NFL Divisional Round Picks: Sunday

By Dan Rodgers

Early Game
(3) Houston Texans (+9) at (2) Baltimore Ravens

This is a very interesting game, and fortunately for the Ravens, they get to face a very talented Texans team whose without their starting quarterback and best defensive player. Even so, Houston was able to dominate last week against Cincinnati. I think the Texans will need to get their running game going if they want to have any success. Arian Foster and Ben Tate combined for 190 against a good Cincy defense, and they'll need to find their holes to open up the passing game for Yates. The Ravens typically feast on rookie quarterbacks, but they don't usually face rookies with such a strong supporting cast.

The Ravens offense will need to make sure they have a balanced attack and don't forget to get their best offensive player, Ray Rice, the touches he deserves. The Texans must pressure Joe Flacco and force him into check downs to make sure they don't get burned by Torrey Smith or Lee Evans. Stretching the defense will be a key for Ray Rice to find some running room.

I think if Ray Rice gets 17-23 carries and a few catches, the Ravens should be balanced enough to move the ball against Houston. While I don't see the Ravens shutting Houston down, unless Haloti Ngata and the Ravens defense can't contain Foster, I think Baltimore will pull this one out and makes their second AFC Championship game in four years. This will be a close one though.

Prediction:
Baltimore Ravens 20 Houston Texans 16 (+9)

Late Game
(4) New York Giants (+8) at (1) Green Bay Packers

The Packers are, by record, the NFL's best team this season, and they were a let down against Kansas City away from going 16-0. This game is a rematch of a game in New York earlier this season. The game was before the Giants hit their stride, but they did keep the game close before losing by a field goal.

The Giants pass rush is what makes their defense so effective. They should be able to get pressure on Rodgers, and while he is a good scrambling QB, it will have some impact. New York's run defense is fairly irrelevant because the Packers don't run much, but they have to make sure they don't let Ryan Grant or James Starks break a long run. The Packers offensive effectiveness will be determined by the protection. If the Giants rush is ineffective, this game will probably turn into a blowout. However, like I said earlier, don't expect that to happen.

You can throw away the regular season statistics for the Giants offense because they are playing extremely well. They rushed for over 170 yards and Eli Manning threw three touchdowns in last week's blowout win against Atlanta. They should find success against a weak Packers defense. However, Green Bay's defense does have a knack for making big plays when it matters most, so expect them to come up with a big stop late in the game.

I think this will be an exciting game and the Giants should be able to stick with the Pack most of the way.

Prediction:
Green Bay Packers 30 New York Giants 23 (+8)

Enjoy what looks to be an awesome weekend of the Divisional Round Playoffs.

Rodgers That

NFL Week 15 Christmas Miracle Part 1

By Dan Rodgers

Week 15 in the NFL was absolutely out of control. Nothing too out of the ordinary happened in the two games before Sunday, but then things let loose.

Carolina went into Houston and just owned the Texans. There is no reason that the Texans, with a bye on the line, should have let down against a team that has made headlines all season.

Staying in the AFC South, the Indianapolis Colts played incredibly well against the Titans and will not be the second team ever to 0-16. Donald Brown dominated the Tennessee defense, including an 80-yard touchdown run.

Speaking of a one appearing in place of a zero, the Packers pursuit of perfection was put to an end by the... Kansas City Chiefs. I kid you not, the same team that lost to the Jets by more than 20 beat the previously undefeated Green Bay Packers.

I couldn't get over the fact that KC won the game. Seriously, throughout the rest of the day and all day on Monday I was so stunned. The Packers just couldn't get anything going offensively and the Packers defense was bad enough to let the Chiefs score 19.

Lastly, the New York Giants decided to wet the bed after putting up impressive offensive performances against the Packers and Cowboys. In a game that would have put the Giants in great position to make the playoffs, they couldn't get it together at home against a below average Redskins team.

The Giants loss has set up an ever-so-important game on Christmas Eve. But we'll get into that in the next post.

RECAP: The only undefeated team lost and the only defeated team won. Two teams who could have used a win lost to below average teams.

All of this commotion is just what happened early on Sunday. Ugh... I lost on GB, HOU, and TEN...

Rodgers That

NFL Week 15 Picks

By Dan Rodgers

Well, I nailed Atlanta on Thursday night and Dallas looks good tonight. 2-0 is not a bad way to start the week before getting to Sunday.

I am out of town visiting family so I'm just going to post the lines and my picks and not get in to much else.

