Sunday 10/18/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Washington at N.Y. Jets

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey

With a date against New England up next, the New York Jets will try to keep within striking distance of the first-place Patriots when they host the Washington Redskins on Sunday afternoon. The Jets are ranked tops in the league in scoring defense and second only to Denver in total defense.

Washington has also been stout defensively but its passing game has been a pleasant surprise. Kirk Cousins is slowly building support among Redskin fans, completing 68 percent of his passes with five touchdowns, and he may get his best deep threat back this week. Wide receiver DeSean Jackson, who led the league in yards per catch last season, has ramped up his workouts during practice while recovering from a hamstring injury. In the preseason, Jackson boasted there was no player in the NFL who could cover him, not even Jets superstar Darrelle Revis.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Jets - 6. O/U: 40.5.

ABOUT THE REDSKINS (2-3): The Redskins blew a chance to stay tied for first place in the NFC East last week when their defense allowed Atlanta to drive the length of the field in the final minutes for a go-ahead touchdown before eventually losing in overtime. Washington hopes to have running back Matt Jones available after suffering a toe injury, but tight end Jordan Reed is doubtful with a concussion. The Redskins, who have lost 15 of their last 16 road games, also list three cornerbacks, including DeAngelo Williams, as questionable

ABOUT THE JETS (3-1): The Jets welcome back defensive end Sheldon Richardson after a four-game drug suspension, but he is only expected to play about 20 snaps. Running back Chris Ivory is averaging a league-best 104.7 yards per game and is coming off a career-high 166 yards against Miami, a game in which New York dominated 27-14. Ryan Fitzpatrick has been just what coach Todd Bowles ordered at quarterback, effectively managing the game, while Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker have both snared three touchdown passes.

EXTRA POINTS

1. The teams have not met since 2011, when the Jets rolled 34-19 at Washington, but the Redskins have won eight of 10 all-time meetings.

2. The Jets are off to their best start in five years.

3. New York has 13 takeaways to match last season's total.

PREDICTION: Jets 24, Redskins 17

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Arizona at Pittsburgh

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense finally started to come alive under Michael Vick in the fourth quarter on Monday night, just in time to pull out a victory. Vick will try to make it two in a row Sunday as the Steelers host the Arizona Cardinals, whose offense has been in top form since the season opener.

Vick was not even under center on the decisive play in Monday’s game, instead getting split out wide while Le’Veon Bell took a direct snap, but drove the team into position and has the Steelers confident they can stay in the race until Ben Roethlisberger (knee) gets back. “I think I showed I can still go out and get it done,” Vick told reporters. “Techniques are changing, defensive philosophies are changing, but I feel like I’ve shown I still can adjust.” Arizona bounced back from its first loss in Week 4 by going into Detroit and putting a 42-17 beating on the Lions last week. The Cardinals’ 190 points and plus-100 point differential are the best in the NFL.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Cardinals -3. O/U: 44.5

ABOUT THE CARDINALS (4-1): Coach Bruce Arians, Pittsburgh’s former offensive coordinator, is getting the most out of his current offense with Carson Palmer leading the way. The veteran quarterback is completing 64.9 percent of his passes on the season and went 11-of-14 for 161 yards and three touchdowns last week while leaning on the running game. Chris Johnson, who ran for a career-low 663 yards with the New York Jets last season, quickly ascended to Arizona’s No. 1 running back spot and is up to 405 yards through five contests.

ABOUT THE STEELERS (3-2): Vick is getting a handle on the offense but has not been connecting with prolific receiver Antonio Brown, who recorded 50 yards or more in 35 straight games with Roethlisberger but has failed to reach that mark in two contests with Vick. “You have to pick and choose your spots,” Vick told reporters. “Not to say I don’t have confidence in myself or confidence in (Brown), it’s just kind of where we’re at in the game. But trust me, those plays are going to come.” The two may not have long to get on the same page with Roethlisberger returning to practice on a limited basis this week and pushing to return soon.

EXTRA POINTS

1. The Cardinals signed veteran DE Dwight Freeney on Monday and expect to use him for 15-20 snaps per game to rush the passer.

2. Bell is averaging 156.8 yards from scrimmage in his last nine games.

3. Arizona S Tyron Mathieu (heel bruise) sat out practice on Wednesday but is expected to play Sunday.

PREDICTION: Cardinals 45, Steelers 31

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Kansas City at Minnesota

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: TCF Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota


The Kansas City Chiefs were having trouble generating offense before losing their star running back, so they might be hard-pressed to end their four-game skid Sunday against the host Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings should be fresh coming out of their bye week and hope to take advantage of a Chiefs offense that is without Jamaal Charles.



The Vikings know all too well what it’s like to lose a star running back – Adrian Peterson played only one game last season before being suspended by the NFL for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. Peterson is back to punishing opposing defenses now, averaging five yards per carry while racking up 372 yards and three touchdowns on the ground through four games. After being embarrassed 20-3 at San Francisco in their season opener, the Vikings won two straight before a tough 23-20 loss at Denver going into the bye. The Chiefs have gone in the other direction, losing four straight following a Week 1 win at Houston, and they blew a 14-point halftime lead in last week’s 18-17 loss to Chicago.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Vikings -4. O/U: 43.5



ABOUT THE CHIEFS (1-4): Losing Charles (knee) for the season is a devastating blow to an offense that has struggled to move the ball through the air consistently. Charcandrick West and Knile Davis are in line to pick up more work in the backfield, but quarterback Alex Smith will need to be more than simply a game manager for the offense to succeed. The Chiefs are tough against the run and likely will load up to try to stop Peterson and force second-year quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to beat them.

ABOUT THE VIKINGS (2-2): Bridgewater hasn’t been asked to do much, as the Vikings rank last in the league in passing, but he has limited his mistakes with only two interceptions. He’s also a threat to run and has contributed to the Vikings ranking second in the league in rushing. Minnesota dodged a bullet by not having to face Charles, as it ranks 26th in the NFL against the run but has done a respectable job of stopping the pass.



EXTRA POINTS

1. The Chiefs have won four of the last five meetings, but the teams have not met since 2011.

2. Minnesota has allowed only four return yards on 16 punts this season, a league-low average of 0.8 yards per return.

3. Kansas City WR Jeremy Maclin has at least eight receptions and 85 yards in three straight games and is averaging nine catches and 124.7 yards over that span.



PREDICTION: Vikings 23, Chiefs 17

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cincinnati at Buffalo

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: Ralph Wilson Stadium, Orchard Park, New York

The Cincinnati Bengals have a chance to match the best record in franchise history when they pay a visit to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. The Bengals remained perfect with a dramatic comeback win over the Seattle Seahawks last week, erasing a 17-point fourth-quarter deficit before winning in overtime to improve to 5-0 for the first time since 1988 - the last time they reached the Super Bowl.

