 over Ravens
I like Cleveland to gut one out against the Ravens here.
Eagles -2.5 over Steelers
Should be a terrific football game. Too bad it’s not on primetime. Reggie Brown may be back for the Eagles, and Mcnabb and Westbrook should had enough tricks in their bag to prevail here.
Colts -5.5 over Jags
Colts will pull out a solid victory and send Jacksonville to 0-3. Sadly, I had the Jags winning the division. Woops.
Cowboys -2.5 over Packers
I love TO.
Chargers -8.5 over Jets
This could be a fun game for both offenses. I like to think that the Chargers are just a better football team, though, whether Tomlinson is there or not. Sproles is explosive and should help maintain a nice rhythm on offense.
Random Rob
Last week: 9-6
Overall: 21-10
Falcons (-4.5)
Bills (-8.5)
Bears (-3.5)
Titans (-4.5)
Vikings (-3.5)
Pats (-12.5)Giants (-13.5)
Cardinals (+3.5)
Saints (+5.5)
Lions (+4.5)
Rams (+9.5)
Ravens (-1.5)
Steelers (+2.5)
Colts (-5.5)
Packers (+2.5)
Chargers (-8.5)
Friday, September 12, 2008
The Sports Brief's Week 2 NFL Picks
Well it’s Friday and we’re just two days away from Week 2 in the NFL. A few interesting matchups lie ahead, particularly the Pats-Jets, Broncos-Chargers, Browns-Steelers and of course, the Cowboys and Eagles on Monday night. Meanwhile, will teams like the Jaguars, Colts, and Seahawks drop to 0-2? And how will the Patriots fare without Tom Brady as they visit, as Keefe so aptly put it, the New York Bretts.
Random Ron took it down last week with 12 correct picks, while myself (6) and Keefe (5) turned in miserable efforts. As in golf, honors go to Ron, whose picks this week come from my girlfriend Tara. I e-mailed her the matchups with spreads and asked her to BOLD her picks. She chose to highlight them in pink and send them back. The picks were sent to her at 2:16pm and I received them at 2:18pm; that should give you an idea as to how much time and effort she put in.
Random Rob:
Last week: 12-4
Redskins (-0.5) over Saints
Jaguars (-6.5) over Bills
Raiders (+3.5) over Chiefs
Bengals (-1.5) over Titans
Colts (-1.5) over Vikings
Giants (-8.5) over Rams
Bears (+3.5) over Panthers
Packers (-2.5) over Lions
49ers (+8.5) over Seahawks
Bucs (-8.5) over Falcons
Jets (-2.5) over Patriots
Cardinals (-6.5) over Dolphins
Chargers (-3.5) over Broncos
Steelers (-5.5) over Browns
Ravens (+4.5) over Texans
Cowboys (-6.5) over Eagles
Keefe’s picks:
Last week: 5-11
Saints +.5 over Redskins
Even without Colston I like the Saints to grab a road win.
Bills +6.5 over Jaguars
Bills were impressive vs. Seattle, and Jax is the most overrated team in football, in my opinion.
Chiefs -3.5 over Raiders
Damon Huard another back up getting the start, but did you see the Raiders last Monday?
Titans +1.5 over Bengals
No Vince Young may actually help Tennessee, and Cincy is a mess.
Colts -1.5 over Vikings
Colts can’t lose back-to-back NFC North games, can they?
Giants -8.5 over Rams
Just when you thought the Raiders were the worst team in football… here come the Rams.
Bears +3.5 over Panthers
Bears D came to play against the Colts, maybe they’re not done.
Packers -2.5 over Lions
Let the Aaron Rodgers band wagon continue to grow.
49ers +8.5 over Seahawks
Who is going to catch passes in Seattle?
Falcons +8.5 over Buccaneers
Garcia says he’s healthy, but still not getting the start. Let’s see if Michael “the Burner” Turner can keep it rolling.
Patriots +2.5 over Jets
So weird to see the Pats as underdogs. No Brady, but still a plethora of Pro Bowlers on this team to take down the New York Bretts.
Cardinals -6.5 over Dolphins
Miami has to travel cross country to go to 0-2. Pennington makes them much more respectable than last year, but it Cards still beat them up.
Broncos +3.5 over Chargers
Good rivalry here. Cutler gets his favorite target back in Brandon Marshall, to pair with last week’s favorite Eddie Royal. Also Shawn “Lights Out” Merriman… is out.