Was/NYG 6.5 The Skins suck, but they will play the Giants tough. NY SU
GB 13.5/KC The Jets beat KC by four possessions and there is no reason for the Packers to do less than that
NO 7/Min I can't quite figure out why this spread is only a touchdown, but I'll take it...
Sea/Chi 3.5 Clearly Chicago isn't at all good without Cutler and/or Forte, Seattle will at least keep it close if not pull this one out
Car/Hou 6 I have faith in T.J. Yates
Ten 7/Ind The Titans must be pissed about last week and the Colts are beyond lucky they covered last week
Cin 7/Stl Sources say Kellen Clemens is starting for the Rams, and you know Cincy will play their hearts out considering the heartbreaking loss last week (SURVIVOR 11-3)
Mia/Buf 1.5 I have no comment on this game...
Det 1/Oak The Lions are the better team and the Packers really exposed Oakland's defense
NE 7.5/Den I think that New England's defense is bad enough and Denver's defense is good enough to keep this game within a touchdown, but the Pats probably win
NYJ/Phi 3 I can't believe the Jets are underdogs... I love them in this spot
Cle/Ari 6.5 Cleveland is just a terrible team and Arizona is playing well, let's see how they respond as favorites
Bal 3/SD Flying across the country is always tough and Ravens don't do it well. See Seattle game earlier this season
Pit/SF 1 If Big Ben doesn't play, San Fran should take care of business

Week 1: 7-9 ATS 10-6 SU
Week 2: 10-6 ATS 13-3 SU
Week 3: 11-4-1 ATS 10-6 SU
Week 4: 9-7 ATS 13-3 SU
Week 5: 6-7 ATS 7-6 SU
Week 6: 10-3 ATS 10-3 SU
Week 7: 9-3-1 ATS 10-3 SU
Week 8: 7-6 ATS 9-4 SU
Week 9: 8-6 ATS 9-5 SU
Week 10: 9-7 ATS 9-7 SU
Week 11: 6-5-2 ATS 11-2 SU
Week 12: 8-7-1 ATS 12-4 SU
Week 13: 8-8 ATS 10-6 SU
Week 14: 9-6-1 ATS 12-4 SU
Total: 117-84-6 ATS 145-62 SU

I love Arizona and Cincy this week... I also like Green Bay and New Orleans, but you will have to make a judgement call on whether their offenses will be on full blast.

Rodgers That

Week 12 Review, 13 Preview

By Dan Rodgers

OK, sorry this is out so late, but I can give you any number of people as proof that I had Seattle. It should also be proof that I said a few weeks ago that I was never picking Philly again.

First off, Thanksgiving started out decent and ended awfully. Even though the Pack covered with ease, my fantasy players in the game didn't accomplish much. Then, the Cowboys let the recently relentless Dolphins stick around long enough to get the cover. And at night the 49ers offense can't do anything and the Ravens only needed 16 points for the win and cover.

So I started off 1-2 ATS and 2-1 SU.

Then on Sunday, I forgot that whenever I pick the Rams, they suck... especially against the Cards. For the second time this season, the amazing Patrick Peterson had a punt return touchdown against St. Louis. This was incredibly frustrating.

Then the Jets game: they won, so I don't care...

I read the battle of Ohio game perfectly. However, due to the Browns being stupid enough to attempt a 55-yard field goal with less than two minutes left and the game tied, the Bengals almost got the push with an awesome play by AJ Green. Thankfully, he was pushed out at the 2-yardline and the Browns held Cincy to a field goal. Cleveland easily should have won the game as they outplayed Cincy the whole game, but at least I got the cover. The Houston game was easy even though Leinart got hurt and they played with their third-string quarterback. Carolina and Tennessee went back and forth, but I came out on top.

In my book, I had Atlanta at 9.5 but on here I have them at 10. That is frustrating considering the Falcons were owning Minnesota the whole game and out of no where it was a three point game. The Chicago game was just as frustrating. I don't remember Caleb Hanie sucking so much in last season's NFC championship. Of course, the Bears should have won outright but missed the cover by a point. Seattle was playing fairly well. Washington got a 50-yard bomb on third and forever. The momentum immediately shifted and Seattle was screwed.

New England and Denver were easy choices and I even got Denver SU. Pittsburgh's defense played extremely well and forced a ton of turnovers, but the offense looked really out of sync and couldn't capitalize on anything. New Orleans destroyed New York.

The covers I missed, I was fairly close and seemed to get screwed on a few instances. It was really frustrating.

Philly sucks and had to travel on a short week. Seattle is a tough place to play and Lynch absolutely owned the Philly run defense.

A few notables this week:

• The Patriots are favored by more than 20 points over the Colts, and this is only the tenth time since 1989 that a team has been a favorite of 20 or more. Favorites in the previous nine contests are 2-7 ATS. However, Indy is so unbelievably terrible I don't know if I can pick them.
  
• There are four teams favored even though they are playing a team with a better record, three of them are at home.
• 13 of the 16 games this week have a line of a touchdown or less.
• The 49ers can clinch the division this week with a win over the Rams.
• Could we have an 0-12 and 12-0 team?