Cincinnati became only the third team in league annals to rally from 17 points down in the fourth quarter against a team that played in the Super Bowl the previous season. “It shows the fight of this team," Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton said. "And for us to do that against a really, really good team, to come back in the fourth quarter and win it in overtime, it was huge." Buffalo also came back from a double-digit deficit in the second half to eke out a 14-13 victory at Tennessee, but the victory came at a price. Quarterback Tyrod Taylor suffered a sprained knee late in the game and was limited in practice Thursday while EJ Manuel took the majority of the snaps.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Bengals -3. O/U: 45

ABOUT THE BENGALS (5-0): Dalton threw for 331 yards and a pair of touchdowns - his third consecutive 300-yard game - and also ran for a score in last week's win, giving him 11 TD passes against only two interceptions. Wideout A.J. Green has 31 receptions for 495 yards and three scores while tight end Tyler Eifert has emerged as a major weapon for Cincinnati with 24 catches and five touchdowns, including a pair against the Seahawks. Running back Giovani Bernard has outperformed backfield mate Jeremy Hill while defensive end Carlos Dunlap is tied for the league lead with five sacks.

ABOUT THE BILLS (3-2): Taylor became one of five players with at least 100 yards passing and 70 yards rushing in the same game last week, but he could be forced to sit in place of Manuel, who hasn't played since Week 4 in 2014. Running back LeSean McCoy, who has missed the past two games with a hamstring injury, was a surprise participant at practice Thursday and could return to help a struggling ground game. Wideout Sammy Watkins (calf), who has also missed the past two games, complained to the Buffalo News that he needs to see more targets and the team is making him "look bad."

EXTRA POINTS

1. Dalton's 115.6 passer rating is the highest through six games in team history.

2. Bills WR Percy Harvin needs 64 yards from scrimmage to reach 5,000 for his career.

3. Green had 10 catches for 221 yards and a TD in two matchups versus Buffalo.

PREDICTION: Bengals 23, Bills 20

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Chicago at Detroit

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan

The Chicago Bears are starting to get healthier while the Detroit Lions have looked downright sick en route to maintaining their status as the lone winless club in the NFL. The Bears vie for their third win in a row overall and attempt to snap a four-game skid to the Lions on Sunday when the NFC North rivals square off at Detroit's Ford Field.

Jay Cutler tossed a pair of touchdown passes in the fourth quarter to lead Chicago to an 18-17 victory over Kansas City last week. The veteran quarterback has thrown for four scores in the last two weeks while dealing with a nagging hamstring injury. While Cutler has been more efficient with his throws, Detroit's Matthew Stafford hasn't received much help - or time - from his offensive line and has amassed a league-high eight interceptions this season. Three of those picks came last week, earning the former top overall pick a seat on the bench as the Lions dropped a 42-17 decision to Arizona.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Lions -3. O/U: 43.5

ABOUT THE BEARS (2-3): Pro Bowler Alshon Jeffery (hamstring) has been limited in practice on both Wednesday and Thursday and could return to action for the first time since the season opener. Fellow wideout Eddie Royal (ankle) also practiced on Thursday as he attempted to get back on the field for the first time since the Bears defeated Oakland on Oct. 4. Martellus Bennett continues to be a safe target for Cutler, and the tight end reeled in eight catches for 109 yards in his last meeting with Detroit.

ABOUT THE LIONS (0-5): Wideout Golden Tate caused some friction for the second time this season after he voiced his displeasure with the fans' negative reaction to Detroit's performance last week. "I understand where our fan base is coming from as far as their patience with this organization and a lot of people put it in perspective," Tate told the team's website. "And I'll just keep it at that." The league's worst ground attack (49 yards per game) hasn't helped matters, with rookie Ameer Abdullah losing two fumbles to earn a seat on the bench last week.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Detroit WR Calvin Johnson (32 receptions, 322 yards) has struggled this season, but has five touchdown receptions in his last four meetings with Chicago.

2. Chicago RB Matt Forte grabbed the go-ahead score last week, marking his first touchdown since the season opener versus Green Bay.

3. Lions DE Ezekiel Ansah has recorded three of his NFL high-tying five sacks in the last two weeks.

PREDICTION: Lions 20, Bears 17

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Denver at Cleveland

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: FirstEnergy Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio

The Denver Broncos attempt to remain perfect and continue their dominance in the series when they visit the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. Denver hopes to at least keep pace with the Cincinnati Bengals (5-0) in the AFC as it seeks its 11th consecutive victory over Cleveland.

Despite Peyton Manning's difficulties (seven interceptions to six touchdowns, 20th-ranked completion percentage at 63.5), the Broncos have yet to lose thanks to a defense that leads the league in sacks (22), turnovers (14) and fewest yards allowed per game (278). Denver's explosive pass rush may be less potent, however, as DeMarcus Ware is doubtful with a strained back. The Browns are looking for a repeat performance from Josh McCown, who threw for a club-record 457 yards in last week's 33-30 overtime triumph over Baltimore. The 36-year-old could wind up being a sitting duck for the Broncos' defense, however, as he is nursing a left ankle injury he suffered in overtime versus the Ravens.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Broncos -4. O/U: 42.5

ABOUT THE BRONCOS (5-0): Manning, who has guided his teams to an NFL-record seven 5-0 starts, needs two victories to tie Brett Favre (186) for most by a starting quarterback in league history. Gary Kubiak joined Red Miller (1977) and Josh McDaniels (2009) as the only first-year coaches in club history to win their first five games. Denver has advanced to the Super Bowl in five of the last six seasons in which it got off to a 5-0 start.

ABOUT THE BROWNS (2-3): McCown's performance last week earned him the AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors, as he became the first player in NFL history to record at least 450 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, a rushing score and no interceptions in a game. He also is the first in franchise history to record three straight 300-yard passing efforts. Kicker Travis Coons was nominated for the Special Teams Player of the Week award after going 4-for-4 on field-goal attempts and converting an extra point.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Manning has thrown an interception in each of his first five games for the first time since doing so in six straight to start the 1999 season.

2. The Broncos have not visited Cleveland since posting a 34-30 victory on Nov. 6, 2008.

3. Denver ranks 31st in the league in rushing with an average of 3.31 yards per carry.

PREDICTION: Broncos 34, Browns 13

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Houston at Jacksonville

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: EverBank Field, Jacksonville, Florida


The Houston Texans hope their recent dominance over the Jacksonville Jaguars will help them stay out of the AFC South cellar when the division rivals square off Sunday in Jacksonville. The Texans have won seven of the last nine meetings, including a sweep of the season series last year.



Quarterback Brian Hoyer has regained the starting job for the Texans after relieving Ryan Mallett in the second quarter and going 24-of-31 for 312 yards and two touchdowns in a 27-20 loss to Indianapolis. He also threw an ill-advised interception in the final minutes, though, and coach Bill O’Brien didn’t commit to Hoyer starting beyond this week. “I think it’s 11 one-game seasons,” O’Brien told reporters. “He’s the starter for Jacksonville. … I think overall, he’s played pretty well, so we’re going to go with him against Jacksonville.” The Jaguars aim to snap a three-game losing streak and win their second straight at home, where they beat Miami 23-20 in Week 2.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Jaguars -1. O/U: 43



ABOUT THE TEXANS (1-4): Three of Houston’s four losses have come by seven points, and the Texans can point to their dreadful minus-8 turnover margin as a reason for their poor start. The passing game has put up big numbers, though much of the production has come when the Texans have fallen behind early due to a porous run defense. Arian Foster should be ready to handle close to a full load after being eased back into action the past two weeks, and the Texans need him to improve upon his 1.9 yards per carry thus far.

