Dave Cokin
Bonus Play Sunday 1:00 PM NFL
(259) GREEN BAY PACKERS at (260) MIAMI DOLPHINS
Take: (260) MIAMI DOLPHINS +3
If you just look at the numbers, Green Bay deserves to be favored at Miami as they’re simply the better football team. But when breaking down the actual match ups, this game gets much fuzzier in terms of picking the outright winner.
It’s just not a great matchup for the favorite. The prolific Packers offense can be contained by this Dolphins defense. Meanwhile, when the Dolphins can run the football, they’re not a bad team and that’s something they should be able to accomplish here. I’m not expecting the Fins to just race up and down the field at will. But I can’t see why they shouldn’t be able to put together a few nice drives.
There is one aspect of this game that worries me as far as Miami is concerned. The Dolphins special teams have been abysmal. They’re dead last in the NFL in special teams efficiency and that is an area where immediate improvement is mandatory. The upside here is that the coaching staff is well aware of the problems in this area, and they’ve had a couple weeks to try and rectify things thanks to the bye week.
I’m not going hung ho in making a case for Miami. Rather, I’m staying with what I’ve felt since prior to the season. That is, the Packers are good, but not elite, and are therefore getting overrated by the experts as well as the majority of the bettors. The fact that the Packers are coming into this one off a laughably easy win earns a little more value on the dog. And the truth is, I’m really not giving Green Bay any special credit for crushing a Vikings team that was forced to go with overmatched Christian Ponder under center.
This should be one of the best games of the day. It’s what I feel is a really good spot for the home team, and getting at least that field goal is a nice little cushion. If the Dolphins can avoid a major blunder on special teams, I think they have a real shot at the upset. I’ll sign on for the Dolphins plus the points.
Bonus Play Sunday 1:00 PM NFL
(259) GREEN BAY PACKERS at (260) MIAMI DOLPHINS
Take: (260) MIAMI DOLPHINS +3
If you just look at the numbers, Green Bay deserves to be favored at Miami as they’re simply the better football team. But when breaking down the actual match ups, this game gets much fuzzier in terms of picking the outright winner.
It’s just not a great matchup for the favorite. The prolific Packers offense can be contained by this Dolphins defense. Meanwhile, when the Dolphins can run the football, they’re not a bad team and that’s something they should be able to accomplish here. I’m not expecting the Fins to just race up and down the field at will. But I can’t see why they shouldn’t be able to put together a few nice drives.
There is one aspect of this game that worries me as far as Miami is concerned. The Dolphins special teams have been abysmal. They’re dead last in the NFL in special teams efficiency and that is an area where immediate improvement is mandatory. The upside here is that the coaching staff is well aware of the problems in this area, and they’ve had a couple weeks to try and rectify things thanks to the bye week.
I’m not going hung ho in making a case for Miami. Rather, I’m staying with what I’ve felt since prior to the season. That is, the Packers are good, but not elite, and are therefore getting overrated by the experts as well as the majority of the bettors. The fact that the Packers are coming into this one off a laughably easy win earns a little more value on the dog. And the truth is, I’m really not giving Green Bay any special credit for crushing a Vikings team that was forced to go with overmatched Christian Ponder under center.
This should be one of the best games of the day. It’s what I feel is a really good spot for the home team, and getting at least that field goal is a nice little cushion. If the Dolphins can avoid a major blunder on special teams, I think they have a real shot at the upset. I’ll sign on for the Dolphins plus the points.
Jim Feist
Comp NFL Pick for Sunday, October 12, 2014: 4:05 PM ET
(269) SAN DIEGO CHARGERS VS (270) OAKLAND RAIDERS
Take: (270) OAKLAND RAIDERS
Reason: Your Bonus Play for Sunday, October 12, 2014 is in the NFL contest between the San Diego Chargers and Oakland Raiders. The Chargers have won four straight since their opening week loss at Arizona. Last week they recorded a rare NFL shutout win over the Jets, 31-0. The Chargers defense held the Jets offense in check. In fact, the Jets didn't cross mid-field until late in the 4th quarter. Not sure if it was so much the Chargers defense or the pathetic play of the Jets offense. Still, the Chargers could be in a look ahead spot here. They play next week at home against Kansas City and then travel to Denver to face the Broncos. I have to believe the Chargers want to get out of this game as injury free as possible considering they have some big losses in the backfield already. Oakland has actually had good success against the Chargers, covering two of the last three meetings and seven of the last 10. The offense isn't good, 32nd in the league, but the passing defense is solid (4th in the league) and that is the strength of the Chargers. I like the points here on Sunday, take the Raiders.
