Pride Of Detroit: All Posts by Brian PackeyA Detroit Lions blog by Lions fans, for Lions fans.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/51601/pod-fav.png2016-11-06T12:00:05-05:00https://www.prideofdetroit.com/authors/brian-packey/rss2016-11-06T12:00:05-05:002016-11-06T12:00:05-05:00Week 9 NFL picks against the spread: 12th hour doggies
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<figcaption>Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Here are your fall back NFL picks against the spreads. </p> <p id="qENEPF">It's Week 9 in the NFL and we fell back an hour, and to celebrate the extra hour, here are this week's picks just an hour ahead of kickoff. Get those last-minute picks into your book---I mean, completely legal Yahoo! pick 'em league! </p>
<h4 id="PEKfNn">FALCONS (-3.5) over Bucs</h4>
<p id="nxxSZQ">Not even close as the final score indicated. Bucs backdoor covered <a href="http://fourplayfootball.com/">a FourPlay +14</a> spread. </p>
<h4 id="zl0I2w">BROWNS (+7) over Cowboys</h4>
<p id="1yzRJW">The Browns are 0-8 and only the fifth team in NFL history to start 0-8. You know one of them and that was the only team in NFL history to not win a game in a 16-game schedule. These Browns are not 0-16 bad and for that reason they're going to run into a win at some point. I'm not saying it's this game, but they're at home and should get up for the shock value here. Touchdown Dawgs at home, I'm taking them at that spread until they run into that win. </p>
<h4 id="A2ZSES">JAGUARS (+9) over Chiefs</h4>
<p id="Kj8zRe">It is my belief that the Jaguars have had a lot more stinkers than the Browns this year, but the Chiefs are starting Nick Foles at quarterback and have had to endure a slew of other injuries in recent weeks. Jags might even shock the Chiefs with a win here. </p>
<h4 id="zl9YrT">DOLPHINS (-3.5) over Jets</h4>
<p id="MV56DL">I keep saying this and I keep believing it: Don't be fooled by the Dolphins’ record. They are at least four points better than this Jets team, which needed to come from behind to beat the Browns last week. </p>
<h4 id="FgSThU">VIKINGS (-6) over Lions </h4>
<p id="ZhRnni">Check out <a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/4/13512898/detroit-lions-minnesota-vikings-preview-prediction-on-paper">Jeremy's On Paper</a>. I predicted 23-16 Vikes. I'd be shocked if the Lions did more than push this. I'm all out of kool-aid. </p>
<h4 id="ukdMRL">Eagles (+3) over GIANTS</h4>
<p id="uQ9Dv9">The Giants are getting the homefield advantage with this spread after the Eagles' heartbreaking loss to the Cowboys last week and because the Giants have won two straight. The Eagles are still the better team and should cover.</p>
<h4 id="QT1z8V">Steelers (+2.5) over RAVENS</h4>
<p id="8LvbG3">The Steelers are now 3.5-point favorites because Ben Roethlisberger is back. Ravens have had the Steelers' number in recent years whether Big Ben played or not, but I think it'd be silly to not play the shift in the line. </p>
<h4 id="UOeyui">Panthers (-3) over RAMS</h4>
<p id="ViORUi">Shouldn't even be this close... The Panthers have fallen off this season, but not so far off that they can’t handle the Rams across the country after a good home win against the Cardinals.</p>
<h4 id="fjogPV">Saints (-3) over 49ERS </h4>
<p id="nTZ3NK">The Saints are getting healthier—per Ian Rapoport on SnapChat—and the 49ers are still bad, once again without Carlos Hyde. </p>
<h4 id="HHaT56">Colts (+7) over PACKERS </h4>
<p id="7VNmx9">Joique Bell isn't walking through that door until next week. Ty Montgomery is back, but this is a large spread for a top-QB showdown with one of them missing one of their best targets (Randall Cobb is out for the Packers). </p>
<h4 id="HFdtrC">Titans (+5) over CHARGERS</h4>
<p id="PvGBcV">Another line that has shifted to just 3.5 so take the extra points with the Titans. </p>
<h4 id="XDAcbK">RAIDERS (pk) over Broncos</h4>
<p id="ClvJSo">My opinion may change if Amari Cooper is out or limited with the back strain that kept him out of practice some this past week, but otherwise I think the Raiders are going to show they are for real. </p>
<h4 id="yKqMcf">Bills (+6.5) over SEAHAWKS</h4>
<p id="ahexiG">I have the Seahawks winning in my big money payout survivor league so I'm going with the hedge on the spread. </p>
<h4 id="C8KKi8">Last week: 5-8</h4>
<h4 id="fWFFQ3">Season: 51-67</h4>
<h4 id="p2n5MS">All-Time: 728-647</h4>
<h4 id="mWWQJ5">POD Standings: </h4>
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https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/11/6/13540982/week-9-nfl-expert-picks-against-the-spread-odds-streamBrian Packey2016-10-30T10:00:05-04:002016-10-30T10:00:05-04:00Week 8 NFL picks against the spread
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<figcaption>Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Here are your Week 8 NFL picks against the spread, dinking and dunking our way back into the standings. </p> <p id="oxcdQW">The picks are chipping away at the leader board after a horrendous start to the season much like <a href="https://theringer.com/matthew-stafford-lions-new-alex-smith-5ad0580aeea1#.o8q7mub17">Matthew Stafford is dinking and dunking his way to an MVP</a>, I guess. The author of that article is right, negative connotations came up when I read <a href="https://twitter.com/ringer/status/790969294641389568">the “dink-and-dunk” tweet that led me to that article</a> and I grew even more upset by "The New Alex Smith" headline. I admit, I felt better after reading the article--and giggled a little, like a child, when I read, "Cooter's dink-and-dunk offense"--but Stafford's not a dink-and-dunk Alex Smith. No. Sure, you can’t argue with aDOT, but Alex Smith can't make the throws Stafford can make, like one to Anquan Boldin to win the game against the Redskins. It was neither a dink nor a dunk. It was a hand-seeking missile. Matthew Stafford’s <a href="https://twitter.com/Detroit4lyfe/status/559886649279385601">our quarterback</a>, not ‘new Alex Smith.’</p>
<p id="MF94T3">Dink and dunk on these picks: </p>
<p id="kPKUei"><strong>TITANS (-3.5) over Jags</strong></p>
<p id="pAvMrp">I didn't watch this game, because it wasn't on Twitter, but reports were that the Jags looked a little better than a not-bad high school football team. The Jags lost 36-22 and that's with a couple late meaningless touchdowns. <a href="http://www.bigcatcountry.com/2016/10/26/13427200/shad-khan-holds-rare-meeting-with-jaguars-players-and-coaches?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=New%20Campaign&utm_term=NFL%20national%20newsletter%20MASTER%20LIST">Shad Khan continues to be sad Khan</a> (with an amazing mustache). </p>
<p id="mAezP9"><strong>BENGALS (-3) over Redskins</strong></p>
<p id="uMtAPy">After losing their four-game winning streak on the road to another member of the felidae family, the Redskins travel to London to take on the Bengals. These London games are brutal, so no telling how this one plays out, especially since these teams are pretty even on paper. It will come down to the Redskins not turning it over and converting their red zone opportunities. I'm going with the Bengals because I don't trust the Redskins to improve in those areas and the Bengals have not lost to the Redskins since 1991. </p>
<p id="sdYVJD"><strong>BILLS (+6.5) over Patriots</strong></p>
<p id="kZkNl1">The Bills are big underdogs here because Tom Brady and the Bills haven't beaten the Pats at home since 2011 (1-4). But the Bills beat the Pats at Gillette this year 16-0! Sure, Tom Brady wasn't back yet, but that should stand for something. The Bills, believe it or not, have played the Pats relatively close in recent years (nevermind the 8-9 point average loss) and I think they might just get the rare sweep. Even if they do lose their second straight game against the better team, there's no shame in that if they can keep it within a touchdown. </p>
