NFL Picks: Postseason Wrapup

My main feeling after Super Bowl XLV is one of relief. I'm glad it's going to be a nice, relaxing off-season; no commemorative steelers Sports Illustrated offers, no Steelers championship merchandise in Ohio stores with stupid plays on the number 7, and no hearing from that obnoxious guy at the gym who's always prattling on about Pittsburgh. Nope, just a normal offseason (perhaps an extended one) and smooth transition to basketball, hockey, and baseball.

The postseason portion of our NFL picks ended in a three-way tie for first at 8-3 between Bucko (keeping the momentum from his regular-season championship), Gopo, and me. Our sterling overall record of 36-19 was buoyed by our aggregate 17-3 mark picking the Packers; half of my correct choices were on Green Bay while I went 4-3 in other contests.

Thanks to everyone for playing and reading this season.

Super Bowl XLV
Andy: 1-0
Figgs: 1-0
Nick: 1-0
Bucko: 1-0
Gopo: 0-1

Nick's Money Picks ($): 1-0


Playoffs Final
Bucko: 8-3
Andy: 8-3
Gopo: 8-3
Nick: 7-4
Figgs: 5-6

Nick's Money Picks ($): 3-4
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 1-4

NFL Picks: Super Bowl

Packers! Ste$*%#@! Super Bowl 45!

I love the Super Bowl so much that not even the presence of my all-time least favorite organization can bring me down. It's time to party! I'll issue an abbreviated version of my typical commentary on the scale and epicness of the Super Bowl, which is as follows:

If you say that the Super Bowl is "overhyped" or "overblown" or anything like that, then you are a straight-up idiot. It's the single most important sporting event in the nation - would you rather we just sip Diet Coke and watch a condensed version of the game on the Versus network? Anyone who complains about the size and scale of the SB is just looking for something to whine about and has not in any way thought through their point.

OK, onto the Packers versus whoever. I had the only misfire from the Conference Championships, as everyone else went 2-0 and picked up a game on me because I picked the Jets. I did, as I explained, pick the ste*&$%# in my straight-up pool, and thus remain in 1st place there. More on that later.


Conference Championships
Andy: 1-1
Figgs: 2-0
Nick: 2-0
Bucko: 2-0
Gopo: 2-0

Nick's Money Picks ($): 1-0


Playoffs so far
Gopo: 8-2
Bucko: 7-3
Andy: 7-3
Nick: 6-4
Figgs: 4-6

Nick's Money Picks ($): 2-4
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 1-4


Super Bowl XLV

Sunday 6:30ish
PACKERS (-2.5) vs Ste$%^&*
Andy: The Green Bay Packers! I have a number of disorganized thoughts, and I demand you read through all of them before seeing what any of the other FCF'ers wrote. First off, I couldn't be happier for Bucko - after almost nine long, arduous months of being a long-suffering Packers fan, enduring those five or whatever games they lost this season, he'll finally realize that elusive dream he's had for literally hundreds of days: to see his team at long last reach the Super Bowl. I feel like as a Cleveland fan I can sort of understand what he's gone through on his way to the promised land, what with my never having seen a Cleveland team win a title and watching the Browns win 0 playoff games in the past 15 seasons, but that seems like small potatoes compared to Bucko's journey to this point.

Second, I couldn't be happier for Gopo - after seeing his favorite NHL team win the Stanley Cup two years ago, watching his favorite NBA team win six titles in the '90's and currently sitting among the league's elite, having his city's MLB team win the latest World Series, and enjoying his favorite NFL team claiming two of the past five Super Bowls, he'll at long last get the chance to see a team of his...maybe win yet another one. It's about time he got to experience that championship feeling...again, after that traumatic drought of nearly two years. That has to have been tough but Gopo always puts on a brave face. Hey, can you start rooting for the Indians so they'll be guaranteed to win the World Series numerous times? You're a good luck charm!

As for the Packers pick - I'm hedged yet again by having taken Pittsburgh straight-up in my other pool. I honestly do think they'll win - the breaks always seem to go their way and they'll pull out some bullshit to win, I just know it. I won't have them cost me both my sanity and my money - it's gotta be one or the other. Of course they'll still probably fuck me over with a meaningless late TD or something so I lose on the total points tiebreaker (I went with 38 because the most common NFL score is 21-17 and I think the o/u of 44.5 is set a bit high for the #1 and #2 scoring defenses in the NFL), but I gave it my best shot. As for taking the Pack here - well, Gopo leads me by a game in our Postseason Prognosticating, and this is my only chance to grab a share of the lead. Believe me when I say I would be more than happy to lose my shot at the prize money in the other pool to have Pittsburgh lose, so I say without reservation: Go Pack!

Figgs: I immediately was going to pick against shitsburgh, no matter what. Then I saw the line at GB -2.5, and thought the smart money was for sure on that team down south. Then I thought about it for a minute. I may be a drunk, a sexist, a womanizer, and a degenerate gambler, but I have a little thing called pride. PACKERS!

Nick: I will not sacrifice the Super Bowl. We've made too many compromises already; too many retreats. They invade our space, and we fall back. They assimilate entire Ohio counties, and we fall back. Not again. The line must be drawn HERE! This far, no farther! And I will make them pay for what they've done! Packers.

Bucko: Packers, a pick literally phoned in to Andy. He actually txted "Put me down for the Packers and Rodgers MVP."

Gopo: Steelers. Can't pick against the team at this point, but I'm confident of a strong Steelers game either way. That doesn't mean they'll win, but I think this team will be prepared to play and will play hard the entire time. I can't see this being a blowout by either team as Andy pointed out the defenses have been strong all season in keeping their teams in the game. Both teams have also shown an inability to put teams away when they're up - that leads me to believe this game will come down the last half of the fourth quarter. I also think that the under is the way to go if you're into wagering on such things - Super Bowls generally start out with a slow first quarter, so you're basically betting on the teams scoring 40 points in three quarters. The injuries to the Steelers o-line might decide the game, but that group has rallied all year. I won't be surprised to see them pull it together one more time, but I also wont be surprised for them to finally fold. It's been a good run, and I didn't think this team would get here; I'm hoping for a well played game that Pittsburgh finds a way to pull out. If the D or O can make a key play in the fourth, that might be enough to steal this one. Either way, should be a fantastic game. Go Steelers!

Nick's Bets
Aaron Rodgers for MVP (7/5)

NFL Picks: Conference Championships

Well, wouldn't you know it, there's my favorite team in the AFC Championship game. Again. I'm not going to try to quantify the toll the steelers take on my enjoyment of professional football, but it's excessively large. As for their opponent, I think most people were surprised that that Jets managed to topple the top-seeded Patriots, and now they're humanity's last line of defense before the Super Bowl. Let's hope it turns out the way their previous meeting this season did.

The NFC Championship is an interesting meeting of some storied Midwestern franchises in the Bears and suddenly-hot Packers. Would it be too much to ask of the Sporting Gods to drop some snow on Soldier Field for this one?

I said I'd go back and see how our crew performed on 4-against-1 situations throughout the year - I swear Bucko was like 85% when he was a one-man wolfpack against the rest of us. I tallied it up quickly - when one of us went against the other four, the lonely guy hit on 48.8% of his picks. In other words, one different outcome would have evened up the rebel pick with the 80% consensus pick. The message: be bold! Your rogue pick is just as likely to pan out as the popular pick. Unless you're Bucko, of course.

Last week was a mixed bag for our crew as overall we made 50% of our picks. Every game was a 3-2 split decision for us in the Divisional Round - let's see if we craft any more of a consensus for the Championship games.

Divisional Games
Andy: 3-1
Figgs: 0-4 (ouch)
Nick: 2-2
Bucko: 2-2
Gopo: 3-1

Nick's Money Picks ($): 0-2
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 0-2 (double ouch)


Playoffs so far
Gopo: 6-2
Andy: 6-2
Bucko: 5-3
Nick: 4-4
Figgs: 2-6

Nick's Money Picks ($): 1-4
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 1-4


AFC Championship

Sunday 6:30
STEELERS (-3.5) vs Jets
Andy: Jets. DId you see how I entered "steelers" in white text color above? Ha! I mean, I understand all the arguments Gopo is making, and on the surface, Pittsburgh seems destined to roll. But weren't all of those same things true a few weeks ago when the Jets rolled into Ketchup Field and beat the steelers? WEREN'T THEY? Pittsburgh owns a 3.7-point edge in SRS headed into this one, plus the two they get for homefield makes them a minor value pick. Nevertheless, I'm taking the Jets just because I don't want to pick the steelers here, though I do have a bit of a hedge. I'm currently leading a different NFL pool, with a 6-2 record headed into this weekend. That pool has us picking the games straight up; so far I've only missed Jets-Pats and Seahawks-Saints. My plan is to take Pittsburgh in that pool, where I don't get 3.5 points for taking New York. This way I'm guaranteed at least one win, and I can hit on both if Pittsburgh wins by 3, which is good because I think they'll probably eek one out. I'm impervious to the steelers' screwing me over on picks, so I can focus my energies on hoping they lose. Follow up to Gopo: yeah, I saw that game, and Pitt is for sure a better club, hence me taking them straight up. I was actually trying to give you credit for making a good analysis, just saying that it doesn't always mean a W. And no, Sanchez is not a good QB.
Figgs: Steelers. My reasoning for this pick is twofold. Fold #1 - I think shitsburgh wins by 4 or more. Secondly, whatever I pick is wrong, and I've never wanted to be more wrong.
Nick: Steelers. Never has a team stood less of a chance in a football game than the New York Jets. They blow. At least when the world ends in 2012 the Steelers won't win any more Super Bowls.
Bucko: Steelers. I hate both teams. I agree with everything Gopo said. Sanchez will choke big in this one.
Gopo: Steelers. Even though the Jets as a team looked really good on Sunday, I couldn't help but get excited about facing Dirty Sanchez next weekend in Pittsburgh. Sanchez misses a ton of open receivers - he's almost McNabb-like in his accuracy. Pittsburgh has the better D, the better O, and is at home. Follow up to Andy: the final score last time they played was 22-17. 9 of the Jets' 22 points came from a special teams TD and a safety. The Jets O scored 13 points against the Steelers D while the Steelers O scored 17. In terms of total yardage, the Jets were outgained 378 to 226 and had a 28.42 time of possession vs. 31.18 for the Steelers. Also, Polamalu didn't play in that game. My point is simply this: if the Steelers can stop the run (no problem) and not let the Jets special teams score (a problem), then they win. I see no way that Sanchez is capable of winning this game. He is not a good quarterback.