Comp NFL Pick for Sunday, October 12, 2014: 4:05 PM ET
(269) SAN DIEGO CHARGERS VS (270) OAKLAND RAIDERS
Take: (270) OAKLAND RAIDERS
Reason: Your Bonus Play for Sunday, October 12, 2014 is in the NFL contest between the San Diego Chargers and Oakland Raiders. The Chargers have won four straight since their opening week loss at Arizona. Last week they recorded a rare NFL shutout win over the Jets, 31-0. The Chargers defense held the Jets offense in check. In fact, the Jets didn't cross mid-field until late in the 4th quarter. Not sure if it was so much the Chargers defense or the pathetic play of the Jets offense. Still, the Chargers could be in a look ahead spot here. They play next week at home against Kansas City and then travel to Denver to face the Broncos. I have to believe the Chargers want to get out of this game as injury free as possible considering they have some big losses in the backfield already. Oakland has actually had good success against the Chargers, covering two of the last three meetings and seven of the last 10. The offense isn't good, 32nd in the league, but the passing defense is solid (4th in the league) and that is the strength of the Chargers. I like the points here on Sunday, take the Raiders.
Jack Jones
Washington Redskins vs. Arizona Cardinals
Jack's Free Pick Sunday: Arizona Cardinals -2.5
This line has been down all week because the books have been waiting to hear about the status of Arizona’s starting quarterback. Early reports are that there is a good chance Carson Palmer returns this week. Backup Drew Stanton is also questionable with a concussion. Even No. 3 QB Logan Thomas may start, and after a good preseason, he would be fine. Whoever is under center should be good enough for the Cardinals to get the win and cover at home against the hapless Redskins.
Arizona is off to a 3-1 start this season due to its defense. Sure, it was blown out last week against Denver, but that was a 24-20 game in the fourth quarter before the Broncos blew it wide open in the final period. The Cardinals get to return home this week where they have played their best football. They have beaten both San Diego and San Francisco at home, which are two of the best teams in the league.
Washington (1-4) is in shambles right now as its season is pretty much over. After falling to the Giants 14-45 at home, they lost to the Seahawks 17-27 at home last week. That game was a much bigger blowout than the final score would indicate as the Redskins were outgained 307-403 for the game. Seattle’s Percy Harvin had three touchdowns called back due to penalties. The only reason the Redskins were able to hang around were because of the penalties after falling in a 17-0 hole early.
Now, the Redskins will be working on a short week after playing on Monday Night Football. That is a big disadvantage for them, and they will have a hard time getting emotionally ready to play this game after playing the defending champs. This is certainly a hangover spot for the Redskins, who know their playoff hopes are already pretty much crushed. They may not be able to get back up off the mat this week.
The Cardinals should have no problem moving the football and scoring on a Washington defense that is giving up 27.2 points per game on the season. They have allowed an average of 36 points and 426 yards per game over the past two weeks. There have been reports that players were joking around in the locker room after the loss to the Seahawks, so there are certainly some chemistry issues with this team right now as well.
The Redskins are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 games overall. Washington is 2-6 ATS in its last eight road games. The Redskins are 4-12 ATS in their last 16 vs. NFC opponents. Arizona is 4-0 in its last four vs. a team with a losing record. The Cardinals are 8-1 ATS in their last nine games following an ATS loss. Arizona is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games overall. Bet the Cardinals Sunday.
Washington Redskins vs. Arizona Cardinals
Jack's Free Pick Sunday: Arizona Cardinals -2.5
This line has been down all week because the books have been waiting to hear about the status of Arizona’s starting quarterback. Early reports are that there is a good chance Carson Palmer returns this week. Backup Drew Stanton is also questionable with a concussion. Even No. 3 QB Logan Thomas may start, and after a good preseason, he would be fine. Whoever is under center should be good enough for the Cardinals to get the win and cover at home against the hapless Redskins.
Arizona is off to a 3-1 start this season due to its defense. Sure, it was blown out last week against Denver, but that was a 24-20 game in the fourth quarter before the Broncos blew it wide open in the final period. The Cardinals get to return home this week where they have played their best football. They have beaten both San Diego and San Francisco at home, which are two of the best teams in the league.