<p id="fWqIIf"><strong>BROWNS (+2.5) over Jets</strong></p>
<p id="heeX0y">The Jets got their seemingly miraculous win last week. If the Browns are going to win a game this season, this is the week as a home underdog while the Jets feel too good about their crappy selves. 56% of the money is on the Jets right now and that's another good sign for the 0-7 Browns. </p>
<p id="DNM4Ht"><strong>COLTS (+2.5) over Chiefs</strong></p>
<p id="nHvQnW">I was leaning Chiefs here and then I saw <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsInsights/status/792094940721516544">a stat</a>: Andrew Luck is 9-0 against the spread as a home underdog. And since Luck is all the Colts have going for them, I'm going to go with that.</p>
<p id="jbcfFN"><strong>SAINTS (+3) over Seahawks</strong></p>
<p id="zp1Rth">This spread is now a single point and it probably has to do with the Seahawks missing two big names on defense--Kam Chancellor and Michael Bennett. The Saints are 30-20 against the spread at home in the Drew Brees era. Brees is averaging over 400 yards per game this season and should be up to the home challenge against a generally great defense that has allowed the third most passing yards over the last three games. </p>
<p id="HaPlhA"><strong>Raiders (+1.5) over BUCCANEERS</strong></p>
<p id="97Tdbh">The Raiders are now favorites in most books—and they should be favorites. They are a better team. The only thing that concerns me in this game is that the Raiders have been great on the road this year (4-0), but they made Florida their home this past week, training at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida after their win against the Jaguars last week. Let's hope they're not feeling too much at home (1-2). </p>
<p id="VwYuva"><strong>PANTHERS (-2.5) over Cardinals</strong></p>
<p id="9spsPD">A rematch of last year's NFC championship game doesn't look quite like people would have expected it to. The 1-5 Panthers are giving up more than 10 points per game than they were a year ago while also turning the ball over way too much (10 interceptions). The Cardinals are not scoring as much this year and are coming off a bizarre 6-6 tie last week. Carolina hasn't been great following a bye in recent years, but they'll be playing as desperate as possible at home in hopes to show they're not that far off from being that Super Bowl contending team. </p>
<p id="uTjK6W"><strong>Lions (+2.5) over TEXANS</strong></p>
<p id="XgbhJO">For more on this week's Lions game, <a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/10/30/13469468/week-8-coverage-lions-texans">check out Pride of Detroit!</a> I have no idea what to expect this week--new and improved Stafford-the-MVP Lions or S.O.L. I'm leaning new and improved, but, yeah, we've been disappointed before. The Texans are not good and should not be allowed to win this game... </p>
<p id="U6oE5v"><strong>BRONCOS (-4.5) over Chargers</strong></p>
<p id="mcQkvZ">It's rare for divisional foes to play each other twice in three weeks, which is what's happening with these two teams. The Chargers beat the Broncos on Oct. 13 in San Diego by eight, 21-13, so they're getting a lot of action off the heels of that and a come-from-behind OT win on the road against the Falcons, who beat the Broncos in Denver the week before the Chargers beat the Broncos. Follow that? Look, follow this: I think the Broncos are going to win by a touchdown or more. </p>
<p id="TeBzKj"><strong>FALCONS (-2.5) over Packers</strong></p>
<p id="qMGsGQ">Packers will be without Randall Cobb and just about everyone else that matters on their roster except Aaron Rodgers is questionable. The Falcons are looking to end a two-game skid this season and a four-game skid against the Packers, which includes that home embarrassment in the NFC championship six years ago. The Falcons get their revenge on Sunday. </p>
<p id="xGICQj"><strong>Eagles (+4.5) over COWBOYS</strong></p>
<p id="5RxMM3">The Cowboys have won five straight, but do the rookies who have carried them to such great new heights know how to handle a bye week? Eagles, led by a rookie quarterback themselves, are tough despite getting beat by the Lions and Redskins in back-to-back weeks—something that could destroy the football morale entirely. This is an even game on paper and the Eagles have taken three straight at Jerry World. </p>
<p id="gNOkKQ"><strong>Vikings (-5.5) over BEARS </strong></p>
<p id="CjMOb2">If this wasn't a divisional game on the road, I'd put my life savings on the Vikings covering this spread. Should also consider the fact the Vikings haven't covered a five-point spread in Illinois since 2000 and are 3-13 straight up in that time. Just trust me on this one... </p>
<p id="Dy0SW6"><strong>Last week: 7-8</strong></p>
<p id="aMQhA1"><strong>This season: 47-58</strong></p>
<p id="eHry6M"><strong>All-time: 723-639</strong></p>
<p id="jPqN8V"><strong>POD Standings: </strong></p>
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https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/10/30/13470494/week-8-nfl-picks-against-spread-matthew-stafford-mvp-dinkBrian Packey2016-10-23T09:30:02-04:002016-10-23T09:30:02-04:00Week 7 NFL picks against the spread: You might like these
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<figcaption>Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Here are your Week 7 NFL picks against the spread. </p> <p id="df67W8">Hey, the Cubs are going to <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/world-series">the World Series</a> for the first time since 1945—when they lost in seven games to the Detroit Tigers—and they are favored to win their first World Series in over 100 years. So, this begs the obvious question: How ‘bout them <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Lions</a>? </p>
<p id="lfTW7N">Here are this week’s picks: </p>
<p id="9jptLM"><a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/"><strong>Bears</strong></a><strong> (+7.5) over PACKERS</strong></p>
<p id="fuaMnB">I really think this one would have hit if not for <span>Brian Hoyer</span> breaking a bone in his arm. I thought it was going to be an ugly game in which the Bears won by a field goal or the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> won by six. Instead, Hoyer broke his arm, the Packers offense found itself a little bit in the second half, and the Packers won by 16. We'll never know what could have been. </p>
<p id="VuKEmu"><a href="https://www.turfshowtimes.com/"><strong>Rams</strong></a><strong> (+2.5) over </strong><a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/"><strong>Giants</strong></a><strong> in London</strong></p>
<p id="nys1Mt">The Beckham-net twisted love affair story is <a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/news/same-name-different-game-beckham-giants-face-rams-233101667--nfl.html">getting weird.</a> Rams are more accustomed to traveling a long ways—you know, because they just moved to LA—and they win in London. Nobody will watch it, though. </p>
<p id="eyxPeb"><a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/"><strong>Browns</strong></a><strong> (+10) over BENGALS</strong></p>
<p id="zr6P3S">Good news for Ohio is that they can't lose in this one. The Indians seem destined to lose to the Cubs in the World Series and and <em>the</em> Ohio State University lost to Penn State this weekend, but Ohio will win this one. It might be close, but Ohio will win. (Can you imagine if there's a tie?)</p>
<p id="4CxK9E"><strong>LIONS (pk) over [Red—-acted]</strong></p>