ABOUT THE JAGUARS (1-4): The silver lining thus far for Jacksonville is the improved play of quarterback Blake Bortles, who passed for 303 yards and four touchdowns for a career-best 125.4 rating in last week’s loss. Along with rookie running back T.J. Yeldon and second-year receivers Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns, the Jaguars have compiled a solid, young offensive arsenal. The defense has been inconsistent and was gashed for 183 rushing yards by Tampa Bay.



EXTRA POINTS

1. Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins has recorded three straight 100-yard receiving performances and needs one more to join Andre Johnson as the only players in franchise history with four in a row.

2. Jaguars TE Julius Thomas made his team debut last week with two catches for 20 yards and should see an increased role as he develops a rapport with Bortles.

3. Houston DE J.J. Watt has recorded 11.5 sacks in eight career games against Jacksonville.



PREDICTION: Jaguars 23, Texans 20

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Miami at Tennessee

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: Nissan Stadium, Nashville, Tennessee

The Miami Dolphins hope a coaching change can alter their fortunes as they attempt to snap a three-game losing skid when they visit the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. Dan Campbell, who was the tight ends coach, replaced Joe Philbin at the helm one day after the Dolphins put forth a listless performance in a 27-14 setback to the AFC East-rival New York Jets in London on Oct. 4.

Campbell's aggressive attitude has brought a smile to the face of offseason acquisition Ndamukong Suh, a physical defensive tackle who often walks a fine line in his own right. "I love Dan's opinion," Suh told reporters. "I love his motto in toeing line and just being a physical and downhill team; setting the tempo and setting the tone of the game." Like Miami, Tennessee saw its losing skid extend to three games with a 14-13 setback to Buffalo last week. "We need a win," Titans coach Ken Whisenhunt said. "That's what we need, and we got to continue to work until we get one. I think you can't ignore the fact that we're close, but close and $4 will get you a cup of coffee."

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Titans -2.5. O/U: 43.5

ABOUT THE DOLPHINS (1-3): A new coaching philosophy could pay dividends for struggling running back Lamar Miller, who is averaging just 3.5 yards per carry - and receives just 9.25 rushes per game. "(Campbell) pretty much told the whole team that we have to run the ball and stop the run," Miller told the Miami Herald. "That's something that we emphasized, and something we want to get going." It's a good idea in theory since Miami's 69.3 yards per game rushing is 31st in the league while it is allowing a whopping 160.5 yards on the ground, which is dead last by a comfortable margin.

ABOUT THE TITANS (1-3): Second overall pick Marcus Mariota endured his worst game of his young career, recording a season-low 187 passing yards versus the Bills while failing to find the end zone after throwing for eight scores in the previous three weeks. While Mariota kept his emotions in check, wideout Kendall Wright vented his frustration about his role with the offense - although he leads the team in targets (26), catches (16) and receiving yards (242). Wright reeled in a touchdown pass in his last meeting with Miami, a 37-3 win by Tennessee on Nov. 11, 2012.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Miami QB Ryan Tannehill, who has been intercepted five times in the last two games, was picked off on three occasions in his last encounter with Tennessee.

2. The Titans have surrendered just 167 passing yards per game, 19 fewer than the next closest teams (New York Jets, Chicago, Green Bay).

3. Tennessee RB Bishop Sankey has rushed 12 times for 30 yards total in the last two games.

PREDICTION: Dolphins 20, Titans 17

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Carolina at Seattle

When: 4:05 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: CenturyLink Field, Seattle, Washington

The Seattle Seahawks will attempt to rebound from a stunning fourth-quarter collapse a week ago when they host the undefeated Carolina Panthers on Sunday. The Seahawks were cruising toward their third consecutive victory before blowing a 17-point lead in the final 15 minutes at the Cincinnati Bengals before falling in overtime 27-24.

Seattle has squandered a fourth-quarter lead in each of its three defeats but the players said there is no cause for alarm. “I’m confident in us, I believe in us," said middle linebacker Bobby Wagner, who is questionable for the game due to a pectoral injury. "I know we’re 2-3, but we’ll be fine.” The Panthers are among the league's biggest surprises even though their perfect record has been forged against four opponents with a combined 5-15 mark. Quarterback Cam Newton said Carolina is eager for another crack at the Seahawks after suffering three losses to them by a combined 13 points over the past three seasons.

TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Seahawks -7. O/U: 40.5

ABOUT THE PANTHERS (4-0): Despite losing No. 1 wideout Kelvin Benjamin for the year in the preseason, Newton has thrown for seven touchdowns versus two interceptions while rushing for 195 yards and two more scores. Running back Jonathan Stewart has yet to rush for more than 62 yards in a game while tight end Greg Olsen is the leading receiver with 17 catches and a pair of touchdowns. The Panthers will welcome back middle linebacker and 2013 NFL Defensive Player of the Year Luke Kuechly, who has been sidelined the past three games due to a concussion.

ABOUT THE SEAHAWKS (2-3): Seattle is also getting a key player back as Marshawn Lynch, who has rushed for at least 11 touchdowns and 1,200 yards for four straight seasons, returns after missing two games with a hamstring injury. Russell Wilson threw for only 213 yards with one touchdown and one interception last week while getting sacked four times to raise his league-leading total to 22. Even without Lynch, the Seahawks have the league's top-ranked rushing attack (142.4 yards per game), but their defense has already surrendered at least 27 points on three occasions.

EXTRA POINTS

1. The Panthers are seeking a franchise-best ninth consecutive victory.

2. Wilson is 28-2 with a 99.7 QB rating at home, including the postseason.

3. Carolina is 0-4 following its bye over the past four seasons.

PREDICTION: Seahawks 23, Panthers 13

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: San Diego at Green Bay

When: 4:25 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin

While Aaron Rodgers and the high-octane passing attack traditionally fuels the Green Bay Packers, an opportunistic defense has paved the way to the team's undefeated start. The Packers vie for their sixth straight victory to start the season when they host the San Diego Chargers on Sunday.

Rodgers was intercepted twice and lost a fumble last week, but cornerback Quinten Rollins returned an interception 45 yards for the score and the Packers picked off three more passes in a 24-10 triumph over St. Louis. Green Bay, which resides second in the league in both interceptions (eight) and sacks (20), can pad those numbers when it faces San Diego's patchwork offensive line. The Chargers are picking up the pieces after watching Le'Veon Bell scamper into the end zone with no time remaining in Monday's 24-20 setback to Pittsburgh. Philip Rivers, who threw for 365 yards and two touchdowns versus the Steelers, leads the NFL with 1,613 yards and brings the league's second-ranked passing attack (318 yards per game) and third-best offense (410 yards per game) into Lambeau Field.