Washington (1-4) is in shambles right now as its season is pretty much over. After falling to the Giants 14-45 at home, they lost to the Seahawks 17-27 at home last week. That game was a much bigger blowout than the final score would indicate as the Redskins were outgained 307-403 for the game. Seattle’s Percy Harvin had three touchdowns called back due to penalties. The only reason the Redskins were able to hang around were because of the penalties after falling in a 17-0 hole early.
Now, the Redskins will be working on a short week after playing on Monday Night Football. That is a big disadvantage for them, and they will have a hard time getting emotionally ready to play this game after playing the defending champs. This is certainly a hangover spot for the Redskins, who know their playoff hopes are already pretty much crushed. They may not be able to get back up off the mat this week.
The Cardinals should have no problem moving the football and scoring on a Washington defense that is giving up 27.2 points per game on the season. They have allowed an average of 36 points and 426 yards per game over the past two weeks. There have been reports that players were joking around in the locker room after the loss to the Seahawks, so there are certainly some chemistry issues with this team right now as well.
The Redskins are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 games overall. Washington is 2-6 ATS in its last eight road games. The Redskins are 4-12 ATS in their last 16 vs. NFC opponents. Arizona is 4-0 in its last four vs. a team with a losing record. The Cardinals are 8-1 ATS in their last nine games following an ATS loss. Arizona is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games overall. Bet the Cardinals Sunday.
Rocky Atkinson
Rocketman Sports FREE NFL play Sunday 10-12-14 NY Giants @ Philadelphia 8:30 PM EST
Play On: NY Giants +3
The NY Giants travel to Philadelphia to take on the Eagles on Sunday night. NY Giants are 3-2 SU on the season while Philadelphia comes in with a 4-1 SU overall record this year. Philadelphia defense is allowing 132 yards per game on the ground this year, 274.2 yards per game passing this season and 406.2 total yards per game. Philadelphia is 4-14 ATS last 3 years when playing at home. NY Giants are scoring 26.6 points per game overall this year and 29.5 points per game on the road this season. Philadelphia is allowing 26.4 points per game overall this year and 26.3 points per game at home this season. NY Giants are 27-11-1 last 39 road games against a team with a winning home record. Philadelphia is 8-22-1 ATS last 31 home games. Philadelphia is 3-11-1 ATS last 15 games against a team with a winning record. Underdog is 14-4-1 ATS last 19 meetings in this series. We'll recommend a small play on the NY Giants tonight! Thanks and good luck, Rocky
Rocketman Sports FREE NFL play Sunday 10-12-14 NY Giants @ Philadelphia 8:30 PM EST
Play On: NY Giants +3
The NY Giants travel to Philadelphia to take on the Eagles on Sunday night. NY Giants are 3-2 SU on the season while Philadelphia comes in with a 4-1 SU overall record this year. Philadelphia defense is allowing 132 yards per game on the ground this year, 274.2 yards per game passing this season and 406.2 total yards per game. Philadelphia is 4-14 ATS last 3 years when playing at home. NY Giants are scoring 26.6 points per game overall this year and 29.5 points per game on the road this season. Philadelphia is allowing 26.4 points per game overall this year and 26.3 points per game at home this season. NY Giants are 27-11-1 last 39 road games against a team with a winning home record. Philadelphia is 8-22-1 ATS last 31 home games. Philadelphia is 3-11-1 ATS last 15 games against a team with a winning record. Underdog is 14-4-1 ATS last 19 meetings in this series. We'll recommend a small play on the NY Giants tonight! Thanks and good luck, Rocky
Ben Burns
Carolina Panthers vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Bonus Play Carolina Panthers
The Panthers have thrived as underdogs in this range throughout the history of their franchise.
Excluding “pushes,” they’re 57-43 ATS in 100 games, when listed as underdogs in the 3.5 to 9.5 range, 5-1 ATS their last six in that situation.
This could be a good spot to improve on those stats.
I successfully backed the Panthers last week. They spotted the Bears a big early lead but roared back to win and cover. They come in with some positive momentum.
I also successfully played against the Bengals last week. You probably saw them get hammered by the Patriots, on national TV.
Note that A.J. Green re-aggravated his toe Wednesday and missed Thursday’s practice entirely. While it wouldn’t be wise to rule him out completely, as of this writing, it appears likely he won’t be able to go.
That’d be a big blow to a Cincinnati offense which is likely also going to be without Marvin Jones. (He also missed Thursday’s practice.)