NFC Championship

Sunday 3 pm
BEARS (+3.5) vs Packers
Andy: Packers. They were right around 7 points better than the Bears this regular season in SRS, have plenty of experience dealing with the cold, and have the league's hottest QB in Aaron Rodgers right now. Just can't justify going the other way with this one - I'm taking them here and obviously straight up in my other pool. I know it's a trendy pick, and I know I've underestimated Chicago at times this year, but the same things were true last week when Green Bay obliterated Atlanta in the Georgia Dome. If the Packer D made Matt Ryan look like a chump then, I think Bears fans could be headed for a long afternoon of Jay Cutler throwing off his back foot. Trust me - the guy was on my fantasy team and never seemed to have two straight good weeks.
Figgs: Pack. I, like Andy, have definitely underestimated the Bears all season long. I continually pick against them, and they burn my time and time again. So what have I learned? Clearly, nothing.
Nick: Pack. Almost seems too easy, but they've just got such an advantage on offense and they sacked Cutler nine times (in Principal Ed Rooney voice: "nine times...") this year. If they don't get womped on special teams, Green Bay wins, and they probably do so by a comfortable margin. Already prepared to buy a Packers jersey to fight the Steelers for the next two weeks.
Bucko: PACKERS. The team is hitting on all cylinders. Have I ever mentioned how much I like Rodgers? Why is every starting to make a big deal about his play in the playoffs. He's been this good since he started.
Gopo: Packers. I think the Packers are a better team and will end up finding their stride in the second half for another easy win. I'm looking forward to a patented 4 pick game by Cutler.

Figgs $ Bets
I give up.
Nick $ Bet

Pack -3.5

Talking the talk

Reviewing the NFL pick archives from last year, I came across this preseason trash-talk gem below from Nick, commenting on our Week 1 picks:

I'd also like to take this opportunity to guarantee victory over Francis in '10-'11.

Unfortunately, Nick did not back his guarantee with a victory over me nor, in fact, over anyone in '10-'11. Just wanted everyone to be aware of that. Nick will be refunding all of you shortly. Thanks.

NFL Picks: Divisional Playoffs

FCF groupthink ruled the day on the first Sunday of the NFL playoffs, as we all nailed the Packers and Ravens picks, following a shaky Saturday where only one of us had the surprising Seahawks and two took the Jets. I knew the crafty Bucko would get that Seattle pick right the second I published my second long-winded essay on how bad they were and how faulty his logic is. My Seahawk bashing may have persuaded a couple of the other FCF'ers to go with the Saints: sorry, guys.

For the year, the FCF consensus was solid; on games where we all picked the same team, we were 43-45 (55.1%), better than any of our individual years. I noticed some trends - the most common picks for us to agree upon were the Falcons, Patriots, Eagles, and Rams - teams that all performed well overall and ATS this season. I'd be interested to see what the results of the four-against-one picks were on the year; perhaps we'll look at that next week.

But hey, enough about that - let's celebrate! I hit on three games, giving me as many wins as all last postseason (3-8), where I opened with an 0-4 on Wild Card Weekend and absorbed a 1-3 on Divisional Round (where I'd laid money on each game in Las Vegas). I also went 1-3 on WCW in our first year picking, in 2008. The opening round has not been my friend. But on to the Divisional round, where we have some very familiar traditional rivals facing each other in the AFC and some intriguing rematches taking place in the NFC.

Wild-Card Games
Andy: 3-1
Figgs: 2-2
Nick: 2-2
Bucko: 3-1
Gopo: 3-1

Nick's Money Picks ($): 1-2
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 1-2


AFC Divisional Playoffs

Saturday 4:30
STEELERS (-3.5) vs Ravens
Andy: Ravens. I already spent way too much time talking about this garbagefest. The steelers actually sport a 3.8-point SRS edge and are at home, but I think the Ravens are playing really well. Plus, Nick pointed out last week that 5 of the past 6 matchups between these idiots has been decided by three points (the other by four), so it seems prudent to take the points.
Figgs: Ravens. Andy already posted about how awful it is that we have to watch these two teams in the postseason. However, I will have my F*CK Pittsburgh shirt on, and be rooting for the rat birds big time.
Nick: Steelers. I remain very unimpressed by the Ravens. Ray Rice is the best thing about the Baltimore offense, and the Steelers only give up 3.0 YPC, so they can neutralize him. That means that if you're picking Baltimore, you're picking Cool Joe over Rapistberger. I can't do it. The Steelers get by the Ratbirds this week, then the Patriots will end them.
Bucko: Ravens. Like everyone has said it will probably be one team by 3 points.
Gopo: Steelers. If I was really going with my head (or betting money), I'd likely pick the Ravens in this one since I think some team is going to win by 3 and the line makes it dumb to take the Steelers. However, it's the playoffs, and there is no way I'm going to take any chances with mojo and pick the Ravens in this matchup. I say its either Steelers by 5+ or Ravens by 3.

Sunday 4:30
PATRIOTS (-9) vs Jets
Andy: Jets. Like Figgs, I thought this would be a bit lower. The SRS differential is 8.9, so no hope there, but I just can't see the Jets getting blown out again like they did in these teams' previous meeting. I think New England will win, but by less than this.
Figgs: Pats. I guessed this line at 5.5, and was planning to bet on the Pats. I was surprised by how high this was, but I guess Vegas expected a lot of people to think like me and wanted to make it high enough where some people would take the Jets. I will not be one of those people.
Nick: Pats. Under no circumstances do I see the Jets winning this game, so I can't pick them. This is a little high, but I wouldn't be surprised if this is covered sometime in the second quarter. If you talked yourself into the Jets, you're going to regret it.
Bucko: Jets. The Pats will probably win this one, but I think the Jets will keep it close.
Gopo: Patriots. Anything under double digits and I was going to take the Pats. They'll keep it closer than last time, but I think the Patriots still come out with a 12+ point win.


NFC Wild-Card Playoffs

Saturday 8:00
FALCONS (-2.5) vs Packers
Andy: Packers. Like Gopo, I think they're better; SRS says they were in fact 4.8 points per game better on the year despite this line, plus they're playing very well. I wouldn't be shocked it Atlanta won, but Green Bay could well represent the NFC in the Super Bowl.
Figgs: ATL. No clue here, I could definitely see it going either way. Really looking forward to Saturday's games.
Nick: Falcons. It's the "No Fucking Way I'd Bet It" game of the week. I like Rodgers and the GB defense, but the Pack is banged up, and they were 4-5 on the road this season. Green Bay is the better team at full strength on a neutral field, but gimme Georgia Dome. The Birds are more balanced and if I don't have to give a full field goal, I'll take my chances. This feels like a go against the public pick, and that's usually for the best.
Bucko: Packers. They may have found a surprise running back, and Rodgers can throw on anyone. Very solid defense as well. Packer fans book your trip to Dallas.
Gopo: Packers. I think the Packers are a better team - it's ok if you take away their run game, Rodgers is fine throwing all day. If the defense can do a decent job, then they should win this one easy.

Sunday 1:00
BEARS (-10) vs Seahawks
Andy: Bears. I'm not going to let myself be swayed too much by that craziness from Seattle last week. These teams were separated by 13.5 points during the season and the Seahawks spent what they had last week.
Figgs: Hawks. I typed their name last week, then changed it. I don't expect them to win this game, but I'd really be kicking myself if they covered again and I didn't pick them.
Nick: Bears. I just can't see the Seahawks: a) playing another game like that, or b) winning the game outright. No more Qwest Field, no more teams on their eighth running back and also starting Roman Harper. Ten is a little high, but I've gotta do it.
Bucko: Seahawks. The spread is a little high for me. Plus the Hawks beat them earlier in the year.
Gopo: Bears. I'm torn here. I have a feeling I'm going to get this game wrong, but I have zero confidence in the Seahawks following up that performance with another one even remotely close to it. The fairy tale ends here.

Figgs $ Bets
Three-team, ten-point teaser - Baltimore (+13)/Atlanta (+7.5)/New England (+1)
Two-team, 6.5 point teaser - Pittsburgh (+3.5)/New England (-2.5)

Nick $ Bet

Two-team, 6.5 point teaser - Pittsburgh (+3.5) / New England (-2.5)

Three-team, 7 point teaser - Pittsburgh (+4) / New England (-2) / Chicago (+3)

NFL Picks: Wild-Card Weekend

Congratulations to Bucko, the winner of the Forest City Fanatics 2010 NFL Picks competition! Bucko followed up on his 53.8% short-season debut a year ago by making a late push to hit 54% and claim the 2010 title by five games. It's amazing how tight NFL picking can be - first and last in our five-man group were separated by just 13 games in a 256-game season.

But even though the Browns season has mercifully ended, there's more work to do, in the form of the NFL Playoffs, always a delightful time of year. The quality of play, additional chances to pick games incorrectly, and opportunity to just absolutely hate on Baltimore and Pittsburgh should make this year's postseason exciting once again. Please, please, someone beat those horrible teams.

Last Week
Andy: 11-5
Figgs: 7-9
Nick: 8-8
Bucko: 9-7
Gopo: 10-6

Nick's Money Picks ($): 1-1
Andy's PBR picks (PBR): 0-1


Final Standings
Bucko: 134-114-8 (54.0%)
Andy: 129-119-8 (52.0%)
Figgs: 126-122-8 (50.8%)
Gopo: 122-126-8 (49.3%)
Nick: 121-127-8 (48.8%)

Nick's Money Picks ($): 34-35-3
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 26-14-4


AFC Wild-Card Playoffs

Saturday 8:05
COLTS (-2.5) vs Jets
Andy: Jets. I'm recalling a lesson from last year where I underestimated the Jets against Cincy in a first-round road playoff game. Like that Cincy bunch, I don't think this Colt club is as tough as New York, and I think they benefitted from playing in a weak AFC South in 2010. Plus, I had some success utilizing SRS last week (that and navigating various teams' interest in playing to win), and that measure has the Jets ahead by 3.5 points. Peyton Manning has done a remarkable job holding this Indy team together by duct tape, but I think this is the end of the line for them.
Figgs: Indy. The Jets defense seems to be getting let off the hook a lot this year. They aren't that good, especially if Revis isn't 100%. I know the Colts are really banged up, but I'm nowhere near confident enough in this Jets team to go against Manning in the dome in the post-season.
Nick: Colts. They're stopping the run, Addai's back, and they're in the dome. They've got one more playoff win in them. ($ straight up)
Bucko: Colts. They look like they might be getting a little healthy again. They should have Addai this week, which should make a big difference.
Gopo: Jets. I just don't think the Colts are very good this year, and Manning isn't enough to get this team through a tough Jets D.

