Giants OC Gilbride to Retire

After a season that wasn't as good as a mediocre 7-9 record would indicate, the New York Giants had to make changes. If Tom Coughlin was to remain head coaches, some of his lieutenants were going to have to go. Fox Sports' Mike Garafolo reported that Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride is set to retire after seven seasons as the head offensive coach with the Giants.(Gilbride spent 2004-2006 as QB coach)

Though the team won two Super Bowls (XLII, XLVI) during Gilbride's tenure as the OC, he was often criticized by fans and the media for his play calling. It led to the less than flattering nickname "Killdrive" that played off his last name.

The 62-yr old is expected to make the announcement official Thursday evening, though this is clearly the case of retiring instead of firing. The Giants had a miserable season on the offensive side of the ball, much of it due to injuries on the offensive line and backfield, but there were also poor play calls, offensive schemes, and one of the worst seasons of Eli Manning's career. The two-time Super Bowl MVP threw a career high and league leading 27 interceptions and was also sacked 39 times, the most of his career.

Manning and head coach Tom Coughlin backed Gilbride and Manning called for his return, but the Giants needed to make a coaching change just as they need to make many on-field personnel moves.

Gilbride was an assistant coach in the NFL for seven season with the Houston Oiler and Jackson Jaguars, the latter of which was with Coughlin. He had one plus seasons as head coach of the San Diego Chargers and was fired six games into the 1998 season. Overall, Gilbride recorded a 6-16 record.

Prior to coming to the Giants, Gilbride was best known for getting punched in the head by then Oilers defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan during a game against the New York Jets in 1993.

 

Giants' Season Is Not A Collapse

People keep talking about the New York Giants' season collapsing, but I beg to differ. There is no collapse when a team plays to the level and talent that they are really at. Face the facts, the Giants could easily have been 2-6 rather than 6-2 after eight games. We all knew the schedule was going to become a bear (though they didn't play Chicago outside of pre-season) in the middle of the season. This is a mediocre team that became worse with injuries.

Just look at the way the season has gone. in week 1 they lost to a miserable Washington Redskins team. Eli Manning had a horrible game, which caused many fans to once again doubt his ability. His all-pro type season has changed all that, even if he still makes the occassional poor decision. Then again those bad throws usually come after a Giants penalty, dropped pass, or some other mistake.

Week 2 saw a relatively easy win against the Rams that kick started a three game winning streak. They came from behind, to a lot of people's surprise, myself included, to beat the Eagles and then made a 4th quarter comeback against the Arizona Cardinals. The latter game could have been a loss had the referees ruled Victor Cruz' faux pas as a fumble rather than being down by contact.

Week 4 saw a humiliating loss to the weak Seattle Seahawks. To make it worse they lost to back up QB Charlie Whitehurst after they had knocked starer Matt Hasselback from the game. A second three-game winning streak followed, with all of the games determined in the 4th quarter. Lawrence Tynes' kicked the game winning field goal with 1:32 left to beat Buffalo and the Giants embarrassed themselves for most of their match with Miami before pulling out a 20-17 win. The next two weeks would be two of the best Giants' performances of the season.

There was the 24-20 victory over the New England Patriots that had us all thinking "maybe this team can do something big!". Arguably, they played an even better game against a tough San Francisco team the following week, but fell 27-20. And then the laughter stopped.

First came the terrible loss to rusty Vince Young and the Eagles and the utter blow out by the New Orleans Saints, 49-24. Suddenly a three game losing streak dropped the Giants' record to 6-5, a game behind the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC East. Next up? The Green Bay Packers' All-World offense this Sunday.

The prospect of a 6-6 record with four games to go is pretty assurred. However, the Giants could still make the playoffs. It sounds crazy, but it is true. The remaining schedule has two games with Dallas, one with Washington, and the battle of MetLife Stadium vs. the Jets. It would be tougher, but it is possible the Giants could make the playoffs at 9-7 (10-6 should be a definite.). In order for that to happen some things needs to change.

There is nothing you can do about injuries, and unfortunately, the Giants are riddled with them on both sides of the ball.

With the loss of Ahmad Bradshaw, the running game has completely disappeared. Brandon Jacobs shot his mouth off about playing time and criticized the fans, but has done anything with his new found playing time. It hasn't helped that the offensive line is getting overpowered in run blocking situations either. D.J. Ware has had a chance to step up, but has done nothing but drop screen passes. Da'Rel Scott fumbles more times than he carries the ball, or so it seems.

Hakeem Nicks is the only reliable receiver that Manning has to depend on. Victor Cruz has made some huge plays and some huge mistakes, but he looks like he could be the real deal in the long run. Mario Manningham, currently injured, is the epitome of an airhead. Wrong routes, dropped passes, and not knowing where he is on the field are all part of Manningham's reportoire. Ramses Barden could develop into a good wideout, but he's still getting experience. The bloom seems to be off the rose that is tight end Jake Ballard, whose play has been very ordinary the last two weeks.

The Giants pass rush has disappeared and quarterbacks are taking advantage with their new found time. People are quick to criticize the secondary, which has been subpar, but you can only cover a receiver for so long when there is no pressure on the QB. The Giants linebackers are a mess with injuries and inexperience. This seems to be the case almost every year. (Calling Bill Parcells, please draft a load of linebackers for the Giants.)

The kicking game has actually been the most consistent facet of the Giants' game, and that's just sad. Getting back to Eli, Mike Mazzeo of ESPN said the other night that "Eli is an island". No words are truer. He is doing everything he can to get his team to win. Now he needs Tom Coughlin and offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride to help him out. The Giants can't run, so throw more screens and slants to replace parts of the running game. Hell, throw some wildcat in there to shake things up. Or go with a 2 minute offense for most of the game.

It's hard to believe with all the bad things I mentioned that the Giants could make the playoffs, but they can. Granted, they won't go far, but they could be playing in the new year.