While he did eventually score a TD, we saw what happened when Revis and the Patriots were able to limit Green last week.
Whether or not Green goes this week, I believe the Panthers will be able to have some success in slowing down Dalton and co. Consider grabbing the points.
Carolina Panthers vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Bonus Play Carolina Panthers
The Panthers have thrived as underdogs in this range throughout the history of their franchise.
Excluding “pushes,” they’re 57-43 ATS in 100 games, when listed as underdogs in the 3.5 to 9.5 range, 5-1 ATS their last six in that situation.
This could be a good spot to improve on those stats.
I successfully backed the Panthers last week. They spotted the Bears a big early lead but roared back to win and cover. They come in with some positive momentum.
I also successfully played against the Bengals last week. You probably saw them get hammered by the Patriots, on national TV.
Note that A.J. Green re-aggravated his toe Wednesday and missed Thursday’s practice entirely. While it wouldn’t be wise to rule him out completely, as of this writing, it appears likely he won’t be able to go.
That’d be a big blow to a Cincinnati offense which is likely also going to be without Marvin Jones. (He also missed Thursday’s practice.)
While he did eventually score a TD, we saw what happened when Revis and the Patriots were able to limit Green last week.
Whether or not Green goes this week, I believe the Panthers will be able to have some success in slowing down Dalton and co. Consider grabbing the points.
Red Dog Sports
San Diego Chargers vs. Oakland Raiders
Bonus Play Oakland Raiders +8
Plenty of +7.5's out there. San Diego beat Seattle at home and has a solid QB in Phillip Rivers and a nice defense but I expect this to be a letdown game. Oakland is not a very good team but they are still pros and should be motivated in this division game. I think the Chargers win but the Raiders will cover.
San Diego Chargers vs. Oakland Raiders
Bonus Play Oakland Raiders +8
Plenty of +7.5's out there. San Diego beat Seattle at home and has a solid QB in Phillip Rivers and a nice defense but I expect this to be a letdown game. Oakland is not a very good team but they are still pros and should be motivated in this division game. I think the Chargers win but the Raiders will cover.
Jimmy Boyd
NY Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Free Pick on New York Giants +
It’s almost as if the books are begging for money on the Eagles, listing Philadelphia as a favorite of just a field goal. It’s similar to what we saw back in Week 3 when the Giants were a 3-point road dog at Washington on Thursday Night Football. New York went on to win that contest 45-14. I don’t think the Giants are going to make it look that easy against the Eagles, but I definitely like the value of getting a field goal in a game they could win outright.
The Eagles nearly had an epic meltdown last week against the Rams. Philadelphia jumped out to a 34-7 lead, only to allow St Louis to pull within 6-points with less than 4 minutes to play. It’s also worth noting that it wasn’t as lopsided as the score would have indicated. The Eagles had two defensive touchdowns and were outgained in the contest by 114 yards. The Rams had 29 first downs with an average of 6.1 yards/play. It was the 3rd straight game in which Philadelphia was outgained by more than 100 yards.
While the Eagles were able to rush for 145 yards against the Rams, LeSean McCoy continued to struggle. McCoy managed 81 yards on 24 attempts, which is just a 3.4 average per carry. Without McCoy being a difference maker, this Philadelphia offense has had to rely too much on their passing game. The Giants come in ranked 10th against the run and have one of the more underrated secondaries in the league.
The big key here is that while the Eagles offense could struggle, the Giants shouldn’t have any problem moving the ball. Philadelphia comes in ranked 28th in the league in total defense (406.2 ypg) and 25th in scoring defense (26.4 ppg). The Giants have looked like a completely different offense during their 3-game winning streak, which has seen them outscore the opposition 105-51, scoring at least 30 points in all 3 games.
Fading the Eagles at home has been a wise investment, as Philadelphia is just 5-14 ATS in their last 19 home games. The Giants on the other hand are 27-11-1 ATS in their last 29 road games against a team with a winning home record, 26-13 in their last 29 road games when they come in having won 3 of their last 4 and 33-12 ATS in their last 45 road games after 2 or more consecutive wins. Take New York!
NY Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Free Pick on New York Giants +
It’s almost as if the books are begging for money on the Eagles, listing Philadelphia as a favorite of just a field goal. It’s similar to what we saw back in Week 3 when the Giants were a 3-point road dog at Washington on Thursday Night Football. New York went on to win that contest 45-14. I don’t think the Giants are going to make it look that easy against the Eagles, but I definitely like the value of getting a field goal in a game they could win outright.
