NFL: Week 15
Only three weeks remain in the NFL season and it's almost Jim Mora's favorite time of the year...the playoffs.
There are several teams, like the Packers, Saints, Texans, and 49ers who are already heading to the playoffs and some teams can join them this weekend. The rest of the league isn't thinking about the playoffs.
To quote former Indianapolis Colts head coach Jim Mora, "What's that? Ah -- Playoffs? Don't talk about -- playoffs?! You kidding me?! Playoffs?! I just hope we can win a game! Another game!
And the Bengals are one of those teams just hoping to win another game this season and I think they do on Sunday.
Bengals over RAMS: I could dive into the numbers, give you a bunch of statistics that prove to you that the Bengals win this football game, but the fact of the matter is, this is a game the Bengals should win, and must win. The loss to Houston last week was not only gut wrenching for fans, but it really hurt the Bengals playoff chances in the process.
The AFC playoff picture as of right now looks like this. The Texans are already in, the Patriots, Steelers, and Ravens can all clinch this weekend. The Broncos will probably win the West, so leaves just one Wild Card spot and right now the 8-5 NY Jets are in the driver's seat. The Bengals, Titans, and Raiders are all 7-6 and need some if they are to make the playoffs.
The Jets have games remaining against the Eagles, Giants, and Dolphins. They could win out, but they will most likely win two of the three and finish 10-6. Tennessee's remaining games feature Indianapolis (Win), Jacksonville (Win), and Houston (possibly a win if Houston has everything wrapped up by then). So, they too could finish 10-6, but 9-7 is more likely, which I don't think will be good enough to make the playoffs.
As for the Raiders, they have Detroit (Loss), Kansas City (Win), and San Diego (Loss). They could win two, but the way they are playing right now I see the Raiders finishing 8-8 and at best 9-7. Once again not good enough to clinch a Wild Card spot and not enough to beat out the Broncos in the AFC West.
Now for the Bengals. Their next two contests are very winnable games at the Rams and home against the Cardinals. If the Bengals take care of business the next two weeks, they could go into their Week 17 matchup against the Ravens with a chance to make the playoffs on the line. Baltimore could have everything wrapped up by then if the Steelers lose sometime before then, but I expect Baltimore to play their starters. And I hope they do.
If the Bengals are to make the playoffs, I want them to earn it, and beating the Ravens at home would certainly qualify as earning it. They need help though, the Jets need to lose at least one of their remaining three games, maybe even two of them, and Tennessee needs to lose at least once. But the Bengals have to take care of business on Sunday in St. Louis before we can talk about the playoffs. Bengals 31, Rams 13.
Now for the rest of my Week 15 picks, including who I like in the Game of the Week, Tom Brady, or Tim Tebow.
Week 15 Picks (Home team in CAPS)
ATLANTA over Jacksonville: I knew the Jaguars were bad, but not this bad. They got steam rolled by the Falcons Thursday night, as Matt Ryan threw for 224-yds and 3 TD, and WR Roddy White had 10 receptions for 135-yds and 2 TD. Not to mention on defense, DE John Abraham had 5 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles, one of which was returned for a touchdown, as the Falcons got one game closer to the playoffs with a 41-14 victory.
Dallas over TAMPA BAY: After last week's loss, the Cowboys are in a must win situation Saturday night in Tampa and I think they extend the Buccaneers losing streak to eight games.
BUFFALO over Miami: This game features two of the most disappointing teams in the NFL this year. Buffalo got off to that hot start, but are in the midst of a six game losing streak, while the Dolphins fired head coach Tony Soprano this week. The Bills lost 35-8 earlier this year in Miami, so I look for them to get some revenge at home.
CHICAGO over Seattle: Mathematically the Seahawks are still in the playoff race, but I would be stunned if the make the playoffs for a second straight season. In fact, I look for any playoff hopes they have to end on Sunday in Chicago, as the Bears keep their slim playoffs hopes alive with a win.
