NFL Week 15 Christmas Miracle Part 3

By Dan Rodgers

Before I go into this, just another quick congrats to Kellen Moore and the Boise State Broncos on their victory and Moore getting to 50 wins.

I did pick Houston on TNF because I figured they would dominate. TJ Yates looked decent and Foster had a great game. Somehow the Texans couldn't score and Indy made them pay. Now Baltimore is back in the driver's seat for the first-round bye.

Well, the night games followed suit. The Ravens were in prime position to go into San Diego and win on the road, further prove they are an elite team, and move one step closer to earning the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs. However, they decided to suck and the Chargers looked like the 10-3 team looking for a first-round bye.

San Diego is 7-7 and somehow still alive in their division. Oh wait, they play in the AFC West, the worst division ever (biggest competition is the NFC East).

Well, the Ravens lost, which means the Steelers are in prime position to steal away the No. 1 seed in the playoffs because they would have a better record and the tiebreaker over the Pats. But wait, just when you expect the Steelers to take advantage of everyone else messing up, they get spanked (like I predicted they would).

The 49ers more than dominated the game and all but knocked the Steelers out of the division race. With Big Ben hurting, the Steelers probably won't try to aggravate the injury. Luckily for the wild card teams, the division winner they will face in the first round will be an apparently bad Texans team, and whichever terrible team represents the AFC West (probably Denver).

Events like week 15 are the reason the NFL is so incredibly popular. They aren't helping their cause with all of the stupid rules and the refs sucking, but the competition is incredible.

Not a good start to this week... I'll be getting my swag back the rest of the season since the semester is over.

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 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 Week 3: Steelers suck

By Dan Rodgers

This will be a short post because I really just need to update the Dallas/Washington line.

Dallas has opened at -4, but I've found it interesting that the line has already moved to Dallas -2.5 and I won't pick the game until tomorrow night. The spread is freaking me out and I want to see how the public reacts to everyone betting the Skins this hard. I'll update this post later with my thoughts on the game...if I have any.

UPDATE: I've decided I like the Skins tonight. I've been reading up on some things and I think they will stay competitive enough to cover the four points. Dallas has enough injuries that Washington should be able to at least keep it close. Also, a fun fact is that the road team has covered in six of the previous seven meetings. Make sure you root for Tim Hightower so I can lock it up in fantasy this week.

As for the Pittsburgh Steelers... they can go to hell. They come out firing and they look phenomenal in the first quarter, and then they just suck the rest of the game. I don't understand if an 85-yard bomb to Mike Wallace worked once, it should work again. Also, how do you not change your protection scheme when Freeney and Mathis are feasting on your offensive line? Big Ben is partly at fault, but Tomlin needed to put extra tight ends or something to help block. The Colts get rocked week one by Houston and couldn't keep up with Cleveland, but the Steelers allow them to drive right down the field on them for the tie?

Anyway, the Steelers are overrated and I will not fall for that one again. The Ravens performed as expected. Tennessee didn't cover, but they won so I'm still alive. It was a crazy week because Detroit, Tennessee, Carolina, San Diego and Pittsburgh all played close games and were choices in survivor. Only three of 21 people were eliminated this week: New England (road and divisional), Arizona (road) and a guy who didn't pick.

Next week, an early look-ahead: the only two games I'm even considering are Chicago at home against Carolina and Green Bay at home against Denver.

Be back with more on the MNF game later. CHECK UP TOP.

Rodgers That

Superstitious? Well...

By Dan Rodgers

A lot of people are superstitious. Some people believe in things that pertain to their religion and some people just have certain habits that work for them. The postseason for professional sports is a time when many people get superstitious. Some athletes wear the same underwear, some have the same pregame ritual or eat the same food.

Fans have it a little differently because we don't play the game. This NFL season the Jets were 12-0 when I wore my Wayne Chrebet #80 jersey and they were 0-5 when wearing my personalized jersey, Leon Washington or Santana Moss. (Yes, every player's jersey I have is no longer with the team)

For the game against the Pats, I went to get ready and couldn't find my Chrebet jersey. I realized I had left it at my girlfriend's place after doing laundry. I resorted to wearing my Leon jersey because his team was also playing. As you know the Jets won the game, but my girlfriend showed up to the bar in the Chrebet jersey.