Sunday 1:00
CHIEVES (+3) vs Ravens
Andy: Ravens. This line opened at +1 for some reason - I wasn't at all surprised to see it jump up to where it is now. I wouldn't be surprised if it hit 3.5 by kickoff. As much as I despise them, the Ravens appear to be just too good for this KC team; strong rush D, can get to the passer, playoff-experienced QB, dynamic offensive weapons. Sigh. They've won road playoff games handily in each of the past two seasons and look poised to do so once again, just to piss me off. I give some credit to the Chieves for winning close ones - with an SRS of -0.7 (Baltimore is at 6.4, making them nearly a TD better) they probably should have ended up 8-8 but managed to sneak in at 10-6 anyway. But that doesn't seem sustainable, and their Arrowhead mystique was blown apart by Oakland last week.
Figgs: Ravens. I hope they lose, but I just don't see it. I don't think KC will be able to run the ball consistently, and really that's all they do well. ($)
Nick: Ravens. Lock of the weekend. ($)
Bucko: Ravens. KC just is strong enough, but it's good to see them competitive once again in the AFC West.
Gopo: Ravens. I don't think the Chiefs have a chance in this one - I would love to see the Ravens lose this game, but the Chiefs don't have enough on D or O to handle this Ravens team.


NFC Wild-Card Playoffs

Saturday 4:30
SEAHAWKS (+10.5) vs Saints
Andy: Saints. Just your basic 7-9 home playoff team getting ten and a half, nothing to see here. This is one of the more ridiculous opening-round matchups I've seen, mostly due to the presence of the historically inept (by playoff standards) Seahawks. Depending on what happens here and in the other contest, New Orleans could have only this softy plus a very winnable game in Chicago (or a tougher one in Atlanta, where they've already won) on their way to another NFC title game. The SRS differential here favors the Saints by 12, and profootball-reference says take away two for home-field, so not much to make there, but perhaps I can interest you in the margins of defeat in the Seahawks' nine (!) losses this year: 17, 17, 30, 34, 15, 18, 19, 16, 23. This is not a team that keeps it close or notches back-door covers; when they lose, they lose hard, by an average of 21 (minimum of 15, median of 19). Think about that again: they lost nine games in 2010, and ALL of them were by more than two TD's. No way do I trust them here. May as well keep piling on Seattle while I'm at it - did you know their season point differential is -97? The hapless Browns, for the sake of comparison, were just -61. The Chieves, at +40, are the next-lowest team by this simple metric, meaning that Seattle was almost a TD a game worse than the next-worst team in the entire NFL tournament, and that's even with the Seahawks having the benefit of six games against their putrid division (which, as a group, averaged a five-point loss every time they laced it up). I drink Seattle's milkshake. I drink it up! Like Daniel Plainview after beating that guy with the bowling pin, I'm done now.
Figgs: Saints. I originally had Seattle, and rarely ever go against my first instinct. I read what Andy wrote and considered it, but stuck with my original thought. But the closer this game gets the more I'm seeing NO win 40-3.
Nick: Saints. Taking the Hawks is over-thinking the match up and getting too cute. The Seahawks don't have the emotion nor the skill to play another game like they did last week, and even if they did, they'd still lose. ($ -10)
Bucko: Seahawks. They play good at home for some reason. Also, the Super Bowl champ always struggles the following year in the playoffs. The Saints may win, but the Hawks could cover.
Gopo: Saints. I was going to pick the Seahawks to lose and cover, but was convinced by Andy's thorough analysis up top. Saints in a blowout.

Sunday 4:30
EAGLES (-2.5) vs Packers
Andy: Packers. Toughest game on the board for me, but they're hot right now and they sport a 6.7 SRS advantage over Philly. I wish I was getting three points for this, but sometimes you just have to go for the team that you think is better, and despite the success Andy Reid's teams have had in the early rounds of the playoffs, I'm taking Green Bay here. And just to be a bit of a contrarian to Gopo even though we made the same selection, I'll point out that the Saints lost three straight before their Super Bowl run last year.
Figgs: Pack. Absolutely no idea here, definitely the toughest one for me to call. I think both teams are basically even, so you'd think I would go with the home team, but I like to think of myself as an upredictable kinda guy.
Nick: Packers, but who the hell knows? It's the stay away game of round one!
Bucko: Packers. Their "D" is playing really well as of late. Plus the Pack has to many offensive weapons.
Gopo: Packers. I think the Packers are coming together at the right time, while the Eagles are going the other way. Momentum matters a lot going into the playoffs.

Figgs $ Bets
Ravens/Saints parlay - straight up
Saints (-4.5)/Colts (+3)/Ravens (+3) - three-team six-point teaser

NFL Picks: Week 17

I'd say this one's pretty much over - after I bombed yet another week and Bucko once again led the way (in both cases thanks almost entirely to the crime scene that is the AFC North), he's pretty much got the title wrapped up headed into the season's final week with a six-game lead over second-place Figgs. Nicely done. sir.

As for me, I'm just glad to see this awful NFL season come to a close. The Browns showed some real promise halfway through the year and then just disappeared from the Jacksonville game on. It apparently wasn't enough for the Sporting Gods to have us just suck - they had to make it look like we had some promise for a couple of weeks to lure us in, then pull it away from us in cruel fashion while the fucking steelers and ravens both cruised to 11-4 records so I once again can't just enjoy a playoff season without my two least favorite teams gumming it up. The whole direction of the AFC North really kinda seems like piling on at this point, especially when I get back after another disappointing NFL Sunday and hear the Cavs lose by one point at home to an awful Minnesota team that they led by 14 in the 4th quarter. I really don't know what I did to deserve such treatment from the Sporting Gods.


Last Week
Andy: 5-11
Figgs: 7-9
Nick: 7-9
Bucko: 8-8
Gopo: 8-8

Nick's Money Picks ($): 2-2


Standings
Bucko: 125-107-8
Figgs: 119-113-8
Andy: 118-114-8
Nick: 113-119-8
Gopo: 112-120-8

Nick's Money Picks ($): 33-34-3
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 26-14-4


Sunday games
1 pm kickoff

BROWNS (+5.5) vs steelers
Andy: BROWNS (PBR Pk). A couple of members of FCF denote the games on which they've placed wagers with the ($) notation, including in the parentheses when they have lines differing from the ones we play against in our picks. I've done the same this week with the lone game on which I have a gambling stake. You see, since about 2002, I've had a standing bet with Gopo for each NFL season that we bet a case of Pabst Blue Ribbon on the outcome of the Browns-steelers season series. If either team wins both games, the losing team's fan has to buy the other the 30-pack of delicious PBR - if the two teams split, it's a draw (cases don't roll over to the next year, and I did not buy a second case in 2002 when the Browns dropped three to...I can't even type their name anymore). Needless to say, this is the single worst agreement I've ever entered into. It's terrible, like Time Warner-AOL merger bad, and as lopsided as Gasol to LA, Darth Vader and Lando Calrissian's deal, or the US buying Alaska for two cents an acre. I hate this bet. But one year, damnit, I (along with all decent humanfolk) am going to win, and that's going to be the best PBR I've ever had, or at least as good as the previous PBR was. Sadly, that year will not be 2010, so I'll have to settle for saving $15 when the Browns beat the squealers this Sunday.
Figgs: Browns. Andy, when you finally win that case, I'm picturing you on the roof of your building (shirtless, of course) consecutively shotgunning all 30.
Nick: Browns. Fuck the Steelers.
Bucko: Steelers. I almost went Browns here, but I remembered the Steelers are playing for a bye. Andy's note: Bucko also remembered his deep, abiding love for the Pittsburgh steelers. This is a man who had three brand-new steeler jerseys in his house this past weekend. I saw them.
Gopo: Steelers. Our friend is out of the country, so Andy will be handling his portion of the weekly picks. They're all Gopo's selections, but he wasn't able to add commmentary, so I will. On this game, Gopo thinks, "man, I feel really bad about being a steeler fan. I hope my teeth are OK. Andy deserves to win that PBR some year."

FALCONS (-14.5) vs Panthers
Andy: Atlanta. One team is really good, one really bad, and Atlanta recently kicked Carolina around by 21 on the road - not much to say about this one, so let's take a trip back to last Thursday. I went to BW3 for the evening, where I go most weeks, to lead our trivia team into battle . Early in the game, however, the manager came over and asked if we could relinquish our seats near the trivia DJ...so some drooling idiot steeler fans could watch their stupid black and yellow thugs play their game against Carolina. Our team plays every week and these losers get to come take our seats because they managed to put on their ugly jerseys correctly one night? Unbelievable. So we had to sit way far away from the action, where we could barely hear the questions, and still had to watch the game and have line-of-sight to more cretin Pittsburgh fans. Oh well, just another log on the fire that is my burning anti-steeler passion.
Figgs: ATL. Did Andy even make a pick during that rant? Andy's note: I wrote the rant before making my pick - I hadn't forgotten, but wanted to get that down while it was in my mind.
Nick: Falcons. Clausen doesn't even have a backdoor cover in him.
Bucko: Panthers. I think the Falcons will be playing it easy. They will still win, but it is too many points.
Gopo: Panthers. "I have not watched the NFL at all this year."

LIONS (-3.5) vs Vikings
Andy: Vikings. For many picks this week I'm going to introduce the use of profootball-reference.com's SRS (simplr rating system) to evaluate each pick, along with my predicted lines and other analysis. In this case, the difference in the teams' SRS is -2.9, pretty close to the line, so I don't get any help here (ATL is +19 over Carolina so I took them to cover). So I took the Vikings because I simply can't fathom the notion of Detroit winning four straight football games.
Figgs: Vikes.
Nick: Lions. Classic Tuesday night hangover. ($)
Bucko: Lions
Gopo: Lions. "Even my e-mailed-in pick is as detailed as Figgs' and Bucko's. Also, I got my picks in way before Nick."

CHIEVES (-3.5) vs Raiders
Andy: Chieves. Does everyone realize that KC is one of only two teams undefeated at home this year (Patriots)? The SRS differential is only 1.8, but doesn't adequately account for KC's wild home/road split.
Figgs: KC. I feel like this line should be KC -3.5 if it were at Oakland. At home, I got them by a touchdown.
Nick: Chiefs. These guys are tough at home. They're going to make round one gambling tricky.
Bucko: Chiefs.
Gopo: Chiefs. "Supporting the Indian brotherhood."

PATRIOTS (-3.5) vs Dolphins
Andy: Patriots. They own a 13-point SRS lead over Miami. I'm not even going to bother to look at who New England's backup QB is.
Figgs: Pats. Really? Have oddsmakers seen Miami in recent weeks? I guess they're assuming Brady and other stars won't see much action, but I still gotta go NE here.
Nick: Pats. They don't quit.
Bucko: Pats. The hoody won't let up.
Gopo: Patriots. "It's going to suck when they knock us out of the playoffs."