TV: 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Packers -10.5. O/U: 50.5

ABOUT THE CHARGERS (2-3): After reeling in his 100th and 101st touchdown receptions on Monday, tight end Antonio Gates needs three more receptions to become the 32nd player in NFL history to reach 800. Gates reeled in nine catches for 92 yards and two scores in his first contest since serving a four-game suspension for performance-enhancing drugs. Rookie running back Melvin Gordon, who is from Kenosha, Wis., rushed for only 42 yards versus the Steelers but his seven receptions for 52 yards eclipsed his previous four-game total (six, 34 yards).

ABOUT THE PACKERS (5-0): James Jones made the most of his two catches last week, finding the end zone from 65 yards out for his team-leading fifth touchdown reception. Fellow wideout Davante Adams (ankle) practiced on both Wednesday and Thursday this week and is in line to return to action for the first time since exiting early in a 38-28 victory over Kansas City on Sept. 28. Running back Eddie Lacy, who has also been hobbled by an ailing ankle this season, rushed just 13 times for 27 yards against the Rams.

EXTRA POINTS

1. The Packers have won 11 in a row at Lambeau Field and 33 of their last 35.

2. San Diego recorded its only win over Green Bay with a 34-28 victory on Oct. 7, 1984.

3. Packers LB Julius Peppers has recorded nine sacks in as many games dating to last season.

PREDICTION: Packers 35, Chargers 20

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Baltimore at San Francisco

When: 4:25 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, California

The San Francisco 49ers look to end their four-game losing streak when they host the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.
San Francisco easily handled Minnesota at home in its season opener before allowing a combined 90 points in losses at Pittsburgh and Arizona.

The 49ers then limited Green Bay to 17 points in a home defeat and appeared on their way to halting the slide last week at New York, taking a four-point lead on Carlos Hyde's 2-yard rushing touchdown with 1:49 to play, but yielded a scoring pass by Eli Manning with 26 seconds remaining en route to a 30-27 setback. Baltimore is coming off its second straight overtime contest, a 33-30 loss to Cleveland in which it squandered a 12-point lead in the second half and allowed Josh McCown to throw for 457 yards. Justin Forsett, who rushed for 121 yards and a touchdown, injured his ankle late in the game but is expected to play against the 49ers. San Francisco's pass defense wasn't much better last week, permitting Manning to throw for 441 yards.

TV: 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Ravens -2. O/U: 44

ABOUT THE RAVENS (1-4): Baltimore's defense was bitten hard by the injury bug last week as Lardarius Webb suffered a torn ACL that landed him on injured reserve. Fellow cornerback Will Davis (thigh) and linebacker Elvis Dumervil (groin) also went down and are questionable to face San Francisco. The offense could get back two weapons, however, as receiver Steve Smith (back) and tight end Crockett Gillmore (calf) participated in practice on Wednesday.

ABOUT THE 49ERS (1-4): San Francisco also expects its tight end to return as Vernon Davis is likely to play after missing two games with a knee injury. He could provide a boost to a team that ranks last in scoring (15 points per game) and 29th in total offense (307.2 yards). The defense has struggled just as much of late, allowing averages of 446.5 yards and 34.3 points during the club's skid.

EXTRA POINTS

1. San Francisco ranks 31st in the NFL with an average of 406.8 yards allowed.

2. Baltimore signed CB Shareece Wright, who was released by the 49ers last week.

3. The teams are meeting for the first time since Baltimore posted a 34-31 victory in Super Bowl XLVII.

PREDICTION: Ravens 27, 49ers 23

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: New England at Indianapolis

When: 8:30 PM ET, Sunday, October 18, 2015
Where: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana

While the New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts and likely the majority of the world have grown tired of "Deflategate," the saga is once again brought to the forefront on Sunday as the respective teams meet for the first time since last season's AFC Championship Game. Tom Brady was initially suspended four games by the league for his alleged role in the scandal, but a federal court overruled the decision that stemmed from the Patriots' decisive 45-7 rout of the Colts on Jan. 18.

Brady, who threw for three touchdowns in that contest, had two through the air and one on the ground in New England's 30-6 rout of Dallas last week. While the Patriots are attempting to reach 5-0 for the first time since their perfect regular season in 2007, Indianapolis has rebounded from a tough start to win three straight contests. Andrew Luck has been a bystander in the last two with an ailing right shoulder, but owner Jim Irsay expects the former top overall pick to play on Sunday. As for any lingering feelings from last season's playoff loss, Colts coach Chuck Pagano did his best to put it to bed by saying, "This team hasn't played that team, right? Got no relevance."

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, NBC. LINE: Patriots -7.5. O/U: 55

ABOUT THE PATRIOTS (4-0): Rob Gronkowski resides two touchdowns shy of becoming the fifth tight end with at least 60 in his career. The mammoth Gronkowski has 300 yards receiving and six scores in his last four meetings with Indianapolis, but has been kept out of the end zone in New England's past two games. Julian Edelman (team-leading 34 receptions) was held to "just" four catches against the Cowboys, but recorded a season-high 120 yards.

ABOUT THE COLTS (3-2): After a sluggish start to the season, Pro Bowl wideout Andre Johnson had a pair of touchdown receptions in the Colts' 27-20 victory over Houston on Oct. 8. Fellow veteran Frank Gore found the end zone versus the Texans and has three scores in the last three weeks. Indianapolis turned to a familiar face on Wednesday and signed running back Ahmad Bradshaw, who had eight touchdowns (two rushing, six receiving) in 2014 before a broken leg ended his season.

EXTRA POINTS

1. New England RB Dion Lewis, who previously had a seven-day stint with Indianapolis, was limited in Thursday's practice with an abdomen injury.

2. Indianapolis LB D'Qwell Jackson leads the league with 58 tackles.

3. The Patriots have won six in a row in the series, including playoffs.

PREDICTION: Patriots 45, Colts 21

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL

Hot teams
-- Jets are off to a 4-1 start. St Louis won last three games, scoring four goals in all three.
-- Minnesota won three of its last four games. Canucks are 3-2 this year, but 0-2 at home; road team won all five of their games.

Cold teams
-- Rangers lost last two games, 3-0/4-1. Devils are 0-4 this month, outscored 13-6.
-- Ducks are 0-4 this season, outscored 11-1.
-- Edmonton lost four of its first five games this year.
-- LA lost three of first four games. Colorado split its first four games, allowing 14 goals

Series records
-- Rangers won their last six games with New Jersey.
-- Jets won last two games with St Louis, after losing previous seven.
-- Ducks won nine of their last ten games with Minnesota.
-- Canucks won their last five games with Edmonton.
-- Kings won their last five games with Colorado.