I am leaving for Las Vegas in eight hours and I didn't pack my Leon jersey. Basically, I've determined that clothing superstitions aren't worth it but are fun to think about. HOWEVER, I have yet to shave and I absolutely refuse to do so until the Jets are out. Last year I didn't shave but I had to go to Memphis for a Bar Mitzvah. So my mother made me shave and the Jets lost their next game (AFC Championship game to Colts).

In the end: keep your playoff beard no matter what. Don't shave it for your job, your girl, your family or anything else you could possibly think of. Anything else you want to believe, go for it but it might not be worth it.

Wild Card Saturday

By Dan Rodgers

This is an interesting year for the NFL because all four Wild Card teams have better records than the team that is hosting them, except one. The Jets have a better record than the Colts by a game, the Ravens by two games over the Chiefs, the Saints by four games over Seattle, and Green Bay has the same record as Philly but beat them earlier this year.

This means that if the team the better record (or tiebreak) were to host, all four Wild Card teams would be hosting the division winners this week.

Game 1

Saints (-10) @ Seahawks - This is an interesting game because everyone is all over New Orleans since Seattle is, record-wise, the worst playoff team in NFL history. A lot of the Saints offensive weapons are banged up, with TE Jimmy Graham inactive and RBs Pierre Thomas and Chris Ivory on IR. I don't think this will matter too much because Brees could turn me into a 1,000-yard receiver. I expect for Reggie Bush to make some big plays in the passing game on a few screen plays. The screens, dump-offs and other short passes will act as the Saints rushing game today because of the injuries to the running backs.

The Seahawks will look to run-run-run and keep Brees off the field. Lynch has had some fumbling issues this year as he did twice in the regular season game against the Saints. I don't think it will work because the Saints should force Hasselbeck to beat them...which he won't.

My Prediction: Saints (-10) 34 Seahawks 16


Game 2

Jets (+2.5) @ Colts - In a rematch of last season's AFC Championship game, the Jets look to avenge their loss. The Colts are definitely not the same team as the only playoff team they defeated this season was the Kansas City Chiefs. The Colts run defense has vastly improved in the last four games and will look to continue that against the smashmouth run game of the Jets led by Shonn Greene. The Colts will hope to stop him and LT to force Mark Sanchez to beat him like they did last season. Sanchez did have some success against Indy's defense throwing for over 250 yards and two touchdowns in last year's contest.

I think the Jets will find some success but the game will be determined by Manning. Reggie Wayne will take a vacation to Revis Island like he did last year, so Manning will have to use other targets like Jacob Tamme, Blair White and Pierre Garcon. Dallas Clark and Austin Collie are both out which should make the Jets feel a bit better.

My Prediction: Jets (+2.5) 24 Colts 23

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

Wade out, parody in

By Dan Rodgers

Wade Phillips has been fired from being the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, and Jerry Jones is the new Andy Reid.

A while back Reid said that Kevin Kolb would be the starting quarterback of the Eagles, but that didn't last long as Michael Vick was named the starter a few days later.

Earlier in the season, at the beginning of the Cowboys struggles, Jones stated that Phillips would finish the season. Clearly he didn't know the team would fall to 1-7, and this move is probably more to satisfy the fans than anything else. Dallas is not going to make the post-season and everyone hates Wade Phillips. Dallas is without a doubt the most underachieving team in the NFL and is having an extremely disappointing season. They were expected to win the NFC East, and were among the favorites to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl.

Jason Garrett will take over for at least the rest of the season.

In more pleasant news, parody is rocking the NFL. On Sunday, the Browns absolutely manhandled the Pats. Buffalo gave Chicago a run for their money, and the Jets and Vikings staged double-digit comeback wins. The Eagles held on against the unusually not-dominate Colts.

Days like this are good for the NFL; fans want to see comebacks and upsets and it looks like this is a season in which we could see a 'Cinderella' team emerge.

Hopefully next week will be as good as the last.

Rodgers That

Week 9: Games to watch

By Dan Rodgers

Okay, so after some time off we're bringing back some games to watch. We are passed the half way point in the season and the divisional races are getting interesting.

Game 1

Chargers at Texans - This game is huge for both teams because Houston has fallen to third in the division. The Chargers are in a bigger mess at 3-5, they are two and a half games back in a weak AFC West. The Chargers NEED this win to have a decent shot in the division, but KC and Oakland play each other so they won't fall too far back. Houston might need this game even more because Tennessee just picked up Randy Moss and Indy is well, Indy. Look for Houston to try to have a balanced offense, but they will air it out if necessary. Rivers will have a big game as usual, look for him to close in on 400 passing yards.