<p id="EgYGUo">I texted my buddy who is good friends with the offensive coordinator for the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Redskins</a> to see if the Redskins are licking their chops. I got no response, which can only mean the Redskins are unprepared. It might also mean my buddy is bad at answering texts and/or doesn't like me very much (trying to use him for info). That's less unlikely, though. But seriously, I think the Lions roll in this one despite the other winnable home games that were much tougher to pull out. I'd like that, <span>Kirk Cousins</span>. </p>
<p id="3lP9oz"><strong>TITANS (-2.5) over </strong><a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/"><strong>Colts</strong></a><strong> </strong></p>
<p id="OIlbfe">Ordinarily I'm picking the Colts in this spot, but that loss to the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Texans</a> was bad. B-A-D-D-D-D-D-D, repeating. There is no coming back from it. Might as well stay at home. Meanwhile, the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a> have won two straight and are ready to beat the Colts for the first time in five years. </p>
<p id="NWpfd1"><strong>CHIEFS (-6.5) over </strong><a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/"><strong>Saints</strong></a></p>
<p id="I6NdUq">The spread, once at seven, is only at five now, but I still like the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/">Chiefs</a> at Arrowhead. The Saints have a more efficient offense, but <span>Drew Brees</span> makes a couple mistakes and the Chiefs cover. </p>
<p id="BHvXBG"><strong>DOLPHINS (+3) over </strong><a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/"><strong>Bills</strong></a><strong> </strong></p>
<p id="7nxyhs">I said last week that the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Dolphins</a> are not a 1-4 team and they beat the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> with <span>Ben Roethlisberger</span> (to start), <span>Le'Veon Bell</span>, and Antonio Brown. I'll double down on that: The Dolphins are not as bad as 2-4 indicates. The Bills have been built up so much over the last few weeks during their four-game streak that it's high time to bring them back down to Earth. LeSean McCoy is expected to be active, but that doesn't make a difference to me. </p>
<p id="txknw3"><a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/"><strong>Ravens</strong></a><strong> (pk) over JETS</strong></p>
<p id="xWYHcs">Elite Quarterback vs. Elite Beard—-oh wait, <span>Ryan Fitzpatrick</span> was benched. Full circle in this one as the reason the <a href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">Jets</a> acquired Fitzpatrick was because of how bad <span>Geno Smith</span> was, including a horrific showing against the Ravens during his rookie year. I like the Ravens to win this one. </p>
<p id="tPxzOs"><strong>EAGLES (+2.5) over </strong><a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/"><strong>Vikings</strong></a></p>
<p id="d5GQnJ">Does Sam Bradford have a chip on his shoulder? Will those tiny shoulder pads hold a chip without weighing down his throwing arm? I don't think so. Bradford's eyes don't open any wider either. The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Eagles</a> are not going to let the QB they sold at a premium beat them. Sometimes the <em>bye</em> weeks do not come at good times. The NFL's only unbeaten goes down this week. </p>
<p id="716PMQ"><strong>JAGUARS (-1) over </strong><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/oakland-raiders"><strong>Raiders</strong></a> </p>
<p id="7yj2po">Just when the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jaguars</a> couldn't look any worse against one of the NFL's worst last week in Chicago, they turned it on late and came away with a 17-16 win. Now they are somehow favorites against the 4-2 Raiders. These two teams are the future of the NFL! And the Jags are actually 2.5-point favorites now. </p>
<p id="qsVABf"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers"><strong>Chargers</strong></a><strong> (+6.5) over FALCONS </strong></p>
<p id="wRLSnV">The <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Falcons</a> are enjoying a nice season in which they have beaten last year's <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> teams in back-to-back weeks, and nearly beat the 2013-2014 Super Bowlers last week if not for some poor execution and officiating. <span>Philip Rivers</span> has had another two kids, I think, since the last time the Chargers won two in a row. The Falcons will be happy to be back home in front of their own crowd and they may win, but I like the Chargers to cover this inflated spread. </p>
<p id="39Fi2s"><strong>49ERS (+2) over </strong><a href="https://www.bucsnation.com/"><strong>Buccaneers</strong></a></p>
<p id="BkRwAe">Oh, did I forget about this game happening today? Oh. </p>
<p id="u38Gmy"><a href="https://www.patspulpit.com/"><strong>Patriots</strong></a><strong> (-7) over STEELERS</strong></p>
<p id="JxMEDy">EVERYONE—well, 67%—thinks the Patriots will more than cover this game, because the Steelers are starting someone named <span>Landry Jones</span> at quarterback. I'm not as convinced, but I'm not going to get burned the wrong way by <span>Tom Brady</span> or Bill Belichick the way they've been playing. </p>
<p id="d9QvO5"><strong>CARDINALS (-2) over </strong><a href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/"><strong>Seahawks</strong></a><strong> </strong></p>
<p id="LdQtiJ">When the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Cardinals</a> lose to the Seahawks, they <em>really </em>lose. I mean <em>*really* </em>lose. The average margin of defeat for the Cardinals in their last five losses to the Seahawks is 29! Yes, that includes a 58-0 game, but the closest loss was 12. The Cards have lost three straight at home vs. the Seahawks, including the 30-point playoff loss this calendar year, but I think they break that streak here. </p>
<p id="lDQA1Z"><strong>BRONCOS (-7) over Texans </strong></p>
<p id="8pH3VG">The Trevor Siemien vs. <span>Brock Osweiler</span> game nobody's been waiting for. No wonder the Monday Night Football ratings are down. Yawn. </p>
<p id="FSr3Tg">Last Week: 10-3</p>
<p id="XySKbE">Season: 40-50 </p>
<p id="AWP75e">All-Time: 716-631</p>
<p id="A4MeMA">POD STANDINGS: </p>
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https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/10/23/13371376/week-7-nfl-expert-picks-against-the-spread-sharp-actionBrian Packey2016-10-16T08:35:02-04:002016-10-16T08:35:02-04:00Week 6 NFL picks against the spread: Matthew Stafford is going to be a Dad
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<p>Here are your Week 6 picks against the spread. </p> <p id="fKElzc">After a two week hiatus, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qwh7CRPyqa8">we're back</a>, the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Lions</a> are back in the W column, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BLjswyrgiQP/?taken-by=kbstafford89">Matthew Stafford's developing Dad strength</a>, and I'm ready to continue getting Ken Boned on the weekly <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-picks">NFL picks</a> against the spread. </p>
<p id="lDa741">Right to it in Week 6:</p>
<h1 id="E9kXa0">CHARGERS (+3) over <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Broncos</a>
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<p id="KNK836">Speaking of Dad strength, in a game against <span>Trevor Siemian</span> (not pronounced "semen"), Dad-strong Philip Rivers nearly broke down in tears at halftime and after the game, a win against the defending <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> champs. I think at halftime it was in fear of his team losing another lead and after the game it was relief they won. Or it had something to do with the fact that early in the second quarter Rivers passed Dan Fouts for most career passing yards in <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers">San Diego Chargers</a> history.</p>