NFL Week 3 Picks

After a decent 9-7 start in Week 1, I was a miserable 5-10-1 last week for a total thus far of 14-17-1.

Here's my picks for this week.

Eagles - 8.5 (Can't see my Giants winning this one; would love to be wrong)
Jets -2.5 (Could see the Raiders pulling off an upset)
49ers +2.5
Pats -7
Saints -3.5
Dolphins -1.5
Broncos +7
Lions -3
Panthers -3.5
Chargers -14.5
Ravens -5.5
Falcons +1
Cardinals -3.5
Packers -4.5
Steelers -10.5
Cowboys -3 (Redskins could pull of yet another upset in Big 'D')

Big Blue Completed A Great Sports Weekend

The Giants have a long history of not being able to put good back to back games together. But Sunday they had a huge road victory over the even more inconsistent Houston Texans, 34-10.

The key was another great performance by the Giants defense. The pressured Matt Schaub continually and shut down Arian Foster and the Texans league leading rushing games.

Hakeem Nicks showed again that this guy can develop into a huge play maker and star. He had two touchdown receptions on Sunday and had a chance for a couple more had he kept his balance near the goal line and not dropped a deep route pass that hit his hands.

Good game for Eli Manning, 3 TDS, though he still managed to throw a couple of picks. One them a very poor pass that led to the lone Texans TD.

Ahmad Bradshaw's ankle was acting up, which gave Brandon Jacobs a chance to get some playing time and score another TD. Afterwards he said his attitude is much improved.

And how about the return of Osi Uminenyora. Looks like his knee is finally healthy.

With the Lions at home on tap for next week, the Giants could very well have a three game winning streak.

I Hate Bad Sports Days

I hate days like Sunday. I was already still fuming from the Yankees loss yesterday when I sat down to watch the Giants football game. I am not going to even get into that one...I shut it off at halftime before I was tempted to throw the TV out the window.

As for the Yankees game, a very disappointing loss considering they could have gone into tonight's series with the Rays 1.5 up instead of .5. Mariano is going to blow games, it happens. Andy Pettitte pitched very well and was a big silver lining. And relievers, like David Robertson, are going to give up a run to lose a game. It all happens.

The really aggravating thing is the complete lack of clutch hitting that has spread through the team at an epidemic proportion. I now cringe when the bases are loaded. They were in the top of the 11th when Lance Berkman stepped up and promptly bounced into an inning ending double play.

I was also not too happy about Alex Rodriguez sitting down with Mark Teixeira already out of the lineup. Michael Kay and Ken Singleton speculated that Joe Girardi wanted to be sure to have A-Rod for all three games against the Rays.

It doesn't make sense. Play A-Rod and sit him against Boston on Friday. Yes, you heard that correctly. The Red Sox are a non-factor now except for playing the role of spoiler. You can't have a lineup that is missing two of your three biggest guns.

Pitching Probables for Rays Series.

Tonight it's Matt Garza against rookie Ivan Nova in a rematch of a game in Tampa last week. The Yankees knocked Garza around and Nova couldn't hold a 6-0 lead. The Yankees eventually won the roller coaster ride.

Tuesday night has another rematch- James Shields vs. Phil Hughes. Shields has been average pitcher that looks like a Hall of Fame caliber hurler when he faces the Yankees. Hughes pitched a sound game, but threw two gopher balls to Dan Johnson that cost the Yankees the game.

Wednesday has Wade Davis going against A.J. Burnett, who will be trying to build off his strong start in Baltimore.

And the Thursday finale could be a rematch of the thrilling David Price-CC Sabathia duel that took place last week in Tampa. The Yankees have not officially named Sabathia the starter according to the MLB probables.

Giants

Okay, I can't resist. What a pathetic, no-show performance by this supposed football team. Did the defensive players forget to get off the team bus? Always a mistake to watch the Giants in prime time.

Are You Ready For Some Football?

Hell, I'm not, but today I participated in my first ever fantasy football draft. I've been doing roto baseball for 16 years and hockey on and off during that time. I figured I'll give it a shot so I joined a public Yahoo league as a newbie.

Here's my roster.

QB - Drew Brees

QB - Eli Manning

RB - Cedric Benson

RB - Jonathan Stewart

RB - Ahmad Bradshaw

RB - LaDainian Tomlinson

WR - Marques Colston

WR - Wes Welker

WR - Vincent Jackson

WR - Kenny Britt

TE - Vernon Davis

TE - Greg Olsen

K - David Akers

Defense - Pittsburgh Steelers

Dallas Cowboys

I had the 2nd pick in the draft. With Chris Johnson chosen, the 2nd pick was a Brees. I was hoping for the Jets or Vikings defense, but they were gone before I decided to go for some 'D'.

Looks like a decent team. We'll see what happens.

A Giant Disgrace

Football season is effectively over me. There is still one game to go in the regular season, plus the playoffs and Super Bowl. But it's done. When the clock read 00:00, the Giants season was done. Oh and that was the end of the first half, not the game.

The Giants, in their final home game at Giants Stadium, didn't bother to show up. A disgraceful display on both sides of the ball led to a 41-9 blowout at the hands of the Carolina Panthers. The loss, combined with the Cowboys and Packers wins, eliminated the Giants from a possible playoff appearance.

The entire game changed on one series in the first quarter and the Giants never recovered. ,It appeared the Giants were headed for a 7-0 lead when they marched right down the field on the game's first possession. But an Eli Manning TD pass to Steve Smith was negated by a Madison Hedgecock hold and a couple of plays later Mario Manningham fumbled away the football and the season. The Panthers completely dominated from that moment on.

The Giants defense which finally showed up last week against the woeful Redskins, reverted back to their "can't stop anyone" form. Jonathan Stewart rushed for the third highest (206) total yardage by any opponent in Giants' history.