Green Bay over KANSAS CITY: Chiefs head coach Todd Haley was fired this week, so that should tell you how well things are going in Kansas City. The Packers haven't lost since last December and they won't lose this week, as they clinch home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Tennessee over INDIANAPOLIS: I hate to say, but I think it's almost inevitable, the Colts are going to go 0-16. I think they fall to 0-14 with a loss at home this Sunday against Tennessee, who stays alive in the AFC Wild Card race. Indy also clinches the number one overall pick in April's draft with a loss. Hello Andrew Luck?
New Orleans over MINNESOTA: The Saints are eyeing a first round bye and head coach Sean Payton and QB Drew Brees won't let the Vikings ruin their plans. Saints will probably put up 30 or more in a win.
NY GIANTS over Washington: The G-Men control their own destiny and they get three home games to end the season, well one is at the NY Jets, but I think you will agree with me when I say that's not an away game. It will not be easy against Washington, New York Jets, and Dallas, but I think the Giants get off to a good start by beating the Redskins at home.
HOUSTON over Carolina: Houston found a way to win last week in Cincinnati with a third string rookie quarterback and did you know that if the Texans, who have never been to the playoffs before in franchise history, win out, they would have home-field advantage in the playoffs? "Holy Crap." And with games against the Panthers, Colts, and Titans remaining, it could very well happen.
Detroit over OAKLAND: The Lions get DT Ndamukong Suh back from his suspension this week and even though they are flying out west, I like them to win on the road in Oakland, clinching their first winning season since 2000. The Raiders have lost two straight and have looked terrible doing it. With what Tebow and the Broncos are doing in Denver, Oakland might find themselves sitting on the couch come January.
ARIZONA over Cleveland: Browns QB Colt McCoy suffered a concussion last Thursday night on this hit from Steelers LB James Harrison and will likely miss the game Sunday in Arizona. Seneca Wallace will get the start at quarterback for Cleveland, but it won't matter, as the Cardinals win at home in "The Big Toaster."
NY Jets over PHILADELPHIA: At 8-5, if the Jets win their remaining three games against the Eagles, Giants, and Dolphins, they make the playoffs. It's that simple, but it won't be easy. Like the Seahawks, the Eagles are still in the NFC playoff race mathematically, but let's face it, the season has been a tremendous disappointment. Jets win a close one.
Baltimore over SAN DIEGO: The Ravens can clinch a playoff spot with a win Sunday in San Diego and even though the Chargers can still make the playoffs, those hopes will end in the loss. Chargers will miss the playoffs in another disappointing season and head coach Norv Turner's coaching seat is now on fire.
Pittsburgh over SAN FRANCISCO: A lot of defense expected in this one, as two of the league's best defenses will be on display Monday night out by the Bay. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is questionable with a high ankle sprain, but the guy is as tough as they come, and I expect him to play and to play well. Also, LB James Harrison will be suspended for the game because of yet another illegal hit last week on Colt McCoy. The Steelers have won without Harrison before and they can win without Roethlisberger too. Pittsburgh wins a defensive struggle out by the Bay, 10-9.
Game of the Week
New England over DENVER: Brady vs. Tebow and ESPN's Rick Reilly had a very interesting column this week comparing Tom and Tim that's worth taking a look at. Tebow and the Broncos are the talk of the NFL, winners of six straight, including two overtime wins and three wins by a field goal in the last three contests. The biggest key to the game will not be what Tebow and the Broncos offense do, but what the Denver defense does against Tom Brady.
If Brady and the Patriots put up 20 quick points, it is going to be hard for the Broncos to come back even against New England terrible defense that ranks dead last in the NFL at stopping the pass. Tebow's passing ability will be tested in this game and I think Bill Belichick will have his Patriots ready. As long as New England distances themselves by the fourth quarter, they win this football game. If Denver keeps it close going into the fourth quarter, however, watch out for another Tim Tebow miracle.