<h1 id="vaChw8">
<a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a> (+7.5) over BILLS </h1>
<p id="HLFFye">HUGE news: Chip Kelly named team activist <span>Colin Kaepernick</span> his starter this week over Blaine Gabbert. HUGE. The famous Chip Kelly offense was a disaster with Gabbert grabbing snaps under center. Chip was not impressed. Kap will make the 49ers offense great again. Seriously, Kap could become the first quarterback in NFL history to start a game kneeling and end a game kneeling. That would be something. On the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Bills</a> side of things, they have won three straight since giving <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000720976/article/bills-defense-keeping-it-simple-under-dennis-thurman">more defensive responsibilities to Dennis Thurman</a> who implemented a KISS and just-line-up-and-kick-their-ass system. That gives Rob Ryan more time to be creative when he actually has to do something, like <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000720827/article/rob-ryan-uses-im-on-a-boat-as-his-walkup-song">giving himself funny walk-up songs</a>. I think the 49ers will cover the spread (and yes, I know this spread has ballooned to as much as 9.5). </p>
<h1 id="LG5lrM">
<a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jaguars</a> (+2.5) over BEARS</h1>
<p id="rXO1jl"><span>Blake Bortles</span> figured it out in Week 4, not turning the ball over after turning it over seven times in their 0-3 start. Not turning the ball over is a winning formula <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.barstoolsports.com%2Fchicago%2Fpardon-my-take-10-14-with-blake-bortles-wikipedia-club%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prideofdetroit.com%2F2016%2F10%2F16%2F13293858%2Fweek-6-nfl-picks-against-the-spread-matthew-stafford-daddy" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">per Wikipedia</a>. The <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Bears</a> are miserable—I still don't know how the Lions lost to this team—and baseball is taking over Chi-town. The Jags will come into town and steal a win. </p>
<h1 id="9QSf6e">LIONS (-3) over <a href="https://www.turfshowtimes.com/">Rams</a>
</h1>
<p id="P3hqZf">This has the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a> game written all over it—home favorite following a good win—but I'd like to think the Lions have learned from it and will not be fooled twice. Plus, Stafford's got that expecting-Dad strength going into this game and <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.barstoolsports.com%2Fchicago%2Fpardon-my-take-10-14-with-blake-bortles-wikipedia-club%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prideofdetroit.com%2F2016%2F10%2F16%2F13293858%2Fweek-6-nfl-picks-against-the-spread-matthew-stafford-daddy" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jeff Fisher is above .500.</a> I’ll be really pissed if <a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/10/14/13283532/lions-rams-expert-picks-staff-predictions-week-6">Chris’ 4-1 prediction</a> is right, but I’d take a push.</p>
<h1 id="j9vC08">TITANS (-7) over <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Browns</a>
</h1>
<p id="MPUMY7">If there is a team capable of taking down the 2008 Lions, it's the Browns. They will probably run into a win at some point this season, but it won't be in Nashville this week. <span>Marcus Mariota</span> bounces back at home and rolls over Cleveland. Go Tribe, though. </p>
<h1 id="QHqste">DOLPHINS (+7.5) over Pittsburgh </h1>
<p id="ZRpfLi">All of the numbers suggest that the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> are going to roll, including the fact that the Steelers have taken six of the last eight games in this series over the last 20 years. But this is the NFL—ANY GIVEN SUNDAY—and the Steelers leaked the recipe for getting stomped on the road just a couple weeks ago in Philadelphia. The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Dolphins</a> are 1-4, but they are better than the record indicates and will at least keep this game close if <span>Ryan Tannehill</span> doesn't turn the ball over. </p>
<h1 id="E27xx0">PATRIOTS (-8.5) over <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a>
</h1>
<p id="xkHkKe">Despite having a quarter of their team on the injury report this week, don't count out Tawwwwwm Brady in his first home game since being suspended by tyrant Roger Goodell. The <a href="https://www.patspulpit.com/">Patriots</a> are 9-2 all-time against the Bengals at home and the average margin of victory over the last 25-plus years (six straight wins) is 10. I think the Patriots win by 10 at Gillette this week. </p>
<h1 id="7Gx7s3">SAINTS (+3) over <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a>
</h1>
<p id="ysbBDz">My bank teller on Friday is a big <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/">Saints</a> fan and she told me the Saints will win this weekend. She really seemed to know what she was doing, so that's good enough for me. The Saints are coming off the bye week and it's still questionable as to whether or not <span>Cam Newton</span> returns after missing last week's game due to a concussion. There might be 80 points in this game, but I think the Saints cover. </p>
<h1 id="R4YI3s">GIANTS (-3) over <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a>
</h1>
<p id="VXXCni">The Ravens just fired their offensive coordinator after an ugly loss to Washington last week so there are going to be some adjustments in their first game under a new o-gun. I think the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> get back on track after losing three straight and the Ravens drop their third straight, warming up John Harbaugh's seat cushion to Detroit, right? </p>
<h1 id="pVLM0t">REDSKINS (+2.5) over <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Eagles</a>
</h1>
<p id="RE5zJa"><span>Carson Wentz</span> loses his blindside lineman and he had to think about throwing his first interception of his career alllllllllll week long—to the Lions, no less. This has Eagles loss written allllllll over it, a classic case of a big Lions win looking a little less impressive as the team they beat loses again the following week. That happens a lot, right? I don't know. It feels like it. Plus, a win for the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Redskins</a> will make it allllllll the more likely they’ll come into Detroit next week and lay an egg, right again? </p>
<h1 id="lfDT97">
<a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/">Chiefs</a> (+1) over RAIDERS</h1>
<p id="taShjb">I will never bet against <a href="http://www.arrowheadpride.com/2016/10/10/13227194/your-annual-andy-reid-is-really-good-after-the-bye-week-post">Andy Reid following a bye week</a>, even if I was wrong last year and these two teams seem to be going in different directions.</p>
<h1 id="fX2Yfi">
<a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Cowboys</a> (+4) over PACKERS </h1>
<p id="U9P6PD">The Dez-Made-A-Catch Revenge Game. Dez Bryant practiced and reportedly looked healthy. Rookies Dak Prescott and <span>Ezekiel Elliott</span> are making the 'boys exciting again. The Cowboys haven't fared well in Lambeau in recent years—in fact, they've been blown out in four of their last six losses at Lambeau—but this is a different team and it's early enough in the year when weather won't play a major factor like it did in recent losses. I don’t have an opinion on who wins, but I think this will be a close game.</p>
<h1 id="jMeOYp">SEAHAWKS (-6) over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Falcons</a>
</h1>