A few games I think are interesting:

• I know Houston lost two quarterbacks but they are still at home. Teams that play their first game with their backup quarterback usually try to play well for them. I think they will beat Atlanta outright.
  
• I know Detroit has been struggling but I was surprised to see New Orleans favored by nine. I will definitely have to do some research that game because that is a big spread for a team in the Lions who scores a lot.
• San Francisco is coming back home and has extra rest. The defense played great against Baltimore and now they face divisional foe St. Louis. They are only favored by 13 and they should cover easy.
  
• My favorite game is Green Bay vs. New York. The Giants are clearly in their usual late-season tailspin. The Packers are still on fire and there is no reason they shouldn't win by 20, just like New Orleans did last week. For some reason, the Pack is only favored by 6.5 and I like them to cover that from the first quarter through the game.
  

I'll post my picks tomorrow before I go to the Towson vs. Lehigh game. I'm pumped for the game because it is the first meaningful game since I've been at school.

Rodgers That

Happy Thanksgiving

By Dan Rodgers

So, in my eyes, I've been struggling with my picks. I've been around .500 the last few weeks which is below average in my mind because I know what I'm capable of doing. I hope everyone enjoys their Thanksgiving because this is one of the greatest American traditions, eat as much as possible and watch football from noon until midnight. I'll post today's games now and the rest tomorrow or Saturday.

Green Bay Packers -6 at Detroit Lions

The Pack is unstoppable... offensively. Fortunately for the Lions, their defense is suspect at best. A mediocre Josh Freeman and LaGarrett Blount kept it relatively close against Green Bay last week, who at two separate times in the fourth quarter cut the lead to two points. I think that it is tradition for the Lions to play, and lose, on Thanksgiving. While Detroit's offense looked good in the second half last week, they aren't going up against a defense as bad as Carolina's. Also, keep in mind that Detroit gave up 35 points to Cam Newton and Steve Smith. I think that means we are looking at about 50 points from Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, Jermichael Finley... (and the list goes on).

It should be a better game than we've seen in recent years, but I don't think Detroit will be able to have the offensive success they had last week to the tune of 49 points. I wouldn't be surprised to see a backdoor cover by either team.

Packers (-6) 31 Lion 23

Miami Dolphins at Dallas Cowboys -7

I'll start by saying that the Miami Dolphins have won three games in a row. That in itself is absolutely amazing, but let us consider the competition (Kansas City, Washington, Buffalo). Dallas played down to their opponent last week as it took overtime and a few missed field goals to beat Washington. However, the Cowboys always get up for Thanksgiving and Tony Romo is 4-0 ATS on Thanksgiving. For some reason, they are the anti-Lions. While the Lions stink it up every year, we can always count on Dallas to take care of business. This year shouldn't be any different. While Dallas' defense might have some issues with Miami's newly impressive passing game, there is no way Miami can stop Romo, Murray, Bryant and Witten.

I like DeMarco Murray to have a good game even though Miami has played well against the run recently. Also, Brandon Marshall is in for a big day because Dallas' secondary has been decimated by injuries.

Cowboys (-7) 34 Dolphins 24

San Francisco 49ers at Baltimore Ravens -3.5

I will be at this game, and it should be a great one. Of course, it has been dubbed the Harbaugh Bowl, or the Harbowl, or whatever you want to call it. The first game in NFL history where the teams are coached by brothers. In my opinion, the NFL shafted the 49ers this week, similar to how they did the Jets last week. The 49ers have to travel from coast to coast (already very difficult), and now they have to do it on a short week.

San Fran has been outstanding this year defensively. They have yet to give up a rushing touchdown, and that will most definitely be put to the test tonight as they face off against Ray Rice. This game will be determined by whether or not San Fran's offense can do anything against Baltimore's defense. This should be a low-scoring affair, but I don't expect sloppy football. Whichever way it goes, it won't be a happy Thanksgiving in the Harbaugh home.

X-Factor: Whether or not Ray Lewis plays tonight.

San Francisco (+3.5) 20 Ravens 17

Once again, enjoy your Thanksgiving and all of the games today.

@dhrodgers52

Rodgers That

NFL Week 8: Double digits

By Dan Rodgers

Note to self: If you want, look at trends and the opinions of "experts," but always make the final decision for yourself.

OK, now I'll explain that: Double digit underdogs cover the spread more often than not. I tried to find loopholes involving unbeaten and winless teams. Then, the Packers allowed a backdoor cover and the Ravens just flat out sucked. So we're looking into it. I'm coming up with a system similar to that of picking survivor teams. I'll let you know more about it next week because I'm testing it this week since there are so many big spreads.

