Wrapping up the big game

What a game yesterday! I think all of us Cleveland fans were excited by the dramatic finish to Sunday's big showdown and had big smiles on our faces from the final result. Yes, I'm talking about the dominant 4th-quarter effort the Cavaliers employed to grab a rare road win in the Palace at Auburn Hills, taking down the Pistons for a satisfying 90-80 win. Wait, what game did you think I meant?...

Oh, that one. Eh. The less said about that, the better. Between that and Punxsutawney Phil's declaration that there will be six more weeks of winter, Western PA is really screwing me over today. As for the game itself, I'm definitely taking the ostrich approach to dealing with it - in other words, not really dealing with it at all. Serenity now! Since I have no real desire to talk about the actual game, let's talk about amusing topics peripheral to the contest, shall we?

First off, let's recap the work of FCF's fearless predictors in the NFL postseason. As you may recall, Andy won the regular-season title by 11 games over Nick and roughly 168 games over Figgs. Heading into the Super Bowl, Nick had a one-game edge on Andy in postseason prognosticating, and was three up on Figgs. However, Nick was the only one of the group who had the Steelers, who did not cover, thus Andy was able to force a tie and Figgs earned...a less embarrassing 3rd place. The lesson, kids: never trust the Steelers. The final numbers:

Super Bowl Sunday
Andy: 1-0
Figgs: 1-0
Nick: 0-1
Nick's Money Picks: 0-1

Playoffs
Andy: 6-5
Figgs: 4-7
Nick: 6-5
Nick's Money Picks: 4-5


A few remarks on this year's Super Bowl commercials. Most them were so-so, as usual, and there were a few standouts and a few clunkers. I'd say Anheuser-Busch was the big loser with their bizarre fixation on horse-themed advertisements. Who does this resonate with? GoDaddy.com continued their impressive run of terrible advertising - not only do most people think they look buffoonish, but hardly anyone knows what they even do. My three favorites were:

3) PepSuber
A randomly funny SNL-flavored Pepsi ad that managed to poke fun both at over-earnest product placement and at MacGyver, featuring Richard Dean Anderson himself.

2) Conan O'Brien
The lanky late-nighter had two excellent spots. One, a Bud Light ad, found him reluctantly accepting an offer to do a spot when told it would only appear in Sweden. The hilariously bizarrer commercial-within-a-commercial was classic Conan, and of course the spot ended up being shown in Times Square, to O'Brien's chagrin. I also liked the promo for Conan's own program where Tina Fey says "If your Conan lasts more than three hours, contact your doctor."

1) Career Builder
A late-game spot where they show, "12 Days of Christmas" style, a number of reasons why you may want to consider a new job. I could watch that Asian guy walk by the guy's desk and say "hey, dummy" a hundred times and not get tired of it. This ad literally made me laugh out loud, and more than once.


Nick either reads the right articles or is quite an idea man, because he had two gems related to the Super Bowl. Before the game, I posted a link to Super Bowl Monday, a website dedicated to making the day after Super Bowl Sunday a national holiday. Seems like a solid plan. Nick, thinking outside the box, has a way better idea: just have the game on a Saturday so everyone can party properly. I cannot think of a single drawback to this idea. Please, NFL, as long as you're keeping the two-week break between the championship round and the Super Bowl, just have the game on a Saturday. The nation's football fans as well as its employers will thank you.


The real story of the game last night, as I saw it, were penalties. Penalties, penalties, penalties. Now, I'm not going to go into some big long thing about how the refs favored the Steelers or anything; even though there was a big disparity in yardage (Steelers 7/56, Cardinals 11/106), the refs got most calls right and Arizona continually shot themselves in the feet, though there were one or two 15-yarders I thought were of questionable merit. No, my larger issue is how penalties are affecting my ability to enjoy professional football.

- Holding penalties, even just the threat of them, just kill me. I can't even enjoy a long, exciting play, because they get called back so often that I just sit there, nonplussed, looking for the yellow "FLAG" bar to appear on the screen. When I've verified that it didn't, the successful play is over and the time for excitement has passed. I have no solution to this problem, unfortunately.

- Nick's other great idea was this: stop penalizing teams yards for personal fouls. Make them fines-only, make them punitive, but stop having it affect the on-the-field play. Yes, roughing the QB needs to be discouraged and quarterbacks protected, but hitting a guy after he throws doesn't affect the result of the play. Fine the hell out of dirty plays, but don't have them influence the game like they do. This is especially pertinent to excessive celebration penalities, which have absolutely nothing to do with the on-field action, yet still net a team -15 yards each time they're whistled. Yes, I know the players should know and obey the rules, but these little conduct penalties have a really unnecessary intrusion on the play.

- Related to that: what the hell was that Cardinal thinking running over the Steelers' placeholder on that short FG try? Wow.

- Some commentators mentioned how Santonio Holmes should have been flagged for his celebration after catching the winning TD because he used the ball as a prop. Indeed, this is correct according to the rules, and the refs actually should have flagged him by the letter of the law. But frankly, I'm glad they didn't, even though it would have given Arizona a better chance to win, for the reasons cited above. It had nothing to do with the game. I think all excessive celebration and taunting penalties are stupid - who the hell ever came up with this ridiculous "ball as a prop" clause? And the thing where you can't include teammates? It's insane. Penalties schmenalties.

NFL Picks: Super Bowl

Awesome, my favorite sporting day of the year once again marred by the appearance of my least (or at best second-least) favorite team. Ugh. The Cardinals aren't a real appealing alternative, though I suppose it will have to do. I hope they have beer wherever I'm watching this game.

The FCF team had a little better success prognosticating during the Conference Championship round: only Figgs' selection of the Eagles kept us from posting a perfect record. As it stands, we're 14-16 overall, with Nick holding a one-game advantage going into the Super Bowl, a game that many have described as being the "Daytona 500 of American Professional Football."

Last Week
Andy: 2-0
Figgs: 1-1
Nick: 2-0
Nick's Money Picks: 1-0

Playoffs so far
Andy: 5-5
Figgs: 3-7
Nick: 6-4
Nick's Money Picks: 4-4


Super Bowl XLIII

Cardinals (+7) vs Steelers
Andy: If you had told me back in October that these two teams would be playing for the Super Bowl, I would have freaked out because: how did you get back here to October 2008 from the future? But seriously, Arizona's run to the title game is as improbable as Pittsburgh's 53rd Super Bowl appearance is boring and run-of-the-mill. Look at some of the beatdowns these guys took in New York and Boston! Look at some of the derogatory comments I wrote in past weeks about not trusting them. These guys are the NFC Champions?

I'm rooting for the Cardinals to win this game not just because I dislike the Steelers (though it helps), but because Vegas stands to lose considerably if the redbirds win because of people who put down $10 on Arizona on a drunken lark at like 300-1 or whatever back in August. Vegas really wants a Pittsburgh victory, and I like rooting against the house. And against the Steelers. And with seven points, I don't feel so bad about that. I'll take the Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII, and get me a Pabst while you're up.
Figgs: I'm not too optimistic about the Cards shocking the world, but my hatred for shitsburgh will not allow me to pick them.
Nick: Steelers. Everyone's talking themselves into the Cardinals, and I think this one might not be that close. At least I'll make some money off of it. Shoot me now.

NFL Picks: Conference Championships

Another great weekend for the FCF crew! Only Nick's last-minute conversion to the Steelers saved us from posting a pair of 0-4's on the weekend, but we're 9-15 as a unit overall thus far. Not good. Let's see if we can do better this weekend picking the NFC Championship and the Satan Bowl.

Last Week
Andy: 2-2
Figgs: 0-4
Nick: 1-3
Nick's Money Picks: 1-3

Playoffs so far
Andy: 3-5
Figgs: 2-6
Nick: 4-4
Nick's Money Picks: 3-4


AFC Championship

STEELERS (-4) vs. Ravens
Andy: This is absolutely disgusting. I almost want to forfeit my pick out of protest, but I'll soldier on and pick the Steelers.
Figgs: I'm gonna have to be real drunk for this game in order to root for the ratbirds. Uh, just typing that made me cringe. As far as my pick goes, Pittsburgh.
Nick: Steelers (-6). Both of these defenses are really good, but the Ravens looked sluggish against the Titans' Chris Johnson last week, and Kerry Collins shredded them up. I think that Baltimore really struggles to move that ball at all in this one, while Pittsburgh is able to move the ball sporadically. Steelers by two touchdowns. I've decided I'm going to root for the Steelers too, and not just for purely financial reasons. I can't stand the idea of the Ravens' franchise winning another Super Bowl before the Browns. (Or ever for that matter.) I'm assuming that the winner of this game wins the whole thing, and one more Pittsburgh Super Bowl won't make Steelers fans much more obnoxious than they are at present. For one week: go Steelers.


NFC Championship

CARDINALS (+3) vs. Eagles
Andy: I posted this late, but Nick can attest that I picked the Cards prior to the game. As I write, it's 24-6. Good work, Andy.
Figgs: No one has been giving the Cards credit all playoffs. I'll continue that trend and go with Philly.
Nick: I've been torched twice by betting against the Cardinals, but I like their chances in this game better than the previous two. Remember: it's not about how well they played during the regular season, it's about how well they're playing right now. Nothing would surprise me in this game, and with that in mind I'm going to take the home dog. 'Zona.