<p id="9IMYPb">Dan Quinn has the Falcons looking like the better bird team here and now he gets to show off his high-flying birds back where he made a name for himself. I'm leaning <a href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/">Seahawks</a>, though, because <span>Richard Sherman</span> will be shadowing <span>Julio Jones</span> and the Seahawks have had a couple weeks to prepare for this game like it's a championship game. Falcons get brought back to Earth a little bit. </p>
<h1 id="rW1Q8J">
<a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> (+3) over TEXANS </h1>
<p id="DtRLyD"><span>Brock Osweiler</span> has been a bust in Houston, just like every other quarterback they've had in recent years. The Colts have beaten the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Texans</a> in six of their last seven meetings, and three straight in Texas. With first place up for grabs, I like <span>Andrew Luck</span> to cover the spread—if he can stay off his back.</p>
<h1 id="kTDAn9">CARDINALS (-7.5) over <a href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">Jets</a>
</h1>
<p id="42A2M4"><span>Carson Palmer</span> returned to practice this week—sorry, <span>Drew Stanton</span>—and the Jets lost <span>Eric Decker</span> for the season. Bruce Arians coached the Jets' head coach <span>Todd Bowles</span> at Temple over 30 years ago and Bowles will leave Phoenix feeling like he just got taught some things again in what I think will be a MNF blow out. </p>
<h1 id="DNb0rc">Can the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Vikings</a> lose this week? </h1>
<p id="Oev5Qu">Unfortunately, no. </p>
<h1 id="UvLIO8">Last week: 7-5</h1>
<h1 id="m1KVbk">Standings: </h1>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/l0QborQezRtXwkNjj63TLOzTD1Q=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7283973/standings.PNG">
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https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/10/16/13293858/week-6-nfl-picks-against-the-spread-matthew-stafford-daddyBrian Packey2016-09-25T08:00:03-04:002016-09-25T08:00:03-04:00Week 3 NFL picks against the spread: The chain gang
<figure>
<img alt="Kansas City Chiefs v Denver Broncos" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/RORVcU0r67EDGkw7osmbR5DhPdY=/0x1440:3456x3744/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50999973/455660064.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here are your Week 3 NFL picks against the spread. Fade at your own peril. </p> <p id="whOUQ0">Drew Magary’s weekly Jamboroo column over at Deadspin talks about an <a href="http://deadspin.com/the-ongoing-nfl-conspiracy-you-don-t-know-about-1786951013">ongoing NFL conspiracy</a> nobody else is talking about, and while it’s mostly tongue in cheek, it couldn’t be more timely to me. </p>
<p id="sOuAZl">I swear to baseball-playing Tebow that in the middle of the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Lions</a>-<a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a> game there was a first down that the refs gifted to <span>Marcus Mariota</span> and he wasn’t even close to the first-down marker. He clearly went out a good foot or two in front of where he needed to be to make a first down and yet the third-down run was marked a first down instead of being spotted for fourth down. </p>
<p id="kJYw8s">And nobody on the field even blinked an eye. The announcers mentioned it quickly and cameras flashed to Jim Caldwell, but as you can imagine his permanent facial expression, Caldwell didn’t seem at all bothered by the spot. </p>
<p id="TJS6Rq">It was at that moment I started thinking way too much about this. I couldn’t remember the last time I saw the chain gang trot clumsily onto the field to measure so the ref could then inaccurately tell us inexactly how far the team needed to go to get a first down. Inches or so, maybe. Then I couldn’t understand why they still even exist in the year 2016 when we could be using <s>sharks with</s> frickin’ laser beams. So imagine my delight when I read that article on Deadspin. Of course. It makes perfect sense. Maybe they’re phasing them out. Keeping them standing there in harm’s way to maintain the sanctity of the game. It’s not football without the chain gang there, after all. We need to be able to say, “Get to the sticks!” So while we won’t use them anymore, they have to stand there holding those big clunky orange things because it’s football and Steve there needs a job.</p>
<p id="gsuXvq">Anyway, makes you think... </p>
<p id="C2uTIc">Congratulations to 'the football oracle' and 'nightman cometh' on 11-5 in Week 2. </p>
<p id="eGmvTV">My comeback starts this week... after Thursday night’s game: </p>
<p id="I53Ds6"><strong>TEXANS (+1) over </strong><a href="https://www.patspulpit.com/">Patriots</a></p>
<div id="dHhSPu">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Even though I feel like <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pats?src=hash">#Pats</a> win & improve to 7-1 against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Texans?src=hash">#Texans</a>, I'm going Texans tonight. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mefadingme?src=hash">#mefadingme</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/freepicks?src=hash">#freepicks</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mightbewrong?src=hash">#mightbewrong</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tnf?src=hash">#tnf</a></p>— Detroit4lyfe (@Detroit4lyfe) <a href="https://twitter.com/Detroit4lyfe/status/779098034638622721">September 22, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="GABUW5">UPDATE: With 1:14 left in the 3rd quarter, down 20-0, the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Texans</a> took their first snap in the Patriots’ side of the field. Not very good. The Texans turned it over on that possession, like they did on many other possessions, and lost 27-0. </p>
<p id="LRigRp"><a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Cardinals</a><strong> (-4.5) over BILLS</strong></p>
<p id="ABBQ4T">The Arizona (or Phoenix) Cardinals have never won in Orchard Park, NY and the Ryan Brothers have never won a regular season game coaching together in Buffalo. Something has to give, and it'll be the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Bills</a> defense giving up a lot of points. </p>
<p id="KCVK5q"><strong>BENGALS (-3) over </strong><a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Broncos</a></p>
<p id="t0B2t6">The <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a> have lost 10 straight to the Broncos on the road, but this game is not on the road<strong>. </strong>In fact, it's the Broncos' first road game of the year, which gives me the feeling they're due for a little let down after a quick 2-0 start post-<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">S</a><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">uper </a><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">B</a><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">owl</a> victory. This game should be close either way, but I see the Bengals coming out with a big win in front of their home fans after a tough road loss to the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> last week. </p>
<p id="59eIfA"><strong>Lions (+7.5) over PACKERS</strong></p>
<p id="PqkkrS">I thought the Lions would be 2-0 and then one of the more talked about 3-0 teams in the NFL after winning their second straight at Lambeau, <em>destroying </em>the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> on their home turf on the 70th birthday of my Dad, huuuuge long-suffering Lions fan/Packers hater, but then the Lions lost to the Titans in classic Lions fashion—with my Dad in attendance—and then I remember last year's 18-16 win was the first Lions win at Lambeau since 1991. I think the Packers figure out their offense and treat my Dad to a birthday like most others that fell on Sunday in his life,<a href="http://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/195509250gnb.htm"> like 1955 for instance</a>, but the Lions should cover the spread. I'm predicting 27-20.</p>