In case you were wondering, I'm in first place in my

Ind/Ten 8.5 Tennessee has not been playing very well since they lost Kenny Britt, the Colts should keep it within single digits.
Jax/Hou 9.5 The Texans performed as expected last week against the Titans and Jacksonville gave the Ravens everything they had and won't get up for Houston.
Min/Car 3 Carolina is decent and Newton makes plays, they should win at home.
NO 14.5/Stl Ugh, another massive spread... I think we might get a backdoor cover from St. Louis - not a fan of the extra half point.
Ari/Bal 13 The Ravens were so terrible last week that I'm going to give themselves a chance for redemption. They better not mess it up.
Mia/NYG 10 The Giants should destroy Miami. They get Justin Tuck back and Miami won't do much in the cold.
Was/Buf 6 (in Toronto) I think Washington is decent enough to stick with the Bills. Teams have been flat coming off the bye.
Det 3.5/Den I think we're getting value because Denver came back to win and the Lions looked bad against Atlanta. Detroit should get back to work if Stafford plays.
NE 3.5/Pit The Steelers usually don't beat Tom Brady but they should at least keep it within a field goal.
Cle/SF 9 I love this game. I can't see the 49ers not killing Cleveland since San Fran is at home. SURVIVOR (6-1)
Cin 2/Sea Awkward spot for Cincy, coming off a bye and playing in Seattle doesn't bode well for them. Seattle SU
Dal/Phi 3 Philly is on their way to getting back on track and should win a nationally televised game at home.
SD 4/KC The Chiefs always seem to play San Diego tough... should be within a field goal and look for the upset.

Week 1: 7-9 ATS 10-6 SU
Week 2: 10-6 ATS 13-3 SU
Week 3: 11-4-1 ATS 10-6 SU
Week 4: 9-7 ATS 13-3 SU
Week 5: 6-7 ATS 7-6 SU
Week 6: 10-3 ATS 10-3 SU
Week 7: 9-3-1 ATS 10-3 SU
Total: 62-39-2 ATS 73-30 SU

Survivor is pretty easy this week because San Fran is playing well and they are at home against a team that is mediocre at best. Not much else to talk about.

There are six spreads of over a touchdown. That is pretty crazy considering two of those are division games and one is a road team. Everyone talks about the awesome thing that is the NFL, "Any given Sunday." So it's surprising to see so many big lines.

Week 8 bold prediction: The Packers stay undefeated and the Dolphins, Colts and Rams stay defeated? Obviously I'm not feeling creative.

@dhrodgers52

Rodgers That

NFL Week 7: Bouncing back

By Dan Rodgers

Just as I suspected, last week I bounced back fairly well from my dreadful week 5. If you're not yet convinced of my talent, I'm going to try to find the numbers for my previous seasons so you can see my consistency.

NCAA: Rough week for Top 25 as seven teams went down, including four to unranked opponents and two top 10 teams. Unfortunately, I was hit by a few of those because I didn't expect Wisconsin to only play in the first and fourth quarters

Chi 1.5/TB (in London) No home team, the Bucs got up last week for New Orleans and Chicago is playing better
Was/Car 3 Should be able to take care of business at home assuming Philly showed Washington's true colors last week
SD/NYJ 1 Weird spread and movement all week, Jets play well at home
Sea/Cle 3 Seattle still sucks and is a road team...
Hou/Ten 3 Curious spread, I think Houston is just the better team
Den 1/Mia Crazy movement in this line, and rightfully so...Denver should kill them
Atl/Det 3 This line dropped but I still like Atlanta, Detroit SU
KC/Oak 4.5 Who knows what the Raiders are getting from their QB, possible upset, Oakland SU
Pit 4.5/Ari Pittsburgh should be more than 4.5 points better than Arizona, weak SB rematch
GB 12/Min Aaron Rodgers is amazing (it comes with the last name)
Stl/Dal 14 Rams are defeated, so that allows me to take Dallas here SURVIVOR (5-1)
Ind/NO 13.5 Even though Indy is defeated, I think they'll cover, wish I had the extra half point though... NO SU
Bal 10/Jax There is a time and place for EVERY rule to be broken and this is it... There is no reason for the Ravens to not win this game by 30+ points

Week 1: 7-9 ATS 10-6 SU
Week 2: 10-6 ATS 13-3 SU
Week 3: 11-4-1 ATS 10-6 SU
Week 4: 9-7 ATS 13-3 SU
Week 5: 6-7 ATS 7-6 SU
Week 6: 10-3 ATS 10-3 SU
Total: 53-36-1 ATS 63-27 SU

I just realized I took nine out of 13 road teams to cover, that's pretty wild. Of course I'll probably go 16-1 with survivor but who cares because I screwed myself!

Anyway, this is an interested week because there are a lot of double digit spreads (4) and spreads of a field goal or less (7). I think it's about time we see some separation and the good teams rise to the top. I hate letting mediocre teams (Buffalo/Washington) hang around.

Week 7 bold prediction: The Broncos, Packers, Cowboys and Ravens all win by at least three touchdowns.