NFL Picks: Divisional Round

After an entertaining first weekend of games, we're on to the Divisional Playoff round, where the real heavyweights await their challengers.

Last Week
Andy: 1-3
Figgs: 2-2
Nick: 3-1
Nick's Money Picks: 2-1


Saturday Games

RAVENS (+3) vs. Titans
Andy: This reminds me of last week's ATL-AZ game, with a hot team that everyone likes coming in on the road, in this case Baltimore, and a team that people cooled on after a hot start, here Tennessee. The Ravens have played very well, but Tennessee is no slouch either. I like the Titans in this.
Figgs: I think this is kind of a toss up. If that's ever the case in a Ravens game, then the deciding factor is my hatred for them. Plus, Eddie was a Titan.
Nick: These two teams are basically clones, but the Titans are at home, rested, and undervalued. This team won 13 games during the regular season! (And that includes laying down against the Colts in week 16.) You know how many rookie QBs have won consecutive road playoff games? Zero. And the overwhelming majority of gamblers are taking Baltimore? Sign me up. Titans.

CARDINALS (+10) vs. Panthers
Andy: I like Carolina to win, but not by that many. If Arizona was playing in New York, well, that'd be a different story.
Figgs: Panthers definitely win, but 10 is a big number in a playoff game. Tough call, Carolina.
Nick: Panthers (-9.5). The Cardinals were the worst team outside of the Dolphins to get into the playoffs, and Carolina's going to torch them. Plus, it's going to rain in Charlotte. Panthers comfortably.


Sunday Games

GIANTS (-4) vs. Eagles
Andy: The Philly bandwagon ends here, and very abruptly.
Figgs: Giants in the lock of the playoffs.
Nick: Giants. Philadelphia could have easily lost last week in Minnesota if Tarvaris Jackson had been merely mediocre. The Giants are my pick to repeat, and with a healthy Brandon Jacobs, they start this week.

STEELERS (-6) vs. Chargers
Andy: The hardest one on the board for me to pick. I'm just still not sold enough on SD to take them here, even though I would love to see them pull it off. This is one of those stupid games where Pittsburgh wins by three to double-screw me. I hate giving points with the Steelers, but I'm doing it anyway.
Figgs: The best game of the weekend in my mind. I see this being a weird game with a close, weird final score, just like when these two teams meet in the regular season. Pittsburgh probably wins, but by less than six.
Nick: Steelers (-6.5). I changed this pick at the last minute; taking the Chargers here is classic case of over-thinking, rationalizing, and a little group think. Plus, one favorite has to cover, right? The Chargers were an 8-8 team that shouldn't have made the playoffs. San Diego won three games on the road all year; no wins against quality opponents, and no wins in cold weather. I don't think the Chargers have played a cold weather game all year. This feels like the patented Steelers' "controlled blowout." It's close for awhile, Roethlisberger pulls a few big plays out of his rear end, Pittsburgh turns their defense loose, and Pittsburgh probably gets a defensive touchdown at some point to seal the deal. I hate myself for doing this...

NFL Picks: Wild-Card Round

The 2008 NFL regular season has ended, and Andy has emerged as the champion prognosticator, finishing with a strong week to hold off Nick heading into the playoffs. We also learned that when Figgs goes against his instincts Costanza-style, he can be a force, and that Nick is equally hit-or-miss whether he feels strongly about a game or not. To recap:

Last Week
Andy: 10-5-1
Figgs: 10-5-1
Nick: 6-9-1
Nick's Money Picks: 1-0

Final Regular-Season
Andy: 136-111-8 (Not bad, eh?)
Figgs: 109-125-8
Nick: 125-122-8
Nick's Money Picks: 23-24


Fear not, football fans, because now it's time for the wild, wonderful NFL Playoffs, always a superb time in the sports calendar. I can't wait for some doofus to proclaim this year's postseason the NFL's best ever, conveniently forgetting that they're great every year because it's a great sport being played by its best teams. Are our memories really so short? On to the wild-card round matchups, where the unprecedented has happened: all four road teams are favored, though all by ≤3 points.


Saturday Games

CARDINALS (+1) vs. Falcons
Andy: This is a classic trap game for bettors to fall in love with the ATL because they're so fun and the Cardinals have been slop for the past month. Guess what? I'm sticking with Atlanta for all they've done for me this season.
Figgs: I really like this Falcons team. ATL.
Nick: Falcons (-1.5). I could totally see Arizona winning this, but 4 times out of 5 I think Atlanta beats them. The Falcons can run the ball, Arizona can't run the ball or stop the run, and Matt Ryan might already be a better quarterback than Kurt Warner. University of Online Degrees Stadium doesn't set off any warning bells for me, so I still like Atlanta here.

CHARGERS (+1) vs. Colts
Andy: Colts. Make it 10 straight.
Figgs: Don't forget how the Colts should have lost to the Texans as well, if not for Schaub turning the ball over 7 times in the last 5 minutes. But I'm still sticking with Indy.
Nick: Chargers. Eh, I've gone back and forth about a dozen times on this one. I'm going to go with San Diego because they usually play the Colts tough, and because I think the Colts are a mirage. Indy keeps winning games in ridiculous ways against lousy teams; they should have lost to the Browns, and they should have lost to the Jags two weeks ago.


Sunday Games

DOLPHINS (+3) vs. Ravens
Andy: Any outcome of the four games seems reasonable to me except one: Miami beating the Ravens. Baltimore is going to win these game, damn them.
Figgs: Man I hate the Ravens, and I'm gonna hate watching them win tomorrow.
Nick: Ravens, possibly in a blowout. Miami won't move the ball, and Baltimore will string a few conservative drives together. With Chad Pennington tossing wounded ducks, Baltimore's defense may outscore their offense, and I only mean that as like a 50% jab at Baltimore's offense.

VIKINGS (+3) vs. Eagles
Andy: I thought Minnesota would be favored here, and they are not, so I'm taking them.
Figgs: I feel pretty confident in the first three games, not so much on this one. I could see it going either way, but I'll stick with all favorites, ironically all road teams. Philly.
Nick: Eagles big. I liked Minny initially, but when I went inside the numbers I changed my mind. Philly can stuff the run, and Jim Johnson is going to get his guys inside Tarvaris' grille all day long. Look for some INTs from Tarv, and possibly a pick-six. Philly's short passing game will give them enough to cover comfortably, and Minnesota has by far the worst special teams in the playoffs.

NFL Picks: Week 17

This is it, just one week of the regular season to go. I've got to make up a game or two on Dr. Francis to have a shot of catching him in the playoffs. That's right, Andy, we will be counting playoff games. (If for no other reason than to give me a chance to catch you.) Figgs, you should be ashamed of yourself.

Last Week
Andy: 7-9
Figgs: 6-10
Nick: 9-7
Nick's Money Picks: 1-3

Year To Date
Andy: 126-106-7 (I've been slipping of late)
Figgs: 99-120-7 (I really am ashamed of myself. I don't think anyone that watches as much football as I do could possibily be this bad. Therefore, I will be picking the opposite of what I originally think for each game this week.)
Nick: 119-113-7
Nick's Money Picks: 22-24


FALCONS (-14.5) vs. Rams
Andy: Falcons, once again. What a fun club, like the '07 Browns.
Figgs: Rams.
Nick: Birds. Michael Turner's going to put up 31.5 fantasy points for the few leagues that go 17 weeks.

BILLS (-6) vs. Patriots
Andy: The Pats have been a reliable cover for me, and they won't be afraid of the cold. Buffalo is toast.
Figgs: I don't think either team is gonna score six points in this one due to the wind. Pats win, 4-2. So going with the opposite, I'll take NE.
Nick: Pats. This is a classic Belichick "rip out their throats" game.

BENGALS (-3) vs. Chiefs
Andy: Bengals have won two straight and can finish at home on a positive note. That's how I can give points.
Figgs: Cinncy.
Nick: Chiefs. How can you give points in this game?

PACKERS (-11) vs. Lions
Andy: What is the final score of a forfeit? 7-0 or something? That's the only way I'd take the Lions.
Figgs: I believe a forfeit is 2-0. Lions.
Nick: Pack. Detroit, I'd just like to say good luck, we're all counting on you.

TEXANS (-3) vs. Bears
Andy: Houston's organizational Mission Statement is: "8-8." Give me the Texans here.
Figgs: The Bears need this for the playoffs. Houston.
Nick: Texans. Take away Matt Forte and the Bears can't score 14 points.

COLTS (+3) vs. Titans
Andy: What is this, 2007, the Colts playing a meaningless Week 17 game that involves Tennessee? Tough one to pick, I'll go Colts.
Figgs: Titans.
Nick: Titans. Tennessee's running game lends itself to a meaningless scrubs game like this one.

VIKINGS (-7) vs. Giants
Andy: I'm glad we didn't guess lines this week, Nick. Is Tarvaris Jackson still playing? Giants.
Figgs: After what happened last year, Coughlin won't sit his guys. Vikes.
Nick: Giants. I feel like the Vikes win this one, but by less than a TD.

SAINTS (+2.5) vs. Panthers
Andy: Two teams I love to take...I had NO the first time I wrote this, but I've reconsidered and now I have the Panthers.
Figgs: The Panthers need to make a statement. NO.
Nick: Panthers. Carolina has to win this game if they're serious about challenging the Giants in the NFC.