The Eagles nearly had an epic meltdown last week against the Rams. Philadelphia jumped out to a 34-7 lead, only to allow St Louis to pull within 6-points with less than 4 minutes to play. It’s also worth noting that it wasn’t as lopsided as the score would have indicated. The Eagles had two defensive touchdowns and were outgained in the contest by 114 yards. The Rams had 29 first downs with an average of 6.1 yards/play. It was the 3rd straight game in which Philadelphia was outgained by more than 100 yards.
While the Eagles were able to rush for 145 yards against the Rams, LeSean McCoy continued to struggle. McCoy managed 81 yards on 24 attempts, which is just a 3.4 average per carry. Without McCoy being a difference maker, this Philadelphia offense has had to rely too much on their passing game. The Giants come in ranked 10th against the run and have one of the more underrated secondaries in the league.
The big key here is that while the Eagles offense could struggle, the Giants shouldn’t have any problem moving the ball. Philadelphia comes in ranked 28th in the league in total defense (406.2 ypg) and 25th in scoring defense (26.4 ppg). The Giants have looked like a completely different offense during their 3-game winning streak, which has seen them outscore the opposition 105-51, scoring at least 30 points in all 3 games.
Fading the Eagles at home has been a wise investment, as Philadelphia is just 5-14 ATS in their last 19 home games. The Giants on the other hand are 27-11-1 ATS in their last 29 road games against a team with a winning home record, 26-13 in their last 29 road games when they come in having won 3 of their last 4 and 33-12 ATS in their last 45 road games after 2 or more consecutive wins. Take New York!
Tony George
San Diego Chargers vs. Oakland Raiders
Bonus Play San Diego Chargers @Oakland +7.5
Rarely do I make a case for laying points on the road, especially over 3 to 5 points, but I will make an exception here as Oakland is an absolute train-wreck, and breaking in a new head coach, playing a rookie QB against a defense ranked 1st in the NFL in Yards allowed and 3rdin points allowed.
Yes the Chargers are on their second backup center and third string RB (who managed 114 yards last week against a decent Jets front 6). Philip Rivers having the year of his career to this point, and credit Mike McCoy as one of the better coaches in recent memory to hit the scene and do what Norv Turner could not, win games and get the Chargers talent at skill positions all playing ball together. Oakland bumped up Tony Sparano to head coach, a guy who lost everywhere he was at before he landed in Oakland, which is par for the course at Radiers nation, take the leftovers and do nothing significant.
The key here is Philip Rivers decisions, and having the 3rd best turnover differential in the NFL to date, that is HUGE for the Chargers. I have them #1 in my power ratings this week, and they have beaten Seattle, something no one else has done recently, and the Bolts are 5-0 ATS this season and should actually be undefeated except foe a debacle on opening MNF against the Cards, and they are 10-1 ATS their last 11. Tale of teams going in 2 different directions, and the Raiders only direction is a downward spiral.
Chargers 30 Raiders 13 LAY THE POINTS.
San Diego Chargers vs. Oakland Raiders
Bonus Play San Diego Chargers @Oakland +7.5
Rarely do I make a case for laying points on the road, especially over 3 to 5 points, but I will make an exception here as Oakland is an absolute train-wreck, and breaking in a new head coach, playing a rookie QB against a defense ranked 1st in the NFL in Yards allowed and 3rdin points allowed.
Yes the Chargers are on their second backup center and third string RB (who managed 114 yards last week against a decent Jets front 6). Philip Rivers having the year of his career to this point, and credit Mike McCoy as one of the better coaches in recent memory to hit the scene and do what Norv Turner could not, win games and get the Chargers talent at skill positions all playing ball together. Oakland bumped up Tony Sparano to head coach, a guy who lost everywhere he was at before he landed in Oakland, which is par for the course at Radiers nation, take the leftovers and do nothing significant.
The key here is Philip Rivers decisions, and having the 3rd best turnover differential in the NFL to date, that is HUGE for the Chargers. I have them #1 in my power ratings this week, and they have beaten Seattle, something no one else has done recently, and the Bolts are 5-0 ATS this season and should actually be undefeated except foe a debacle on opening MNF against the Cards, and they are 10-1 ATS their last 11. Tale of teams going in 2 different directions, and the Raiders only direction is a downward spiral.
Chargers 30 Raiders 13 LAY THE POINTS.