Totals
-- Over is 5-2 in last seven Devil-Ranger games.
-- Under is 6-3 in last nine St Louis-Winnipeg games.
-- Under is 6-3-1 in last ten Minnesota-Anaheim games.
-- Over is 5-2 in last seven Edmonton-Vancouver games.
-- Three of four Colorado games went over the total.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Auto Racing Glance
By Jerry Bonkowski, The Sports Xchange

NASCAR SPRINT CUP SERIES: HOLLYWOOD CASINO 400, Kansas Speedway; Kansas City, Kansas
TV: Sunday, Oct. 18, 2:15 pm ET � NBC
(Radio: Motor Racing Network/SiriusXM Channel 90).
THEN AND NOW: The 10-race Chase for the Sprint Cup hits its halfway point with Sunday's race at Kansas. Given the unpredictability of next Sunday's race at Talladega, drivers will be going all-out for a win � or at the very least, a top-five finish � at Kansas. That will be especially important for drivers who had poor showings at Charlotte this past Sunday, including Matt Kenseth (ranked 12th of the 12 drivers remaining in the Chase), as well as 11th-ranked Dale Earnhardt Jr. and 10th-ranked Kyle Busch. � Kansas Speedway celebrates its 20th Sprint Cup race. The track first opened in 2001. � Joey Logano, who won last Sunday at Charlotte, won last year's Chase race at Kansas, which helped propel him on into the final round at Homestead. � Jimmie Johnson won at Kansas in early May. � Joey Logano leads the standings after four races, followed by Kevin Harvick (-6), Martin Truex Jr. (-7), Denny Hamlin (-8), Kurt Busch and Carl Edwards (both -9), Jeff Gordon (-11), Brad Keselowski (-13), Ryan Newman (-19), Kyle Busch (-23), Dale Earnhardt Jr. (-32) and Matt Kenseth (-45). � Two remaining Chase drivers still have not earned a win in 2015: Jeff Gordon and Ryan Newman.

NASCAR XFINITY SERIES: KANSAS LOTTERY 300, Kansas Speedway; Kansas City, Kansas
TV: Saturday, Oct. 17, 4 pm ET � NBCSN (Radio: MRN/SiriusXM Channel 90).
THEN AND NOW: This will be the 15th time the Xfinity Series has raced at Kansas. � Kyle Busch won this race last year, while Matt Kenseth won in 2013, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in 2012, Brad Keselowski in 2011 and Joey Logano in both 2008 and 2009. � Austin Dillon won last Friday's race at Charlotte, sweeping both Xfinity events of 2015 there. � You might say Dillon had a fire lit under him before the race, as a large wayward ember from a fireworks display struck and singed part of Dillon's firesuit. � Chris Buescher remains the Xfinity Series points leader, holding a 26-point edge over Chase Elliott. Regan Smith is third (-34), while Ty Dillon is fourth (-38).

NASCAR CAMPING WORLD TRUCK SERIES: Off this weekend.
THEN AND NOW: The Truck series has one more weekend off before resuming Oct. 23 at Talladega. � John Wes Townley emerged as the winner in a dramatic fuel mileage race in the last Truck race, two weeks ago at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. It was Townley's first career win in the Truck series, and in any NASCAR series, for that matter. � Townley became the eighth different winner in the last eight Truck races. � Erik Jones remains atop the Truck Series points standings, holding a slim four-point lead over two-time and defending series champion Matt Crafton. Tyler Reddick is third (-16), followed by Johnny Sauter (-51) and Daniel Hemric (-106). � Austin Theriault, who was involved in a hard head-on hit at Las Vegas that resulted in a compression fracture, still hopes to return to race before the end of the season.

NATIONAL HOT ROD ASSOCIATION MELLO YELLO DRAG RACING SERIES: AAA Texas Fall Nationals, Texas Motorplex; Ennis, Texas.
TV: Qualifying highlights, Sunday, Oct. 18, 4-5 pm ET, ESPN2. Final eliminations, Sunday, Oct. 18, 8-11 pm ET, ESPN2 (tape delay).
THEN AND NOW: The six-race Countdown to the Championship begins the second half this weekend at one of the fastest race tracks on the NHRA tour. If weather conditions are right, don't be surprised to see a national record set in either elapsed time or speed. � Antron Brown is turning the Top Fuel segment of the Countdown into a runaway, having won all of the first three races thus far. Defending and eight-time Top Fuel champ Tony Schumacher is Brown's teammate and closest challenger, 94 points out. Brittany Force is more than a full race worth of points back in third place (-194), while Larry Dixon is in fourth (-198). � Del Worsham, who won the first two Countdown races, has a slim 16-point lead over second-ranked Jack Beckman in the Funny Car ranks. Defending champ Matt Hagan is third (-90), followed by Tommy Johnson Jr. (-98), Ron Capps (-105) and 16-time champ John Force (-150). � Defending champ Erica Enders leads the Pro Stock class, holding a 72-point edge over former champ Greg Anderson. Chris McGaha is third (-104), followed by veterans Larry Morgan (-145) and Allen Johnson (-158). � In Pro Stock Motorcycle, four-time and defending champ Andrew Hines holds an 89-point edge over teammate Eddie Krawiec. Hector Arana Jr. is third (-101), followed by Gerry Savoie (-119), Matt Smith (-134) and Chip Ellis (-155). � NHRA vice president Graham Light, former championship crew chief Dale Armstrong and former Funny Car driver Gordie Bonin were among 38 inaugural inductees into the Canadian Drag Racing Hall of Fame on Oct. 9 in Montreal.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Hollywood Casino 400
By Micah Roberts

This is supposed to be where the cream rises to the top in NASCAR.

It's crunch time!

Sunday's Hollywood Casino 400 at Kansas Speedway will be the fifth race of the Chase and it will also be the eighth race this season on a 1.5-mile layout and third of five in the Chase format. We should have a pretty good idea of who is going to run well this week, even though the 1.5s have been a tale of two seasons.

The first four 1.5s were dominated by Chevrolet with Jimmie Johnson winning three of them (Atlanta, Texas, Kansas) and Kevin Harvick winning the other one (Las Vegas) -- as well as finishing runner-up to Johnson three times. But then in one sweeping change, the Joe Gibbs Toyota's won the next four races on 1.5s (Charlotte, Kentucky, Chicago), which also includes the mid-May non-point All-Star race. Johnson and Harvick weren't factors at as all during that stretch as all four Gibbs' drivers got on a roll simultaneously.

But then on Sunday, we had another owner and manufacturer crash the 1.5 season party. Joey Logano took his Penske Ford out front at Charlotte and pretty much stayed there the entire race leading 227 laps. Only Denny Hamlin finished in the top-five among Gibbs cars, Harvick was back running second and another Chevy driven by Martin Truex Jr. came in with a strong third-place run. Truex Jr. led a race-high 95 laps in the May Kansas race before settling for ninth.

So what's it going to be this week? Are things cycling around? Is the cream rising to the top? Has Harvick found his groove back? And could Logano be ready to keep his roll going and show he's got a whole bunch more wins to grab?

Penske obviously found something to be so dominant Sunday. By virtue of winning last week, Logano gets an automatic ticket into the next round where the final eight drivers will be decided after next weeks race at Talladega. He can go all out with no fear and just win the race for the fun of it. Logano has a top-five finish in his past four Kansas start, including winning this race last season.

Matt Kenseth put himself in a rough spot last week with a 42nd-place finish. He's going to need lots of help and maybe even have to win one of the next two races to advance. Of his five wins this season, none of them came on a 1.5-mile track. But last week at Charlotte he was one of the few to lead laps other than Logano, 72 in all, before crashing. It's a good desperation angle to play with him as he tries to win his first Championship since 2003 -- the year before the first Chase format started.