SAINTS (-6) vs Bucs
Andy: Bucs. The SRS differential is only 4.5, and what the hell does New Orleans care about this game? Atlanta's not losing to Carolina, and Nawlins is locked into the five-seed and a gift opening-round matchup in St. Louis. Take it easy, boys.
Figgs: Saints.
Nick: Bucs. Jaaaash Freeman.
Bucko: Saints.
Gopo: Saints. "Gotta take a former Big 10 QB after their dynamite performance in bowls this year."

JETS (-1) vs Buffaloes
Andy: Jets. They own an eight-point SRS edge over Buffalo. Just a superior team. I don't care if Sanchez plays this one or not.
Figgs: Jets. I may not be taking into account teams that don't have anything to play for, but any time is see "JETS (-1) vs Buffaloes", I can't possibly justify taking the Jills. Correct me if I'm wrong, but do the Bills not have anything to play for as well?
Nick: Bills. The Jets are going to coast.
Bucko: Jets.
Gopo: Jets. "22-17."

RAVENS (-9.5) vs Bengals
Andy: Bengals. Baltimore is only 8 better by SRS, plus Cincy already beat them, is on a mini-roll, and I hate Baltimore.
Figgs: Ravens. This is a line that finally makes sense to me. But it's still probably not high enough.
Nick: Bengals. Too many points.
Bucko: Bengals. They always play the birds tight.
Gopo: Bengals. "I have sheer contempt for Carson Palmer's QB abilities unless it means a cheap cover."


4 pm kickoff
TEXANS (+1.5) vs Jags
Andy: Texans. Houston has actually been slightly better this year (horrible collapse in Denver that cost me a cover notwithstanding) and they'll win this one over a fading Jax team.
Figgs: Jax. Gary Kubiak, the GM wants to see you in the locker room. Bring your playbook.
Nick: Jags.
Bucko: Houston. Garrard doesn't look like he's going to play.
Gopo: Texans. "Why the hell not?"

REDSKINS (+4) vs Giants
Andy: Giants. They're a TD better in SRS and can still win a playoff spot.
Figgs: Skins. Washington has played some inspired ball the last few weeks, and I feel as if the G-Men are just gonna fold after laying that egg in Green Bay last week.
Nick: Skins. The Giants blow.
Bucko: Redskins.
Gopo: Giants. "So much for Indian solidarity. The Giants' name implies that they are larger than their opponents."

EAGLES (-3.5) vs Cowboys
Andy: Eagles. They're seven better in SRS and playing at home against a Cowboy club on the wrong side of their late-season push. Nice job last week, btw, Jon Kitna. Did anyone else see where Tucker Carlson said that Michael Vick should be executed for his dogfighting escapades? Executed? Forget the rule of law - let's just assign punishments from now on based on what this douchebag thinks will get him the highest ratings.
Figgs: Philly. It seems I'm taking a lot of favorites here.
Nick: Eagles. Just don't see Dallas getting up for this game in Philly.
Bucko: Eagles. That is if everyone plays.
Gopo: Eagles. "Doing what the steelers couldn't do in the 1995 Super Bowl."

49ERS (-6) vs Cardinals
Andy: 49ers. Hate the line, but they're been five better this season, and this gives me one last chance to take a shot at Mike Singletary.
Figgs: Cards. This line seems pretty high for a 5-10 football team.
Nick: Niners. The Cardinals are awful - this is more a vote of no confidence in them than a vote of confidence in the Niners.
Bucko: Cards. How can the Niners offens do anything if they switch QB's every week.
Gopo: 49ers. "Root, root, root for the home team."

PACKERS (-10) vs Bears
Andy: Bears. Huh? I think I'll pass on this opportunity to give 10 against an 11-4 team.
Figgs: Bears. Again, possibly overestimating the Bears will to win since they already have the #2 seed wrapped up, but this line seems a little crazy.
Nick: Bears.
Bucko: Bears. Wow this is a lot of points. Pack will win!
Gopo: Bears. "If this competition was decided on who gets their picks in latest each week, Nick would run away with it." OK, fine, that was Andy writing first-person.

COLTS (-10) vs Titans
Andy: Titans. They won't win this, but for all of Tennessee's QB issues, they're only 1.5 off of Indy in SRS this year. Shouldn't be that much of a blowout.
Figgs: Titans. This line is about as high as Vince Young will be during this game. OHH!
Nick: Colts.
Bucko: Colts.
Gopo: Titans. "Also bigger than their opponent.'

BRONCOS (+3.5) vs Chargers
Andy: Chargers. According to SRS, they're two TD's a game better than Denver - I feel like I'm getting 11 free points.
Figgs: Chargers.
Nick: Broncos. Raging Teboner.
Bucko: Chargers.
Gopo: Chargers. "Not backing Tim Tebow."


Sunday Night Football, 8:20 pm
SEAHAWKS (+2.5) vs Rams
Andy: Seahawks. I just want to see St. Louis get in at 7-9. Weren't they supposed to have flex scheduling for these Sunday night games at some point? Can we have Flex Divisioning so the Browns can play in the NFC West next year?
Figgs: Rams. Believe it or not, this was the game they flexed.
Nick: Rams. ($)
Bucko: Rams.
Gopo: Rams. "I have to take someone."

NFL Picks: Week 16

Happy Festivus!

Bucko's feat of strength came a bit early this year, as a stunning three-week 32-14-2 run has vaulted him to sole posession of first place with a four-game edge on second place, with just two weeks remaining to play. The most annoying part of his performance is how his loss total is 99 - we all have triple digits in that column but he doesn't, and that "1" looks huge on all of our ledgers. On the flipside, the rest of us all figured out how to post our picks prior to the Sunday kickoffs.

Browns fans also found something underneath their aluminium pole last Sunday in the form of the Jets knocking off the Steelers, but with Cleveland adrift in another 5-9 campaign and both Baltimore and Pittsburgh bound for the postseason, there will be plenty of airing of grievances towards the NFL once again this year.

Last Week
Andy: 10-6
Figgs: 6-10
Nick: 5-11
Bucko: 11-5
Gopo: 7-9

Nick's Money Picks ($): 1-3


Standings
Bucko: 117-99-8
Andy: 113-103-8
Figgs: 112-104-8
Nick: 106-110-8
Gopo: 104-112-8

Nick's Money Picks ($): 31-32-3
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 26-14-4


Thursday game, 8:20 pm
STEELERS (-14.5) vs Panthers
Andy: Panthers. This game just shouts "stay away" to me, both in terms of whether one would want to wager money on it or consider viewing it. Nevertheless, we pick every game here on FCF, and I can't argue with Figgs' logic.
Figgs: Panthers, just because.
Nick: Panthers. Hey Steelers: Fuck You. Too many points for a team without a big-number offense. Carolina, we'll leave the backdoor open for ya.
Bucko: Steelers. Who needs Troy against the Panthers.
Gopo: Panthers. Next two weeks are going to be quick picks as I'll be in India - my record can't be any worse than it's been the last two weeks. No way Steelers cover this - too many injuries to blow this team away, but they should win.

Saturday game, 7:30 pm
CARDINALS (+6.5) vs Cowboys
Andy: Cowboys. Most weeks, I have some picks I feel good about, and some I feel shaky about - there's a fair amount of buyer's remorse with my picks as soon as I've made them, but I do my best. After the dust settles after each week of NFL action, there's usually one that I look back on and wonder what on Earth I was thinking. Last week, that pick was Cardinals (+2.5) at Panthers. My reasoning was that a 1-12 team shouldn't be giving points, but somehow I remained oblivious to the fact that this was THE 2010 ARIZONA CARDINALS. Not just that, but THE 2010 ARIZONA CARDINALS on the road, on the East Coast to boot, and starting a guy named "Skeleton" at QB. I should have been willing to give points with a good high school team to go against Arizona last week. That having been said, there is absolutely no way I'm taking THE 2010 ARIZONA CARDINALS in this game without getting more than a TD, even though Dallas managed to squander an easy cover at home against Warshington last week.
Figgs: Cowboys. What Andy said exactly.
Nick: Boys. The Arizona Cardinals blow, and I'm sticking with the Cowboys even after they killed me by giving the Redskins a late bullshit cover last week. ($)
Bucko: Cowboys. They're playing well and Arizona sucks.
Gopo: Cowboys. I suck at picking against/with the Cardinals this year.

Sunday games
1 pm kickoff

BROWNS (+3.5) vs Ravens
Andy: Browns. I'll admit it, this line baffles me. I thought we'd be getting 5.5. Look, the Ravens are fighting for playoff positioning, they're healthy, and the Browns have just dropped consecutive decisions to two-win teams. On the other hand, the Browns play really well against good teams - it's the lousy ones that trouble us. Nevertheless, I would rather forfeit the entire season than pick the Ravens against the Browns. Have you seen Ray Lewis' characteristically moronic pre-game talk, claiming that Peyton Hillis' performance against Baltimore in the teams' first 2010 meeting (144 yards on the ground) "won't happen again"? What a fucking idiot. Lewis' chief skill these days appears to be jumping on the pile or a player who's already down after the play. I mean, he's absolutely elevated that to an art form. But hey, let's all keep giving him a free pass because of how good he was 10 years ago. Go jump in a lake, Baltimore Ratbirds.
Figgs: Browns. I don't like this line one bit. I do, however, like the Browns.
Nick: Browns. If not for the policy, I'd probably be hard on the Ravens here. Even I am not above the policy.
Bucko: Ravens. Sorry, not enough points.
Gopo: Ravens. As usual, would love to be wrong when picking the Ravens.

BUFFALOES (+9) vs Patriots
Andy: Buffaloes. Gopo's analysis only goes halfway - it's a different Buffaloes team as well, with the Bills having won four of their past six games. I think they'll keep it close - New England can't keep pummeling everyone for the whole rest of the year, can they?
Figgs: Pats.
Nick: Pats.
Bucko: Patriots. They look damn good.
Gopo: Patriots. The Bills played them tough the first time around, but think this is a different Pats team now.

BEARS (-1) vs Jets
Andy: Bears. Sanchez is a question mark and the Bears are brimming with well-earned confidence, playing well of late in all facets of the game. Bucko, they have indeed clinched a playoff spot, but they have not secured a first-round bye, and that's huge. This is not the time for them to take a week off.
Figgs: Jets. I'm still not 100% on this Chicago team.
Nick: Bears.
Bucko: Jets. I look for a down week from the Bears who have clinched already.
Gopo: Bears. Dare I say it: the Bears might be legit.

CHIEVES (-5) vs Titans
Andy: Chieves. Arrowhead in December is no place for a team playing for nothing, that may or may not care about the rest of the season. With Cassel in, I'm rolling KC. While I'm here, is there some reason why Matt Cassel can't do the giant testicles dance after a big play like Sam Cassell used to do?
Figgs: KC. Tough call, but the Chiefs just have more to play for.
Nick: Chiefs.
Bucko: TIT-ans.
Gopo: Titans. No idea about either one of these teams. When in doubt, take the points.