STEELERS (-11.5) vs. Browns
Andy: I'm taking the Steelers, but I want Nick's line.
Figgs: Pittsburgh wins, 113-0. So I'm taking the Browns.
Nick: Steelers (-10). Define: deal with the devil. This will be the final insult. I'm convinced the Steelers stick with more starters for a longer period of time than people think. Even if they didn't, would it matter? We were just shut out by the Bengals at home. The Browns haven't scored an offensive TD in five freaking games! Do people realize that this is currently the worst team in the league? Yes, worse than the Lions. I'm comfortable betting against the orange and brown here to drive a stake through the heart of the Crennel/Savage era. C'mon Randy, sack up and clean house!

BUCS (-13) vs. Raiders
Andy: Raiders. TB has been slipping.
Figgs: I agree with you guys. Bucs.
Nick: Raiders. It isn't that the Raiders are any good, I just don't believe the Bucs can beat anyone by 13.

RAVENS (-12.5) vs. Jaguars
Andy: Ravens, but damn do I hate them.
Figgs: Jags.
Nick: Ravens. Baltimore's good at home, they have something to play for, and they tend to blow out bad teams.

JETS (-2.5) vs. Dolphins
Andy: Fish. My whole cold-weather theory has been exploded, and I think Miami is a better club.
Figgs: The Dolphins choke away a great season. Fish.
Nick: Jets. I like going against the grain when people are picking one team with such unanimity.

EAGLES (-1.5) vs. Cowboys
Andy: Philly. One of these teams plays well late in the season each year, and it's not Dallas.
Figgs: Eagles.
Nick: Cowboys. I think the Eagles may have shown their true colors last week. Just 3 points against the Redskins? This team is not that good, they had just been getting breaks the last few weeks with the opponents they were drawing.

CARDINALS (-7) vs. Shehawks
Andy: Seattle. AZ has been unimpressive and will be resting people.
Figgs: Cards.
Nick: Seattle. The Seahawks have been playing well for a bad team for over a month now, and to say the Cards have been phoning it in is an understatement.

49ERS (-3) vs. Redskins
Andy: Gold-diggers.
Figgs: Skins.
Nick: Niners. I believe in Mike Singletary. And Harvey Dent.

CHARGERS (-8.5) vs. Broncos
Andy: Too many points to give against the schizo Broncos.
Figgs: That's too many points, this game will come down to the wire. Chargers.
Nick: Broncos. Again, let's go against the grain here. The Broncos might not win outright, but this spread is too high. The Chargers would be a much better team if they just threw 40 times per game instead of running left with LT on every first and second down.

NFL Picks: Week 16

Wow. Look at those records last week. Congrats to Figgs, posting a big W with a 5-9-2 performance. Nothing to see here, folks.

Last Week
Andy: 4-10-2
Figgs: 5-9-2
Nick: 4-10-2
Nick's Money Picks: 0-1

Year To Date
Andy: 119-97-7
Figgs: 93-110-7
Nick: 110-106-7
Nick's Money Picks: 21-21

Thursday Night

JAGUARS (+6) vs. Colts
Andy: Colts
Figgs: The Jags blow, and the Colts are good. This is easy, right? Indy.
Nick: Colts. The Colts have been solid ATS on the road, while the Jags have sucked ATS at home. The Colts are getting healthy, they need to win this game badly to lock up a playoff spot, and the Jags have nothing to play for. Book it.


Saturday Night

COWBOYS (-5.5) vs. Ravens
Andy: Dallas is on a roll. Who knew how important Romo was to this club? I'll take them here in the final game at Texas Stadium.
Figgs: Cowboys.
Nick: Cowboys. I wish this spread was a little lower, but Baltimore's not winning this game.


Sunday Games

TITANS (+2) vs. Steelers
Andy: The Steelers frighten me right now, and Tennessee isn't steamrolling people like they once were.
Figgs: Titans.
Nick: Steelers. Tennessee's two best defensive linemen are out, so they're going to have to blitz to get pressure. Kerry Collins has not played good football the last two weeks, and Pittsburgh's defense can take away Tennessee's running game.

CHIEFS (+3.5) vs. Dolphins
Andy: Dolphins. I expected a bigger line.
Figgs: Fish.
Nick: Dolphins, but I'm still not sold on Miami.

PATRIOTS (-8.5) vs. Cardinals
Andy: Arizona is tailspinning and not a good road/cold weather team. They have no chance to win here, none, so I'll lay the points with NE.
Figgs: Pats.
Nick: Patriots. The Cards are pretenders, plus they're packing it in till the playoffs. New England has to have this game.

BROWNS (-2.5) vs. Bengals
Andy: Yeah, Browns football! We're favored here? Really? Have our games been blacked out in Vegas?
Figgs: Browns.
Nick: Bengals. I don't think we can win with Ken Dorsey at quarterback.

BUCS (-3.5) vs. Chargers
Andy: TB. I just don't like this San Diago team for some reason.
Figgs: Tampa.
Nick: Chargers. I think Tampa's offense may have been exposed the last two weeks.

REDSKINS (+4.5) vs. Eagles
Andy: I'm so off of Washington right now. Philly should roll here.
Figgs: Iggles.
Nick: Eagles. My favorite game on the board. Philly has to have this game, Washington isn't very good, and the Eagles are rolling.

RAMS (+5.5) vs 49ers
Andy: I hate picking the NFC West Garbage Game of the Week every damn week. Give me SF.
Figgs: San Fran.
Nick: Niners. San Francisco's been playing good football for over a month now. They better hire Singletary.

VIKINGS (-3.5) vs. Falcons
Andy: Interesting game here featuring Atlanta, my favorite random team of the season. Hell, let's stick with the ATL.
Figgs: Vikes.
Nick: Falcons. One of the Williams boys is out on the Vikings' D-line, and I'm not even close to sold on Tarvaris Jackson.

LIONS (+7) vs. Saints
Andy: This is the end of the line for Detroit, because they will not win in Lambeau next week. However, Drew Brees might pass for 600 yards against this awful DET secondary. 'Aints.
Figgs: New Orleans.
Nick: Saints. Detroit's come this far, and for Jim Rome's sake, I hope they can go the distance.

SEAHAWKS (+3.5) vs. Jets
Andy: 'Hawks. They've been pretty competitive, and the Jets are shaky.
Figgs: Jetropolitans.
Nick: Seattle. I'm pretty much done picking the Jets.

RAIDERS (+7.5) vs. Texans
Andy: Houston, defying all odds, has played some pretty good football of late, even on the road. I like them in this one.
Figgs: Texans.
Nick: Texans (-7). Houston looks like the hot second half team this year, and they'll keep rolling against the hapless Raiders. Matt Schaub is for real.

BRONCOS (-6) vs. Bills
Andy: Pretty obvious stay-away game here, but I think the Bills are sunk.
Figgs: Donks.
Nick: Broncos. It's not that I believe in the Donks, it's that I don't believe in the Bills.

GIANTS (-3) vs. Panthers
Andy: Solid matchup. I'll take Carolina.
Figgs: Giants.
Nick: Giants. One of the closest games on the board. If Jacobs is out, I might change this pick.


Monday Night

BEARS (-4) vs. Packers
Andy: Bears, though I can't offer a good reason why.
Figgs: Da Bears.
Nick: Bears. Like Tom Petty, Green Bay is free falling.

NFL picks: Week 15

A late rally gave Andy a 9-7 mark for Week 14 while the other two fellows struggled with an unpredictable week. Only three weeks remain in the 2008 regular season slate; it will take some kind of Festivus miracle for Nick to claim the top spot.

Last Week
Andy: 9-7
Figgs: 5-11
Nick: 6-10
Nick's Money Picks: 3-3

Year to Date
Andy: 115-87-5
Figgs: 88-99-5
Nick: 106-96-5
Nick's Money Picks: 21-20


Thursday game

DA BEARS (-3) vs 'Aints
Andy: The Bears have been solid of late, and I think they'll be imposing on a Thursday night in the cold against a dome team. As much as I like the Saints this year, let's go with Chicago.
Figgs: I was originally thinking Saints, but Andy makes some good points. But on the other hand, considering how much better I am at this than Andy, I'll stick with NO.
Nick: Bears. The Saints blow on the road, and it's going to be cold tonight.

Sunday games

DIRTY BIRDS (-3) vs Buccos
Andy: Buccaneers. Yeargh!
Figgs: I don't what what brought on my love for the Falcons this year, but I'm sticking with em.
Nick: Falcons. Did you see the Bucs try stop the run on Monday night?

TEAM THAT I HATE IN BALTIMORE (-1) vs Team That I Hate in Pittsburgh
Andy: There are no winners in this game. Steelers, I guess.
Figgs: Can I pick a 0-0 tie? I'll go Ravens, just cause I hate the other one a little bit more.
Nick: Baltimore. I heard a good rule this week: pick Pittsburgh against teams with a lousy pass rush, pick against Pittsburgh when they're playing teams with a good pass rush. I'll bite.

SEX PANTHERS (-7.5) vs Donks
Andy: 60% of the time, Carolina wins every time.
Figgs: Panthers win, but not by that much. Denver.
Nick: Carolina. I hate that half point, but the Panthers' running game is sick right now.

BUNGLES (+6.5) vs 'Skins
Andy: The 'Nati hasn't been even vaguely competitive of late. Washington is skidding, but I like them to cover this.
Figgs: Skins.
Nick: Redskins. I liked Cincy to cover the number earlier this year, but I'm jumping ship.