This Week: 1-0
Last Week: 11-5
Overall: 137-71
There are several teams, like the Packers, Saints, Texans, and 49ers who are already heading to the playoffs and some teams can join them this weekend. The rest of the league isn't thinking about the playoffs.
To quote former Indianapolis Colts head coach Jim Mora, "What's that? Ah -- Playoffs? Don't talk about -- playoffs?! You kidding me?! Playoffs?! I just hope we can win a game! Another game!
And the Bengals are one of those teams just hoping to win another game this season and I think they do on Sunday.
Bengals over RAMS: I could dive into the numbers, give you a bunch of statistics that prove to you that the Bengals win this football game, but the fact of the matter is, this is a game the Bengals should win, and must win. The loss to Houston last week was not only gut wrenching for fans, but it really hurt the Bengals playoff chances in the process.
The AFC playoff picture as of right now looks like this. The Texans are already in, the Patriots, Steelers, and Ravens can all clinch this weekend. The Broncos will probably win the West, so leaves just one Wild Card spot and right now the 8-5 NY Jets are in the driver's seat. The Bengals, Titans, and Raiders are all 7-6 and need some if they are to make the playoffs.
The Jets have games remaining against the Eagles, Giants, and Dolphins. They could win out, but they will most likely win two of the three and finish 10-6. Tennessee's remaining games feature Indianapolis (Win), Jacksonville (Win), and Houston (possibly a win if Houston has everything wrapped up by then). So, they too could finish 10-6, but 9-7 is more likely, which I don't think will be good enough to make the playoffs.
As for the Raiders, they have Detroit (Loss), Kansas City (Win), and San Diego (Loss). They could win two, but the way they are playing right now I see the Raiders finishing 8-8 and at best 9-7. Once again not good enough to clinch a Wild Card spot and not enough to beat out the Broncos in the AFC West.
Now for the Bengals. Their next two contests are very winnable games at the Rams and home against the Cardinals. If the Bengals take care of business the next two weeks, they could go into their Week 17 matchup against the Ravens with a chance to make the playoffs on the line. Baltimore could have everything wrapped up by then if the Steelers lose sometime before then, but I expect Baltimore to play their starters. And I hope they do.
If the Bengals are to make the playoffs, I want them to earn it, and beating the Ravens at home would certainly qualify as earning it. They need help though, the Jets need to lose at least one of their remaining three games, maybe even two of them, and Tennessee needs to lose at least once. But the Bengals have to take care of business on Sunday in St. Louis before we can talk about the playoffs. Bengals 31, Rams 13.
Now for the rest of my Week 15 picks, including who I like in the Game of the Week, Tom Brady, or Tim Tebow.
Week 15 Picks (Home team in CAPS)
ATLANTA over Jacksonville: I knew the Jaguars were bad, but not this bad. They got steam rolled by the Falcons Thursday night, as Matt Ryan threw for 224-yds and 3 TD, and WR Roddy White had 10 receptions for 135-yds and 2 TD. Not to mention on defense, DE John Abraham had 5 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles, one of which was returned for a touchdown, as the Falcons got one game closer to the playoffs with a 41-14 victory.
Dallas over TAMPA BAY: After last week's loss, the Cowboys are in a must win situation Saturday night in Tampa and I think they extend the Buccaneers losing streak to eight games.
BUFFALO over Miami: This game features two of the most disappointing teams in the NFL this year. Buffalo got off to that hot start, but are in the midst of a six game losing streak, while the Dolphins fired head coach Tony Soprano this week. The Bills lost 35-8 earlier this year in Miami, so I look for them to get some revenge at home.
CHICAGO over Seattle: Mathematically the Seahawks are still in the playoff race, but I would be stunned if the make the playoffs for a second straight season. In fact, I look for any playoff hopes they have to end on Sunday in Chicago, as the Bears keep their slim playoffs hopes alive with a win.