While Logano is getting all the love from Ford right now as a championship contender, let's not forget about teammate Brad Keselowski who has finished ninth or better in all eight races on 1.5-mile tracks. Logano has been sixth or better in six of the eight.

Keselowski only has one win on the season -- he led only one lap at Fontana, the one that counted -- but Kansas has always been a place he's run well at, winning in 2011. However, he appears to be in championship mode and he's only going to take what's available to him. He isn't going to risk anything. He knows he's got a top-8 type of car all year and he's not going to try and do more than its capable of. He saw Ryan Newman and Denny Hamlin make the Championship race last season without winning in the Chase and by playing it smart. Keselowski is doing the same thing.

Kesenth is a two-time winner at Kansas while Kyle Busch finished a career-best third there last season (he missed the May race due to injury). Hamlin won there in 2012 and Edwards has a 10.8 average finish. Only Johnson and Jeff Gordon have a better average than Edwards, and they each have three wins.

Outside of Kevin Harvick, Chevrolet doesn't look so hot this week -- maybe Truex Jr. Harvick won in 2013 and has finished second in two of the past three races there. He led 53 laps in the May race.

It wouldn't be a surprise to see Logano win again this week just because he can let it all fly, but I have the feeling we're going to see Kenseth be the best on Sunday. Every Chase participant wants to win on Sunday to avoid Talladega, but only five of them really have a shot. I'd love to see Gordon finally win a race and Johnson, who is not in the Chase, is going to be a factor, but I see Toyota celebrating in the end.

Top-5 Finish Prediction:

1) #20 Matt Kenseth (8/1)
2) #22 Joey Logano (7/1)
3) #4 Kevin Harvick (5/1)
4) #18 Kyle Busch (7/1)
5) #11 Denny Hamlin (10/1)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Drivers to Watch - Kansas

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series
Hollywood Casino 400
Sunday, October 18th – 2:15 p.m. EDT
Kansas Speedway, Kansas City, KS

The Sprint Cup drivers will be heading to Kansas City for the Hollywood Casino 400 on Sunday.

Only two races remain until the next round of the Chase and a ton of drivers find themselves in a position where they must come away with a victory. Kansas Speedway is one of the more exciting tracks on the circuit, running 1.5 miles and featuring 17-20 degree turns.

This track is also the home of the SpongeBob SquarePants 400, which was won by Jimmie Johnson in May. All of the drivers who finished in the top four at that race drove cars manufactured by Chevrolet.

Let’s now take a look at who may come away with the win in this one:

Drivers to Watch

Matt Kenseth (7/1) - Matt Kenseth has won two of his past five races, but he finished 42nd in Charlotte a week ago and will now likely need a top finish in order to get himself into the next round of the Chase. Earlier in the season, Kenseth finished in sixth at the SpongeBob SquarePants 400 at this racetrack. He has also won at Kansas Speedway in his career and is receiving some solid odds at 7/1. Putting a few units on a desperate driver with the talent of Kenseth is a solid move this weekend.

Carl Edwards (10/1) - Edwards has been racing extremely well over the past few months and has now racked up eight top 10 finishes in the past 10 races. Kansas Speedway also happens to be Edwards’ home track and he has picked up top 10 finishes in 10 of his past 15 appearances at it. With his familiarity with this track and excellent form lately, Edwards is as good a pick as any to win this race at 10/1.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. (20/1) - Dale Earnhardt Jr., like Kenseth, needs to win one of the next two races to advance. He is currently 11th in the Sprint Cup Chase standings and is right on the cutoff line. Kansas Speedway hasn’t been too kind to Earnhardt Jr. in his career, but he showed some serious signs of improvement earlier this season. Earnhardt Jr. finished in third place at the SpongeBob SquarePants 400 and will be looking to improve upon that with a win on Sunday.

Jeff Gordon (25/1) - Gordon has finished in the top 10 at two of the past three races and three of the past five. He is in good form heading into this race and finished in fourth at the SpongeBob SquarePants 400 this year. Gordon was also the winner of that race in 2014. It’s difficult to imagine a full season in which Gordon does not tally at least one victory and he is running out of chances. He is, however, an excellent play at 25/1 and it’s worth taking a chance on him to notch his first win.

Odds to win Hollywood Casino 400

Kevin Harvick 9/2
Kyle Busch 6/1
Joey Logano 7/1
Matt Kenseth 7/1
Jimmie Johnson 8/1
Kurt Busch 8/1
Martin Truex Jr. 8/1
Brad Keselowski 10/1
Carl Edwards 10/1
Denny Hamlin 10/1
Dale Earnhardt Jr. 20/1
Jeff Gordon 25/1
Kasey Kahne 30/1
Kyle Larson 30/1
Austin Dillon 50/1
Jamie McMurray 80/1
Aric Almirola 100/1
Casey Mears 100/1
Paul Menard 100/1
Ryan Newman 100/1
Field (Any Other Driver) 100/1
Greg Biffle 200/1
AJ Allmendinger 300/1
Clint Bowyer 300/1
David Ragan 300/1
Ricky Stenhouse 300/1
Tony Stewart 300/1
Danica Patrick 500/1
Sam Hornish Jr. 500/1
Trevor Bayne 500/1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

CFL Betting Notes - Week 17
By David Schwab

The CFL regular season continues to wind down as teams jockey for position for the start of the Grey Cup Playoffs. Toronto took a big step towards clinching a spot with last Tuesday’s 38-35 victory against Ottawa as a one-point home favorite and Hamilton helped its playoff chances with a 30-15 win over Saskatchewan as an 8 ½-point favorite at home last Friday night.

Saturday’s CFL action kicked things off with Edmonton grinding-out a huge 15-11 road win over Calgary as a three-point underdog and Winnipeg kept the upsets rolling with a 29-26 win at British Columbia as a six-point underdog. Week 16 closed things out on Monday with Toronto’s second win in six days with a 25-17 victory against Montreal as a two-point road favorite.

Sunday, Oct. 18

Hamilton Tiger-Cats (9-5 SU, 10-4 ATS) vs. Montreal Alouettes (5-9 SU, 6-7-1 ATS)
Point-spread: OFF
Total: OFF

Game Overview

Hamilton continues to press-on without the services of quarterback Zach Collaros, who was lost for the season with a torn ACL in his knee. In his place, Jeff Mathews threw for 385 yards and three touchdowns in the Week 16 win against Saskatchewan. He finished the game with a completion rate of 66.7 percent on 33 attempts. He also added another 27 yards on the ground as the Tiger-Cats second leading rusher in that game.

Montreal has now lost its last three games both SU and ATS to fade from playoff contention. It could still secure a spot as a crossover team into the West if it can string together a few victories and pass either BC or Winnipeg in the win column. The Alouettes still have one of the more stingy defenses in the league with a points-allowed average of 21.9, but this has ballooned to 32.3 points during the current three-game slide.