HOUSTON HOUSTONIANS (+3) vs Titties
Andy: I'll take Nashville over the city they relocated from.
Figgs: Titans.
Nick: Titans. A few good games from Houston are feeding this line. Tennessee by double-digits.

HOOSIERS (-17) vs One of the Worst Teams the NFL Has Ever Witnessed
Andy: If Indy beat Cincy by 32 last week, why shouldn't they beat Detroit by more than that this week? Colts.
Figgs: I'll go with the Lions, just because I have a huge man crush on Daunte. Is he even still Q'ing this team?
Nick: Colts. Screw the big three, Congress should bail out the Lions.

JAGONS (+1) vs Peckers
Andy: Pack. I'm so over Jacksonville.
Figgs: Pack.
Nick: Packers. The Jags quit months ago.

CHIEVES (+5) vs Bolts
Andy: Ah, the 5-point line, Vegas' version of throwing their arms up and saying WTF? KC has been a friend to me this year but I like SD here.
Figgs: Chargers.
Nick: I'll take games I'd never bet for 500, Alex. Bolts.

FISH (-6.5) vs Gold Diggers
Andy: Miami. You convinced me, Dolphins, now keep it going.
Figgs: Miami.
Nick: Miami, though the Niners are coming on under Singletary. His ass must be a sight to behold.

J!E!T!S! JETS! JETS! JETS! (-7) vs Buffaloes
Andy: The battle of: who can let me down more. I simply cannot take Buffalo anymore.
Figgs: I could go either way, so just to be different, Jills.
Nick: Jets. I really like teasing this game with the Pats.

LAMBS (+1) vs Sea Chickens
Andy: Seattle. I'm drunk.
Figgs: Seattle.
Nick: Shehawks. Seneca Wallace has some weird mojo working right now.

PHOENIXES (-3) vs Purple People Eaters
Andy: 'Zona. Still drunk. Hey Figgs, take the opposite team so I can win!
Figgs: Of course I'm taking the Vikes.
Nick: Arizona. Gus Frerotte is out, and he was their starter. Not a good week for Minny.

RAIDERS OF THE LOST OAK (+7) vs Patsies
Andy: I still think New England's non-cover last week was weird, and to prove it, I'm taking them again.
Figgs: Pats.
Nick: Patriots. This isn't a game that Belichick's boys will lose.

Sunday night

AMERICA'S TEAM (-3) vs G-Men
Andy: Giants, I guess. This should be a good game to watch.
Figgs: NY is getting points? Giants.
Nick: Giants. How is NY getting points in this one.

Monday night

IGGLES (-14) vs Clowns
Andy: If you look at the talent between these teams, there's no reason why the line should be this gigantic, and that is the story of Cleveland's 2008 campaign. Browns.
Figgs: Browns. It's a Monday night, so we might win.
Nick: Eagles. Do I really have to watch this game?

NFL picks: Week 14

Andy finally took a losing week at 7-8, and thus vows never to bet against the Browns again (they covered by 1/2 point).

Last Week
Andy: 7-8
Figgs: 5-10
Nick: 8-7
Nick's Money Picks: 1-2

Year to Date
Andy: 106-80-5
Figgs: 83-88-5
Nick: 100-86-5
Nick's Money Picks: 18-17


Thursday game

CHARGERS (-9.5) vs Raiders
Andy: San Diego is a 4-8 team with a +16 point differential on the season. They've lost three straight close ones to quality teams and now, returning home for a midweek night game, they get Oakland, which is not a quality team. They beat the Raiders in Oaktown by 10 the first time out, and I see that happening again.
Figgs: San Diego eventually, sometime has to start playing better, right?
Nick: Chargers (-9). The way this line moved initially makes me think that the wise guys in Vegas know something. Chargers in an easy cover.


Sunday games

TITANS (-13.5) vs Browns
Andy: Like I said, Browns 4-eva.
Figgs: That's a lot of points, and you never know with the Browns. Cleveland, I guess.
Nick: Titans. I don't like giving that many points, but I think Tennessee wins by at least a two TD margin.

BEARS (-6.5) vs Jaguars
Andy: After going out and getting smacked up on the road by Houston, I foresee a similar fate for the Jags. I don't love the Bears, but I see them taking this by a TD or more.
Figgs: Bears, for the aforementioned reasons.
Nick: Bears. The Jags are laying down, their o-line is in shambles, and it's going to be like 20 degrees at Soldier Field.

LIONS (+9.5) vs Vikings
Andy: This is Detroit's season here, by far their best chance to avoid 0-16, against a team they should have beaten on the road earlier this year. Lions.
Figgs: Vikes.
Nick: Ugh. Vikings. Explain to me how Detroit's going to score and/or stop Peterson.

PACKERS (-6) vs Texans
Andy: Nick tricked me into the Pack last week, but I actually like them this time.
Figgs: Packers.
Nick: Packers, although the spread's a little too high for me to bet on it.

COLTS (-13.5) vs Bengals
Andy: Cincy, too many points.
Figgs: I hate the Bungles. Lets go Colts.
Nick: Cincy. The Colts are squeaking by with pretty close wins. This spread is too high.

SAINTS (-3) vs Falcons
Andy: Two of my favorite teams to take with essentially a neutral line! What to do? Take the home team, New Orleans.
Figgs: Screw Rookie of the Year, where's the Matty Ice MVP talk? Dirty Birds.
Nick: Falcons. The ATL beat the Saints by 14 less than a month ago, the dome won't be as big of a home field advantage for New Orleans because Atlanta's also an indoor team, and the Birds are getting a field goal. Sign me up.

GIANTS (-7) vs Eagles
Andy: Finally, a sizable line for the champs. Not sizable enough. G-men.
Figgs: There is simply no reason to go against the Giants right now.
Nick: Giants (-6.5). You've got to ride the Giants at this point, right? Philly's resurgence is being overplayed. Arizona's fading and had some crippling turnovers early. Buckhalter's out, and Westbrook's hobbled. Giants by at least 10.

BILLS (-1) vs Dolphins
Andy: After last week, I don't want to take the Bills, but I like Toronto so I'll forgive the Buffaloes.
Figgs: Dolphins, just because Will Smith never made a song about Buffalo.
Nick: Dolphins. Buffalo's a mess and the Fish have way more to play for. This is a game I could see the Bills winning, but I'm not confident enough to pick them.

BRONCOS (-9.5) vs Chieves
Andy: The Broncos are super-weird. KC smacked them earlier, so I'll take them here.
Figgs: This is a tough one, Denver.
Nick: Broncos. Denver needs this game too much to come out sloppy.

49ERS (+4) vs Jets
Andy: Jets easy in a bounce-back game.
Figgs: Favres for sure.
Nick: Jets (-3). My favorite game on the board. This spread should be 9.5. Jets by triple-digits.

SEAHAWKS (+4.5) vs Pats
Andy: Only 4.5? New England is fighting for a playoff here, Seattle is fighting for an off-season. Pats, my favorite game on the board.
Figgs: Why is this only 4.5? Pats, easy.
Nick: Pats (-5). New England takes care of business by at least a touchdown here. Like Bill Simmons said: you don't pick against Belichick after an embarassing loss.

CARDINALS (-14) vs Rams
Andy: Wow, lotsa points. The Cards should win this easily, though.
Figgs: This a a lot of points, STL.
Nick: Rams. Too many points, and the Rams are at least watchable when S-JAX plays. Plus, the Cards are fading.

STEELERS (-3) vs Cowboys
Andy: Good matchup here. I think Pittsburgh will be ready.
Figgs: Blow me Pittsburgh. 'Boys.
Nick: Pittsburgh. The Steelers' sloppy home field negates their defensive speed, but I think they smack around a banged up Dallas team that's still a little soft.


Sunday night

RAVENS (-5) vs Redskins
Andy: The Ravens stink against good teams. Is Washington a good team? Neh, not really.
Figgs: Skins.
Nick: Ravens. Washington's ship is sinking fast. The Redskins just aren't going to do much scoring against a terrific Baltimore defense.


Monday night

PANTHERS (-3) vs Bucs
Andy: Should be a good game to watch. Carolina's game impressed me against the Pack, so I'll take them here.
Figgs: I'll go with the home team. Panthers.
Nick: Bucs. Tampa's defense is terrific, they stomped the Panthers earlier this season, they're getting points, and Jon Gruden > John Fox.

NFL picks: Week 13

Nick's been up and down the past few weeks like the stock market...wait, I guess that would only be down. An 11-5 showing last week puts him back in contention. Andy turned in his usual 9-7 and, due to technical difficulties, Figgs takes an 0-1 (just the Thursday game).

Last Week
Andy: 9-7
Figgs: 0-1
Nick: 11-5
Nick's Money Picks: 1-0

Year to Date
Andy: 99-72-5
Figgs: 78-78-5
Nick: 92-79-5
Nick's Money Picks: 16-14

Thursday games

LIONS (+11) vs Titans
Andy: An 0-11 team playing a 10-1 team, and only getting 11 points? Give me the Titans, shaking off the Jets hangover.
Figgs: You used to never bet against Detroit on Thanksgiving. But unless Barry's suiting up, the Fighting Fishers roll. Titans.
Nick: Titans. Tennessee is something like 9-2 ATS, and the Lions suck.