Green Bay over KANSAS CITY: Chiefs head coach Todd Haley was fired this week, so that should tell you how well things are going in Kansas City. The Packers haven't lost since last December and they won't lose this week, as they clinch home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Tennessee over INDIANAPOLIS: I hate to say, but I think it's almost inevitable, the Colts are going to go 0-16. I think they fall to 0-14 with a loss at home this Sunday against Tennessee, who stays alive in the AFC Wild Card race. Indy also clinches the number one overall pick in April's draft with a loss. Hello Andrew Luck?
New Orleans over MINNESOTA: The Saints are eyeing a first round bye and head coach Sean Payton and QB Drew Brees won't let the Vikings ruin their plans. Saints will probably put up 30 or more in a win.
NY GIANTS over Washington: The G-Men control their own destiny and they get three home games to end the season, well one is at the NY Jets, but I think you will agree with me when I say that's not an away game. It will not be easy against Washington, New York Jets, and Dallas, but I think the Giants get off to a good start by beating the Redskins at home.
HOUSTON over Carolina: Houston found a way to win last week in Cincinnati with a third string rookie quarterback and did you know that if the Texans, who have never been to the playoffs before in franchise history, win out, they would have home-field advantage in the playoffs? "Holy Crap." And with games against the Panthers, Colts, and Titans remaining, it could very well happen.
Detroit over OAKLAND: The Lions get DT Ndamukong Suh back from his suspension this week and even though they are flying out west, I like them to win on the road in Oakland, clinching their first winning season since 2000. The Raiders have lost two straight and have looked terrible doing it. With what Tebow and the Broncos are doing in Denver, Oakland might find themselves sitting on the couch come January.
ARIZONA over Cleveland: Browns QB Colt McCoy suffered a concussion last Thursday night on this hit from Steelers LB James Harrison and will likely miss the game Sunday in Arizona. Seneca Wallace will get the start at quarterback for Cleveland, but it won't matter, as the Cardinals win at home in "The Big Toaster."
NY Jets over PHILADELPHIA: At 8-5, if the Jets win their remaining three games against the Eagles, Giants, and Dolphins, they make the playoffs. It's that simple, but it won't be easy. Like the Seahawks, the Eagles are still in the NFC playoff race mathematically, but let's face it, the season has been a tremendous disappointment. Jets win a close one.
Baltimore over SAN DIEGO: The Ravens can clinch a playoff spot with a win Sunday in San Diego and even though the Chargers can still make the playoffs, those hopes will end in the loss. Chargers will miss the playoffs in another disappointing season and head coach Norv Turner's coaching seat is now on fire.
Pittsburgh over SAN FRANCISCO: A lot of defense expected in this one, as two of the league's best defenses will be on display Monday night out by the Bay. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is questionable with a high ankle sprain, but the guy is as tough as they come, and I expect him to play and to play well. Also, LB James Harrison will be suspended for the game because of yet another illegal hit last week on Colt McCoy. The Steelers have won without Harrison before and they can win without Roethlisberger too. Pittsburgh wins a defensive struggle out by the Bay, 10-9.
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| It's Tom Brady vs. Tim Tebow in a Mile High Showdown Sunday afternoon in Denver. (US Presswire) |
New England over DENVER: Brady vs. Tebow and ESPN's Rick Reilly had a very interesting column this week comparing Tom and Tim that's worth taking a look at. Tebow and the Broncos are the talk of the NFL, winners of six straight, including two overtime wins and three wins by a field goal in the last three contests. The biggest key to the game will not be what Tebow and the Broncos offense do, but what the Denver defense does against Tom Brady.
If Brady and the Patriots put up 20 quick points, it is going to be hard for the Broncos to come back even against New England terrible defense that ranks dead last in the NFL at stopping the pass. Tebow's passing ability will be tested in this game and I think Bill Belichick will have his Patriots ready. As long as New England distances themselves by the fourth quarter, they win this football game. If Denver keeps it close going into the fourth quarter, however, watch out for another Tim Tebow miracle.
This Week: 1-0
Last Week: 11-5
Overall: 137-71
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