My Prediction: Chargers (-3) 30 Texans 24


Game 2

KC at Oakland - This is a huge divisional game. Didn't think I would be saying that at the beginning of the year. KC leads Oakland by one in the AFC West, but while KC is squeaking out close ones, the Raiders have looked very good as of recent. I like the Raiders to win and make this division even closer. Both teams will be rooting for Houston to beat SD, but need to take care of their own business. I like McFadden to have a decent game, and don't expect much from KC's passing offense.

My Prediction: Raiders (-1) 24 Chiefs 17


Game 3

Indy at Philly - For some reason the Eagles are favored by three points in this game. That technically means the spread makers feel like these teams are evenly matched. That is very interesting due to how well the Colts have been playing and the fact that the Eagles have been hurt. Vick and DeSean Jackson come back from injury today, and expect big things from them. Peyton should have his way as usual and I'm confused as to why the Colts aren't favored. I would stay away from this game because of the weird spread, but the Colts are probably the safe bet. However, one of my philosophy's is if the spread is weird in one teams direction, take the team you wouldn't typically take. Usually, I would take the Colts, since the spread is weird, the Eagles might be the pick.

My Prediction: Colts (+3)2 28 Eagles 30

Rodgers That

Colts seek revenge tonight

By Dan Rodgers

In week one the Indianapolis Colts were embarrassed by the Houston Texans in a 10-point defeat. It wasn't Matt Schaub's most prolific passing game, but breakout running back Arian Foster racked up over 230 yards and three touchdowns.

Indy has been bitten hard by the injury bug this season, and tonight they have numerous starts and key contributors out: TE Dallas Clark, WR Austin Collie, SS Bob Sanders OUT; RB Josesph Addai, CB Jacob Lacey, CB Jerraud Powers DOUBTFUL/QUESTIONABLE.

This list doesn't even include RB Donald Brown and WRs Reggie Wayne, Anthony Gonzalez and Pierre Garcon who all have injuries but are expected to play.

The Colts look to stay undefeated at home all-time against the Texans. Houston looks to take a commanding lead over Indy as it would give them a one game lead, but a sweep of them this season.

The winner of the game will be one game up on the loser of the game and a half up on the 5-3 Titans. Neither team has played Tennessee this season.

My Prediction: Colts 30 Texans (+6) 28
^ Hopefully the score is reversed, as some of you might know, I love the Texans even though I'm a diehard Jets fan.

Rodgers That

NFL Week 5: Games to watch

By Dan Rodgers

Week five has a ton of intriguing match ups and we're definitely in store for some upsets as no spread this week is double digits.

Game 1

Chiefs at Colts - Being the last undefeated team, the Chiefs have something to be proud of. However, they've only played three games. They have a tough match up this week against an Indy team who is beyond furious with the fact that they have two losses already. Look for Indy to come out firing on a weak KC defense. Don't count the Chiefs out though, Indy's defense is extremely weak and they could do some damage. Look for rookie Dexter McCluster to make some big plays for KC.

My Prediction: Colts 28 Chiefs (+8) 23

Game 2

Giants at Texans - This is going to be an extremely good game between a defense that sacked the QB 10 times last week and the No. 1 ranked...rushing offense? That's right folks, Houston leads the NFL in rushing yards, primarily because of the fast start Arian Foster has gotten of to. The Giants will have to slow down an explosive Texans, that will get WR Andre Johnson back this week, and hope to get Matt Schaub out of his comfort zone. The Giants will be missing their starting Center, Defensive End and Linebacker. The Giants might have a chance if they can put up the points, but don't count on that with LB Brian Cushing hopefully returning to the field for Houston. The Texans should improve to 4-1.

My Prediction: Texans (-3) 34 Giants 17

Game 3

Vikes at Jets - This is the MNF game and it has no shortage of storylines, including but not limited to:

• Brett Favre's return to New York
• Moss to the Vikings, will play 17 games this year
• Santonio Holmes returns from suspension
• Revis and Pace return from injury
• Jets 4-0 all-time at home against Vikings

As you can tell, tomorrow night will be a very exciting time in my life and football in general. I think this is a winnable game for the Jets. They are playing great football, while Minnesota struggled the first two weeks of the season. The Vikes haven't found their groove yet, and being in New York, I don't see how the Jets will lose. I like them to cover the spread handily in a revenge game for the Jets organization.