It was a sad finish for the fans, especially those long time season ticket holders who can't afford the exorbitant prices at the new stadium.

As for next year, Tom Coughlin will likely be back. He's only two years removed from a SB championship. But defensive coordinator Brian Sheridan is likely gone. It's obviously not all his fault. The players did not get the job done. This was a defense that was supposed to better than last year's. Some heads will probably roll among the players as well.

O-Coordinator Kevin Gilbride's job is most likely safe, though he will probably look for a head coaching job. And what happened to this team's vaunted running game? Brandon Jacobs has played every game and maybe that's the problem. He's been very ordinary - yesterday he had six carries for one yard before leaving with a banged up knee.

Giants Stadium Will Not Be Missed

Don't get me wrong. A lot of great things have happened at Giants Stadium. There has been the road to three Giants' Super Bowl wins and four SB appearances. There was one near SB appearance for the Jets.

Countless Bruce Springsteen concerts. A great Billy Joel show back in '92, and countless other musical performances.

The Cosmos showed off Pele and Giorgio Chinaglia. On and on it goes. But like I said Giants Stadium will not be missed. It's a nothing facility. Not spectacular looking. No amazingly huge video screens. No out of the ordinary food areas or bathroom facilities. It's serviceable.

So while the memories of events will remain in tact, the place itself will not.

My favorite GS attended memories

12/23/86 - Giants defeat Broncos 19-16 in a Super Bowl preview. The Giants improved to 10-2 as the home crowd got revved up in anticipation of their first legitimate Super Bowl run. George Martin picked off a John Elway and returned it 78 yards for a touchdown. He was finally tackled by Lawrence Taylor in the end zone.

Billy Joel "Storm Front" Tour - July, 1992. Great show. Joel was young and full of energy. (I've only seen Springsteen in the arena)

12/10/00 - The Giants crush the Steelers 30-10 in a surprising run to the Super Bowl year. (Unfortunately, not all the games are good. I've also seen the Giants get crushed by the Deadskins and Ravens.)

True Blue

Big props to the NY football Giants tonight. There were many talking heads that kept referring to this afternoon's match up with Tampa Bay as a "trap game". That there would be a tremendous let down after the emotional victory over Dallas last Sunday night, they said.

Obviously, part of these feelings were based on past Giants performances in these situations and just the way the league "flows" in general. It was also stated despite these same talking heads also saying the Bucs could be one of the worst teams in the league.

The latter statement was the one proven true this afternoon as the Giants absolutely destroyed the Buccaneers 24-0. The Giants defense, missing a large chunk of personnel, still managed to hold the Bucs to 86 total yards. That's not a quarter total, that's the entire game.

The Giants meanwhile ran the ball down their Bucs' throat. Ahmad Bradshaw rushed for 104 yards on just 14 carries. Brandon Jacobs was 26-92 and 1 TD. Eli Manning with an efficient day- 14-24 161 Yds 2 TD 0 Int.

Next week? Yup, another trap game on the road against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Priceless

New football stadium: over $1 billion


Avg Ticket Price at the new Cowboys Stadium: $159.65

Beating Dallas in their first home game and sticking it to the pig faced Jerry Jones:

PRICELESS

Snow is Coming, Get Snacks!

Can't be snowed in without enough snacks for a weekend of football. The divisional round is upon us with some great games. Most would agree that the Panthers-Cardinals match up is the only one where the winner is pretty much a given. Then again, that's why they indeed play the games.

The Giants and the Eagles battle for the 3rd time this season in Sunday's NFC East showdown. We're confidently nervous or is it nervously confident? Either way, Big Blue will have all its forces at the ready, most notably Brandon Jacobs. And while Jacobs and others may not be 100%, they are ready to go.

The field could be slick based on the snow and/or freezing rain moving into the area tomorrow morning and lasting into Sunday. Plus ya never know with the winds in the Meadowlands. Eagles kicker David Akers, one of the best, is only 11-22 in FG attempts at Giants Stadium.

Tough pick here, we were thinking 23-20 Giants, but that would mean they wouldn't cover the 4 point spread. So we will go Giants -4 Prediction: Giants 24-19


Panthers -9.5 vs. Cardinals
Even with a quick strike offense, we don't see the Cardinals putting up much of a fight in this game. The Panthers are an experienced team with a devastating running game.
Prediction: Panthers 31 Cardinals 13

Ravens -3 at Titans
The Ravens are playing very good football right now and even though the Titans had a fantastic season, we still don't totally trust Kerry Collins. Especially against the Ravens. This one comes down to the kickers, both of which are good, with Matt Stover kicking the game winning FG late in the 4th.
Prediction: Ravens 16 Titans 13



Steelers -6 vs. Chargers
No Ladainian Tomlinson will put extra pressure on Darren Sproles. Chargers will have to adapt to frigid conditions. Steelers have too many pluses and experience to lose this one, setting up a black and blue match up with the Ravens in the AFC title game.
Prediction: Steelers 27 Chargers 16

Playoffs to date: 2-2

NFL Picks - Week 17

We've reached the regular season end of the line (Mrs. MM is very happy about this). Another mediocre 8-8 week leaves us at 122-113-15 for the season. And this, of course, is the toughest week to decipher. Teams are trying to make the playoffs, others can't get home soon enough. So who knows who cares and who doesn't?

The Giants have nothing to play for on this Sunday, but their opponents, the Vikings, are looking to capture the NFC North or at worst a Wildcard spot. Big Blue will rest plenty of regulars - this is nothing like the regular season finale with the Pats last year. Therefore we have to go with the Vikings despite laying 7 points. Vikings -7 Prediction: Vikings 27 Giants 13

Jets -3 vs. Dolphins
What incredible finale to the regular season - Favre vs. Pennington in a possible do or die match that no one saw coming. We actually think the Jets will bounce back from last week's snowy misery to win it. Of course, being they are the Jets, we could be completely wrong.

