Wasn’t the best week for me last week as I split going 2-2. It also marked the first time I’d lost my upset special, the Ravens, who probably should have won that game if not for the refs, but that’s a different story.
I also noticed that in odd weeks of the season I’ve gone 4-0 and in even weeks I’ve gone 2-2. Well, it’s an odd week and I’m feeling good about it.
Against the Spread
1. New York Jets (-2) over the Miami Dolphins
The Jets are coming off their first loss of the season and will be out for a vengeance on Monday Night against the ‘Phins. Sanchez gets his chance to shine in prime time and his new go to guy, Braylon Edwards, thrives in the spotlight.
Chad Henne was impressive in his first start, but that was against the Bills. The Jets’s defense is a lot better than the Bill’s and I’m sure rex Ryan has been scheming to confuse to young quarterback. Don;t forget that season when Rex Ryan was the Ravens defensive coordinator, the Ravens completely bottled up the Dolphin’s Wildcat in the playoffs.
2. Indianapolis Colts (-3.5) over the Tennessee Titans
One would have expected this to be for a battle for the early season lead the AFC South but it is far from it. The Colts are doing their part standing at 4-0, but the Titans come in limping at 0-4 and a disastrous game against the Jaguars.
Peyton Manning is playing the best football of his career right now and gets the depleted Titans secondary this week, which was abused by David Garrard last week. While breaking in new receivers, Peyton has shown why he is considered of the NFL’s best. This may be the last straw for Keryy Collins as many fans are clamoring for Vince Young to get his shot.
3. Atlanta Falcons (-3) over the San Francisco 49ers
A possible playoff preview? Perhaps, but it’s too early to tell. The 49ers had it easy against the Rams last week but the Falcons are no pushover.
The Falcons have had two weeks to prepare for the 49ers and I forecast a letdown the 49ers here. Expect the Falcons to get Michael Turner involved early and often. Glen Coffee is no Frank Gore so the Falcons can focus on shutting down the emerging Vernon Davis.
2009 Record: 8-4
Upset Special
1. Cleveland Browns (+220) over the Buffalo Bills
I’m going out a limb with this pick, but that’s also what I said when I predicted the Lions to beat the ‘Skins.
The Browns looked pretty good against the Bengals last week despite the overtime loss. Derek Anderson was effective at quarterback and proved why Eric Mangini chose him over Brady Quinn.
The Bills have been terrible against the run the last two games giving up 472 yards and expect the emerging Jerome Harrison to take full advantage. Couple that with the play of rookie Mohammad Massaquoi and the Browns have a respectable offense now.
The Bills look like a completely different team now than the one that nearly beat the Pats in week one. Trent Edwards has struggled, T.O. has been on existent, and the defense has been nowhere to be found. A loss here would make Dick Jauron’s seat a lot hotter.
2009 Record: 3-1