RAMS (-1.5) vs 49ers
Andy: Rams. Believe it or not, I'd probably take San Fran if they were at home with Troy Smith starting, but since only one of those things is true, I'll take St. Louis.
Figgs: Rams. Don't like picking against Troy Smith here, but I just can't understand why Vegas is STILL giving San Fran love even though they continue to lose.
Nick: Rams. ($)
Bucko: Rams. The Niners are a mess.
Gopo: Rams. Again, no idea about either one of these teams. This time I'm going with who I want to win instead of the points.

DOLPHINS (-3.5) vs Lions
Andy: Lions. I mean, they just won a game in Florida last week against a team better than this week's opponent - why wouldn't I take them and get a field goal plus to do so?
Figgs: Fish. I have nothing to back this up with.
Nick: Lions.
Bucko: Lions. Dolphins offense isn't looking good.
Gopo: Lions. I think Detroit is actually a better team right now than the Dolphins.

JAGUARS (-7) vs Redskins
Andy: Jaguars. Mike Shanahan's mismanagement of Washington is threatening to become epic. They're worse in literally every football department since he took over. The Jags, meanwhile, still have a chance at a playoff spot despite a negative point differential. They should win this one easily in front of all 3000 of their fans.
Figgs: Skins. No MJD for Jax, Washington can keep it within a TD.
Nick: Jags.
Bucko: Jaguars. Big game from Garrard.
Gopo: Jaguars. Redskins are done.


4 pm kickoff

RAIDERS (+3) vs Colts
Andy: Raiders. The Colts impressed me with their victory last week, but Oakland is 5-2 at home this year and they match up well (strong pass defense, good rush offense) against Indy.
Figgs: Indy. I'll go with Peyton every time in a must-win situation.
Nick: Raiders. ($)
Bucko: Colts in a shootout.
Gopo: Colts. Not enough points for me to take a mediocre Raiders club - give me the Peytons.

BRONCOS (+2.5) vs Texans
Andy: Texans. Gopo makes some quality points here.
Figgs: Texans. Chad Henne may no longer be my most hated starting QB in the league.
Nick: Texans. My Teboner's flaccid.
Bucko: Broncos. Tebow all day baby.
Gopo: Houston. I will never root for Tim Tebow and 2.5 points isn't enough for me to take that horrible team.

BENGALS (+9) vs Chargers
Andy: Chargers. Oh, Cincinnati Bengals, how you continue to torture me this season. I finally jump off from picking you and you cover against the Saints, then I get back on and you get walloped by the steelers, and then you take out the Browns. Can you stop, please? I'm taking San Diago mostly out of contempt for Cincy's recent antics.
Figgs: Chargers. 9 points is a lot for a road team, but then again, it is the Bungles.
Nick: Chargers.
Bucko: Chargers. Rivers having a great year.
Gopo: Chargers. The Bengals will have to throw all game, and without TO, Palmer is going to look even worse than he usually does.

PACKERS (-3) vs Giants
Andy: Giants. Eli's propensity for INT's worries me, but this New York team is too good and will absolutely be out for blood this week.
Figgs: Pack. I'm gonna gain so many games on you guys this week.
Nick: Packers.
Bucko: Giants. To much pressure on Rodgers.
Gopo: Giants. With or without Rodgers, think the Giants take this one after their epic collapse last week.

BUCS (-6) vs Seahawks
Andy: Buccaneers. Seattle is in first place ... with a -84 point differential. Astounding.
Figgs: Bucs. A Seattle loss here will clinch under 7.5 wins and make me some moolah.
Nick: Bucs. ($)
Bucko: Bucs.
Gopo: Bucs. I have nothing to say about this game.

Sunday Night Football, 8:20 pm

EAGLES (-14) vs Vikings
Andy: Eagles. Took me a while, but I frankly can't see them scoring fewer than 28 points against Minny at home, and I can't see Minnesota under the leadership of Joe Webb with a banged-up Adrian Peterson cranking out more than 14. I'm good at math.
Figgs: Philly. This is a lot of points, but if Peterson doesn't play I don't know if Minny will score a point.
Nick: Eagles.
Bucko: Eagles.
Gopo: Vikings. Way too many points - I think the Vikings will keep it reasonably close.

Monday Night Football, 8:30 pm

FALCONS (-2) vs Saints
Andy: Falcons. Initially I thought to take New Orleans because they're the champs and will rise up for a game against the upstart Falcons, but Atlanta is just crushing people. Interestingly, teams with a better SRS than Atlanta, according to profootball-reference.com: New England, pittsburgh, Green Bay, Philly, San Diego.
Figgs: ATL. I've come to really enjoy watching both of these teams play this year. Really looking forward to this one.
Nick: Falcons.
Bucko: Falcons. They could be the best.
Gopo: Falcons. For the division - the dirty birds don't lose at home. I expect them to bring it for this game.

NFL Picks: Week 15

Believe me, I hated tallying up a loss for all of us as a result of that preposterous Tennessee cover last Thursday night. What, other than screwing with gamblers and prognosticators nationwide, was Jeff Fisher trying to accomplish with that drive? You're down nine points, dummy. ESPN's Bill Simmons appropriately called it the "dumbest backdoor cover drive in recent football history." and added that, "We'll be telling our grandkids about it."

Simmons also nailed it with his discussion of Doom Boards at NFL stadia, where one has no choice but to "stare at them and wait for awful news." This is exactly how I feel every time I go to Cleveland Browns Stadium, especially last time I went, when the Browns barely eked out an undeserved one-point win and I watched my morning picks go 1-7. I've started using little strips of paper on my TV at home to block the little ticker at the bottom of the screen because monitoring the other games while watching the Browns gets a bit too frustrating at times.

Our performances last week were a microcosm of the season thus far; Figgs and Bucko extended their tie for the lead by a game over third place, while the rest of the field ended up ordering themselves for the week's picks as they entered it overall. We have a little more spread in the standings as a result, but it's still very much up in the air with three weeks remaining in the regular season.

Last Week
Andy: 8-7-1
Figgs: 9-6-1
Nick: 7-8-1
Bucko: 9-6-1
Gopo: 4-11-1

Nick's Money Picks ($): 2-2
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 1-2-1


Standings
Figgs: 106-94-8
Bucko: 106-94-8
Andy: 103-97-8
Nick: 101-99-8
Gopo: 97-103-8

Nick's Money Picks ($): 30-29-3
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 26-14-4


Thursday game, 8:20 pm
CHARGERS (-9) vs 49ers
Andy: Chargers. AFC West > NFC West, and I think SD's destruction of KC last week shows that they realize a backdoor division title is a very real possibility. Also, let's face it, I have a huge bias against this 49er team.
Figgs: Chargers, for reasons already mentioned.
Nick: Bolts. I think the Chargers still have a push left, and they're a much better team than their California counterparts. Oddly enough, the table's set for SF to win their last two games and still take the division. The NFL is weird.
Bucko: 49ers. I think the only reason I'm picking them is because I need a big game from Davis for fantasy.
Gopo: Chargers. Man, I blow at picking NFL games all of a sudden. I might just have to get my dog to pick for me this week.

Sunday games
1 pm kickoff

BENGALS (-1) vs Browns
Andy: Browns. Cincinnati has constantly screwed me this season - this is getting to be, as Channel 3 Lead Anchor Frank Vitchard would say, ri-god-damn-diculous. I don't pick anyone against my Brownies, but sure as hell not these deadbeats, even though there's the distinct possibility that they give Marvin Lewis one last hurrah as Bengal head coach.
Figgs: BROWNS!
Nick: Cleveland. Fucking. Browns. ($ +1.5)
Bucko: Browns
Gopo: Bengals. They have to win one more game the rest of the way through, right? And just for the hell of it: Carson Palmer is an awful QB - I'd take McCoy over him in a heartbeat.

COWBOYS (-6) vs Redskins
Andy: Cowboys. Wade Phillips' "performance" and subsequent firing has had a most interesting effect on Dallas for gambling purposes - as America's Team, they've consistently been overrated in the lines because so many fans pick them and Vegas needs to entice non-fans to wager against the opposition. But, since the adjustment has been slow to the Pokes' improved play in the Garrett Era, Dallas is currently undervalued if anything, having gone 4-0 ATS post-Wade. As such, I don't even have to give a TD to grab them at home against a reeling Redskin club, where last year this would have been like +7.5.
Figgs: Cowboys. Andy sold me.
Nick: Cowboys. Really like Big D here. They're playing like a playoff team, and Washington blows. ($ -6.5)
Bucko: Cowboys
Gopo: Cowboys. Not too much to add over what Andy said.

TITANS (-1) vs Texans
Andy: Titans. My least favorite game on the board, mostly because I can't fully explain Houston's shutout of the Titties when they've surrendered an average of 29.6 ppg in their other 12 contests. I mean, Tennessee can't be that bad on offense - they mustered 28 on the Colts last week and they're averaging 24.3 ppg in non-Rusty Smith games. Inasmuch as this is a non-Rusty Smith game, I'm writing off the 20-0 fiasco and taking the Titties.
Figgs: Texans. Andy wasn't as convincing that time.
Nick: Texans. I don't think I can take Tennessee the rest of the way.
Bucko: Titans
Gopo: Texans. I think the last quarter against the Ravens gave them some confidence - if they can just avoid putting themselves in a 14 point hole every game, they'd be in good shape.

COLTS (-4.5) vs Jags
Andy: Colts. Give Jacksonville some credit - they've played consistently, won some games they shouldn't, and currently sit in the driver's seat for the AFC South. At least until Manning and the Colts exact their revenge this Sunday from a tough loss in the swamp (is Jacksonville a swamp?) earlier this year.
Figgs: Indy. I said I was done with them if I lost my bet on them last week, but as Andy stated, it was such an absurd situation. I'll give them another shot.
Nick: Jagoffs. Over and over again. These games are always close, and Jacksonville's the better team right now. ($ +5)
Bucko: Colts
Gopo: Jags. It look almost the entire season, but I think I've finally come around on this Jags team. I just think the injuries have finally caught up with the Peytons.

RAMS (+1) vs Chiefs
Andy: Rams. The feel-good team of the 2010 NFL season! I'd love to see them take the NFC West this year after posting six wins TOTAL in the previous three years. It reminds me of the time the Browns had a few tough years, and then...never mind, they pretty much just stayed bad.
Figgs: Rams. I've been liking them to win this division all year long. They have the best player (Steven Jackson) and best QB (Sam Bradford).
Nick: Rams. Because it looks like we might just have another Brodie Croyle sighting.
Bucko: Chiefs
Gopo: Rams. I would have taken the Chiefs if Cassell was playing, but I can't back Croyle in good conscience.