Bucs -13 vs. Raiders
The Bucs need a win and some help to make the playoffs. Jon Gruden will make sure the first part happens against his old nemesis.

Packers -11 vs. Lions
Part of us was thinking that the Lions would keep this close...then we had coffee and cleared our heads.

Eagles -1.5 vs. Cowboys
The Cowboys are the better team. The Eagles actually could make the playoffs with a win and a bunch of other teams losing. While the latter isn't likely, we do think they'll spoil the 'boys day, and we would love that.

Bears +3 vs. Texans
We could see the Texans winning this game to finish at .500 and match their best home record (6-2). Somehow we think Da Bears will prevail.

Panthers -2 at Saints
Panthers have a playoff spot locked up, but not the division or a bye in round one. Their defense should be able to contain Drew Brees enough and the Saints won't stop the Panthers running game.

Falcons -14 vs. Rams
Matt Ryan and Co. will do all they can to win the AFC South.

Bengals -2.5 vs Chiefs
No one cares, but Ryan Fitzpatrick and Tyler Thigpen might at least put on a pretty good show.

Jaguars +11 vs Ravens
Jags quit on the season a long time ago, but we think Jack Del Rio will get his team pumped up for this one. Ravens win, but don't cover.

Titans -3 vs. Colts
No clue how this one plays out, because we have no clue how much either side will play their starters.

Steelers -11 vs. Browns
Even if Big Ben and his fellow starters sit most of the day, this should still be a cake walk. Romeo Crennel's nightmare is almost over.

Patriots -5.5 at Bills
Buffalo may be getting all revved up to play spoiler, but it ain't happening.

Seahawks +7 at Cardinals
Cards probably win, but 'hawks are good enough and Cards are bad enough to make this close.

Redskins +3 vs. 49ers
Again, tough to call. We're not sure who'll win, but something like 17-16 sounds pretty good.

Chargers -8 vs. Broncos
At first we though the Broncos would keep it close, but the more we thought about it, the Chargers are going to blow Denver off the field to win the AFC West. Wonder if Ed Hoculi will be watching?

NFL Picks - Week 17

We've reached the regular season end of the line (Mrs. MM is very happy about this). Another mediocre 8-8 week leaves us at 122-113-15 for the season. And this, of course, is the toughest week to decipher. Teams are trying to make the playoffs, others can't get home soon enough. So who knows who cares and who doesn't?

The Giants have nothing to play for on this Sunday, but their opponents, the Vikings, are looking to capture the NFC North or at worst a Wildcard spot. Big Blue will rest plenty of regulars - this is nothing like the regular season finale with the Pats last year. Therefore we have to go with the Vikings despite laying 7 points. Vikings -7 Prediction: Vikings 27 Giants 13

Jets -3 vs. Dolphins
What incredible finale to the regular season - Favre vs. Pennington in a possible do or die match that no one saw coming. We actually think the Jets will bounce back from last week's snowy misery to win it. Of course, being they are the Jets, we could be completely wrong.

Bucs -13 vs. Raiders
The Bucs need a win and some help to make the playoffs. Jon Gruden will make sure the first part happens against his old nemesis.

Packers -11 vs. Lions
Part of us was thinking that the Lions would keep this close...then we had coffee and cleared our heads.

Eagles -1.5 vs. Cowboys
The Cowboys are the better team. The Eagles actually could make the playoffs with a win and a bunch of other teams losing. While the latter isn't likely, we do think they'll spoil the 'boys day, and we would love that.

Bears +3 vs. Texans
We could see the Texans winning this game to finish at .500 and match their best home record (6-2). Somehow we think Da Bears will prevail.

Panthers -2 at Saints
Panthers have a playoff spot locked up, but not the division or a bye in round one. Their defense should be able to contain Drew Brees enough and the Saints won't stop the Panthers running game.

Falcons -14 vs. Rams
Matt Ryan and Co. will do all they can to win the AFC South.

Bengals -2.5 vs Chiefs
No one cares, but Ryan Fitzpatrick and Tyler Thigpen might at least put on a pretty good show.

Jaguars +11 vs Ravens
Jags quit on the season a long time ago, but we think Jack Del Rio will get his team pumped up for this one. Ravens win, but don't cover.

Titans -3 vs. Colts
No clue how this one plays out, because we have no clue how much either side will play their starters.

Steelers -11 vs. Browns
Even if Big Ben and his fellow starters sit most of the day, this should still be a cake walk. Romeo Crennel's nightmare is almost over.

Patriots -5.5 at Bills
Buffalo may be getting all revved up to play spoiler, but it ain't happening.

Seahawks +7 at Cardinals
Cards probably win, but 'hawks are good enough and Cards are bad enough to make this close.

Redskins +3 vs. 49ers
Again, tough to call. We're not sure who'll win, but something like 17-16 sounds pretty good.

Chargers -8 vs. Broncos
At first we though the Broncos would keep it close, but the more we thought about it, the Chargers are going to blow Denver off the field to win the AFC West. Wonder if Ed Hoculi will be watching?

NFL Picks - Week 16

Wow, we stunk out the joint last week and we're "fortunate" to go 6-9-1. That dropped ups to 114-105-15 . We've gotten off to a 1-0 start with the Colts win over the Jags, but these last weeks of the season are very hard to read. Speaking of hard to read, it's hard to take the temperature of the Giants right now. Big Blue has some key injuries and the Plaxico Burress mess, which has effected the offense more than we thought it would.