Steve Janus
Chicago Bears vs. Atlanta Falcons
FREE NFL PICK SUNDAY ----Falcons/Bears OVER 54---
This is the highest total on the board for Week 6 for good reason and I see no reason why these two teams won't combine for at least 55 points. Both teams have top level quarterbacks and big play weapons on the outside. Chicago's averaging 26.3 ppg on the road and the Falcons are giving up 28.6 ppg on the season. Atlanta averages 30.2 ppg and will be facing a Chicago defense that allows 26.2 ppg. Falcons have one of the worst defenses in the league. Bears aren't much better. Chicago has a problem with turning it over on offense, but thrive in taking it away on defense. More times than not, turnovers lead to quick/easy points and it's a big reason why I'm backing the OVER in this one.
Key Trends/System - OVER is 9-2 in Chicago's last 11 road games, and 12-3 in their last 15 in a game where the line is +3 to -3. OVER is 6-0 in Atlanta's last games when listed as a home favorite and 5-1 in their last 6 against a team with a losing record. Add it up and that's a 32-6 (84%) system telling us to BET FALCONS/BEARS OVER 54!
Chicago Bears vs. Atlanta Falcons
FREE NFL PICK SUNDAY ----Falcons/Bears OVER 54---
This is the highest total on the board for Week 6 for good reason and I see no reason why these two teams won't combine for at least 55 points. Both teams have top level quarterbacks and big play weapons on the outside. Chicago's averaging 26.3 ppg on the road and the Falcons are giving up 28.6 ppg on the season. Atlanta averages 30.2 ppg and will be facing a Chicago defense that allows 26.2 ppg. Falcons have one of the worst defenses in the league. Bears aren't much better. Chicago has a problem with turning it over on offense, but thrive in taking it away on defense. More times than not, turnovers lead to quick/easy points and it's a big reason why I'm backing the OVER in this one.
Key Trends/System - OVER is 9-2 in Chicago's last 11 road games, and 12-3 in their last 15 in a game where the line is +3 to -3. OVER is 6-0 in Atlanta's last games when listed as a home favorite and 5-1 in their last 6 against a team with a losing record. Add it up and that's a 32-6 (84%) system telling us to BET FALCONS/BEARS OVER 54!
Scott Spreitzer
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings
Bonus Play Minnesota Vikings
I'm backing the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Detroit is a banged-up football team heading into week-6. They may be without the services of WR Calvin Johnson and RB Reggie Bush, who're both listed as doubtful at the time of this post. Meanwhile, after suffering an embarrassing loss with Christian Ponder behind center last Thursday, it looks as though Teddy Bridgewater will be back on the field against Detroit and that makes a world of difference, as Ponder is little more than a 3rd string NFL QB. Minnesota has rebounded well off a loss by at least 21 points over the years, currently on an 11-1 ATS run at home in this situation. The Lions have had to count on their defense, and the stop unit has played extremely well thus far. But the offense has been struggling, thanks mostly to injuries, scoring a grand total of just 64 points over the last four weeks, combined. The Lions will be hard-pressed to win this one, considering their struggles in Minnesota. The Vikings have won the last two meetings at home and they're 19-3 SU the last 22 times they have played host to the Lions. No Metrodome? No problem. I still expect a home win for the Vikings. I'm recommending Minnesota, minus the points on Sunday. Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings
Bonus Play Minnesota Vikings
I'm backing the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Detroit is a banged-up football team heading into week-6. They may be without the services of WR Calvin Johnson and RB Reggie Bush, who're both listed as doubtful at the time of this post. Meanwhile, after suffering an embarrassing loss with Christian Ponder behind center last Thursday, it looks as though Teddy Bridgewater will be back on the field against Detroit and that makes a world of difference, as Ponder is little more than a 3rd string NFL QB. Minnesota has rebounded well off a loss by at least 21 points over the years, currently on an 11-1 ATS run at home in this situation. The Lions have had to count on their defense, and the stop unit has played extremely well thus far. But the offense has been struggling, thanks mostly to injuries, scoring a grand total of just 64 points over the last four weeks, combined. The Lions will be hard-pressed to win this one, considering their struggles in Minnesota. The Vikings have won the last two meetings at home and they're 19-3 SU the last 22 times they have played host to the Lions. No Metrodome? No problem. I still expect a home win for the Vikings. I'm recommending Minnesota, minus the points on Sunday. Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.
Joseph D'Amico
NY Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Bonus Play New York Giants. (Game 275).