@dhrodgers52

Rodgers That

NFL Season Opener

By Dan Rodgers

I know I haven't posted anything in a while. I hope everyone stayed safe during the hurricane and the other terrible weather. Also, hopefully you got power back before me.

This will be a short game preview and prediction and I will finish some fantasy teams and further talk about the NFL in my next video.

Saints @ Packers

Line: Packers by 4

In case you don't understand spreads and other gambling terminology, I'll be posting a video about that.

The Packers won this past Super Bowl, the Saints won the one before that. Both teams got there and won with an explosive offense and a play-making defense. We will start by taking a look at both offenses.

Both of these quarterbacks are top five in the NFL, and they make the players around them better. Aaron Rodgers didn't waste the years he sat on the bench behind Brett Favre, and won the Super Bowl is just his third year as a starter. Drew Brees proved the Chargers wrong by leading the Saints to their first Super Bowl victory in franchise history.

Brees is getting old and on the way down (don't get me wrong, he is still a great QB). He is lacking the necessary playmakers on offense to truly attack the Packers defense. The Saints will hope rookie Mark Ingram will turn into their every-down running back, and tight end Jimmy Graham continues to work off of last season's success. However, the wide receivers have yet to develop as the Saints probably hoped.

The Packers on the other hand have proven stars on offense (Greg Jennings, Jermichael Finley, etc.) that Rodgers makes even better. Green Bay doesn't really need their running game, however, Ryan Grant is an above average back who is coming off of an injury and James Starks filled in nicely. Rodgers has been on point during the preseason, and the Pack look to be in prime position to defend their title.

I think the Saints offense will keep them within fighting distance, but their defense probably won't do them any favors tonight. Their defense continues to age as well and have never been that good. They do make big plays, but Rodgers is too good to let that beat him.

The Packers defense has been top five in the league since Dom Capers joined them two seasons ago. They look to continue that run against the Saints offense and get redeem themselves for the 51-29 loss the year before Capers took over.

Prediction: Packers (-4) 27 Saints 21

Rodgers That

Is that all she wrote?

By Dan Rodgers

The Super Bowl is over and that means the NFL season has concluded. The Packers beat the Steelers 31-25 in a good game. It could be the last NFL game that we've seen for quite some time because the current CBA expires on March 4.

Personally, if there is no 2011 NFL season, I might cry. I am not surprised that the NFL is on the verge of a lockout when the Jets are on the up-and-up...

There will be billions of dollars lost just by one season not being played, not to mention the things other people will do with their time which could effect the future of the NFL. People may lose interest because they will gain interest in other sports or activities.

I don't think it's possible for the players/owners to be willing to lose so much money so they should come to an agreement. However, I'm not a greedy millionaire so what do I know?

If there is any kind of update, I'll be sure to write about it.

Rodgers That

Cheese 21 Steel City 10

By Dan Rodgers

First, something is wrong with Dallas' sound system because this half-time show was half-ass. I did enjoy seeing Slash come out. Holy hell, Usher just dropped down from the big screen.

Okay, this show has vastly improved as it went along due to two surprises that most people should have loved. Back to the game...

The Packers came to play and I am sorry I forgot to post before the game because I was telling everyone that I loved the Pack. As I suspected, Rodgers is finding holes in that below-average Pitt secondary. However, I didn't expect Big Ben to throw two first half interceptions.

I like the Steelers to try and run the ball more effectively in the second half if they can stop the Packers on their opening drive. (Which they did)

I don't feel like saying much because the game is back on.

Prediction: Pack win, A-Rod MVP...I know I'm so bold...

Super Bowl Quickie

By Dan Rodgers

The Super Bowl is about a week away and two of the most storied franchises in NFL history will face off in what looks to be a phenomenal game.

The Steelers survived a second half comeback by the New York Jets and the Packers held off a late surge by the Bears third-string QB.

Pittsburgh has an elite defense and a play-making offense.
Green Bay has an elite offense and a play-making defense.

On paper these teams should provide an excellent Super Bowl. I just hope we get the best out of both teams. Steelers C Maurkice Pouncey has been ruled out for the game per an ESPN source, but I wouldn't be surprised if he attempted to play. He has an entire offseason and maybe more to recover and this is the most important game of his career.

I'm not going to say much right now about the game because there is still a week to go, but even though my Jets are out I'm still excited as a football fan for a great game.

Right now I like the Packers (-2.5) because their offense is much better than the Jets and Ravens and both of those teams were able to score on Pitt. GB also has a play-making defense and should be able to capitalize on any Pitt mistakes. They just have to contain Big Ben and make sure he doesn't hurt them outside the pocket.

More on the SB later.

Rodgers That

Were you a fool?

By Dan Rodgers

So I was at my buddies place watching the Chicago game thinking to myself, "Oh my gosh! What are all my readers going to do without my insightful posts regarding the NFL Playoffs?"