From looking like they had the #1 seed wrapped up, the Gints now have a tough game with the Panthers, who are tied with the Giants at 11-3. Brandon Jacobs is questionable, but right now is more probably than out. The Giants need Fred Robbins back as well to stop the Panthers running game, and Dominik Hixon to fill in for Buress. We could see thePanthers winning this, but we have to go with the Giants -3. Prediction Giants 19 Panthers 17

Cowboys -5.5 vs. Ravens
The last regular season game at Texas Stadium and the crowd and Cowboys will fired up. It will be too much for Joe Flacco and the Ravens. Too bad this game is on the NFL Network. You guys suck.

Seahawks +3.5 at Jets
Flip flopped on this one too. We're convinced the Jets will win this game, but it will come down to a field goal. This is Mike Holmgren's last home game coaching the 'hawks and we think Seattle will be amped up.

Steelers -2 at Titans
Wow, what a tough schedule the Steelers have had down the stretch. But they've come out on top and have only gotten stronger. We see them making it a long day for Kerry Collins.

Eagles -4.5 at Redskins
Eagles are on a roll and the Redskins are rolling over.

Dolphins -3.5 at Chiefs
Dolphins have been playing all close ones and they better not look ahead to the finale with the Jets.

Saints -7 at Lions
Should be a Brees.

49ers -5 vs. Rams
zzzzzzz, but Shaun Hill should have a big day.

Patriots -8.5 vs. Cardinals
Tough one. Pats blew out the hapless Raiders last week, but they've had some tough ones, and the Cards are a division leader. But as we have said before, is there a worse 1st place team than the Cardinals?

Bengals +3 at Browns
Remember when this was a good game?

Falcons +3.5 at Vikings
The Vikings are playing really well on the defensive side of the ball and Adrian Peterson is a monster. But the Matt Ryan and the Falcons are finding ways to win.

Texans -7 at Raiders
Wow, the Texans will be over .500 when the game is over. Who'd have thunk it?

Broncos -6.5 vs. Bills
No reason to go with the Bills.

Bucs -3.5 vs. Chargers
Bucs 'D' should make the difference.

Bears -4 vs. Packers
Packers season is done.

NFL Picks - Week 16

Wow, we stunk out the joint last week and we're "fortunate" to go 6-9-1. That dropped ups to 114-105-15 . We've gotten off to a 1-0 start with the Colts win over the Jags, but these last weeks of the season are very hard to read. Speaking of hard to read, it's hard to take the temperature of the Giants right now. Big Blue has some key injuries and the Plaxico Burress mess, which has effected the offense more than we thought it would.

From looking like they had the #1 seed wrapped up, the Gints now have a tough game with the Panthers, who are tied with the Giants at 11-3. Brandon Jacobs is questionable, but right now is more probably than out. The Giants need Fred Robbins back as well to stop the Panthers running game, and Dominik Hixon to fill in for Buress. We could see thePanthers winning this, but we have to go with the Giants -3. Prediction Giants 19 Panthers 17

Cowboys -5.5 vs. Ravens
The last regular season game at Texas Stadium and the crowd and Cowboys will fired up. It will be too much for Joe Flacco and the Ravens. Too bad this game is on the NFL Network. You guys suck.

Seahawks +3.5 at Jets
Flip flopped on this one too. We're convinced the Jets will win this game, but it will come down to a field goal. This is Mike Holmgren's last home game coaching the 'hawks and we think Seattle will be amped up.

Steelers -2 at Titans
Wow, what a tough schedule the Steelers have had down the stretch. But they've come out on top and have only gotten stronger. We see them making it a long day for Kerry Collins.

Eagles -4.5 at Redskins
Eagles are on a roll and the Redskins are rolling over.

Dolphins -3.5 at Chiefs
Dolphins have been playing all close ones and they better not look ahead to the finale with the Jets.

Saints -7 at Lions
Should be a Brees.

49ers -5 vs. Rams
zzzzzzz, but Shaun Hill should have a big day.

Patriots -8.5 vs. Cardinals
Tough one. Pats blew out the hapless Raiders last week, but they've had some tough ones, and the Cards are a division leader. But as we have said before, is there a worse 1st place team than the Cardinals?

Bengals +3 at Browns
Remember when this was a good game?

Falcons +3.5 at Vikings
The Vikings are playing really well on the defensive side of the ball and Adrian Peterson is a monster. But the Matt Ryan and the Falcons are finding ways to win.

Texans -7 at Raiders
Wow, the Texans will be over .500 when the game is over. Who'd have thunk it?

Broncos -6.5 vs. Bills
No reason to go with the Bills.

Bucs -3.5 vs. Chargers
Bucs 'D' should make the difference.

Bears -4 vs. Packers
Packers season is done.

NFL Picks - Week 15

UPDATE 8:10 PM - WOW, did we stink out the joint today.

A decent 9-7 record in week 14 put us at 108-96-14 for the year. We're 1-0 this week having taken underdog New Orleans against Chicago in the Thursday night game.

Big doings in Big 'D' tonight as Big Blue go to Dallas for the Sunday night game. And if you've read this blog you know just how much we hate the Giants in prime time. Stressful games, bad games, some wins. Scary. Giants don't have Brandon Jacobs or Plaxigun, but the Cowboys have been in-fighting (and possibly T.O. and Jason Witten literally coming to blows) all week, at least according to Dallas papers. We still like the Giants though, especially as 3 point underdogs. Oh how we hate the 'Boys. Giants +3 Prediction: Giants 27 Cowboys 17

Jets -7.5 vs. Bills
The Jets are coming off back to back disappointing weeks, but the Bills have been pathetic for longer than that. Jet fans jump back on the bandwagon after this one.
The Jets got big time lucky in winning, but that didn't help those who sided with them on the point spread. Loss

Packers -2 vs. Jaguars
The Pack has been struggling, but the Jags quit weeks ago.
The Pack is just not a good team and it showed today. 20-16 Jags. Loss

Colts -17 vs. Lions
We hate huge spreads, but we hate the Lions more.
We certainly didn't expect the Lions to hang in there, but they did in only losing by 10. Loss