The line is short here because RB, Rashad Jennings is out. But Andre Williams can certainly get the job done pounding the ball. The Philly defense allows 26.4 PPG, 132 Rushing Yards per game, and 274.2 Passing Yards per game. Eli Manning has only 1 INT over the L3 games, all wins and covers while the Giants "D" has played tough yielding just 17 PPG during their streak. The Eagles can't run the ball at all and the Giants know it. Expect a ton of blitzing by NY and TO's by Philly. The Road Team is 5-1-1 ATS the L7 meetings in this series. The Eagles are 8-22-1 ATS their L31 at home, 3-11-1 ATS their L15 vs. winners, and 1-4 ATS their L5 vs. the NFC East. The Giants are 5-2 ATS their L7 road games, 24-9-1 ATS their L34 games played in October, and 4-1 ATS their L5 vs. the NFC East. Take New York. Thank you.
NY Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Bonus Play New York Giants. (Game 275).
The line is short here because RB, Rashad Jennings is out. But Andre Williams can certainly get the job done pounding the ball. The Philly defense allows 26.4 PPG, 132 Rushing Yards per game, and 274.2 Passing Yards per game. Eli Manning has only 1 INT over the L3 games, all wins and covers while the Giants "D" has played tough yielding just 17 PPG during their streak. The Eagles can't run the ball at all and the Giants know it. Expect a ton of blitzing by NY and TO's by Philly. The Road Team is 5-1-1 ATS the L7 meetings in this series. The Eagles are 8-22-1 ATS their L31 at home, 3-11-1 ATS their L15 vs. winners, and 1-4 ATS their L5 vs. the NFC East. The Giants are 5-2 ATS their L7 road games, 24-9-1 ATS their L34 games played in October, and 4-1 ATS their L5 vs. the NFC East. Take New York. Thank you.
Jesse Schule
Denver Broncos vs. NY Jets
Free NFL Play New York Jets
The Broncos won big at home over Arizona last week, and they come into New York as a double-digit favorite this Sunday. The Jets have been dreadful since winning at home versus Oakland in Week 1. Things change fast in this league though, and there are a few reasons why I expect a competitive game here at Metlife Stadium.
Last week Manning threw for 472 yards and four TDs, and Denver won by a 21 point margin. The game was a lot closer than it sounds though, Arizona trailed by just four points heading into the fourth quarter. In fact if it wasn't for an injury to Drew Stanton, the score could have been even closer.
Geno Smith has struggled at quarterback for New York, but he could get a boost with the return of star wideout Eric Decker this week. Decker will be looking to stick it to Denver just like Steve Smith did to the Panthers earlier in the year.
As good as Denver has looked in the passing game, they haven't had as much success running the football, and losing Monte Ball with a groin injury isn't going to help.
Peyton Manning knows not to expect a picnic in New York: "This is a stout defense; tough against the run, causes you a lot of pass protection issues, No. 1 in sacks, a lot of three-and-outs," Manning said.
Take NYJ.
GL,
Jesse Schule
Denver Broncos vs. NY Jets
Free NFL Play New York Jets
The Broncos won big at home over Arizona last week, and they come into New York as a double-digit favorite this Sunday. The Jets have been dreadful since winning at home versus Oakland in Week 1. Things change fast in this league though, and there are a few reasons why I expect a competitive game here at Metlife Stadium.
Last week Manning threw for 472 yards and four TDs, and Denver won by a 21 point margin. The game was a lot closer than it sounds though, Arizona trailed by just four points heading into the fourth quarter. In fact if it wasn't for an injury to Drew Stanton, the score could have been even closer.
Geno Smith has struggled at quarterback for New York, but he could get a boost with the return of star wideout Eric Decker this week. Decker will be looking to stick it to Denver just like Steve Smith did to the Panthers earlier in the year.
As good as Denver has looked in the passing game, they haven't had as much success running the football, and losing Monte Ball with a groin injury isn't going to help.
Peyton Manning knows not to expect a picnic in New York: "This is a stout defense; tough against the run, causes you a lot of pass protection issues, No. 1 in sacks, a lot of three-and-outs," Manning said.
Take NYJ.
GL,
Jesse Schule
Oliver Alonso
NY Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Free Pick: New York Giants +3
After losing their first two games, the Giants were being tossed around as possibly the first team to quit on their coach this season but that was clearly not the case. After a dreadful preseason on offense, it carried over into those first two games but that the new system is finally starting to become more familiar to the players, we are seeing the success. New York has won three straight games while averaging 35 ppg in the process and they are catching the Eagles at the perfect time. Philadelphia may be 4-1 on the season but they are arguably the worst one loss team in the NFL and could be sitting at 1-4 right now.