Browns +5.5 over Steelers
Not sure the Browns will win this game, but they keep it close.
Texans -4.5 over Ravens
Now a Monday night game, I’ll take the home team with their crowd.
Cowboys -6.5 over Eagles
A Terrell Owens TDs, gives the Cowboys the cover.
Besse’s picks:
Last week: 6-10
Saints (+0.5) over Redskins
Colston is out, but Reggie put on a show last week. Expect to see another one. Redskins offense will look better this week, but not good enough.
Jaguars (-6.5) over Bills
I expect the Jaguars D to thwart the Bills at home here. The offensive line is a bit banged up, but Garrard should find himself with plenty of options to throw to.
Chiefs (-3.5) over Raiders
How bad did the Raiders look on Monday night? Chiefs played tough in New England and should cover here with plenty of LJ and TG.
Titans (+1.5) over Bengals
VY going down was great timing for Week 2. Kerry Collins could light up Cincy, and Palmer and Co. should have just as much trouble with the Titans D as they did with the Ravens last week.
Colts (-1.5) over Vikings
Tavaris Jackson sucks.
Giants (-8.5) over Rams
The Rams offense is surprisingly bad. The defense is expectedly worse. Manning (of the Eli variety) could have a career day.
Bears (+3.5) over Panthers
Interesting matchup here. I don’t think the Bears win. But I think a late field goal or garbage Matt Forte TD helps them cover.
Packers (-2.5) over Lions
The Lions are brutal. I question if this is a trap game, but I can’t help but hope Rodgers can pull this one out. Jennings, Driver and Grant in a dome could turn into a track meet against that D.
49ers (+8.5) over Seahawks
Hasselback is out of receivers. And he doesn’t have a running back either. Tough.
Falcons (+8.5) over Bucs
Veteran back-up against a promising rookie. I think Griese should pull out the win, but not by 9. Ryan has a dynamic duo in the backfield taking pressure off of him right now and allowing him a chance to limit mistakes in the passing game. Tough D this week, but I like them to cover.
Patriots (+2.5) over Jets
I can’t root against New England here.
Dolphins (+6.5) over Cardinals
Oddly enough, this could be a shootout. Big fan of Pennington to Fasano, and Warner should have be a great fantasy QB all year long.
Broncos (+3.5) over Chargers
With Merriman out, this Chargers D is in trouble all year long. Marshall is back for Denver, so Cutler has a nice array of receivers with Eddie Royal making a splash.
Steelers (-5.5) over Browns
Browns were banged up against Dallas and the Steelers are a solid team. I expect to see Big Ben air it out a bit more this week.
Ravens (+4.5) over Texans
Not sure how the Ravens are getting 4.5 here. This could be a low scoring affair if the Ravens D has its way. Regardless, Flacco should be able to keep it close against a porous D.
Cowboys (-6.5) over Eagles
Mcnabb won’t be lighting it up against this pass defense. Romo and TO will make sure the Cowboys make a statement at home on Monday night.
Random Ron took it down last week with 12 correct picks, while myself (6) and Keefe (5) turned in miserable efforts. As in golf, honors go to Ron, whose picks this week come from my girlfriend Tara. I e-mailed her the matchups with spreads and asked her to BOLD her picks. She chose to highlight them in pink and send them back. The picks were sent to her at 2:16pm and I received them at 2:18pm; that should give you an idea as to how much time and effort she put in.
Random Rob:
Last week: 12-4
Redskins (-0.5) over Saints
Jaguars (-6.5) over Bills
Raiders (+3.5) over Chiefs
Bengals (-1.5) over Titans
Colts (-1.5) over Vikings
Giants (-8.5) over Rams
Bears (+3.5) over Panthers
Packers (-2.5) over Lions
49ers (+8.5) over Seahawks
Bucs (-8.5) over Falcons
Jets (-2.5) over Patriots
Cardinals (-6.5) over Dolphins
Chargers (-3.5) over Broncos
Steelers (-5.5) over Browns
Ravens (+4.5) over Texans
Cowboys (-6.5) over Eagles
Keefe’s picks:
Last week: 5-11
Saints +.5 over Redskins
Even without Colston I like the Saints to grab a road win.
Bills +6.5 over Jaguars
Bills were impressive vs. Seattle, and Jax is the most overrated team in football, in my opinion.