Redskins -7 at Bengals
Some (Mike Francesa) would have you believe that the Deadskins season is done. Clinton Portis went after coach Jim Zorn on the radio, the offensive line is banged up, etc.. But the Skins could still save their season and we don't trust Cincy.
We really hate when Francesa is right. Loss

49ers +6.5 at Dolphins
Miami has been getting undeserved good sized spreads. Sure they are 8-5, but for the most part they don't win by much. Same goes for today even if Frank Gore doesn't play.
Pegged this one perfectly. Unfortunately, we didn't do that too often today. Win

Seahawks -2.5 at Rams
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
Looks like it was a better game than we expected and we got it right. Win

Titans -3 at Texans
With Houston's improved play this could be an entertaining one.
The Texans are hot, 4 straight wins and hand the Titans their 2nd loss. Loss

Steelers +3 at Ravens
Along with the Giants-Cowboys, the game of the week. Black and blue football sees the Steelers continue to rise to the top of the AFC.
Just as advertised and Steelers with another come from behind win. Win

Broncos +8 at Panthers
Despite their big win over the Bucs, we're not jumping back on the Panthers bandwagon so fast. Their offense has still been erratic and the Broncos big play 'O' can keep this close. Carolina wins though.
Boy did we have the wrong take on this one. Loss

Chargers -5.5 at Chiefs
Norv Turner's time in SD is almost over.
Chargers win, but very unimpressively. Loss

Cardinals -3 vs. Vikings
Tough one. Both teams are inconsistent. Toss of an imaginary coin.
Is there a worse looking first place team than the Cardinals? Loss

Patriots -7 at Raiders
Despite Matt Cassel grieving for the loss of his Dad, this game shouldn't be close for the Pats like last week's squeaker with Seattle.
Blow out city. Nice game for Cassel. Win

Falcons -3 vs. Bucs
We're on the Matt Ryan bandwagon for sure.
The Ryans do it again with a late FG. Push

Eagles -14 vs. Browns
Poor Romeo Crennel.

NFL Picks - Week 15

UPDATE 8:10 PM - WOW, did we stink out the joint today.

A decent 9-7 record in week 14 put us at 108-96-14 for the year. We're 1-0 this week having taken underdog New Orleans against Chicago in the Thursday night game.

Big doings in Big 'D' tonight as Big Blue go to Dallas for the Sunday night game. And if you've read this blog you know just how much we hate the Giants in prime time. Stressful games, bad games, some wins. Scary. Giants don't have Brandon Jacobs or Plaxigun, but the Cowboys have been in-fighting (and possibly T.O. and Jason Witten literally coming to blows) all week, at least according to Dallas papers. We still like the Giants though, especially as 3 point underdogs. Oh how we hate the 'Boys. Giants +3 Prediction: Giants 27 Cowboys 17

Jets -7.5 vs. Bills
The Jets are coming off back to back disappointing weeks, but the Bills have been pathetic for longer than that. Jet fans jump back on the bandwagon after this one.
The Jets got big time lucky in winning, but that didn't help those who sided with them on the point spread. Loss

Packers -2 vs. Jaguars
The Pack has been struggling, but the Jags quit weeks ago.
The Pack is just not a good team and it showed today. 20-16 Jags. Loss

Colts -17 vs. Lions
We hate huge spreads, but we hate the Lions more.
We certainly didn't expect the Lions to hang in there, but they did in only losing by 10. Loss

Redskins -7 at Bengals
Some (Mike Francesa) would have you believe that the Deadskins season is done. Clinton Portis went after coach Jim Zorn on the radio, the offensive line is banged up, etc.. But the Skins could still save their season and we don't trust Cincy.
We really hate when Francesa is right. Loss

49ers +6.5 at Dolphins
Miami has been getting undeserved good sized spreads. Sure they are 8-5, but for the most part they don't win by much. Same goes for today even if Frank Gore doesn't play.
Pegged this one perfectly. Unfortunately, we didn't do that too often today. Win

Seahawks -2.5 at Rams
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
Looks like it was a better game than we expected and we got it right. Win

Titans -3 at Texans
With Houston's improved play this could be an entertaining one.
The Texans are hot, 4 straight wins and hand the Titans their 2nd loss. Loss

Steelers +3 at Ravens
Along with the Giants-Cowboys, the game of the week. Black and blue football sees the Steelers continue to rise to the top of the AFC.
Just as advertised and Steelers with another come from behind win. Win

Broncos +8 at Panthers
Despite their big win over the Bucs, we're not jumping back on the Panthers bandwagon so fast. Their offense has still been erratic and the Broncos big play 'O' can keep this close. Carolina wins though.
Boy did we have the wrong take on this one. Loss

Chargers -5.5 at Chiefs
Norv Turner's time in SD is almost over.
Chargers win, but very unimpressively. Loss

Cardinals -3 vs. Vikings
Tough one. Both teams are inconsistent. Toss of an imaginary coin.
Is there a worse looking first place team than the Cardinals? Loss

Patriots -7 at Raiders
Despite Matt Cassel grieving for the loss of his Dad, this game shouldn't be close for the Pats like last week's squeaker with Seattle.
Blow out city. Nice game for Cassel. Win

Falcons -3 vs. Bucs
We're on the Matt Ryan bandwagon for sure.
The Ryans do it again with a late FG. Push

Eagles -14 vs. Browns
Poor Romeo Crennel.

NFL Picks - Week 14

After a good 2-1 start on Thanksgiving day, we were a miserable 6-10 overall. Yes, that means 4-9 on Sunday/Monday. We're now 99-89-14 after going just 14-18 the last 2 weeks. But we've got the Thursday night Chargers-Raiders game in our pocket as we begin week 14.