Betting Trends

Hamilton has posted just one SU win in its last 19 road games against Montreal and the total has stayed UNDER in six of its last eight road games against the Alouettes. The Tiger-Cats have already lost twice to their division rivals this season both SU and ATS.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

CFL

Week 17 games

Hamilton (9-5) @ Montreal (5-9)-- Alouettes won both series games this year, 17-13 (-3) at home in Week 4, 26-23 (+10) on road in Week 10, which snapped TiCats' 5-game win streak. Montreal lost its last three games, allowing 32 ppg; they lost three of last four home games. Hamilton won its last three road games, scoring 38.3 ppg; they split last six games overall after its 6-2 start. Six of last eight series games stayed under total. Hamilton is 8-5 in last 13 games vs Montreal, but lost last four played here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SNF - Patriots at Colts

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (4-0) at INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (3-2)

Kickoff: Sunday, 8:30 p.m. ET
Line: New England -7.5, Total: 55

Indianapolis will need all the luck it can get when it takes on a surging Patriots team at home on Sunday night.

The undefeated Patriots (4-0 SU, 3-0-1 ATS) hope to stay perfect in Week 6 on the road against the struggling Colts (3-2 SU, 1-4 ATS) who finally covered a spread for the first time all season last Thursday night when they won 27-20 in Houston.

New England has handily dispatched Indianapolis in the teams’ four matchups in the Andrew Luck era (since 2012), most recently a 45-7 thrashing in the AFC Championship game in January, which started the Deflategate saga.

The Patriots stand a good chance of staying undefeated ATS this week, as the team is 27-9 ATS when playing against a marginal winning team (win percentage of 51-60%) since 1992, and under head coach Bill Belichick, the Pats are 15-4 ATS on the heels of games where they allowed six points or less.

The Colts have some favorable trends as well. Indy is 8-1 ATS in home games against good passing teams (completion percentage of 61%+) over the past three seasons, and at home under head coach Chuck Pagano, the team is 6-0 ATS against good offensive teams (5.65+ yards per play).

The Patriots come into Sunday’s games with a handful of injuries, including WR Aaron Dobson (undisclosed), CB Bradley Fletcher (hamstring), DL Trey Flowers (shoulder), and LB Jon Bostic (ankle).

The biggest question of the week for the Colts is whether franchise QB Andrew Luck (shoulder) will be ready to return from the injury that has sidelined him the past two games. He remains questionable for Sunday, as are LB Bjoern Werner (hamstring), LB Jerrell Freeman (groin), and RB Tyler Varga (concussion).

The Patriots’ offense has been exhibiting shades of 2007 through the first quarter of the season, averaging 37.2 PPG and leading the league in total yards (424 per game), fewest turnovers allowed (1) and passing touchdowns (11).

New England’s rushing game is comparatively pedestrian, though they’ve still punched in six scores, third-best in the league. QB Tom Brady leads the league with a passer rating of 121.5, connecting on 73% of his tosses while throwing no interceptions. Brady is 11-4 SU (8-6-1 ATS) in his career in this series, where he's thrown for 251 YPG, 29 TD and 15 INT. New England’s defense has staved off all comers, holding opponents to just 19.0 PPG and picking off opposing quarterbacks six times.

For a team that was a pre-season favorite to make the Super Bowl, the Colts have been lackluster on both side of the ball. The Indianapolis offense has been uncharacteristically quiet through five games, averaging a below-average 19.8 PPG and turning the ball over 12 times (second-worst in the league).

The loss of QB Andrew Luck for two weeks has no doubt contributed to the team’s offensive woes, though fill-in QB Matt Hasselbeck performed admirably in his stead against two abysmal divisional opponents. Luck has never beaten the Patriots in four tries, completing just 50% of his throws for 274 YPG, 6 TD and 10 INT in those four defeats.

Veterans RB Frank Gore and WR Andre Johnson, former University of Miami teammates and off-season additions to the Colts, came through for the team in last week’s victory over Houston, and will need to build on that success to compete Sunday night. Gore had 22 carries for 98 yards and a touchdown versus the Texans while Johnson torched his former team with seven receptions for 77 yards and two touchdowns.

The Indianapolis defense has been lousy all year (399 total YPG), giving up 436 YPG in its past three contests while staying on the field for a punishing 33:16 a game this season. When these teams met in the AFC title game in January, New England had a 37:49 time of possession and rolled up 397 yards of offense (220 passing, 177 rushing).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL

Week 6

Broncos (5-0) @ Browns (2-3)-- Unbeaten Broncos already won two games where offense didn't score TD; three of their five wins are by 6 or less points- they're 8-34 on 3rd down in last three games, as fading Manning has managed games while defense is winning them. Denver won last six series games, with four of six wins by 10+ points; their last visit here was in '08. Browns threw for 1,078 yards in last three games. 422 yards in rare win Sunday at Baltimore last week; McCown has established himself as #1 QB. Last two Brown games came down to FG on last play; since '12, they're 8-5 as home dogs. AFC North teams are 7-4-1 vs spread out of division. AFC West teams are 6-10 vs spread, 3-5 when favored.

Bengals (5-0) @ Bills (3-2)-- Cincinnati is unbeaten (4-0-1 vs spread) after OT win over Seattle, scoring 24+ points every game; they're 27-13-2 vs spread in last 42 games where spread was 3 or less points. Bengals won last two games with Buffalo by FG each, after losing previous ten meetings; they're 2-8 in last ten visits here. Bills scored only 24 points in last two games, after averaging 33.3 ppg in first three; only two QBs to beat Buffalo this year both won multiple Super Bowls (Brady/Manning). Cincinnati came back from down 17 in 4th quarter Sunday, first NFL team in 428 such games to do that. Bills are 12-8 in last 20 games with spread of 3 or less points. Four of five Bengal games went over total. AFC East teams are 6-3-1 vs spread out of division. Buffalo QB Taylor (MCL) may not play here; former starter Manuel would take his place- they'll regret trading Matt Cassel.

Chiefs (1-4) @ Vikings (2-2)-- Chiefs lost last four games, giving up 74 points in losing last two road tilts; now star RB Charles is gone and QB Smith doesn't throw ball well enough to carry offense. In last two games, Chiefs, have one TD, nine FGs; they've been outscored 37-9 in second half. Minnesota lost its last five post-bye games, with eight points closest loss; Vikings are 5-2 as home favorites under Zimmer, 4-0 outside NFC North. Home side won six of last seven series games; Chiefs are here for first time since '03. KC is 7-5 as road dog under Reid, 1-2 this year. Four of five Chief games went over total. AFC West non-divisional underdogs are 3-5 vs spread; NFC North non-divisional home favorites are 4-0.

Texans (1-4) @ Jaguars (1-4)-- Houston won seven of last nine series games; four of last five were decided by 7 or less points. Texans won three of last four visits here, but are 0-2 on road this year, allowing 36 ppg- they're -8 in turnovers for season, and neither QB has played well enough to win games. Last three weeks, Jaguar foes are 23-50 on third down; they just played three straight road games, are 1-1 at home. Since '11, Houston is 11-7-1 as road favorite, but they're 4-11-1 in last 16 games with spread of 3 or less points. Since '09, Jaguars are 9-24-1 as a home underdog; they're 6-11 in last 17 games with spread of 3 or less. Under is 20-13 in last 33 Jax home games. Divisional home dogs are 3-4 this season.