Well, all I can say is that I hope you weren't one of the suckers that fell into the Seattle trap. They faced another double digit spread, but this one wasn't the same as the last. Chicago has a much worse offense, but a defense that is world's better than the Saints. If you are a good decision maker, you wouldn't have bet on the game; HOWEVER, if you are an intelligent sports bettor then you would have placed a decent sized bet on the Bears to beat the crap out of the Seahawks.

Sure, it's easy for my to say this now you might think. I did pick the Bears in my personal NFL pool, and I would have "best bet" them if I wasn't more confident in the Pack (which I was).

The guy who is in first place (shocked it's not me?), thinks he is the man but this was an easy pick. He was riding the Seahawks until they didn't cover instead of taking a halfway decent look at the game. Seattle is just a downright bad team and last week was an absolute fluke. You might say, "Chicago is inconsistent, Cutler sucks a lot and QB's in their first playoff game in the last eight or so years are like 5-19."

WELL, I combat that by saying, Seattle is terrible. They are playing in freezing temperatures and the Bears are used to that. They are playing a good defense, something the Saints definitely didn't have. Seattle threw the kitchen sink at New Orleans because everyone was writing them off, but team's like Seattle can't continue to pull that out because they aren't good.

Whatever, Seattle sucks, Chicago will lose to Green Bay next week and the Pack will represent the NFC in the Super Bowl like I predicted in the preseason. Gosh it feels good to be right...

Rodgers That

Things to consider

By Dan Rodgers

Clearly I forgot that the Ravens suck in the second half and that a two touchdown lead at half-time means nothing. They are without a doubt consistently the worst second half team in the NFL on both sides of the ball.

The offense can't move the ball and the defense can't stop anyone as soon as it reads 3Q on the scoreboard. There have been numerous occasions, not including today's game against Pittsburgh, that the Ravens have blown a huge lead in the second half (note Texans game). Fortunately for them, they came out on top during the regular season, but that doesn't happen in January.

The Steelers didn't lose an ounce of confidence at half-time and came roaring back in the third quarter. They forced three turnovers and scored two touchdowns to tie the game. There was a botched snap (Flacco's fault), a Ray Rice fumble (he got popped), and a terrible throw that was intercepted (Flacco's fault).

The worst of it came on the Steelers last drive. The game was tied at 24-24, and on a third down and 10 they did a quick slant to Hines Ward for 11 yards and first down. Then, on THIRD AND NINETEEN, they completed a 58 bomb to ANTONIO BROWN. He is a rookie and only had 16 catches the entire season. Terrible...I don't even know what else to say.

I would rather the Jets lose 45-3 again then lose like that...

Now on to the good stuff. The Packers destroyed the Falcons. I apparently gave the Falcons way too much credit. I figured the amazing Matty Ice, who is 20-2 career at home, would put up a better fight than 48-21.

Aaron Rodgers came out to prove something today and he most certainly did to me. The kid threw for 366 yards and three touchdowns, and he ran another one in. He displayed phenomenal arm strength and excellent mobility. He is definitely one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL and has an extremely bright present and future. Behind Peyton Manning, Rodgers is without a doubt the QB I want to lead my team.

Rodgers That

Saturday Quickie

By Dan Rodgers

I got food poisoning two nights ago and I have to go to work in six minutes, so here we go:

I am going to make a bold prediction and say that both road underdogs are going to pull upsets today. The Ravens and Steelers always play close ones and today is when they turn the corner against Pittsburgh. Look for them to try to contain Mike Wallace from burning them, but I expect Wallace to have a decent game. If they can contain Mendenhall and tackle Big Ben when they first get their hands on them, they should be fine. Baltimore can ill-afford missed tackles against this team.

My Prediction: Ravens (+3) 16 Steelers 14


The Packers played the Falcons close in their regular season contest losing by a field goal. Green Bay did have plenty of opportunities and Aaron Rodgers will capitalize on them today. Rodgers is just a better QB than Matty Ice, and it will show today. I look for Clay Matthews to have a beast game coming off of the edge. Espect James Starks to have a big contribution today as well, similar to what he did against Philly. Atlanta continues to disappoint in the playoffs as Green Bay shuts down Michael Turner and forces Ryan to beat them. It's not going to happen.

My Prediction: Packers (+2.5) 27 Falcons 21

Enjoy day one of the NFL Divisional Round.

Rodgers That

NFL history made, good or bad?

By Dan Rodgers

The Sunday night football game was left open so that the NFL could put whatever game they wanted there based on how important it was. Well, the game that was moved was the St. Louis Rams @ Seattle Seahawks. The winner of the game would win the division and the loser would go home.

To my surprise, Seattle played fairly well and their defense came to life. The Rams couldn't do much on offense, even though it didn't look like they even tried. It wasn't an offensive explosion or anything, but the game was still exciting because of what it meant.