Big Blue has had all the Plaxico Burress-Antonio Pierce nonsense (believe us we're not dismissing it by calling it nonsense), but it shouldn't distract them from the latest task at hand, the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles played two horrendous games in a row, epitomized by the play of Donovan McChunky Soup, but made like the Phoenix in routing the Cardinals on Thanksgiving day. Snow flurries, high winds, and freezing temps in Giants Stadium today will impact that Eagles ability to put those same points on the board (or the 31 they scored against the Giants in Philly the first time they met).
Giants -6.5 vs. Eagles Prediction: Giants 27 Eagles 19

Jets -4 at 49ers
The Jets embarrassed themselves against the Broncos last week, causing some to jump off the bandwagon. But they should have no trouble with the Niners today. San Fran has been playing better of late, but they won't have an answer for the Jets offense.

Colts -13.5 vs. Bengals
Is there any reason to pick the Bengals? Seriously?

Bears -6.5 vs. Jaguars
The Jags totally humiliated themselves and their coach Jack Del Rio on Monday night. They quit, there's no debate about it. So while the Bears aren't exactly clicking on all cylinders they should handle a Jags team that probably won't like the Chicago weather either.

Texans +6 at Packers
The Texans, an indoor team, are not going to like the sub 20 degree temperature in Green Bay today, but some confidence from Monday's game should make this one close. Packers by 3.

Titans -14 vs. Browns
The Browns are down to their third string QB...it's going to make for a long final month for coach Romeo Crennel, who will probably resurface with one of his old pals (Bill Parcell, BillBelichik) next year.

Vikings -10 at Lions
We don't love this Vikings team by any measure, but these Lions flat out stink. They used to win at home, but don't even do that any more. A.P. should have 100 yards by halftime.

Ravens -5.5 vs. Redskins
The Ravens defense should be too much for the Redskins even with Clinton Portis playing. Joe Flacco takes the Ravens to another victory.

Falcons +3 at Saints
The Saints are merely favorites because they're at home. Shouldn't this game be a pick 'em at best?

Dolphins +1 at Bills (in Toronto)
A home road game for the Bills who were absolutely pathetic against the 49ers last week. 3 points? The Dolphins haven't played very well on the offensive side of the ball the last 3 weeks, but they should take this one.

Broncos -9 vs. Chiefs
Tricky pick. The Chiefs are rotten, with occasional flashes of mediocrity. The Broncos are mediocre with occasional flashes of wow, like last Sunday's win against the Jets. Maybe it will finally kick start them. Broncos win it something like 41-23.

Cardinals -14 vs. Rams
The Cardinals made a proud showing against the Giants 2 weeks ago, but they looked like high schoolers against the Eagles last week. They should beat up on a pathetic, injured Rams team though.

Steelers -3.5 vs. Cowboys
Game of the week! Had Marion Barber played, we probably would have gone with the Cowboys, thinking the Steelers would win by 1. But with Barber out and no proven running back to fill in for him, we like the Steelers. 23-16?

Patriots -7 at Seahawks
It wasn't that long ago that these two teams were meeting in the Super Bowl. It's been downhill since for the Seahawks.

Bucs +3 at Panthers
We liked this Panthers team earlier on and didn't like the Bucs. Roles have reversed. We're not that enamored with Tampa, but Jake Delhomme's bad elbow is effecting the offense. Bucs win a low scorer.

NFL Picks - Week 14

After a good 2-1 start on Thanksgiving day, we were a miserable 6-10 overall. Yes, that means 4-9 on Sunday/Monday. We're now 99-89-14 after going just 14-18 the last 2 weeks. But we've got the Thursday night Chargers-Raiders game in our pocket as we begin week 14.

Big Blue has had all the Plaxico Burress-Antonio Pierce nonsense (believe us we're not dismissing it by calling it nonsense), but it shouldn't distract them from the latest task at hand, the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles played two horrendous games in a row, epitomized by the play of Donovan McChunky Soup, but made like the Phoenix in routing the Cardinals on Thanksgiving day. Snow flurries, high winds, and freezing temps in Giants Stadium today will impact that Eagles ability to put those same points on the board (or the 31 they scored against the Giants in Philly the first time they met).
Giants -6.5 vs. Eagles Prediction: Giants 27 Eagles 19

Jets -4 at 49ers
The Jets embarrassed themselves against the Broncos last week, causing some to jump off the bandwagon. But they should have no trouble with the Niners today. San Fran has been playing better of late, but they won't have an answer for the Jets offense.

Colts -13.5 vs. Bengals
Is there any reason to pick the Bengals? Seriously?

Bears -6.5 vs. Jaguars
The Jags totally humiliated themselves and their coach Jack Del Rio on Monday night. They quit, there's no debate about it. So while the Bears aren't exactly clicking on all cylinders they should handle a Jags team that probably won't like the Chicago weather either.

Texans +6 at Packers
The Texans, an indoor team, are not going to like the sub 20 degree temperature in Green Bay today, but some confidence from Monday's game should make this one close. Packers by 3.

Titans -14 vs. Browns
The Browns are down to their third string QB...it's going to make for a long final month for coach Romeo Crennel, who will probably resurface with one of his old pals (Bill Parcell, BillBelichik) next year.

Vikings -10 at Lions
We don't love this Vikings team by any measure, but these Lions flat out stink. They used to win at home, but don't even do that any more. A.P. should have 100 yards by halftime.

Ravens -5.5 vs. Redskins
The Ravens defense should be too much for the Redskins even with Clinton Portis playing. Joe Flacco takes the Ravens to another victory.

Falcons +3 at Saints
The Saints are merely favorites because they're at home. Shouldn't this game be a pick 'em at best?

Dolphins +1 at Bills (in Toronto)
A home road game for the Bills who were absolutely pathetic against the 49ers last week. 3 points? The Dolphins haven't played very well on the offensive side of the ball the last 3 weeks, but they should take this one.