Bears (2-3) @ Lions (0-5)-- Chicago just posted consecutive comeback last-minute wins for first time since 1962; Bears lost last four games with Detroit, three by 8 or less points. Chicago lost three of last four visits here, losing by 11-8-17 points; Bears are 7-14 in last 21 NFC North road games, 9-15-1 as road dog since '11- since '12, they're 7-17-2 in games with spread of 3 or less. Last three Bear games, three of last four Lion games stayed under total. Lions scored 13.8 ppg in last four games; they're 5-2-1 in last eight as home favorite, 7-3 as NFC North home fave, but 8-12-1 in last 21 games with spread of 3 or less. Over is 15-11 in Detroit's last 26 home games. Chicago's three losses: Packers-Cardinals-Seattle, three of best teams in league.

Redskins (2-3) @ Jets (3-1)-- Washington making second visit to Swamp this season; they lost 32-21 (+3) to Giants here in Week 3 Thursday game. Redskins played nailbiters last two weeks, beating Philly in last minute, losing in OT at Atlanta; they're 8-2 against Jets, winning last four played here. Since '07, Washington is 30-46-7 vs spread in non-division games; since '13, they're 5-11 as road underdogs. Jets lost four of last five post-bye games; since '07, they're 19-28-1 as home favorite. Gang Green is +9 in turnovers in its wins, -3 in one loss; Washington has five takeaways in last two games, after having only two in first three weeks. Last three Jet games, four of five Redskin games stayed under total. AFC East teams are 6-3-1 vs spread out of division; NFC East teams are 4-7.

Cardinals (4-1) @ Steelers (3-2)-- Pttsburgh fired Bruce Arians as OC after the '11 season, over objections of Big Ben; he returns here with a 25-12 record as HC of Arizona team that scored 90 points winning first two road games (12 TDs on 21 drives). Cardinals are 5-1 as home favorite since '13, 15-6-1 in last 22 non-divisional road games. All five Arizona tilts this season went over total. Pittsburgh escaped San Diego with last-second win Monday nite; they're 8-3 in last 11 games with Arizona, winning last two here. Redbirds' last win in Steel City was in 1969. Since '07, Steelers are 5-1-1 as home dogs; they're 6-1 in last seven games following an upset win. Over is 10-4 in Pittsburgh's last 14 home games. NFC West non-divisional favorites are 4-2 vs spread.

Dolphins (1-3) @ Titans (1-3)-- First game for Campbell as interim HC of Dolphins, who lost last three games, allowing 157 rushing yards/game with only one takeaway (-4 ratio). Since '08, Miami is 29-16-1 as road dog (9-9 since '12); they're 4-8 in last 12 games with a spread of 3 or less, and lost three of last four post-bye games. Tennessee also lost its last three games, losing last two by total of three points; Titans are favored for first time this year, are 1-5-1 as home faves since 2013, 9-16-2 in games with spread of 3 or less. Would expect Miami to run ball more under Campbell, a former TE who was TE coach but hasn't ever been a coordinator. AFC South teams are 3-8 vs spread outside the division. Three of four Tennessee games went over total.

Panthers (4-0) @ Seahawks (2-3)-- Seattle is 2-0 at home, not allowing an offensive TD; two of its losses were wth Chancellor out- they won last four series games, with last three slugfests by 16-12/12-7/13-9 scores. Carolina lost last three visits here by 6-20-17 points; since '12, Panthers are 12-5 as road dogs, but they've also lost last four post-bye games, with three losses by 16+ points. Carolina scored three defensive TDs in its two road wins; over is 7-3 in their last ten road games. Under is 15-11 in last 26 Seattle home games; they are 19-8 as home favorite with Carroll, 9-5 in last 14 games as non-divisional HF. NFC West non-divisional favorites are 4-2 vs spread; NFC South teams are 9-5 against spread outside their division.

Chargers (2-3) @ Packers (5-0)-- Green Bay is 9-1-1 vs spread in last 11 home games, 5-0 vs spread overall this season- they turned ball over three times in 24-10 win LW, after they turned ball over only once in first four games. Pack is 18-8-1 as non-divisional home faves. Long travel, short week for Bolts after last-second home loss late Monday night; Chargers won last four post-Monday games, but lost nine of last 10 games vs Packers, who scored 31+ points in last five series games. Since '12, San Diego is 13-7-1 as road dog, 17-8-1 after losing as a favorite, Chargers haven't been to Lambeau Field since '07- last win here was in '84. San Diego is 0-2 on road, losing by 5-17 points. Over is 27-16 in Green Bay's last 43 home games, but 1-2 this year.

Ravens (1-4) @ 49ers (1-4)-- John Harbaugh beat the 49ers in Super Bowl three years ago, when his brother was coaching Niners; now Jim is in Michigan, 49ers are 1-4, Baltimore's defense has fallen apart. In four losses, Raven opponents are 37-67 on third down- Steelers were 2-13 in only win. Baltimore split pair of OT games last two weeks; their defense was gassed at end LW, giving up 457 passing yards to McCown, most by any Cleveland QB since Otto Graham. Ravens are 8-11 as road favorites since '11, 13-15-1 in last 29 games with spread of 3 or less. 49ers allowed 10 ppg in splitting pair of home games, giving up two TDs on 19 drives- they're giving up 40 ppg on road. Under is 13-5 in 49ers' last 18 home games, 2-0 this year.

Patriots (4-0) @ Colts (3-2)-- Indy won its last three games by total of 12 points as they recover from 0-2 start, but now Patriots come to town having won last six games vs Colts, scoring average of 47.3 ppg in last four series games. Throw in NE revenge motive after Colts accused them of taking air out of balls in playoffs LY and this could get ugly, seeing as Luck didn't play for Colts in last two games, but is expected back here. Pats are scoring 37.3 ppg, winning first two on road 40-32/30-6; they're still just 3-7 in last ten as road favorite, but 3-0-1 vs spread overall this season. Indy is 6-0 as a home underdog since '12, 7-3 as non-divisional home underdog. Under is 35-22-1 in Indy home games since 2006.

Giants (3-2) @ Eagles (2-3)-- Philly is 11-3 in last 14 games vs Big Blue; teams split last four games played here. Giants scored 28.7 ppg in winning last three games after 0-2 start in which they led by 10+ points in 4th quarter both times- since '11, they're 15-10 as road dogs, 2-0 this season. Giants are 12-6 as divisional road underdog since '07; Eagles are 2-6 as divisional home favorite, but are 8-4 in last 12 games overall as a home fave. Over is 7-3 in Giants' last ten road games, 17-9 in Eagles' last 26 home games. Philly averaged 7.1/7.4 ypa in last two games, after averaging 6.5 or less in first three games- they're +5 in TOs in two wins, -2 in losses. Giant opponents were over 50% on 3rd down in three of five tilts so far this year. Kaepernick threw for 262 yards against them LW.