My Prediction: Jets (-4) 24 Vikings 13

Are You Ready for Some Football?

Rodgers That

1/4 NFL predictions

By Dan Rodgers

So we are officially 25% done with the regular season, well, at least most teams have played four games by now.

There have been a few surprises this season and personally, I don't think too many of them will last:

• The Kansas City Chiefs, the last unbeaten team, are 3-0 heading into their week five game against the Colts.
• The Dallas Cowboys are 1-2 heading into their week five game against the Titans.
• The Colts are 2-2, with two divisional losses to the Texans and Jaguars, respectively.
• The San Francisco 49ers are 0-4 heading into their week five game against the Eagles.
• The Houston Texans are 3-1, off to the best start in franchise history, and now get star LB Brian Cushing back from suspension.
• The New York Jets are 3-1, only loss being by 1 pt. to the Ravens, get back LB Calvin Pace, CB Darrelle Revis, and WR Santonio Holmes going into a revenge game against Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings.
• Speaking of the Vikes, Favre has thrown six interceptions in three games (one shy of total of last season) and doesn't appear to have the magic of 2009.
  

The Chiefs should come down to Earth, while the Cowboys and Colts should both get back on track. Look for Houston to stay on track and have a good shot to make the playoffs, they'll give Indy a run for their money. The 49ers are arguably the biggest shock because many "experts" picked them to win the NFC West. Who knows what will happen with them...

Of course, I'm praying that my Jets stay on fire. They have already won more games in the division this year than they did all of last. They get to face a banged up Minnesota team this coming week, and they'll look to make a statement on national television.

Season Predictions:

AFC East: 2 Representatives - Jets and Pats
AFC North: 1(2) Representative(s) - Ravens and/or Steelers
AFC South: 1(2) Representative(s) - Colts and/or Texans
AFC West: 1 Representative - Chargers

Three out of four teams between the Ravens, Steelers, Colts and Texans will advance to the playoffs.

NFC East: 1 Representative - Giants
NFC North: 2 Representatives - Bears and Packers
NFC South: 2 Representatives - Falcons and Saints
NFC West: 1 Representative - Rams or Cardinals

The Rams or the Cards will win the division with a mediocre record, the other won't make the playoffs.

Even though we have only experienced a small sample of this NFL season, it has still proven to be crazy...over the next 13 weeks we will see if the ship will right itself for some teams or they can shock the NFL world.

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

NFL Week 2: Games to watch

By Dan Rodgers

Last week I was 2-1 in my "games to watch" predictions. This week, we have two great games and one interesting one.

Game 1

Ravens at Bengals - This game is very interesting because the Bengals played like crap in the first half last week and their defense got absolutely destroyed by the Pats. The Ravens also didn't look too good, but a pathetic Jets offense couldn't take advantage. The Ravens could to anything in the running game, so look for them to try and establish that early on. The Bengals should try and do what the Jets couldn't and attack a vulnerable Baltimore seconary. Look for the Cinci receiving core to have another good day if they can give Carson Palmer any protection. Baltimore's favored in this game, but I like Cinci to win straight up at home.

My Prediction: Bengals (+2.5) 27 Ravens 24

Game 2

Pats at Jets - This game is much more important to the Jets than the week one game against Baltimore. They face New England at home in an early season division game. The Pats came out last week and lit up the Bengals supposedly solid secondary. The Jets cornerbacks (minus Revis) got completely owned last week by an above average Ravens receiving core. Cromartie and rookie Kyle Wilson will have to step up against a Pats passing offense that boasts Randy Moss (to be stranded on Revis Island), Wes Welker, Julian Edelman (Welker Jr.), and the best tightend trio in the NFL (Crumpler, Aaron Hernandez, Rob Gronkowski). It will be interesting to see how the Jets' secondary plays in this game. Also, look for Mark Sanchez to try and open up the field a bit more against another suspect secondary.

My Prediction: Pats (-3) 23 Jets 16

^What I think will happen, what could happen?: Jets (+3) 17 Pats 16

Game 3

Giants at Colts - Oddly enough, the Colts have already been defeated in the 2010 season, while the Giants look to go 2-0. This is a battle of the Manning brothers and you better believe that Peyton is in F.U. mode. It doesn't matter that this game is against

his little brother, the Colts will bring it beyond anything we've seen from them recently. Coming off an embarrassing loss to the Texans, the Colts need to step up and show everyone who's boss. The Giants simply got unlucky, and they're not that good. They will probably try to run the ball given what Arian Foster did against Indy last week. It probably won't work since they focused on that this week in practice; hopefully that means Nicks gets a lot of touches for my fantasy team. Regardless, Peyton easily takes this matchup and the Colts get back in the win column.