Many people were rooting for St. Louis because if they had won the game they would have finished 8-8. However, because Seattle won the game, they finished the season 7-9 and won the division. This is the first time in NFL history that a sub-.500 team has made the playoffs. Twice before an 8-8 team won their division.

Due to this, talk has emerged regarding reorganizing the divisions (this would never happen); there has also been talks about where the Wild Card games are played. There are discussions about allowing whichever team has a better record host the game. I would definitely not be opposed to that.

Saints @ Seahawks 4:30 Sat. NBC
Jets @ Colts 8:00 Sat. NBC

Ravens @ Chiefs 1:00 Sun. CBS
Packers @ Eagles 4:30 Sun. Fox

Rodgers That

Week 17 leaves much to desire

By Dan Rodgers

I am sitting on my couch watching NFL Redzone right now. If you don't know about it then you are probably not a football fan.

They are showing the Bengals @ Ravens because the Cincy is inside the five with 16 seconds left, and an incomplete pass puts them at fourth down and two yards to go.

Palmer makes a terrible throw to a an open receiver and the Ravens take over on downs. They knee the ball, win game number 12 and leave a lot of question marks as they head into Wild Card Weekend.

The Jets played their backups for almost the entire game against Buffalo, with the only thing that could change would be moving up to the fifth seed if Pittsburgh lost and Baltimore won. That didn't happen so the Jets will stick with the sixth seed.

Talking about the Steelers, they destroyed the Brownies 41-9 in Cleveland. The win clinched them the two seed and a first-round bye.

The Falcons win over Carolina clinched them home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, even though they would have earned it anyway because of the Saints loss to Tampa Bay. The Bucs keep their playoff hopes alive with the win. It was just about the only interesting thing to happen during the early games. They now need the Giants and Packers to lose to earn the six seed. If either win, the Bucs are eliminated.

It should be an interested set of late games. I think the Pack will take care of business against the Bears and clinch a playoff spot, but I also think the G-Men will beat the Skins to atleast keep the Pack looking over their shoulder during the game.

The other important factor is the Colts/Titans game. If Indy wins, they move up to the three seed and play the Jets in the first round. If they lose and Jacksonville wins, the Jags win the division and four seed. If the Jags lose and the Colts lose, the Colts get the four seed and host the Ravens. WOW, that's a lot to take and I'm ready to watch it all go down.

Rodgers That

NFL Week 12: Games to watch

By Dan Rodgers

Okay, so my girlfriend was in town for Thanksgiving weekend and she just left so I didn't have time to do the post before the early set of games. However, the only one I would have included would be Green Bay at Atlanta and since it's early I'll still include it. Just so you know, there are quite a bit of good games this week so I'll be writing about four today.

Game 1

Green Bay at Atlanta - This is a NFC Championship preview. These two teams are the cream of the crop in the NFC and this game is going to play a huge factor in home field advantage/seeding. If Atlanta wins: commanding lead and just about a lock for the one seed. If Green Bay wins: holds tie-breaker over Atlanta and will have the same record. As for the game, Atlanta is clearly the safe pick because Matt Ryan has only lost one career game at home. I think this could be number two. Green Bay has a high-powered offense and a play-making defense, a combination (other than Saints?) that the Falcons haven't really seen this season. Look for a one possession game down until the end.

My Prediction: Green Bay (+2) 23 Atlanta 20

Game 2

Tampa Bay at Baltimore - This game is between a young, over-achieving team against an older, more experienced team. Clearly no one expected the Bucs to be 7-3 with a serious chance at the playoffs. The Ravens are tied with the Steelers for the lead in the division and currently hold the tie-breaker. I think this will be a close, low-scoring game. The Ravens should be able to pull it out because they are at home. Not much else to say about this; I would be surprised to see a sloppy game full of turnovers.

My Prediction: Tampa Bay (+7.5) 13 Baltimore 17

Game 3

Philly at Chicago - This is another game that will play a large roll in determining the NFC playoff picture. Both teams are 7-3 and have a slim lead in their division. I think Philly is just too good and Michael Vick is just playing too well for the Bears to stop him. IF they do, you can bet that Julius Peppers will play a large roll in it. I am curious to see what they do to try to contain Vick because it might a good idea to just spy him the entire game. Look for DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin to make some big plays deep.

My Prediction: Philly (-3.5) 27 Chicago 20

Game 4

San Diego at Indianapolis - This is the Sunday night game and is more important than usual for both teams. Jacksonville is tied with Indy for the division, has the tie-breaker and is currently ahead of the Giants. San Diego is 5-5 and needs a win to stay pace with Oakland and KC. They have also been hot and I like them to upset the Colts and put both teams at 6-5. Looks for Rivers to tear up the Indy secondary. The Colts will have to put up a ton of points to stick with the Chargers and I think the SD defense will be able to make a play.