The Eagles have seven non-offensive touchdowns this season including five in the last two weeks to hide very disappointing results for the offense. Philadelphia has one of the worst red zone offenses in the NFL and the Eagles have been a terrible rushing team with just 3.8 yards per attempt. The Eagles needed miraculous comebacks in all three wins in the first three weeks and last week Philadelphia was fortunate to hold on against Austin Davis and the Rams. The Eagles have been out-gained by at least 114 yards in each of the last three games.
Tom Coughlin again has brought his team out of obscurity and making them relevant. The Eagles gave a 3rd string QB in St Louis 375 yards through the air, and now that Manning has the controls of the West Coast offense down, he will have a big night against a deplorable defense.
Expect the Giants to climb to first place in the NFC East.
NY Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Free Pick: New York Giants +3
After losing their first two games, the Giants were being tossed around as possibly the first team to quit on their coach this season but that was clearly not the case. After a dreadful preseason on offense, it carried over into those first two games but that the new system is finally starting to become more familiar to the players, we are seeing the success. New York has won three straight games while averaging 35 ppg in the process and they are catching the Eagles at the perfect time. Philadelphia may be 4-1 on the season but they are arguably the worst one loss team in the NFL and could be sitting at 1-4 right now.
The Eagles have seven non-offensive touchdowns this season including five in the last two weeks to hide very disappointing results for the offense. Philadelphia has one of the worst red zone offenses in the NFL and the Eagles have been a terrible rushing team with just 3.8 yards per attempt. The Eagles needed miraculous comebacks in all three wins in the first three weeks and last week Philadelphia was fortunate to hold on against Austin Davis and the Rams. The Eagles have been out-gained by at least 114 yards in each of the last three games.
Tom Coughlin again has brought his team out of obscurity and making them relevant. The Eagles gave a 3rd string QB in St Louis 375 yards through the air, and now that Manning has the controls of the West Coast offense down, he will have a big night against a deplorable defense.
Expect the Giants to climb to first place in the NFC East.
Jimmy Adams
New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills
Bonus Play New England Patriots
After getting absolutely manhandled on Monday Night Football against the Chiefs, the Patriots bounced back with a great win last week as they beat the Bengals 43-17. Tom Brady threw for 292 yards with 2 TD’s. New England has obviously made some significant adjustments and those will carry over into this week’s matchup with the Bills.
Kyle Orton looked good as he led the Bills to a victory over the Lions. That success is much less likely to continue, as Orton was making just his second start since the 2012 season. He also has only been with the team for less than 2 months, a time frame that makes it nearly impossible for him to have a full understanding of the play book. New England’s coaching staff will confuse Orton by mixing things up on defense. Orton will make mistakes and you can bet the Pat’s will be extremely focused as they try to build off of a positive win against an undefeated team.
New England has owned Buffalo in this series. They’ve won an incredible 25 of the last 27 meetings while averaging 39 points. In particular, Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski have had some of the best success. Gronk has 9 TD’s in just 6 games against the Bills while Brady has thrown for 54 TD’s in 24 games. The success will continue Sunday. Take the Patriots.
New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills
Bonus Play New England Patriots
After getting absolutely manhandled on Monday Night Football against the Chiefs, the Patriots bounced back with a great win last week as they beat the Bengals 43-17. Tom Brady threw for 292 yards with 2 TD’s. New England has obviously made some significant adjustments and those will carry over into this week’s matchup with the Bills.
Kyle Orton looked good as he led the Bills to a victory over the Lions. That success is much less likely to continue, as Orton was making just his second start since the 2012 season. He also has only been with the team for less than 2 months, a time frame that makes it nearly impossible for him to have a full understanding of the play book. New England’s coaching staff will confuse Orton by mixing things up on defense. Orton will make mistakes and you can bet the Pat’s will be extremely focused as they try to build off of a positive win against an undefeated team.
New England has owned Buffalo in this series. They’ve won an incredible 25 of the last 27 meetings while averaging 39 points. In particular, Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski have had some of the best success. Gronk has 9 TD’s in just 6 games against the Bills while Brady has thrown for 54 TD’s in 24 games. The success will continue Sunday. Take the Patriots.