COWBOYS (-12.5) vs Seahawks
Andy: Getting Romo back has reinvigorated the Cowboys and I look for them to win big on T-giving. I've already given 23.5 points in just two picks.
Figgs: Cowboys
Nick: (-11.5) Cowboys. Holmgren's clubs get slaughtered at Texas Stadium, and Romo got on a roll last week.

EAGLES (-3) vs Cardinals
Andy: I have a rule: anytime I guess one team will be -3 and it turns out the other team is -3, I take my original guess. The Iggles are in disarray, meaning they could either rally around each other and play a great game or continue a downward spiral. I'm leery of the Cards in cold weather, but I'm taking them anyway.
Figgs: I've loved the Eagles all year, and they screwed me, but I'll give 'em one more shot. Eagles.
Nick: Cardinals.

BROWNS (+4.5) vs Colts
Andy: I've taken the Browns every game this year, going so far as to criticize Nick and Figgs for not doing so against the Giants. After attending Sunday's debacle, I don't feel anymore like I owe it to the franchise to support them in this fashion. Colts, both as a criticism of Cleveland and an endorsement of how well Indy has played.
Figgs: I cannot for the life of my figure out why this spread is so low. I hope I'm wrong, but you'd be an idiot to go against the Colts here.
Nick: Colts. I don't think these last five games are going to be much fun.

BUFFALOES (-7) vs 49ers
Andy: Buffaloes. West Coast teams have trouble winning Sunday afternoon games played in the Eastern time zone. Bad teams like San Francisco have even more trouble, especially when it's cold. I'd give 2 TD's here.
Figgs: You guys make good points, Jills.
Nick: Bills. This isn't a vote of confidence in Buffalo as much as it is a vote of no confidence in San Fran. Also: Andy's reasons above are valid.

BENGALS (+7) vs Ravens
Andy: I feel dirty about how many times I've been right about the Ravens winning this year, so let's go with Cincy.
Figgs: I like to pick against everyone in the Browns' division, so I'm torn in these games. I could see this being a trap game for the ratbirds, Cinncy.
Nick: Ravens. The Ravens are 7-4. Yuck. Fortunately I think that their schedule should keep them out of the playoffs.

PACKERS (-3) vs Panthers
Andy: Nick makes a good point, plus there's concern about Delhomme's shoulder. Pack.
Figgs: Packers.
Nick: Packers. It's getting to be the time of year when it's unwise to pick against GB at home.

JETS (-9) vs Broncos
Andy: Remember what I said about teams traveling across time zones? That goes double for teams with no defense coming off of 21-point losses to Oakland playing a team who has won 7 of 8, including a throttling of a previously 10-0 club. J! E! T! S!
Figgs: The Jets are on a roll, and the Broncos are the worst playoff team I've seen in a long time. Favres.
Nick: Jets. I'm puzzled why the majority of the betting on my site has been on the Broncos.

BUCS (-3.5) vs Saints
Andy: As much as I enjoy taking the Saints, I think they'll struggle. I'll take tuberculosis.
Figgs: Brees' 300 yard game streak could come to an end against this defense. Bucs.
Nick: Bucs. This is the quietest 8-3 team in the league.

REDSKINS (+3.5) vs Giants
Andy: New York is a beast right now. I'm happy to give these points.
Figgs: I would give 6 or 7 in this one. Giants.
Nick: Again, I ask: when will Vegas start to respect the Giants?

CHARGERS (-5.5) vs Falcons
Andy: The Chargers let me down last week, plus more points than I expected. ATL.
Figgs: Turner rushes for 200 yards so Nick and I can set records in our Fantasy league, but SD covers.
Nick: Atlanta. I don't have a good feel for this game, but Atlanta's probably the more consistent club, and they're getting a considerable amount of points here.

PATRIOTS (+1) vs Steelers
Andy: Can they both lose? I'll hedge my bets and take Pittsburgh. Also: I think they're a better team.
Figgs: I don't think it's needed to ask me Steeler games anymore. Pats.
Nick: Steelers. I'm mildly surprised they aren't favored.

RAIDERS (-3) vs Kansas City
Andy: Oakland, easy.
Figgs: The NFL should cancel this game due to lack of talent. Oakland, I guess.
Nick: Chiefs. KC may win this game straight up.

Sunday night
VIKINGS (-3.5) vs Bears
Andy: A puzzler here. Minnesota impressed me last week, so I'll take them.
Figgs: The Vikes are winning the Super Bowl next year once they get McNabb. That has no relevance in this game, but I'll still go with Minny.
Nick: Vikings. The Metrodome provides one of the league's best home field advantages.

Monday night
TEXANS (-3) vs Jags
Andy: What a lousy MNF matchup this is. I'll take Houston, after seeing up close and personal how badly they can play (and win).
Figgs: Jax, for sure.
Nick: Jags. Houston's really, really bad, and I'm getting three? Sign me up.

NFL picks: Week 12

Congratulations to Figgs, who posted a season-beat 10-6 last week to move over .500, though had the officials not blown the call at the end of the Steeler-Charger game, Andy would have been 10-6 instead. Let's see how the FCF crew's doing thus far:

Last Week
Andy: 9-7
Figgs: 10-6
Nick: 6-10
Nick's Money Picks: 2-2

Year to Date
Andy: 90-65-5
Figgs: 78-77-5
Nick: 81-74-5
Nick's Money Picks: 15-14


STEELERS (-10.5) vs Bengals
Andy: Ugh, Steelers. The Bengals have played better, but nothing about this particular matchup seems to favor them.
Figgs: Bengals
Nick: Steelers (-10)

Note: Figgs couldn't get his picks in on time. He'll be assessed a 1-game penalty next week.

BROWNS (-3) vs Texans
Andy: Please explain to me why I should take a Texas team playing in cold weather, 0-5 on the road this year, and quarterbacked by Sage Rosenfels, where I only get 3 points. Browns.
Nick: Browns. For the reasons Andy posted above, but also because I'll be attending this game, and the Force will be with me. The Browns are 7-3 when I'm in the stands, and they're about to move to 8-3 and also provide a cover.

FALCONS (-1) vs Panthers
Andy: Panthers. I guessed the lines great this week, except this one, where I thought Carolina would be favored significantly. Nick warns this may be a trap game, but I'm stepping right into it.
Nick: Panthers. I do feel like this could be a trap game, partially because I'm still not sure if the Falcons are for real or not. I came close to betting this game, but decided to pass. Still, I like the Panthers here.

RAVENS (-1) vs Eagles
Andy: If you can't beat the Bengals on the road, you're not going to beat the Ravens either.
Nick: Ravens. Brian Westbrook's looked awfully mortal lately. His injury appears to be more serious than we were led to believe.

COWBOYS (-10) vs 49ers
Andy: Cowboys have some confidence back and the 49ers seem about ready to start mailing this season in.
Nick: Cowboys. That's a big number, but the Cowboys have alot more to play for at this point.

LIONS (+9) vs Bucs
Andy: The 'Bay plays close games and the Lions are long overdue. I'll take Detroit.
Nick: Bucs. I'd be more comfortable if this line were <7, but I can't take Detroit since they have zero chance to win this game.

JAGUARS (-1) vs Vikings
Andy: Heard a cute-sounding girl on the radio pick JAX, thus so do I.
Nick: Vikings. This is a close one, but give me the team that is better at running the ball and stopping the run.

CHIEVES (+3) vs Bills
Andy: Do I hafta? Bills rebound and take this one.
Nick: Bills. I'm by no means comfortable with the Bills, but I need more points to take the Chiefs.

DOLPHINS (-1) vs Patriots
Andy: My how the times have changed. The Patriots will have revenge and a playoff spot on their minds, so I go with New England.
Nick: Dolphins. I just don't see the Pats' D slowing down the Miami running game.

RAMS (+9) vs Bears
Andy: Chicago has to be the league's most nondescript team, but picking STL at this point frightens me. Bears.
Nick: Bears. Again, too many points, but the StL has lost by double-digits three weeks straight.

TITANS (-5) vs Jets
Andy: When this season is over, I'm going to send Jeff Fisher a thank-you note. Titans. Again.
Nick: Titans. If this line were 3 or less, I'd put money on it.

BRONCOS (-9.5) vs Raiders
Andy: Raiders, more to spite Denver than anything else.
Nick: Donks. Why do I keep picking these jerks? I'm starting to get nervous about all the points I'm giving this week, but Oakland blows.

CARDINALS (+3) vs Giants
Andy: Vegas would have trouble with a Giant-Titan Super Bowl (the two largest team mascots) because they wouldn't be able to underestimate both teams at once. Seriously, Giants.
Nick: Giants. When are the Giants and Titans going to get some respect from Vegas. I'll gladly give the three.

SEAHAWKS (+3.5) vs Redskins
Andy: 'Hawks, oddly enough. They've improved a bit and Hasselbeck and Qwest Field give them enough here.
Nick: Skins. That half point makes me nervous, but the Redskins are the much better club.

CHARGERS (-1) vs Colts
Andy: I'll take the home Chargers in the 2008 Inconsistency Bowl.
Nick: Colts. Indy's finally starting to roll; they've won three straight.

SAINTS (-1) vs Packers
Andy: Saints. I've been riding the Saints all year, see no reason to stop now, no matter how mediocre they are.
Nick: Saints. Both defenses suck, but the Saints have the better offense and they're at home.