DOLPHINS (-5.5) vs Buffaloes
Andy: Buffaloes. Have you ever noticed how badly the transitive property works in NFL prediction? Consider: the Browns lost to the steelers subsequently crushed the Patriots and Saints, then saw both of those teams handle Pittsburgh. It doesn't add up. This is an interesting matchup because the Browns just went to South Beach and edged the Dolphins then lost in Buffalo, thus Buffalo should have the advantage AND they're getting 5.5 points. Bearing in mind that this analysis never works, I'm rolling Buffalo anyway.
Figgs: Fish.
Nick: Fins. Buffalo can't win two in a row.
Bucko: Bills
Gopo: Dolphins. I read Nick's analysis and he made me switch my pick.

BUCS (-5.5) vs Lions
Andy: Lions. The cover magic is back! Tampa Bay will win this by three.
Figgs: Bucs. Tampa will win this by 10.
Nick: Bucs. Tampa's tough at home against bad teams, and Detroit can't win on the road.
Bucko: Lions
Gopo: Lions. Bucs have proven to be capable of beating bad teams, but the confidence of the Green Bay win combined with their ability to cover has me leaning towards the Lions.

PANTHERS (-2.5) vs Cardinals
Andy: Cards. For the past couple of seasons I've tried to guess the lines before looking at them, and I've never missed one worse than this one. Why, exactly, am I supposed to give 2.5 points to take a team whose winning percentage is - wait for it - .077. They are 1-12. One win. Twelve losses. Favored. I know Arizona sucks -really, I do - but I can't take Carolina on general principle here. Also, I enjoyed this from Arizona's box score last week: Jay Feely 5 Yd Run (Jay Feely Kick).
Figgs: Cards. No reason for a 1-12 team to ever be favored. Feely also had like 5 FG's in that game.
Nick: Cards. Carolina can't score points.
Bucko: Panthers
Gopo: Cardinals. I watched that Cardinals game last week and Jay Feely was an absolute animal. I think he is capable of single handedly beating the Panthers.

RAVENS (-1) vs Saints
Andy: Saints. They're blowing people up and the Ravens aren't closing teams out. If Matt Schaub could rally Houston and drag its porous D to overtime against the Ratbirds, then so can Drew Brees and a red-hot New Orleans club that's won six straight by an average of 13.5 points per contest. Fun fact: the second-place Saints would lead the NFC West by FOUR games.
Figgs: Saints. I need a big week from Brees for my fantasy playoffs. (If I made them)
Nick: Saints. Doesn't it feel like this Ravens team should be about 30% better than they actually are?
Bucko: Ravens
Gopo: Saints. I hate the Ravens and will look for any excuse to pick them. If the Texans can go hurry-up and march 90+ yards twice at the end of the game to tie, then I'm pretty sure the Saints with Brees are capable of spreading them out and attacking as well.

GIANTS (-2.5) vs Eagles
Andy: Eagles. I just went to Michael Vick's player card on ESPN in an effort to understand why New York is favored in this one, but didn't get any answers. I thought this'd be a pick'em or Philly by a point, but what do I know? The G-Men are a pretty unheralded top team this year, which is a weird thing to say about a New York team. Eh, playing in Jersey will do that.
Figgs: Philly. Just no reason to go against Vick and this offense right now.
Nick: Giants. It'd be easy to pile on the Eagles here, but this feels like a "go against the grain" pick. Contain DeSean Jackson and you win.
Bucko: Eagles
Gopo: Giants. I think the Giants have the 'nobody is picking us / nobody respects us' card to play in this game, especially with all the media attention on the Eagles.


4 pm kickoff

SEAHAWKS (+6) vs Falcons
Andy: Falcons. Are we sure this isn't 16? You do realize that Seattle got absolutely firebombed by San Fiasco last week, right? I know the 'Hawks are better at home, but can't understand why they're only getting six from the NFC's best team. If Alex Smith can carve up Seattle's D, I don't care how loud Qwest Field is for Matt Ryan and the Dirty Birds. I'm so confused.
Figgs: ATL. I'm not buying the "Seattle's good at home" line any more. I'm pretty sure they blow no matter where the game is.
Nick: Falcons. Don't understand this one. ($ -6.5)
Bucko: Falcons
Gopo: Falcons. I also can't believe this is so low - Falcons should take care of business easily.

STEELERS (-5.5) vs Jets
Andy: Jets. For one, I think they're better than they've played the past two weeks, and for two, I frankly just love picking against the steelers. Sports Hate is fun!
Figgs: Jets. Hopefully the Sanchize can play a little better than his embarassing performance last week.
Nick: Jets. This is too many points, but Sanchez has to play better.
Bucko: Steelers
Gopo: Jets. Too many points - also, banged up Rapist, no Polamalu, banged up line. If the Steelers win, it'll be last minute and within 3.

RAIDERS (-6.5) vs Broncos
Andy: Raiders. I'll take a good home team against a Denver club that got pantsed last week in Arizona, of all places, last week. Glad to see this one under seven. Fun fact: I'm taking Oakland even though I don't technically know who's currently quarterbacking them. What can I say, I have metal playing on my iTunes, and it's hard to pick against the Raiders when metal is involved. Jason Campbell - I thought that was the case, but thought maybe he was hurt or something, but apparently not. I'm a great fan.
Figgs: Raiders. I wonder if Nick will have a hard time picking against Oakland while listening to Justin Bieber.
Nick: Raiders. Baby, baby, baby...OOOOHHHH
Bucko: Raiders
Gopo: Raiders. That's a lot of points to give up for a team that isn't all that good. Then again, the Broncos are horrible, so...

Sunday Night Football, 8:20 pm

PATRIOTS (-11) vs Packers
Andy: Patriots. I'm a tad surprised that this one isn't closer to 2 TDs. It just seems easy - Patriots on a roll, at home, at night, against a backup QB...taking the Pack here just seems like a reach. Editor's note: it was -14 by kickoff, so I sort-of know what I'm talking about.
Figgs: Pats. I'm assuming this line means that Rodgers isn't playing. If the Matt Flynn-led offense could only manage three points against the Lions, this one could get real ugly in a hurry.
Nick: Pats. Bring your bib. It's gonna get messy.
Bucko: Pats
Gopo: Patriots. No way Flynn has a chance against Belicheat in a night game.

Monday Night Football, 8:30 pm

VIKINGS (+6) vs Bears
Andy: Bears. Is this the line on the game, or on how many times each time will bitch about the cold field?
Figgs: Vikes. Let the Joe Webb era begin!
Nick: Bears. I'm enjoying watching Favre's final season tarnish his legacy.
Bucko: Bears
Gopo: Bears.

NFL Picks: Week 14

If this were a sports betting site, we'd have a picture of now-tied-for-first-place Bucko at the top looking half-serious/half-dorky with a banner saying "Bucko is on an INCREDIBLE 12-3-1 run!!!!" In fact, why don't we have this?

Anyway, I can step back from the ledge a bit, now that we're all over .500 (even Nick's $ picks) and thus have some degree of football acumen above that of random chance. With just four weeks left in the regular season, things are very tight, with only four games separating our five prognosticators. And in the spirit of the holidays (including the upcoming one-year anniversary of the Browns' cold-weather win over the Steelers), this is the week each year where I call every team something that amuses me.

Last Week
Andy: 11-4-1
Figgs: 9-6-1
Nick: 10-5-1
Bucko: 12-3-1 (!!)
Gopo: 6-9-1

Nick's Money Picks ($): 3-2
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 1-1-1


Standings
Figgs: 97-88-7
Bucko: 97-88-7
Andy: 95-90-7
Nick: 94-91-7
Gopo: 93-92-7

Nick's Money Picks ($): 28-27-3
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 25-12-3


Thursday game, 8:20 pm
TITTIES (+3) vs Peytons
Andy: Colts. Would you believe these teams only differ by a single point in +/- for the year? Indy's lost three straight against good teams - Tennessee's dropped five in a row against...not as good of teams. Also, if Rodgers is Bucko's man-crush, then Peyton is his Cougar.
Figgs: Colts. Manning, this is your last chance with me. ($)
Nick: Colts. Nick literally and figuratively phoned this one in.
Bucko: Colts. I can't really go the other way after what Andy said.
Gopo: Colts. Manning bounces back.


Sunday games
1 pm kickoff

BUFFALO FOOTBALL BUFFALOES (-1) vs The Cleveland Fuckin' Browns
Andy: Browns, Browns, Browns. The Buffaloes are 32nd against the run, Cleveland has Peyton Hillis, and we showed last year that we can win football games without bothering to pass, a valuable skill when Jake Delhomme is one's QB. Plus the Cleveland D looked really solid last week against the Fish. Watch me try to rationalize this pick.
Figgs: BROWNS! ($)
Nick:Browns. ($)
Bucko: Browns. Any team that has "Fuckin'" in their title gets my vote.
Gopo: Browns. Think Cleveland is the better team and I'm not giving points to take a 2 win team, even if they are at home.

SQUEALERS (-9) vs Bungles
Andy: Bengals. I can go several ways on this. One way is picking against Cincy because after me showing support for them all year and them repeatedly screwing me (they fooled me, Jerry!), I finally switch off of them and they cover. The other way is picking against Pittsburgh because I hate when they win yet fail to cover for me, tossing another log on my raging anti-Steeler bonfire. So, I'm left with my own dubious game analysis, which actually falls along the same lines as Gopo's.
Figgs: Shitsburgh. Boooo.
Nick: Bengals.
Bucko: Squealers. At home and fighting for home field in playoffs.
Gopo: Bungles. Steelers *should* win this one, but this is Cincy's rivalry game. Not only is Palmer an awesome garbage time QB, but this could be a letdown game for the Steelers after the Ravens last weekend. I think the Steelers win, but it's closer than it should be.

MATT MILLEN'S DUBIOUS LEGACY (+6.5) vs Bucko's Man-Crush
Andy: Packers. I think Detroit's covering magic has evaporated a bit thanks to Vegas adjusting lines - early in the year this line would have been like +9. And Gopo, these names are really easy to figure out for someone as in touch with the NFL as you are, come on. You know which team Matt Millen ran into the ground, and if you've read our group's picks at all, you know who Bucko fawns over each week.
Figgs: Lions. I think they can keep it relatively close.
Nick: Pack.
Bucko: Lions. Packers struggled against them earlier this year. I still love you Rodgers.
Gopo: These names are confusing - I'm not entirely sure who is actually playing in these games. I also refuse to look them up, so I'm just going to take a guess. Packers.

STERGERS (+1) vs New Jersey's NFC Club
Andy: Giants. Same reasoning as last week: LeBron sucks. Also: what Bucko said. I can't believe this isn't like +3.5 or something. Minnesota's coach is named Leslie - does anyone understand how so many Leslies, Ashleys, and Shannons make it into the NFL? You never see them in the NHL. And regarding Minnesota's team name: I saw a headline where Sterger just wants to resolve the case quietly. How about you just go away? That would do the trick.
Figgs: Giants.
Nick: Giants.
Bucko: Giants. They're the better team and it's only 1 point.
Gopo: Giants.