<p id="mDTC9I"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/oakland-raiders">Raiders</a><strong> (+1.5) over TITANS</strong></p>
<p id="oHCrms">Oof, the Raiders lost a tough one at home following a ballsy one-point win in New Orleans, so naturally, because the NFL is weird, they'll go into Nashville and take down the team who is coming off a one-point road win themselves.</p>
<p id="6ghVqC"><strong>DOLPHINS (-10) over </strong><a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Browns</a></p>
<p id="AlVYhE">I was on the Browns until <span>Corey </span><span>Coleman</span> broke his hand in practice on Wednesday. The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Dolphins</a> are 0-2, but they played both games relatively well considering they had to go on the road to Seattle and then New England. Their home opener against Cleveland will be like <span>Ndamukong Suh</span> tossing <span>Jake Delhomme</span> around like a rag doll. </p>
<p id="TXN0Jr"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Redskins</a><strong> (+4.5) over GIANTS </strong></p>
<p id="qlBz8p">The <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> are 2-0 for the first time since 2011, coincidentally the last time the Redskins beat the Giants in East Rutherford. I'm not saying the Redskins are going to repeat history, but this is one of those games that just screams ugly and decided by a knuckling field goal. </p>
<p id="ikr99u"><strong>PANTHERS (-7) over </strong><a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Vikings</a></p>
<p id="euoWPy">This will be an interesting game to watch if only because it's possible protests in Charlotte will spill out onto the field and Sam Bradford's eyes may get the widest we've ever seen them. Not sure his shoulder pads will be able to protect him if things turn violent. (Let's seriously hope not. Love wins, people eaters. Black, white, yellow, or purple. Treat others as you would like to be treated is my motto. Be kind, rewind. Don't hate.)</p>
<p id="0YE8Dj"><strong>JAGUARS (pk) over </strong><a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a></p>
<p id="npjK47">I hate this game and have nothing kind to say about it.</p>
<p id="9uCEbf"><a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a><strong> (+9.5) over SEAHAWKS</strong></p>
<p id="7BL8Ps">The <a href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/">Seahawks</a> have 15 points in two games. This very well may be the game in which they score at least that many points, but if Chip Kelly's offense clicks even a little, the Niners should keep it at niner. </p>
<p id="SC7YOu"><strong>BUCCANEERS (-4.5) over </strong><a href="https://www.turfshowtimes.com/">Rams</a></p>
<p id="VndrNn">The Rams have nine points this season and have not scored a touchdown through two games. The Bucs just got throttled by the Cardinals and they're probably feeling pretty low right now, but nothing like the Rams coming to town to turn those frowns upside down. Bucs roll. </p>
<p id="SP3Q0U"><strong>COLTS (-2.5) over </strong><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers">Chargers</a></p>
<p id="s4qbmT">The schedule doesn't get much easier for the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a>, who had to face the 2016 and 2015 Super Bowl champs in the first two weeks (Lions and Broncos, duh). Andrew Luck's shoulder is still ailing and they'll be without one of his favorite targets <span>Donte Moncrief</span>, but I think they'll figure it out a little bit against the Chargers, who are mourning the loss of all their grit and spark, <span>Danny Woodhead</span>. </p>
<p id="eua6yU"><a href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">Jets</a><strong> (+3) over CHIEFS </strong></p>
<p id="EIpBEi">I'm buying <span>Quincy Enunwa</span> stock and starting to believe these GD Jets aren't so bad. I'm expecting a push here.</p>
<p id="qMX7CY"><strong>Steelers (-3.5) over EAGLES</strong></p>
<p id="LOMNs2">These Pennsylvania squads are squaring off while undefeated for the first time since the 1960s. My only #narratives worry here is that the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Eagles</a> have won eight straight against the Steelers at home, but the last Eagles home game in this series was 2008. The Steelers are better, even without <span>Le'Veon Bell</span>, and I think they'll show it by taking down the Eagles by a touchdown.</p>
<p id="R2pAWu"><strong>COWBOYS (-7) over </strong><a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Bears</a></p>
<p id="zLRzbf">The only thing keeping the Bears remotely close to possibly competitive as a team this year is <span>Jay Cutler</span> and he's out this week with a thumb injury. It's complete meltdown time. Love it. <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Cowboys</a> get those 1997 feels back in this one.</p>
<p id="nsl0VD"><strong>SAINTS (-3) over </strong><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Falcons</a></p>
<p id="zhTpFt">Drew Brees under the bright lights at the Superdome on its 10-year re-opening anniversary is enough to give the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/">Saints</a> an intangible edge. As if it weren't fitting enough that they'll be playing the Falcons, <span>Steve Gleason</span> being in attendance won't even make it fair. The Saints have won four of the last five at home against the Falcons and eight of the last 10 dating back to that historic blocked punt of Gleason's. At 0-2, the Saints need a win and they're going to get it by simply showing up. </p>
<h1 id="hNgqxf">Last week: 7-9</h1>
<h1 id="uSrANy">Season: 13-20</h1>
<h1 id="gzQ5uj">All-Time: 689-600</h1>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Kq7XXvZlIPB2ra7ls1JSNYal3e8=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7154511/standings.PNG">
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https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/9/25/13031580/week-3-nfl-expert-picks-against-the-spread-the-chain-gangBrian Packey2016-09-15T12:00:30-04:002016-09-15T12:00:30-04:00Week 2 NFL picks against the spread: For the birds
<figure>
<img alt="NFL: Pro Bowl" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/aTREDwedpPNlOzVAxHrGH2EdPB4=/63x1120:3151x3179/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50858473/usa-today-8982577.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here are your tweet-like Week 2 NFL picks against the spread.</p> <p id="9bnF5x">Week 1 picks didn’t play out to be as successful as I had hoped, but it’s in the books and Week 2’s ready to fly. Congrats to Tuffy on his 12-4 Week 1 prognostications, matching <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/2016/9/14/12907472/2016-nfl-picks-predictions-experts-week-2-raiders-patriots-cardinals-seahawks-falcons-packers">the best expert on the dot com</a>.</p>
<p id="EiPqSe">It always feels a little easier to predict games after Week 1—I said feels; I didn’t say it is—so let’s shrug that 6-10 off, update the brains to work out the bugs, like the ESPN Fantasy App, and get right to pickin’ this week. (P.S. Jim Harbaugh definitely ate that booger he picked. Go Blue, though.)</p>
<p id="rgK0Z4">In honor of Twitter's first live stream of an NFL game on Thursday night of Week 2, each pick for this week will be supplemented with at most 140 characters of analysis. Take a seat syntax: </p>
<p id="pklWjE"><strong>BILLS (pk) over Jets</strong></p>
<p id="KCepbu"><a href="https://twitter.com/i/live/768633364911788032">Who's watching this on Twitter</a>? Full disclosure: I'm a $TWTR investor now. Everyone should if you like dolla dolla Bills. Circle em tonight.</p>