NFL Picks: Week 11

Wow, Nick really killed it last week, to the tune of 10-3-1, easily the best single-week performance FCF has seen this season. Too bad he put money on two of the losses! Figgs also had a strong week at 8-5-1 while Andy kept alive his streak of .500 or better weeks.

Last Week
Andy: 7-6-1
Figgs: 8-5-1
Nick: 10-3-1
Nick's Money Picks: 2-2

Year to Date
Andy: 81-58-5
Figgs: 68-71-5
Nick: 75-64-5
Nick's Money Picks: 13-12


PATS (-3) vs Jets
Andy: Pats. I was surprised when Nick told me where this line was.
Figgs: Lets go nuts. Jets.
Nick: Pats. Love this line. I could see a number of things happening tonight, but I don't see a scenario where the Jets win the game.

BILLS (-4.5) vs Browns
Andy: Los Cafes, purely for reasons of honor.
Figgs: Beer we go Brownies.
Nick: (+5) Browns. Turned this one green at the last minute. When Trent Edwards struggles, the Bills can't win. He's been struggling the last three weeks or so, and I suspect it may continue.

FALCONS (-6) vs Broncos
Andy: Finally, some Vegas love for the Dirty Birds. The Falcons are 4-0 at home and putting up 32 a game in the Georgia Dome, while the Broncos allow 30 a game on the road. I'll take Los Alcones.
Figgs: If we're gonna quote rappers, make it a good one. "I wanna get you in the Georgia Dome on the fifty yard line while the Dirty Birds kick for t'ree." ATL.
Nick: Atlanta. I'm like the Ying Yang Twins: "GIMME GEORGIA DOME!"

PANTHERS (-14) vs Lions
Andy: The Lions average game this season is exactly a 14-point loss, same as this line. This game happens to be one where Daunte Culpepper is starting, the Lions are on the road, and their opponent is 7-2. Las Panteras.
Figgs: Daunte's gonna get his roll on. Lions.
Nick: Panthers. Big spread, big cover. The Panthers are the second best team in the NFC.

BENGALS (+9.5) vs Eagles
Andy: Las Aguilas. Thought I'd have to give a few more here. I'm sticking with Simmons' plan to take the Eagles against bad teams but not against quality opponents. The Bengals are bad.
Figgs: Philly. Hey Andy, whats with the espanol?
Nick: (-8.5) E! A! G! L! E! S! EAGLES! I agree with Andy. I thought this would be a 2 touchdown spread, and Brian Westbrook's playing, and he's worth at least 7 points on his own (that's hyperbole, but probably pretty accurate).

PACKERS (-3.5) vs Bears
Andy: It's Sunday morning and I'm making this pick - it was off when I made my other picks. Not that Nick doesn't do well, but any time I follow his lead I lose. Los Empacadores.
Figgs: Pack.
Nick: Bears. I've been talked both ways here, but since it's more than a field goal, gimme da bears.

COLTS (-9) vs Texans
Andy: A matchup of the Browns' next two opponents. The Texans are 0-4 on the road and I don't see them breaking through against a rejuvenated Colt team who downed Pittsburgh on the road last week. Los Potros.
Figgs: This might be a little closer than the experts think, but I've been going with the Fighting Dungy's all year. Colts.
Nick: Colts. I feel like the Colts might be getting it together. Maybe.

JAGUARS (-3) vs Titans
Andy: Seriously, what is Vegas' deal with the Titans? A 3-point line for a 9-0 team playing a club who within the past three weeks has lost to both Ohio teams? Los Colosos.
Figgs: I agree. Who doesn't love the Titans? My entire life the NFL has been dominated by very hateable teams, (Cowboys, Steelers, Pats) it's time for a likeable team to do well. Titans.
Nick: (-2.5) Titans. Tennessee's 9-0, and (I think) 8-0-1 Against the Spread. I'm giving less than a field goal here, are you kidding me? This bet's way too easy.

CHIEVES (+5) vs Saints
Andy: Darn, the bookmakers finally figured out that their KC lines were too big and that even a lousy team like the Chieves could cover them. Now I actually have to make a decision. Los Santos.
Figgs: I'll take the over on this one. Saints cover, 77-65.
Nick: Chiefs. I feel like the Saints are getting by on reputation, and I'm taking a gamble on Tyler Thigpen's continued development here.

DOLPHINS (-10.5) vs Raiders
Andy: These are two teams I struggle with. Los Cazadores.
Figgs: OK, I don't even know who Andy picked on this one, this Spanish thing is getting out of control. USA, USA! Oh, and I'll take the Raiders, mainly because I love their uniforms.
Nick: Raiders. Gimme points.

GIANTS (-6.5) vs Ravens
Andy: Intriguing matchup here. The Ravens have quietly put together a 4-game win streak with average margin of victory of 25 points while maintaining their edge as the league's most reprehensible bunch of idiots. I was going to take them anyway, but I'm making a Sunday switch to Los Gigantes.
Figgs: I hate that ratbirds. G-Men.
Nick: Giants. Ravens just don't have a chance to win.

BUCS (-3.5) vs Vikings
Andy: Las Piratas. I thought I'd have to give a TD here.
Figgs: Vikings win.
Nick: Bucs. I agree with Andy.

49ERS (-6.5) vs Rams
Andy: Does this game seriously need to be played? The battle for 3-8? I'll take Los Cuarenta y Nueves.
Figgs: Did the Rams really give up 40 points in a half? What the hell, STL. (That wasn't supposed to rhyme.)
Nick: 49ers. Damn.

SEAHAWKS (+3) vs Cards
Andy: Damnit, just when I was ready to fully commit to the Cardinals' bandwagon after years of disdaining them, they go and do that on MNF. Yeah, I know they won, so what. Still, I'm going to stay the course with Los Pajaros Rojos.
Figgs: Arz. I'm gonna gain so many games on you guys this week.
Nick: Seahawks. This feels like a bad game for the Cardinals, and Hasselbeck's back...

STEELERS (-4.5) vs Chargers
Andy: As usual, I'll take Los Acereros. The Chargers are getting by on reputation at this point. Well, that and that time they smacked the Patriots around.
Figgs: I think I've picked against shitsburgh every week, why stop now? Bolts.
Nick: Steelers. Even if the Steelers are beat up, the Chargers are frauds.

REDSKINS (+1) vs Cowboys
Andy: Las Pielas Rojas. I thought this would be a -6 line until I saw Tony Romo was playing, but I still don't see why Dallas should be favored.
Figgs: There is no reason for Dallas to be favored. Skins.
Nick: Redskins. Dallas is overhyped and overrated, even with Homo at QB.

NFL Picks: Week 10

If not for the Browns selling us out, we might have all had super weeks last time out. Well, OK, not Figgs. I (this is Andy) love this week's board. I might miss a bunch (this has yet to happen in 2008), but I really enjoyed picking them. The NFL is fun, even when your favorite club is a massive disappointment.

Last Week
Andy: 8-6 (ho-hum)
Figgs: 6-8
Nick: 8-6
Nick's Money Picks: 1-2

Year to Date
Andy: 74-52-4
Figgs: 60-66-4
Nick: 65-61-4
Nick's Money Picks: 11-10

BROWNS (-3) vs Broncos
Andy: I'd take the Browns anyway, but the Broncos have dropped their last 6 against the spread. Right, Nick?
Figgs: Browns.
Nick: Browns. Quinn delivers in first start. The Browns may never lose another game.

FALCONS (-1) vs Saints
Andy: Can the ATL get some respect? Love the Dirty Birds here.
Figgs: Saints.
Nick: Falcons. Ryan's playing well, Turner's running hard, and they're at home. What's not to like?

BEARS (+3) vs Titans
Andy: Titties win over the Grossman-QB'd Bears. Have to.
Figgs: Titans.
Nick: Titans. Rex Grossman is playing QB against an undefeated team and I only have to give 3? Sign me up.

LIONS (+6.5) vs Jaguars
Andy: Tough call. I've been banging the Lions for a few weeks, especially at home. I'd like to have 7, but hell, Cincy beat JAX last week so I'm going with the DET.
Figgs: Lions.
Nick: Jacksonville. If this line were >7, I'd go the other way.

DOLPHINS (-9.5) vs Seahawks
Andy: Fish. One of my other tough calls on the board. I just don't like Seattle on the road.
Figgs: Seahawks.
Nick: Seahawks. Too many points.

VIKINGS (-1) vs Packers
Andy: Vikes, making a big statement game. Seriously, if you're a Viking fan, you know your boys need to strap one on and finally beat the Pack.
Figgs: Vikings.
Nick: Vikings. Green Bay's not for real.

PATRIOTS (-3.5) vs Buffaloes
Andy: Pats, fo shizzle. Damn Vegas and its 3.5's.
Figgs: Bills.
Nick: Patriots, but I could see this going either way.

TEXANS (+1) vs Ravens
Andy: Until I see a reason to pick the Texans (2-6 ATS this year), I'll oppose them. Plus, this weird Raven team wins games, especially against the likes of a Rosenfels/Schaub QB tandem.
Figgs: Ravens.
Nick: Ravens. Baltimore doesn't make enough mistakes to lose this game.

JETS (-9) vs Rams
Andy: Watch me willy-nilly lay 9 points on this. I'm getting a bit cocky here. The Rams should just not even show up.
Figgs: Jets.
Nick: Jets. Changed this one at the last minute because S-Jax is out.