Chiefs -3.5 over Raiders
Damon Huard another back up getting the start, but did you see the Raiders last Monday?
Titans +1.5 over Bengals
No Vince Young may actually help Tennessee, and Cincy is a mess.
Colts -1.5 over Vikings
Colts can’t lose back-to-back NFC North games, can they?
Giants -8.5 over Rams
Just when you thought the Raiders were the worst team in football… here come the Rams.
Bears +3.5 over Panthers
Bears D came to play against the Colts, maybe they’re not done.
Packers -2.5 over Lions
Let the Aaron Rodgers band wagon continue to grow.
49ers +8.5 over Seahawks
Who is going to catch passes in Seattle?
Falcons +8.5 over Buccaneers
Garcia says he’s healthy, but still not getting the start. Let’s see if Michael “the Burner” Turner can keep it rolling.
Patriots +2.5 over Jets
So weird to see the Pats as underdogs. No Brady, but still a plethora of Pro Bowlers on this team to take down the New York Bretts.
Cardinals -6.5 over Dolphins
Miami has to travel cross country to go to 0-2. Pennington makes them much more respectable than last year, but it Cards still beat them up.
Broncos +3.5 over Chargers
Good rivalry here. Cutler gets his favorite target back in Brandon Marshall, to pair with last week’s favorite Eddie Royal. Also Shawn “Lights Out” Merriman… is out.
Browns +5.5 over Steelers
Not sure the Browns will win this game, but they keep it close.
Texans -4.5 over Ravens
Now a Monday night game, I’ll take the home team with their crowd.
Cowboys -6.5 over Eagles
A Terrell Owens TDs, gives the Cowboys the cover.
Besse’s picks:
Last week: 6-10
Saints (+0.5) over Redskins
Colston is out, but Reggie put on a show last week. Expect to see another one. Redskins offense will look better this week, but not good enough.
Jaguars (-6.5) over Bills
I expect the Jaguars D to thwart the Bills at home here. The offensive line is a bit banged up, but Garrard should find himself with plenty of options to throw to.
Chiefs (-3.5) over Raiders
How bad did the Raiders look on Monday night? Chiefs played tough in New England and should cover here with plenty of LJ and TG.
Titans (+1.5) over Bengals
VY going down was great timing for Week 2. Kerry Collins could light up Cincy, and Palmer and Co. should have just as much trouble with the Titans D as they did with the Ravens last week.
Colts (-1.5) over Vikings
Tavaris Jackson sucks.
Giants (-8.5) over Rams
The Rams offense is surprisingly bad. The defense is expectedly worse. Manning (of the Eli variety) could have a career day.
Bears (+3.5) over Panthers
Interesting matchup here. I don’t think the Bears win. But I think a late field goal or garbage Matt Forte TD helps them cover.
Packers (-2.5) over Lions
The Lions are brutal. I question if this is a trap game, but I can’t help but hope Rodgers can pull this one out. Jennings, Driver and Grant in a dome could turn into a track meet against that D.
49ers (+8.5) over Seahawks
Hasselback is out of receivers. And he doesn’t have a running back either. Tough.
Falcons (+8.5) over Bucs
Veteran back-up against a promising rookie. I think Griese should pull out the win, but not by 9. Ryan has a dynamic duo in the backfield taking pressure off of him right now and allowing him a chance to limit mistakes in the passing game. Tough D this week, but I like them to cover.
Patriots (+2.5) over Jets
I can’t root against New England here.
Dolphins (+6.5) over Cardinals
Oddly enough, this could be a shootout. Big fan of Pennington to Fasano, and Warner should have be a great fantasy QB all year long.
Broncos (+3.5) over Chargers
With Merriman out, this Chargers D is in trouble all year long. Marshall is back for Denver, so Cutler has a nice array of receivers with Eddie Royal making a splash.
Steelers (-5.5) over Browns
Browns were banged up against Dallas and the Steelers are a solid team. I expect to see Big Ben air it out a bit more this week.
Ravens (+4.5) over Texans
Not sure how the Ravens are getting 4.5 here. This could be a low scoring affair if the Ravens D has its way. Regardless, Flacco should be able to keep it close against a porous D.
Cowboys (-6.5) over Eagles
Mcnabb won’t be lighting it up against this pass defense. Romo and TO will make sure the Cowboys make a statement at home on Monday night.
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