Broncos -9 vs. Chiefs
Tricky pick. The Chiefs are rotten, with occasional flashes of mediocrity. The Broncos are mediocre with occasional flashes of wow, like last Sunday's win against the Jets. Maybe it will finally kick start them. Broncos win it something like 41-23.

Cardinals -14 vs. Rams
The Cardinals made a proud showing against the Giants 2 weeks ago, but they looked like high schoolers against the Eagles last week. They should beat up on a pathetic, injured Rams team though.

Steelers -3.5 vs. Cowboys
Game of the week! Had Marion Barber played, we probably would have gone with the Cowboys, thinking the Steelers would win by 1. But with Barber out and no proven running back to fill in for him, we like the Steelers. 23-16?

Patriots -7 at Seahawks
It wasn't that long ago that these two teams were meeting in the Super Bowl. It's been downhill since for the Seahawks.

Bucs +3 at Panthers
We liked this Panthers team earlier on and didn't like the Bucs. Roles have reversed. We're not that enamored with Tampa, but Jake Delhomme's bad elbow is effecting the offense. Bucs win a low scorer.

NFL Picks - Week 13

Before we get into anything else, we continue to be, surprisingly, shocked at Plaxico Burress' antics. We have to agree with Steve Politi of the Star Ledger, the sooner he's gone, the better.

Back to football. We were 2-1 on Thursday. Still shocked that the Eagles were favored by 3. Apparently they should have been favored by 15. Amazing how ordinary Kurt Warner can look under a pass rush.

Big Blue won't have Burress, who wasn't going to play anyway, but may have Brandon Jacobs back. We'll see at 1:oo EST, when the Giants and Redskins take the field at FEDEX Field. It'll be a wet, muddy ball game with rain expected all day in the D.C. area. The Giants are favored by 3.5 and that sounds good to us. Giants -3.5 Prediction: Giants 27 Redskins 13
We weren't far off on this though it looked early on that the Giants would win in a blow out. By half time it was a game, but the Giants superiority shined through. WON

Jets -8 vs. Broncos
It wasn't that long ago we would have thought there would be no way the Jets would be favored by 8, especially against a potent Broncos offense. But the Jets have won 5 in a row and the Broncos defense has been more porous than Paris Hilton's pants.
Did not see the Broncos offense rolling and playing good enough defense to win. LOSS

Bills -6.5 vs 49ers
The Bills have been a tremendous let down this year. They looked like they could easily take the AFC East once Tom Brady went down, but they've been miserable, especially QB Trent Edwards. Edwards bounced back with a big game in the Bills win last week against the Chiefs. He and the Bills will need to do it again this week against a Niners team that has nothing to lose. San Fran won't have to worry about the weather, as the temps will be at a mild Buffalo 41.
Trent Edwards missed the 2nd half, but this Bills team is pathetic. A 10-3 loss to the Niners? C'mon! LOSS

Bucs -4 vs. Saints
This is a huge game for the Bucs who have a chance to lock up the #2 seed in the NFC playoffs. The Saints can get back in the NFC South and Wildcard races with a win. Bucs 'D' prevails.
Close ball game, the Bucs blew a 20-10 lead before prevailing 23-20. Not good enough to cover though. LOSS

Packers -3 vs. Panthers
Carolina had a lot of the warts exposed by the Falcons last week. QB Jake Delhomme admitted he's still hurting from off-season elbow surgery. The Pack is just a game behind in the NFC North despite a 5-6 record. With the Vikings and Bears squaring off, the Packers can make up some ground.
Another good game that saw the Pack rally from a 21-10 deficit to take a 28-21 lead, only to lose 35-31. LOSS

Dolphins -8 at Rams
The fish aren't likely to catch the Jets or Pats in the division, but they're still in the Wildcard mix. They barely beat the Raiders 2 weeks ago and were embarrassed by the Pats last week. They should bounce back this week against a hapless Rams team.
The Dolphins are not really that good. Yes, they won 16-12, but they should have crushed this Rams team. LOSS

Ravens -7 at Bengals
Another favorite, but how can you blame us? The Ravens bounced back nicely from their loss to the Giants, with a blow out win over Philly. They sit just one game back of the Steelers in the AFC North. The Bengals have one win. 'Nuff said.
Never a contest, Ravens roll. WON

Colts -4.5 at Browns
Brady Quinn is out for the year with a broken finger, which means Derek Anderson is back in. The Colts are without star DB Bob Sanders, but their offense has been clicking and their 'D' has improved.
Dull..this game was on CBS while the Giants were on Fox. Can't imagine too many people chose this game to watch. Browns already lost Quinn, now Anderson is probably done for the year too. Browns covered though. LOSS

Falcons +5 at Chargers
The Chargers season is slipping away, but if they run the table they can get back to the playoffs. No matter what happens, Norv Turner is probably done as coach in San Diego. The Falcons are rolling by rookie QB Matt Ryan and it should continue today.
We were on the money here. Ryan's great rookie season continues. WON

Steelers -1 at Patriots
Great game...Matt Cassell and the Pats offense has been red hot, but the Steelers defense is still solid. Should be a low scoring game with the boys from iron city prevailing.
Not even close, the Steelers blow out the Pats, 33-10. WON

Raiders -3 vs. Chiefs
Boy is this game now what it used to be. The Raiders are playing a little better since Tom Cable took over and had a resounding win over the Broncs last week. Both teams stink, but this game could actually be entertaining.
The Chiefs won this 20-13. You want to know why? Because for some reason Cable ran a fake FG with Jankowski running the ball. WTF! LOSS

Bears +3 at Vikings
A huge game in the NFC North, where these two teams are tied at an underwhelming 6-5. Will go with the Bears 'D' in this one, thought we also expect a big day from A.P..

Jaguars +3 at Texans
Good God, who scheduled this one? Even if the Jags were playing up to par, did anyone think the Texans were worthy of MNF?