RAIDERS (+9.5) vs Panthers
Andy: I like a semi-pride game out of the Raiders, losing by 7-8 but covering. Do they still have the baseball dirt on their field? I feel like you should never take CAR on a dirt field.
Figgs: Panthers.
Nick: Panthers. They've flown under the radar all year at 6-2.

STEELERS (-4) vs Colts
Andy: I pick nobody, since there is no line. I win! What do we think Roethlisberger is worth, 3? 4? Update: the line is in and I'm taking the Steelers.
Figgs: Colts.
Nick: Pittsburgh. I have no feel for the Colts, and Pittsburgh's pretty consistent.

CHARGERS (-16) vs Chiefs
Andy: No way do I lay 16 on a so-so Charger team, considering the pluck the Chieves have shown of late. Why is this so high?
Figgs: Chiefs.
Nick: Chiefs. Sixteen is too many points this season, regardless of the teams involved.

EAGLES (-3) vs Giants
Andy: Giants. Bill Simmons has it right: take PHI when they play a bad team, take the opponent when it's a tough team.
Figgs: Eagles.
Nick: Giants. When are the defending champs going to get some respect? They should be favored by 3 here.

CARDINALS (-9.5) vs 49ers
Andy: I think this is the Cards' coming-out party. They might win this by 50. Did you know that Kurt Warner's passer rating is 104.2? Wow.
Figgs: Cardinals.
Nick: Cardinals. I've never been more comfortable giving almost double-digit points. Cards by at least 3 scores. O/U on how many times Singletary drops his pants: 1.5.

NFL Picks: Week 9

Happy Halloween! Last week FINALLY saw me make up some ground on Andy. Andy note: yeah, one game. We're into the second half of the season now, so I guess I'll have to get serious. Again, there are three games I really like this week, and that includes playing with fire by picking the Browns.

Last Week
Andy: 7-5-2
Figgs: 6-6-2
Nick: 8-4-2
Nick's Money Picks: 2-1

Year to Date
Andy: 66-46-4
Figgs: 54-58-4
Nick: 57-55-4
Nick's Money Picks: 10-8


VIKINGS (-4.5) vs. Texans
Andy: Vikings. We may never fully understand my anti-Texan bias.
Figgs: Vikings.
Nick: Vikes at home coming off the bye, and Houston's going to have lots of trouble with Peterson. Wish this was less than a field goal, but I'll go with Minny.

BENGALS (+7.5) vs. Jaguars
Andy: Bengals.
Figgs: The Bungles are sooo bad. Jax.
Nick: Bengals. Jags never beat anyone by more than seven.

CHIEFS (+8.5) vs. Bucs
Andy: KC covered last week, Figgs, and I think they will again.
Figgs: I dont know why I keep taking KC, I always lose. Lets go Chiefs.
Nick: Bucs. The Bucs are a tough team to get a feel for, but Kansas City blows.

BROWNS (-1.5) vs. Ravens
Andy: BROWNS (-1.5)
Figgs: I'm gonna be there, I gotta go Brownies. I wonder who Andy's gonna take.
Nick: Browns. The Browns win the turnover battle and cover the spread in any ugly, ugly game. Also: the Browns are 7-2 when I'm in the stands. I'll be there on Sunday. Lock it up.

BILLS (-6) vs. Jets
Andy: Bills.
Figgs: This is tough, I'll take the Favres.
Nick: Bills. This is a tough game to gauge. Favre could blow up (good or bad) at any time, and the Bills are an overachieving club. Still, Buffalo's at home, and they're tough in that garbage dump of a stadium.

RAMS (+2.5) vs. Cardinals
Andy:Breaking a rule of mine, I'm taking the Cardinals on the road. At some point they have to sack up.
Figgs: Haslett has got this team goin. Rams.
Nick: Cards. Just can't take the Rams if it's less than a FG.

BEARS (-13) vs. Lions
Andy: Bears. Lotsa ponts, but Detroit on the road is worth it.
Figgs: The Lions are pretty bad, but this is a lot of points. Uhh, Bears.
Nick: Bears. I hate to give these points, and I'd probably take Detroit if they were at home, but the Lions don't have a chance in hell.

TITANS (-4.5) vs. Packers
Andy: Titans, all day.
Figgs: Titans.
Nick: Titans. 7-0 overall, 7-0 ATS, and the Packers have trouble running and stopping the run. Yeah, Jeff Fisher's troops are going to be undefeated at the halfway mark.

BRONCOS (-3.5) vs. Dolphins
Andy: The Broncos have lost their last 5 ATS. I think that ends today.
Figgs: Denver.
Nick: Broncos. Sigh.

RAIDERS (+2.5) vs. Falcons
Andy: Real marquee matchup this week. I like the ATL.
Figgs: I thought this line might be a little higher. Falcons.
Nick: Falcons. Michael Turner is feast or famine. This week feels like a feast.

GIANTS (-9) vs. Cowboys
Andy: Giants. I'd give more than this if necessary to bet against Brad Johnson.
Figgs: I really don't wanna give more than a touchdown. 'Boys.
Nick: Giants. I don't like to give nine in an NFC East matchup, but Dallas is fading without Homo under center.

SEAHAWKS (+6.5) vs. Eagles
Andy: Eagles. Really, nothing on this board is knocking me over.
Figgs: Eagles.
Nick: Eagles. Seattle sucks, last week changed nothing.

COLTS (-6) vs. Patriots
Andy: Colts, I guess.
Figgs: Colts win in a close one, I'll go Pats.
Nick: Pats. Might change this if I knew Addai and Sanders were 100%.

REDSKINS (-2) vs. Steelers
Andy: Steelers will bounce back from last week's loss.
Figgs: Skins. I hate shitsburgh.
Nick: Steelers. Both teams are a little banged up, but all Washington does is run the ball and play turnover-free. Pittsburgh's defense stuffs the run and creates turnovers. Worthlessberger makes enough plays for the Steelers to win outright.

NFL Picks: Week 8

A number of sneaky covers last week reminds us how tricky NFL betting is. Detroit fell behind 21-0 but scored enough meaningless points to cover; the Seahawks scored a useless TD late to pull within 10 (they were 10.5-point underdogs); and the Giants held up their end with a late safety. Does more wildness awaits us in Week 8? That seems to be the only certainty.

Last Week
Andy: 8-6
Figgs: 5-9
Nick: 5-9
Nick's Money Picks: 2-1

Year to Date
Andy: 59-41-2 (Yeah, that's right.)
Figgs: 48-52-2
Nick: 49-51-2
Nick's Money Picks: 8-7


BROWNS (+7) vs. Jaguars
Andy: Browns. Obviously. Why doesn't Blogger do this for me automatically by now?
Figgs: Beer we go Brownies.
Nick: Browns. If Quinn gets in at some point, we might win this outright.

COWBOYS (-1) vs. Bucs
Andy: I can't get behind this Bucs team, and I have no idea why. They even have a pirate ship! Cowboys. I HATE this pick but find myself powerless to switch.
Figgs: Cowboys I guess.
Nick: Cowboys at home, though I'm not happy about it.

LIONS (+9) vs. Redskins
Andy: The 'Skins win games, but they do it close and play down to their competition. This week they're on the road, and in a dome. I can't believe I'm doing this, but Lions.
Figgs: Skins cover.
Nick: Skins. The Lions just have no chance to win this game, and there's a good chance Washington covers.

DOLPHINS (+1) vs. Buffaloes
Andy: Nick has talked me into the Buffaloes here. And it's "Cock" Jauron.
Figgs: Bills.
Nick: Bills. They're banged up, but Buffalo is the vastly superior team. Dick Jauron is an underrated head coach, his Bills have really overachieved the last two seasons.

PATRIOTS (-7) vs. Rams
Andy: Two teams who people are struggling to understand how good they are means a definite stay-away game. Yet at FCF we have no stay-away games, so Patriots.
Figgs: Rams are on a roll.
Nick: Pats cover at home.

SAINTS (+3) vs. Chargers
Andy: Saints. I may or may not have picked them every week this year, and cannot explain to you why.
Figgs: Chargers.-
Nick: Chargers. Chargers will slow down the Bush-less Saints. Saints won't slow down the Chargers.

JETS (-13) vs. Chiefs
Andy: Too many points, even if it is the Chiefs. They must have some pride, no? And yes, I'm now taking both the Lions and the Chiefs.
Figgs: 13 is pretty big, I'll go with KC.
Nick: Chiefs. I've been over-estimating the Jets, and 13 is a big number.

EAGLES (-9) vs. Falcons
Andy: Did you know the Falcons are 4-2? I'm taking the ATL here ATS.
Figgs: Westbrook'sback, Eagles probably win, but 9 is too high. ATL.
Nick: Eagles. Not sure about this game, but Westbrook's back.

RAVENS (-7) vs. Raiders
Andy: The Ravens thrive against teams who make dumb mistakes, and that's the true hallmark of the Raiders. I'll be stunned if Baltimore doesn't post a defensive TD in this game.
Figgs: Uhh, Ravens.
Nick: Ravens, although I'm not cool with giving a full seven.

PANTHERS (-4) vs. Cardinals
Andy: Panthers, why not.
Figgs: Panthers.
Nick: Panthers. Cards blow on the road.