My Prediction: San Diego (+3) 37 Indianapolis 28

Rodgers That

NFL Week 11: Games to watch

By Dan Rodgers

Game 1

Packers at Vikes - This game has to be on the list due to the ever-popular Brett Favre factor. However, it should be different from how it was last season when Brett came out and played like a champ. The Vikings have been struggling all season and Green Bay is starting to get into a rhythm. Look for A-Rod to put up big numbers as usual, but especially because the Packers aren't a running team and Minnesota's strength on defense is against the run. Brett will probably do what we expect and throw two INTs. Look for Jennings to catch a deep ball or two.

My Prediction: Packers (-3) 27 Vikings 16


Game 2

Indianapolis at New England - This is clearly the game of the week, as it has been every season for a while. Some how, even though these teams aren't in the same division, they manage to play every season. Brady vs. Manning is what everyone wants to see. Personally, Manning is a much better QB, but Brady has benefitted more from a better team and especially a better defense. Manning would have at least two more rings if his defense had been decent. Today is an interesting matchup because Brady doesn't have Moss and have of the Colts team is on the IR. Manning will have to win this on his own, but he has won five of the last six.

My Prediction: Pats 30 Colts (+3.5) 28


Game 3

Giants at Eagles - I'm going to keep this one short. New York played awful last week against a disgraceful Dallas team. Philly set records in a rout of the Redskins last week; Vick is playing out of his mind. The Eagles are at home, and they're going to win. Period, the end.

My Prediction: Eagles (-3) 34 Giants 23

Rodgers That

The Bye Week

By Dan Rodgers

So, since the Jets are on a bye, I figured I would take one as well.

Actually, that isn't true. I worked an event for CBS Radio this morning, Lot O as we call it. I was at the parking lot working, so I didn't get home until 3 p.m. (highly unfortunate) I also didn't get home from my other job last night until 1:30 a.m. so I got almost no sleep.

I apologize for not putting up any games, but last week I was awful and this week my picks were fairly bad again. I definitely need to study better, so I won't let you down. I have to admit I have been slacking a bit. I'm going out of town this coming week for my girlfriend's birthday and I'm going to the Jets vs. Packers game on Halloween.

I do want to throw in my prediction for the SNF.

The Packers have something to prove after suffering consecutive overtime losses to teams that weren't supposed to be on their level. The Vikings are coming off a win in the game called the "win or go home." Brett Favre has a ton of drama going on right now, and the Packers are playing at home in a much needed revenge game. They got swept by Minnesota last year and have probably been waiting for this game all season.

Look for Favre to make his typical mistake at some point in the game. It will prove costly against a Green Bay defense that likes to make big plays.

My Prediction: Packers (-2.5) 31 Vikings 20

Rodgers That

Wow, it's Sunday

By Dan Rodgers

Wow, I can't believe it is Sunday already. I'm sorry for letting this week slip by without a post. I obviously have been a bit out of it and had a rough night of work last night. I forgot to do the games to watch, so I am going to take care of that right now with the late games.


Game 1

Colts at Broncos - This isn't that good of a game because I think the Colts are going to come out, still upset over losing to Houston in week one, and just unload on Denver. Manning showed that the Colts hadn't lost a step by destroying his brother last week. Denver looked great last week killing Seattle. However, they are going against the cream of the crop in the AFC. If Denver wants to show they can compete with the best they will keep it within a touchdown, but I don't even think that will happen. Look for Addai/Brown to rush for over 100 yards combined and Manning to throw for over 300 yards.

My Prediction: Colts (-5.5) 34 Broncos 20

Game 2

Jets at Dolphins - This is a huge game for both teams. It is the Sunday night game and both teams are looking to make a statement. The Jets defense has looked phenomenal and looks to shut down the Dolphins dynamic running game, as well as big-play receiver Brandon Marshall. The Phins passing game hasn't amounted to much this year, but they will look to take advantage of a Jets defense that is without Calvin Pace, Kris Jenkins and Darrelle Revis. Mark Sanchez looks to follow up a strong effort against the Pats, against a Miami defense that has allowed an average of 10 points per game. This should be a smashmouth game; look for some blood.

My Prediction: Jets (+2.5) 20 Dolphins 13

Game 3

Packers at Bears - This is without a doubt the game of the week. Chicago's offense has been on fire with new offensive coordinator Mike Martz. Jay Cutler looks like he did when he made the pro bowl back in Denver. However, they are going up against the Packers. Green Bay has one of the best offenses in the NFL with Aaron Rodgers and Greg Jennings being the main combo for them. They have a lot of talent on defense, but typically don't shut out their opponents so Chicago will be able to put up points. This should be a fairly high-scoring affair and it could come down to last possession.

My Prediction: Packers (-3) 31 Bears 27

Enjoy the late games, I'll be back later with a fantasy update.

Rodgers That