NATIVE AMERICANS (+1) vs Buccos
Andy: Bucs. They can and have beaten bad teams, and Washington fits that bill. I like to imagine Bucko's comment being made in Dennis Green voice: "THEY'RE BETTER THAN WE THOUGHT THEY WERE!! GO AHEAD, CROWN TAMPA BAY'S ASS!!" Goodness, that Dennis Green press conference never gets old. Derek Anderson still has a lot to learn about melting down in Arizona post-game pressers.
Figgs: Bucs. It turns out they are a pretty good team. Washington on the other hand... ($)
Nick: Bucs. Really want to pull the trigger on the Skins because of Tampa's injuries, but they're a mess.
Bucko: Bucs. They're better than we thought they were.
Gopo: Bucs.

SEX PANTHERS (+7.5) vs Dirty Birds
Andy: Falcons. I'm aware of the trap game potential, I see that extra half-point on the line, and I know it's not in a dome, but Atlanta just looks like they are on a mission. If they beat us by 10 on the road, they can beat an awful Panther team that just got thrashed in Seattle last week.
Figgs: Falcons. I'd give up to 12 or 13 here.
Nick: Falcons.
Bucko: Dirty Birds. Wow they look good. Matt Ryan underrated.
Gopo: Falcons.

JAGOFFS (-4.5) vs "Weird" Al Davis
Andy: Jaguars. To me, one of the most surprising decent clubs in the league. Oakland's win shocked me last week, but West Coast teams are terrible in 1 pm East Coast games, and I don't like the Raiders on the road.
Figgs: Jax. I thought the Raiders were an alright team, then they lost to some bad teams, then they come back and crush the Chargers. I don't know what to do with them.
Nick: Jagoffs.
Bucko: Jagoffs. Jones-Drew is running well.
Gopo: Raiders.


4 pm kickoff

1849ERS (-5.5) vs Seacocks
Andy: Seattle. Even had Mr. Smith stayed in the lineup, I would have felt uncomfortable giving points to take the gold-diggers, plus Seattle absolutely destroyed San Fiasco in week one and has a better record. Home-road split be damned, I'm taking the Sea Chickens.
Figgs: Seattle. The Niners get what they deserve for benching Troy Smith.
Nick: Niners. Really? Everyone's taking Seattle? The Niners have been a disappointment, but they're still 6-6 ATS.
Bucko: Seahawks.
Gopo: Seahawks.

'AINTS (-9.5) vs LA Rams
Andy: Rams. Does this line make sense to you guys? Why do I have to give more points to take the Saints in a game against a decent Aries team than I did against a comically inept Bengal team last week? Looking at your picks, I see that you agree with me. My only concern is that the Rams aren't quite ready for prime time, and the Saints are playing like the Super Bowl Champions that they are, rattling off five straight W's. The 12/27 Saints-Falcons MNF should be a hell of a contest.
Figgs: Rams. Too many points for me.
Nick: Rams. They've been one of the best ATS this season. They can keep it within this number
Bucko: Rams. That's a lot of points.
Gopo: Rams.

JETROPOLITANS (-5.5) vs Fish
Andy: Jets. One of the easiest picks on the board for me here. Henne and the Miami offense simply can't move the ball, it's going to be cold in New York, and the Jets need to unleash some of the frustration from last week's embarrassing drubbing at the hands of the Patsies.
Figgs: Jets. They are much better than how they played last week.
Nick: Jets.
Bucko: Fish.
Gopo: Jets.

I PUT MY FREAKIN' HEART AND SOUL INTO THIS TEAM EVERY WEEK (+5.5) vs You Can't Beat Denver! Why Don't You Just Go Home!?
Andy: Cardinals. It was hard to type that, kind of like in Dr. Strangelove where his arm keeps doing things and he can't stop it. But how can I be expected to give 5.5 points to take Denver on the road, even against a DA-led Cardinal team? I can't.
Figgs: Cards. They win despite DA.
Nick: WHY DON'T YOU JUST GO HOME ARIZONA? YOU CAN'T BEAT DENVERRR!
Bucko: Denver. Knowshon all day long.
Gopo: Denver.

SUPERCHARGERS (-6.5) vs Chieves
Andy: Chargers. When San Diago wins, they win big, and I think they'll do that against a Chief club that barely beat Denver in Arrowhead last week. But while we're here - what on Earth happened to the Chargers last week?
Figgs: Chargers. I was gonna go with KC, but I have no clue who their backup QB is.
Nick: Chargers.
Bucko: Chargers. Doesn't look like Cassel will play.
Gopo: Chargers.

BEARS (+2) vs Patriots
Andy: Patriots. They're kinda good.
Figgs: Pats
Nick: Pats. All damn day. ($ -3)
Bucko: Pats.
Gopo: Pats


Sunday Night Football, 8:20 pm

HOW 'BOUT THEM COWBOYS! (+3.5) vs Sunny in Philly
Andy: Cowboys. Lots of interesting comments from the group here. One has to wonder what, exactly, Wade Phillips was doing to this club when he was the coach.
Figgs: Philly.
Nick: Philly. ($ -4)
Bucko: Philly.
Gopo: Philly.

Monday Night Football, 8:30 pm

OILERS (+3) vs Ratbirds
Andy: Ravens. A lot of the lines this week were puzzling to me, and this tiny field goal separating a 5-7 Texan squad from a tough Baltimore team is one of them.
Figgs: Ravens. Boooo. ($)
Nick: Ravens. ($ -2.5)
Bucko: Ravens
Gopo: Texans.

NFL Picks: Week 13

I'm officially worse than flipping a coin, both the ravens and steelers won without covering for me, and Jake Delhomme continues to play football for my favorite team. The NFL utterly and completely sucks.

Last Week
Andy: 6-10
Figgs: 6-10
Nick: 6-10
Bucko: 6-10
Gopo: 8-8

Nick's Money Picks ($): 2-2
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 1-2


Standings
Figgs: 88-82-6
Gopo: 87-83-6
Bucko: 85-85-6
Nick: 84-86-6
Andy: 84-86-6

Nick's Money Picks ($): 25-25-3
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 24-11-2


Thursday game, 8:20 pm kickoff
EAGLES (-9) vs Texans
Andy: Texans - .500, baby. Or: lose by less than 9 points, baby.
Figgs: Texans. I went back and forth several times on this one.
Nick: Eagles
Bucko: Eagles. I don't see the Texans being able to stop Vick.
Gopo: Texans. The Eagles might bounce back in this game, but it's tough to tell how together Houston's D is when their shutout last week was against Rusty Smith.


Sunday games
1 pm kickoff

DOLPHINS (-4.5) vs Browns
Andy: Browns. As we all know, I pick the Browns reflexively each week because they're my club, but I hate this line and this game. The Dolphins are probably 3 points better than us, plus 3 points home field (we never win games in Florida), and 7 for the inevitable Delhomme pick-6, this should be FISH (-13). I hate this, but I'm sticking with my boys. You know what else I hate: the Sporting Gods. As if it wasn't enough to watch the Browns stumbling, I had to watch LeBron's disgusting return to Cleveland this week, then wake up the next day to see Houston miss covering by point in a game they were covering by 13 points after three quarters. Couple that with Nick's Friday-morning Eagles pick, and I'm alone in the basement here in the picks. The worst thing about a field competition is that I can't even play spoiler like in a head-to-head scenario. Alright, time to mope my way dejectedly through the rest of my "picks".
Figgs: Wow Andy, what a downer. We win this game outright. BEER WE GO BROWNIES! ($)
Nick: Browns. Jake Delhomme does a Captain Jack Rooney impression this week.
Bucko: Dolphins. Can't trust Jake.
Gopo: Dolphins. This line has to be assuming that Colt is playing, and if he were, I might pick the Browns here. But alas...

BENGALS (+7) vs Saints
Andy: Saints. The Bengals have burned me six times already this year when I picked them, and I've had it. Even if this is the week they actually play well, I can sleep at night knowing I jumped off their non-bandwagon having made the best effort I could.
Figgs: Saints. While Andy has been crushed picking these guys, Nick and I have been rolling going against them. ($)
Nick: Saints. The Cincinnati Bengals are not very good at football.
Bucko: Bengals. Just a feeling. Think weather might be a factor.
Gopo: Saints. I'm not sure what the hell I was thinking in picking the Bengals last week - the spread was high, but come on, it's the Bengals.

LIONS (+4) vs Bears
Andy: Bears. Opposite as Bengals - I've missed six games picking against the Bears already and they keep winning.
Figgs: Bears. Drew Stanton starting against this defense? This line should be at least a touchdown. ($)
Nick: Bears. They're not saying 'boo,' they're saying 'Druuu.' ($ -5.5)
Bucko: Da Bears. They are playing great on D.
Gopo: Bears. I keep picking against the Bears and I keep losing because of it.

PACKERS (-9) vs 49ers
Andy: Packers. Sorry, Troy Smith, but Mike Singletary and December in Lambeau wins out.
Figgs: Pack. I'm with Andy. I unfortunately have to go against Troy for the first time.
Nick: Packers. Niners on a road trip to a place that's cold where Aaron Rodgers plays quarterback.
Bucko: Packers. Have I ever mentioned I like Rodgers?
Gopo: 49ers. Niners are another team I've picked against the last couple weeks and paid for it. I'll give the bay area some faith this week after Jeff Reed showed up out here to attack a paper towel dispenser.

TITANS (-3) vs Jaguars
Andy: Jags. They're on a roll, and the Titties are...not on a roll.
Figgs: Jax. Can't really figure out this spread. Didn't the Titans just get shut out by the Texans?
Nick: Jagoffs. Who the fuck knows.
Bucko: Titans.
Gopo: Jags. Even with Kerry Collins, I can't take the Titans. By the way, when Kerry Collins is a huge upgrade over your current QB situation, you are in bad luck. Following, when Vince Young is the biggest possible upgrade to your QB situation, you might want to rethink things.

CHIEVES (-9.5) vs Broncos
Andy: Broncos. They suck, but I'm not giving 9.5 points to take a .500 team against a team that already beat them by 20.
Figgs: KC. Andy makes a good point, but Denver seems like the kind of team that will beat a team by 20 then follow it up by losing by 20 to said team.
Nick: Chiefs. The Chiefs are a big home/road split team, and the Donks are lousy and have less to play for.
Bucko: Broncos. Knowshon is running well.
Gopo: Broncos. What Andy said.