TEXANS (-9.5) vs. Bengals
Andy: Bengals. I have now taken the three worst teams in the NFL. This is the one I like best of them, though.
Figgs: Texans. The Bungles are awful.
Nick: Texans. Palmer might be done for the year, Houston has a decent offense, and Cincy gives up alot of points.

STEELERS (-3) vs. Giants
Andy: Steelers. Let's just move on.
Figgs: Giants. I'm surprised pittsburgh is favored.
Nick: Giants. No Willie Parker, no Santonio Holmes, no Bryant McFadden. Pittsburgh can't block, the Giants get after the QB, and I'm getting three points? Lock it up.

49ERS (-5) vs. Seahawks
Andy: 49ers. More points than I expected, but Seattle has fallen hard.
Figgs: Seattle.
Nick: Niners. Can't resist picking on Chuckles for at least one more week.

TITANS (-4) vs. Colts
Andy: Tennessee is 6-0 against the spread, 6-0 overall, and I've taken them 6 times. You know those investment commercials that say "past returns are no guarantee of future performance"? Fuck it. Titans.
Figgs: Tennessee is bound to loser sooner or later, right? Colts.
Nick: Titans. Tennessee is going to blow Indy up at the point of attack on both sides of the ball, and they're at home. This pick is COLD BLOODED!

NFL picks: Week 7

I did not like last week's board at all, evidenced by my 5-9 record. On the other hand, I was 2-1 with the games I bet on (the one's that actually mattered), so it's not all bad. I like this week's board alot better, and I'm looking to bounce back and pick up a game or two on Andy, who's been pretty impressive so far this season. Go Browns!

Last Week
Andy: 9-5
Figgs: 7-7
Nick: 5-9
Nick's Money Picks: 2-1

Year to Date
Andy: 51-35-2
Figgs: 43-43-2
Nick: 44-42-2
Nick's Money Picks: 6-6

CHIEFS (+9) vs. Titans
Andy: Titans. Until I'm wrong.
Figgs: The Titans never blow anyone out. KC.
Nick: Titans. I'm not happy about giving more than a touchdown, but I can't pick the Chiefs in a game they have no chance of winning.

BILLS (-1) vs. Chargers
Andy: Chargers.
Figgs: Definitely could go either way, I'll take SD.
Nick: Bills. Again, a game I'm not thrilled about, but Buffalo's at home and coming off of the bye.

BENGALS (+9.5) vs. Steelers
Andy: Steely McBeam
Figgs: steelers
Nick: Steelers. Pittsburgh has a bunch of key players coming back from injuries, they're coming off the bye, and Ryan Fitzpatrick is starting? Lock it up.

DOLPHINS (-3) vs. Ravens
Andy: Dolphish
Figgs: Dolphins. I hate the Ravens.
Nick: Dolphins. Miami's looked good in their last three games or so.


RAMS (+6.5) vs. Cowboys
Note: this line was probably assuming Brad Johnson's starting for Dallas.
Andy: 'Boys
Figgs: Cowboys.
Nick: Dallas. It's less than a touchdown, and the Rams are really bad.

BEARS (-3.5) vs. Vikings
Andy: Da Bears.
Figgs: Close call, gimme Minny.
Nick: Vikings. I don't like either team here, so I'm taking the points in a divisional game that should be close.

PANTHERS (-3) vs. Saints
Andy: 'aints
Figgs: Saints win.
Nick: Saints. Feels like this could be a bounce-back game for Carolina, but New Orleans should be favored here.

GIANTS (-10.5) vs. 49ers
Andy: G-men.
Figgs: Giants. How'd they do last week?
Nick: Giants. This line should be 14 or more. The Giants are going to be pissed after last Monday night.

TEXANS (-9.5) vs. Lions
Andy: Lions
Figgs: Not every day a 1-5 team is favored by 9.5. But then again, it is the Lions. I'll take Houston.
Nick: Texans. I wish I didn't have to give 9.5, but Houston's at home and the better team.

RAIDERS (+3) vs. Jets
Andy: Jets
Figgs: Jets, as long as a Heidi episode doesn't come on.
Nick: Jets. New York can score, the Raiders are awful, and I only have to give three? "Oh, I'll play your game you rogue."


REDSKINS (-7.5) vs. Browns
Andy: Browns
Figgs: Beer we go Brownies.
Nick: Browns. I was really close to putting dough on this game, but I'm still not comfortable enough with the Browns.

PACKERS (+1.5) vs. Colts
Andy: Colts.
Figgs: Indy. The NFL should have burried the Colts when they had the chance. They should have started 0-4. Their back now.
Nick: Colts. The Pack has been underwhelming, particularly on defense, and I feel that Indy hit their stride last week.

BUCS (-10.5) vs. Seahawks
Andy: Seahawks
Figgs: I'll take the 'Hawks, hoping Wallace can start and Frye gets 0 snaps.
Nick: Bucs. Seattle's awful, and we may see more of Charlie Frye this week.

PATRIOTS (-3.5) vs Broncos
Andy: New England, just to spite Nick.
Figgs: Denver.
Nick: Donks. New England's awfully ordinary without Brady at QB.

NFL picks: Week 6

Finally, with the Browns back in action, the FCF team can get back to picking at least one of the contests without really thinking about it.

Nick made a good point to me via text message the other day, which was that when picking NFL games, you are calling them mostly straight up because the lines are usually low. Last week, out of 14 games, only one team won but didn't cover (Dallas). Not coincidentally, perhaps, all three of us sported winning records.

Last week also showed how hard it can be to pick these right. By all rights, Nick should have gotten his Texans upset special correct - how did they manage to lose that one? On the other hand, check out his pre-game justification for picking the Vikings: "...Peterson's going to run all over a beat up New Orleans line." Peterson had all of 32 yards on 21 carries yet the Vikings won on a dazzling array of Saint turnovers. Funny game.


Last Week
Andy: 8-5-1
Figgs: 8-5-1
Nick: 7-6-1
Nick's Money Picks: 2-1

Year to Date
Andy: 42-30-2 (Good thing I didn't retire before last week)
Figgs: 36-36-2 (Clearly you should just start picking at random)
Nick: 39-33-2
Nick's Money Picks: 4-5


BROWNS (+9) vs. Giants
Andy: Browns for reasons of loyalty, but I like this pick anyway
Figgs: Giants. This is gonna get ugly.
Nick: Giants. It's all over but the crying. Andy, never bet with your heart.

FALCONS (+3) vs. Bears
Andy: Falcons. These guys have surprised me this year.
Figgs: Two up and down teams, could go either way. I guess I'll go with the Bears.
Nick: A game I don't like at all. Give me the Bears though.

VIKINGS (-13) vs. Lions
Andy: Lots of points, but the Lions are lots of bad. Vikes.
Figgs: I hate giving up that many points, but really Detroit, you guys are awful. Minny.
Nick: Vikes. 200+ yards for All Day.

COLTS (-4.5) vs. Ravens
Andy: Colts. Fun fact: I hate the Ravens.
Figgs: Indy. I likewise hate the ratbirds.
Nick: Ravens. Not touching this one, but the Colts are getting by on past accomplishments.

SAINTS (-9) vs. Raiders
Andy: Saints, getting me the W I should have had on Monday.
Figgs: Saints.
Nick: Saints, though the Raiders could put up big rushing numbers.

JETS (-6) vs. Bengals
Andy: Jets. I'd go the other way if Palmer was playing.
Figgs: Jets. The Bungles blow.
Nick: Jets. Ryan Fitzpatrick on the road with the Jets coming off a bye has me licking my chops. That expression is used a lot, but have you ever really seen anyone lick their chops?

BUCS (-1) vs. Panthers
Andy: Panthers.
Figgs: I seem to be picking against the Panthers all year for no particular reason, and I'm not doing too well, so lets go with Carolina.
Nick: Panthers. Should be a close game, but Carolina's more talented.

REDSKINS (-14) vs. Rams
Andy: The Rams will surprise one week, but not this one. Redskins.
Figgs: The Rams keep this one somewhat close.
Nick: Redskins, as much as I hate to give a full 14.

TEXANS (-3) vs. Dolphins
Andy: Dolphins, my upset special for the week.
Figgs: The Texans are do for a win, right?
Nick: Gimme Houston at home.

BRONCOS (-3.5) vs. Jags
Andy: Ugh. Jags, I guess.
Figgs: Jax.
Nick: Clearly the Donks here, don't know what you guys are thinking. Denver wins at home, and Jacksonville's awfully beat up. The only thing that worries me is it's a big game for the Jags.

CARDINALS (+5) vs. Cowboys
Andy: Cowboys. I expected this line to be higher.
Figgs: Dallas.
Nick: Dallas, though the Cards are getting a ton of action here.

49ERS (+4.5) vs. Eagles
Andy: Eagles, getting back on solid ground.
Figgs: Eagles need a win here, and they'll get it.
Nick: Eagles. Doesn't this seem like it should be 7 or more?

SEAHAWKS (-1) vs. Packers
Andy: Wow, did both of these teams ever suck last weekend. I still have a soft spot for Charlie Frye, but I'll have to take the Pack.
Figgs: Packers.
Nick: I love picking on the deer in the headlights - er...Charlie Frye. Packers comfortably.

CHARGERS (-6) vs. Patriots
Andy: Pats.
Figgs: Pats.
Nick: Chargers in a revenge game.