VEGAS VICK:
EAGLES (-12) over Cowboys
Just a quick note of caution. If Atlanta wins tomororw, then we'll keep this game at the top of our best-bet list. But if the Falcons lose, which would give the Eagles the No. 1 seed and homefield, then we would advise a lighter play. Just as we suspected last week, the Birds were not really interested in the Redskins after stomping the Packers. This week, they will be interested. Andy Reid said he will play his starters no matter what, so we'll take him at his word. In the last meeting, Philly toyed with Dallas, posting an impressive 49-21 victory. After looking at Vinny Testaverde's work over the last six games, 10 interceptions and only five touchdowns, it's easy to see why this game will end with a three-TD bulge in the Eagles' favor.
Panthers (+3) over FALCONS
As we documented in last week's selection, Carolina is on a brilliant roll. The Panthers have won and covered five in a row, and will look to avenge a 27-10 loss from October. The only problem is, Atlanta is exceptionally tough at home (6-1), so we're expecting a tight game, maybe a late field goal for a Falcons win. That's why it is imperative that you get the hook, or half-point, with the underdog.
Ravens (+ over COLTS
Peyton Manning deserves every accolade thrown his way, but the Baltimore defense does not want him to break the single-seasno TD record in this game. Since the Ravens allow only 15.8 points per game, there's a good chance Manning will have to wait until San Diego comes to town next week. With seven ****** in the last nine outings, Baltimore has more than enough bullets to keep this game under a TD.
Saints (+ over BUCCANEERS
Both teams sit at 5-8, both will miss the playoffs, so what's with the eight point spread? That is just way to high. Especially against a New Orleans team that has performed very well against the spread on the road since coach Jim Haslett took over in 2000. The Saints have covered four of six away from home this season and will have no problem staying inside a touchdown.
Seahawks (+6) over JETS
With Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck on fire (51-for-74 for 748 yards and six TDs the last two games), and New York QB Chad Pennington still with a sore shoulder, the Seahawks will hang tight to the gun.
Bills (-1) over BENGALS
Bengals QB Jon Kitna might have been last year's Comeback Player of the Year, but with four straight wins, and covering eight of the last 10, Buffalo is the comeback team of this season.
We also like:
Redskins (-4) over 49ERS
LIONS (+3) over Vikings
Jaguars (+3) over PACKERS
Chargers (-10) over BROWNS
Texans (+1) over BEARS
Rams (-3) over CARDS
CHIEFS (+1) over Broncos
Titans (+2) over RAIDERS
DOLPHINS (+9) over Patriots (Mon)
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