<p id="oJe57n"><strong>BROWNS (+6) over Ravens</strong></p>
<p id="b5TiKm">Preferred +7, but I'd still take Browns here in #DawgPound opener. Avg. margin of victory in last 9 games is 6. Believe it, McCown > RG!!!</p>
<p id="lUCqTi"><strong>LIONS (-5.5) over Titans</strong></p>
<p id="URzqbC">1st Tweet: As <a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/9/15/12924392/random-stats-detroit-lions-tennessee-titans">POD pointed out</a>, Lions have never beat Titans & this game has similarities to 2008 & 2012 losses (double-headed backfield & softer game).</p>
<p id="XeFn55">2nd Tweet: So history suggests Titans are a classic trap game before Green Bay in Week 3, but these Lions have everything to prove. <a href="https://twitter.com/ttwentyman/status/775713649872687104">Stafford leads.</a></p>
<p id="LZBdD0"><strong>Dolphins (+6.5) over PATRIOTS</strong></p>
<p id="H6XTSP">Last time Patriots lost to Dolphins at Gillette? 2008, last time Tom Brady wasn't taking the snaps. Fins will keep this close, if not shock.</p>
<p id="EV62ni"><strong>Saints (+4.5) over GIANTS</strong></p>
<p id="b0VEqS">Saints haven't been good on the road against the Giants (4-11 overall) & lost a heartbreaker in the opener, so... how 'bout a cover here?</p>
<p id="9ThFZ8"><strong>STEELERS (-3) over Bengals</strong></p>
<p id="VQ7KRy">Bengals won at Heinz 16-10 a season ago before an ugly playoff loss at home. They're losers in 5 of last 6 in this series. Make it 6 of 7.</p>
<p id="1bc59E"><strong>Cowboys (+2.5) over REDSKINS</strong></p>
<p id="vTuhZb">Another big rivalry game that has favored the Cowboys in Landover, including the last 3 years. Dak & Dez get on the same page for a win.</p>
<p id="NIqArH"><strong>PANTHERS (-13) over 49ers</strong></p>
<p id="vfSOqF">Only three things worry me in this game: Cam's brain, the Chip Kelly factor, and Blaine Gabb---hahaha, I can't. Panthers win by 14+, easy.</p>
<p id="hsz8Gj"><strong>Chiefs (+2.5) over TEXANS</strong></p>
<p id="kwd8MC">Brock's new, but don't think Texans haven't forgotten the 30-0 playoff drubbing. I'm saying they haven't forgotten, not saying it'll matter.</p>
<p id="Wj2fqN"><strong>Seahawks (-3.5) over RAMS </strong></p>
<p id="OdNSiJ">Rams have beat Seahawks twice in a row, 3 of last 4, this is 1st game in LA, & Russell's ankle is ailing. But <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNStatsInfo/status/775571487260487680">holy shit, did you see MNF?</a></p>
<p id="MvrqDx"><strong>CARDINALS (-6.5) over Buccaneers</strong></p>
<p id="5ik2wS">Cardinals blew a golden opportunity against the Patriots in Week 1 at home. All of that frustration will be taken out on their new visitors.</p>
<p id="1uBAXO"><strong>Colts (+6) over BRONCOS</strong></p>
<p id="0fNXpi">1st Broncos-Colts game without Peyton Manning in 23 years. Colts have covered spread in 9 straight. I think they do it again behind Luck.</p>
<p id="UNXoMe"><strong>RAIDERS (-4.5) over Falcons</strong></p>
<p id="1PHDsV">Falcons have taken 3 in a row in this series, but it's been 4 years. Raiders, riding high after Week 1's wild win, are ready to roll here.</p>
<p id="GE4QSP"><strong>JAGUARS (+3) over Chargers</strong></p>
<p id="vi6uE7">Jags were a play away from beating the Packers in Week 1 while Chargers pulled a 2015 Lions in KC. Jags have never won in SD until Sunday.</p>
<p id="Z4DBGd"><strong>VIKINGS (+2.5) over Packers</strong></p>
<p id="4g4GxE">Prime time NFC North game in new stadium is overshadowed by <a href="http://www.startribune.com/shaun-hill-or-sam-bradford-cat-and-mouse-game-with-vikings-quarterback-question-continues/393486121/">cat-and-mouse QB talk</a>. Shaun Hill or Sam Bradford? Hill if they want to cover.</p>
<p id="qrtOjy"><strong>BEARS (-3) over Eagles</strong></p>
<p id="7vMKJF">Another musty MNF game if you ask me. While I'd love to see the Bears drop to 0-2, I think Carson Wentz struggles & Chicago WRs go off.</p>
<p id="1LBMMv"><strong>LAST WEEK: 6-10, but don’t worry about it</strong></p>
<p id="UICLV5"><strong>ALL-TIME RECORD: 682-591</strong></p>
<p id="vlqzGx"><strong>POD STANDINGS: </strong></p>
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<p id="jzEmQG"></p>
<p id="knf3CB"><em>If you’re not in the POD Yahoo! Pick ‘Em league, feel free to leave your picks in the comments below. What are you picking? How did you do last week? Let’s talk about it and comfort each other.</em></p>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/9/15/12928902/nfl-picks-against-the-spread-week-2-twitter-streamBrian Packey2016-09-08T18:00:09-04:002016-09-08T18:00:09-04:00Week 1 NFL picks against the spread
<figure>
<img alt="NFL: Preseason-Detroit Lions at Pittsburgh Steelers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/nbv3LIvRQaLEqfh8ZFUODLwNBxE=/136x364:3380x2527/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50747269/usa-today-9469867.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Weekly picks are back. There’s a lot of backup talk, but it’s safe to back up the Brinks.</p> <p id="X3b8Yn">The offseason was mostly a blur for me because my son, <a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/12/12/9988498/week-14-nfl-picks-against-the-spread-should-you-raise-your-children">potential Lions fan and future gambler</a>, was born soon after the Super Bowl. It honestly still feels like Spring to me, which, I know, is an awesome way to start an article that exudes some level of expertise in the area of picking Fall football games against the spread. </p>
<p id="a3udUV"><em>Why should I read your thoughts on these games if you don't even know what's going on? </em></p>
<p id="G74SZz">Hang on. I know some things. There were moves made. There was a draft and people arbitrarily graded it. There was some controversy. There were OTAs. There was some more controversy probably. There was training camp. There were training camp injuries and <a href="https://twitter.com/FourPlayFB/status/753306652367958016">reports of Dad bods</a>. There were some cuts. There were a couple games. And then, like every August in the NFL, there was chaos. Nothing like a good tizzy to get the NFL back on the minds of billions of people, as if it wasn't already. </p>
<p id="Qj0yPj">The cause of it?</p>
<p id="wcfs9r">Backup quarterback <a href="https://twitter.com/DetroitSouthern/status/772160791458017280">Jake Rudock was waived</a>. </p>
<p id="qASHmQ">Just kidding.</p>
<p id="g2Aey3">The real big story: A different backup quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, was seen sitting down during the National anthem, caught in the act — or omission — the third time he did it during the preseason. Ordinarily, you see a dude or anyone in the stadium sitting during the national anthem, it's likely no big deal. Maybe they have bad knees. Maybe they just got some bad news. Maybe they're ashamed of their erection. Whatever. </p>
<p id="a5dDoU">When I stand for the anthem, I don't do it simply because the PA guy told me to and I don't peek around to see how everybody else is doing it. You mind your own business. Kind of how it is or should be when you urinate in a public bathroom. But hey, somebody in uniform who is paid millions of dollars to play — or in Kaepernick's case, watch — a game in <a href="http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/05/11/14-nfl-teams-took-tax-dollars-for-patriotic-pregame-displays/">the organization that rakes in money off the military men and women</a> who fight for the flag the League honors before every game, that person sits down, and it becomes a story with lots and lots of legs and wildly polarizing opinions. In England, <a href="http://images.amcnetworks.com/ifc.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/fred-7-days.jpg">it's very rude</a> to point things out. In America, you would be remiss if you didn't.</p>