VIKINGS (-5.5) vs Buffaloes
Andy: Buffaloes. America's New Team!
Figgs: Vikes. Just because.
Nick: Bills. LET'S-GO-BUFF-ALO! ($)
Bucko: Vikings. Bills are due for a let down.
Gopo: Bills. The Bills are sneaky good for gambling purposes - they can hang with really good teams, they will always score points in a blowout situation, and they play hard.

GIANTS (-7) vs Redskins
Andy: Giants. LeBron sucks.
Figgs: Giants. I was gonna pick the Skins, but there's is no way you can go against Andy's logic here.
Nick: Giants. Just think the Skins are a train wreck.
Bucko: Giants.
Gopo: Redskins. For no real reason at all.


4 pm kickoff
CHARGERS (-13) vs Raiders
Andy: Chargers. I think I might have waited a couple of weeks too long to jump off the Raider train, but I hopped on the San Diego express right in time.
Figgs: Chargers. They could be a top five team in the league.
Nick: Chargers. Big number, but San Diego's been covering them of late.
Bucko: Raiders. Just too many points.
Gopo: Chargers. I'm not sure what happened to the Raiders, but it looks like they are going to suck again which means the Pats will have an awesome first round pick from them next year. Fucking New England.

SEAHAWKS (-6) vs Panthers
Andy: Seahawks. Why even play this game?
Figgs: Hawks.
Nick: Panthers. Starting to think the Panthers might be frisky. Whyaren't more of you guys on this game?
Bucko: Seahawks. Because they have something to play for.
Gopo: Panthers. I picked them last week for the first time all season (I think) and they came through for me, so I'll ride them again this week.

BUCS (+2) vs Falcons
Andy: Falcons. Too black. Too strong.
Figgs: ATL. Why's it always gotta be about race with you, Andy?
Nick: Falcons. Just not sold on the Bucs against quality opponents. ($)
Bucko: Falcons. Spread should be more.
Gopo: Falcons. Not nearly enough points for me to take a Bucs team that I'm still not entirely sold on.

CARDINALS (+3.5) vs Rams
Andy: Rams. Last time these teams played it was Arizona (-4) and the Rams covered. Now the student has become the master. Or something. I hate this line.
Figgs: Rams. "I'm just telling you right now what I do every single f***ing week!"
Nick: Rams. "That's fine. That's fine. That's fine. That's fine." ($ -3)
Bucko: Rams.
Gopo: Rams. This is the first time in 75 years (approximately) that the Rams actually have meaningful games to play. This is a division game, no less. If they don't step up and win this one, they need to take a long look in the mirror.

COLTS (-5) vs Cowboys
Andy: Cowboys. America's Old Team!
Figgs: Colts. Manning is struggling, but I'm not giving up on him yet.
Nick: Cowboys. Wondering if the Colts are going supernova here.
Bucko: Cowboys. Colts really need Addai.
Gopo: Cowboys. Bounce back game against a reeling Colts squad.

Sunday Night Football, 8:20 pm

RAVENS (-3) vs Steelers
Andy: Steelers, just so I can have a field goal. A few Sundays ago, I became violently ill on a Sunday night. I'm going to avoid this game so I don't suffer a similar fate this Sunday.
Figgs: Ravens. Gross.
Nick: Steelers. I should bet on them to give them the jinx. I hate these guys. Like an all-time hatred. It's in the same league as some of the great hate relationships, like Khan-Kirk, Zod-Jor El, Palpatine-all Jedi. I should stop.
Bucko: Steelers. What Gopo said.
Gopo: Steelers. There is a 95% chance that this game is going to be won by a field goal - I can't wait for this game.

Monday Night Football, 8:30 pm

PATRIOTS (-3.5) vs Jets
Andy: Patriots. They're on a mission, and are no doubt incensed about the beating the Jets handed them in New Jersey a couple of months ago.
Figgs: Pats. Most fans are probably excited to see four of the best teams in the league in prime time, and I have to suffer through my two most hated teams and a QB battle featuring guys from USC and michigan? What a kick in the dick.
Nick: Pats. Tempted to take the Jets here, but do I really want to take Sanchez on the road, in prime time, in the cold? No.
Bucko: Jets.
Gopo: Jets. Not sure why, but I think the Jets pull this game out - feel like on D they just have the Pats # this year

Nick's Money Teaser

EAGLES -2, Saints -1, GIANTS -7.5 ($)

NFL Picks: Week 12

I hate the NFL.

Last Week

Andy: 5-11 (!)
Figgs: 8-8
Nick: 9-7
Bucko: 9-7
Gopo: 9-7

Nick's Money Picks ($): 2-1
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 2-2


Standings
Figgs: 82-72-6
Bucko: 79-75-6
Gopo: 79-65-6
Andy: 78-76-6
Nick: 78-76-6

Nick's Money Picks ($): 23-23-3
Figgs' Money Picks ($): 23-9-2


Thanksgiving games

12:30
LIONS (+6.5) vs Patriots
Andy: Patriots. Hard to justify a Lions pick here.
Figgs: Patriots
Nick: Pats. Wait, I can pick Tom Brady in a game the Patriots need on a big stage against a Lions team that can't close? Sold. ($ -7)
Bucko: Pats. Can't trust the Lions on TURKEY DAY.
Gopo: Pats. Not really sure who to pick in this one as the Pats D employs a 'bend but don't break' philosophy and tends to keep games close. When in doubt, go with the better team...

4:15
COWBOYS (+3.5) vs Saints
Andy: Saints. Nick very neatly made the points I wanted. Let's not get too comfortable with the Cowboys just yet.
Figgs: Saints
Nick: Saints. Dallas still sucks, the game is indoors, and Jon Kitna's still Jon Kitna. Time for the other shoe to drop. ($)
Bucko: Saints. Dallas is improved, but not that improved.
Gopo: Cowboys. Maybe I need to stick with my 'momentum' strategy a little longer as it seems the Cowboys definitely have in. Then again, so do the Saints... hmmm, I'm taking a flier on the fact that the Cowboys are starting to pull it together (although it's a little late).

8:20
JETS (-9) vs Bengals
Andy: Bengals. The Jets' last three games have been dramatic three-point wins over teams with 2, 3, and 4 wins. In other words, I'm not giving nine to take them.
Figgs: Jets
Nick: Damn do I want to take the Bengals, but Joseph and Odom are out. Fuck it. Jets.
Bucko: Jets. Their defense is too strong for the gals.
Gopo: Bengals. Jets have kept the last few games close against inferior opponents, the Bengals are definitely an inferior opponent, and Palmer is unbelievable at making a game seem close with some garbage time drives.


Sunday games
1:00 pm kickoff

GIANTS (-7.5) vs Jaguars
Andy: Giants. Browns shoulda beaten the Jags by two touchdowns a week ago; they'll find the Giants less forgiving.
Figgs: Jax.
Nick: Giants. Jax's tackles are out. Bingo.
Bucko: Giants
Gopo: Jags.

HOUSTON (-6.5) vs Tennessee
Andy: Texans. They need this to get to .500, and that's their franchise destiny.
Figgs: Titans.
Nick: Titans. Really like the Titans here, even with Rusty Smith. They've been winning with lousy QBs for years now.
Bucko: TIT-ans
Gopo: Texans.

ATLANTA (-2) vs Packers
Andy: Packers. Statement game. I can't wait for Bucko to write that Rodgers is going to get it done.
Figgs: ATL.
Nick: Falcons. Matt Ryan is 18-1 lifetime at home and I don't have to give a field goal. Gimme Georgia Dome.
Bucko: Packers. Aaron Rodgers is the shit, he'll get it done.
Gopo: Packers.

REDSKINS (-1) vs Vikings
Andy: Redskins. Minnesota and I are through.
Figgs: Skins.
Nick: Vikings. The Skins got really banged up last week, and the Vikes will come out swinging this week as an F-U to Childress.
Bucko: Vikings
Gopo: Vikings.

BROWNS (-10) vs Panthers
Andy: Browns, all fuckin' day. I'll be there.
Figgs: BROWNS. ($)
Nick: Browns. I'll be there too. Fuck shit up!
Bucko: Panthers
Gopo: Panthers.

BILLS (+6) vs Steelers
Andy: Steelers. I like Buffalo's spirit, but this isn't Cincy. Would LOVE to be wrong about this, though the stupid steelers will probably win by 5 just to add more fuel to my fire.
Figgs: Stillers. ($)
Nick: Steelers. No comment. ($)
Bucko: Steelers
Gopo: Steelers.

4:00 pm games
SEAHAWKS (+2) vs Chiefs
Andy: Chieves. I like Seattle better at home, but I think KC is a better club.
Figgs: Hawks.
Nick: Hawks. Seattle at home (3-1). KC on the road (1-4). Do it.
Bucko: Chiefs
Gopo: Seahawks.

RAIDERS (-2.5) vs Dolphins
Andy: Can I predict a tie?
Figgs: Raiders.
Nick: Raiders. So over the Dolphins.
Bucko: Raiders
Gopo: Raiders.

BRONCOS (-4) vs Rams
Andy: Rams. I dunno, I still don't buy the Broncs. Why did I take them last week, anyway? Dumb pick.
Figgs: Rams.
Nick: Rams. No team has been more inconsistent than Denver, and the Rams have lost three tough ones on the road. Four is definitely enough for me to take StL here.
Bucko: Broncos
Gopo: Rams.

BEARS (+3.5) vs Eagles
Andy: Eagles. I've been picking Philly and being right, and picking against Chicago and being wrong. Something has to give, and I say that something is Jay Cutler.
Figgs: Philly.
Nick: Eagles. The Bears' defense is way better than I expected, but their offense still sucks. I kinda want to talk myself into Chicago here, but I think Vick and/or Jackson break one or two big ones to cover this number.
Bucko: Eagles
Gopo: Eagles.

RAVENS (-8) vs Bucs
Andy: Ravens. I think they just have too much for TB.
Figgs: Ravens.
Nick: Ravens. What Andy said.
Bucko: Ravens
Gopo: Bucs.


Sunday Night - 8:20 pm
COLTS (-3) vs Chargers
Andy: Chargers, continuing their roll and improving their playoff position. I know, I know, Peyton Manning in a night game, but still.
Figgs: Colts.
Nick: Chargers. If someone can step up in the South this might just be the year the Colts miss the playoffs.
Bucko: Colts
Gopo: Colts.

Monday Night - 8:30 pm
CARDS (pick) vs Niners
Andy: Niners. Worst MNF matchup of the year?
Figgs: Fighting Troy Smith's.
Nick: Cards. The Niners just got shut out by the Bucs. At home. DA all day.
Bucko: Niners
Gopo: Cards

Additional Money Picks
Nick: Tease Patriots (-1), Steelers (0), Ravens (-2)
Figgs: Tease Patriots (-1), New Orleans (+2.5), New York Jets (-2.5)