My Prediction: Colts (-5) 38 Giants 23

Enjoy another wonderful Sunday in the NFL, and be sure to root for my fantasy!

Rodgers That

NFL Week 1: Games to watch

By Dan Rodgers

Folks, that time of the year has finally arrived, NFL football is back!

Listed below are my three games to watch during the day. I'll also update how my fantasy teams are doing later on today.

Game 1

Bengals at Pats - This game is very intriguing to me and not just because I'm a Jets fan. This will be a big game for New England to prove that they haven't gone anywhere and are still the team to beat in the ACFE. The Bengals had a very good year last season with a powerful running game and a good defense. Carson Palmer is always dangerous and look for him to test his new toy (T.O.), but don't expect Cinci to stray too far from their running game. As for the Pats, a lot of people are writing them off and saying their defense isn't at all good. If the Pats can shut down the Bengals offense, it won't be a good sign for the rest of the AFC.

My Prediction: Bengals (+5) 24 Cheatriots 20

Game 2

Colts at Texans - This game five years ago would be a blowout. However, in recent seasons Houston has been slowly but surely improving. Last season was their first over the .500 mark, and I couldn't be happier for them. Peyton Manning looks to improve his record against the Texans to 16-1, and Houston looks to shock the football world by beating Manning. This could be the most important game in Texans history. They will be without Brian Cushing, due to suspension, and look for Manning to go after rookie CB Kareem Jackson. Schaub should have a good game, and look for surprisingly good numbers from Texan RB Arian Foster.

My Prediction: Texans (+2) 30 Colts 28

^Going for the upset pick here, more likely to happen is - Colts (-2) 30 Texans 24
Game 3

Packers at Eagles - A member of the Rodgers clan goes to work today. Aaron Rodgers should have a good day against what seems to be a weak Philly secondary. Look for Rodgers to eclipse the 300-yard mark with ease, and in doing so, Ryan Grant should have a good game. I'm very interested to see what Kolb can do in his first start. The Packers secondary got lit up to end their post-season run last year. Kolb will likely try to do the same considering his coach is Andy "I never run the ball" Reid. I don't see any reason why the Packers don't take this one handily.

My Prediction: Packers (-3) 34 Eagles 23


Should be a great first week since we have some intriguing matchups. Check back later for an update, fantasy update and SNF preview.

Rodgers That

BREESing into Mardi Gras

By Dan Rodgers

The people of Nawlins will be celebrating Mardi Gras a week or so early as they rejoice in the streets because they just won their first Super Bowl in franchise history. Drew Brees was named MVP of the game as he tied a Super Bowl record with 32 completions. He also threw for 288 yards and two touchdowns and no interceptions.

Peyton Manning had one less completion than Brees but 45 more yards. However, he also threw an interception for Tracy Porter that was returned for what was the game clinching touchdown. To the surprise of many, Joe Addai had 135 all-purpose yards but the Colts couldn't seem to convert when necessary.

The turning point in the game, even though it was early, was when the Saints recovered an onside kick to open the second half. That gave them the ball down four instead of the Colts up four with the ball. Brees threw a touchdown to Pierre Thomas and the Saints stole all of the momentum. Peyton Manning looked out of rythym, Dwight Freeney was noticeably a nonfactor besides his one sack, and the receivers were surprisingly dropping passes.

Some might say the Saints won the game and others might say the Colts lost the game...all I know is that I should start going with what I want more than what I think will happen.

I thought: Colts 37 Saints 31

I wanted: Saints 33 Colts 28

It was: Saints 31 Colts 17

Well, all I have left to say is that I couldn't be happier for the Saints and Drew Brees. Personally, I think Brees is better than Tom Brady and he isn't even in the same conversation. Sure, Brady has won three SB's but he also had a stellar defense at the time. Brees just won the big one all by himself. Sure he got the pick-6, but the whole season he led his team and is putting up potentially record setting numbers with good players but nobody special. Brady put up above-average numbers at best until he got Moss and Welker. Not to mention he hasn't won anything since he got them which proves how important his defense was. Wow, didn't realize how much I wrote. Well that is enough on the QB discussion until later.

Rodgers That

Rodgers That