<p id="XLeNuw">The good thing about this is that it nudged a lot of people down a seldom trodden path of thought and discourse on important societal issues. You can question Kaepernick's method, like <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryRice/status/770451825921105920">Jerry Rice did</a>. You can question whether or not you think <a href="http://www.outkickthecoverage.com/colin-kaepernick-is-an-idiot-082716">Kaepernick's an idiot</a> or whether his intentions were pure. You can <a href="http://theundefeated.com/features/kaepernick-is-asking-for-justice-not-peace/">draw your own judgments</a>. You can even be flippant and <a href="https://twitter.com/Detroit4lyfe/status/769547137617100800">crack lame jokes and get taken too seriously</a>. You can really wonder or do <em>anything</em> you want within the laws if you wish, just as Kaepernick has every right to sit during the anthem and get a standing desk to put his clipboard on during the games if his employer allows it. What you cannot do, however, is deny facts. There <em>are </em>real issues in America that too many people are ignoring. Kaepernick has rightly shed light on some of those issues, and the Lions backup quarterback is not a real issue. </p>
<p id="ssQ3YD">Another undeniable fact? The once very successful quarterback under Jim Harbaugh turned backup has the <a href="http://www.forbes.com/forbes/welcome/?toURL=http://www.forbes.com/sites/darrenheitner/2016/09/07/colin-kaepernick-tops-jersey-sales-in-nfl/&refURL=https://www.google.com/&referrer=https://www.google.com/">the No. 1 jersey in the NFL</a>... Again, I'm talking about Kaepernick, you guys. You have to let it go. I'm not talking about <a href="https://twitter.com/clarencehilljr/status/773158265232293888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">circumcising mosquitoes</a>, although I'm sure Rudock jersey sales in Detroit are doing well.</p>
<p id="tGMCqM">Now let's back up the Brinks and cut some skin on these games: </p>
<p id="pOnNY8"><strong>Panthers (-3) over BRONCOS </strong></p>
<p id="bWnROX">It's the Super Bowl sequel, Superman Returns. Hopefully it doesn't suck. The Panthers are 27-3 in their last 30 games as favorites and nearly as good against the spread in those games. The "Super Bowl hangover" is probably a myth, but better believe the Broncos will be a little worse this year without Peyton Manning — as bad as he was at times last year — and a few different names on defense. Kelvin Benjamin is back for the Panthers and I expect his team to get their ringless revenge. </p>
<p id="6b28a8"><strong>FALCONS (-3) over Buccaneers</strong></p>
<p id="Hm3JIM">After seven mostly successful seasons with the Falcons, once fired but now hired Mike Smith is the defensive coordinator under one of his former assistants for the Buccaneers. Smith returns to the Georgia Dome in the stadium's last home opener before the Falcons move into a new stadium next season. If you don't think emotions will get in the way of schemes and timeouts will be misused, you're kidding yourself. I've heard from trusted Falcons fans that Matt Ryan looks scared for his life in the pocket — must be from hanging out with Matthew Stafford all offseason, amirite? — but I still think the Falcons will take it to their old boss.</p>
<p id="ykni22"><strong>TITANS (+2) over Vikings </strong></p>
<p id="dFFKpl">The game of running backs, but everyone's focused on the quarterback situation in Minnesota. The Vikings made a seemingly desperate move to acquire a backup quarterback, trading a first rounder for the man with small shoulder pads, Sam Bradford. The Rudock-for-backup fans love this move if they're Vikings fans, because every team needs a backup worth pulling for if your season goes up in flames. In all seriousness, <a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/2016/9/5/12800692/bradford-trade-final-thought">not the worst trade</a>, and it might even help them win an extra game or two this year, but it's not going to help them cover the Week 1 spread on the road. The story of this game will be Adrian Peterson and how he handles carrying the offensive burden while Shaun Hill and/or Sam Bradford get their happy little feet wet. On the other side, it's going to be interesting to see how Mike Mularkey distributes carries to what could be a devastating 1-2 punch in DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry, Marcus Mariota's new best friends. I don't want to call a winner in this one, but I feel like it's going to be close and low scoring.</p>
<p id="GHnjxk"><strong>Chargers (+7) over CHIEFS</strong></p>
<p id="Hv4FKz">A lot of spread here for a divisional matchup in Week 1, so I'm going with my guy, seven-time Dad Philip Rivers to keep things close. The Chargers have upgraded their team on both sides of the ball and I expect Melvin Gordon to have a rebound sophomore season to open up the passing lanes for Phil. Jamaal Charles is unlikely to play for the Chiefs, who are 1-3 in their last four home openers. Let's just forget that the win was against the Chargers in 2010... by seven. Push it real good! (P.S. I'm <em>shocked</em> Joey Bosa is hurt.)</p>
<p id="gLDZmh"><strong>SAINTS (-1) over Raiders</strong></p>
<p id="oLDWXf">I kind of love the Raiders' upside, but that's kind of like drinking the Lions Kool-Aid year to year. The Raiders are stacked with names that excite, but will they put it together? You don't make or miss the playoffs in Week 1. The freshly-inked Drew Brees gets it done in the Saints' home opener.</p>
<p id="RXBkbq"><strong>JETS (+2.5) over Bengals</strong></p>
<p id="JYMVEC">Are you kidding? Pick against the Jets at home on 9/11 and risk being ridiculed by my compatriots? I'm not doing it. "That doesn't have to do with football and technically they play in New Jersey," you might say. Fine, sit down during the national anthem if you want, but I stand and on this day I stand with the team with New York in its name. God Bless America and God Bless <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbUYhSV_u50">the Goddamn Jets.</a> I also think for football reasons the Jets will catch the Bengals off guard in their first game since dropping to 0-7 in the playoffs under Marvin Lewis. (How has he not been fired???) The Bengals will be missing Vontaze Burfict and Tyler Eifert, and Andy Dalton is still working out some kinks while possibly starting to look over his shoulder or at least wonder if the Bengals will keep him through 2018. Yeah, there's a lot of talk about the backup quarterback in Cincinnati, too, or so I hear from time to time from three of my friends who are Bengals fans.</p>
<p id="kX635d"><strong>Browns (+4) over EAGLES</strong></p>
<p id="LPQULs">When I first heard the Eagles traded Sam Bradford, I momentarily forgot they drafted Carson Wentz and thought maybe their 48-year-old coach Doug Pederson was coming out of retirement to be Philly's own Jackie Moon. Interestingly, Wentz was thought not good enough for the Browns — or not as good as the guy they'd ultimately acquire via trade — and so he's with the Eagles instead of the Browns. Not sure if that creates a chip on his shoulder to prove they made a mistake or he gift baskets a few interceptions to thank them. I think he'll have mixed feelings throughout the game and this will be a game that ends with a three-point margin.</p>
<p id="yD0FnI"><strong>Packers (-4.5) over JAGUARS</strong></p>
<p id="yWrTFP">This is the lock of the week for most handicappers, getting 90-percent or more of the money in Vegas books, and exactly why it scares me. I can see the Packers losing this game and talk radio immediately blaming Jordan Rodgers as a distraction and not whatever caused Josh Sitton to be released and an otherwise leaky offensive line. The Jaguars are quietly building a respectable team on paper, but it's still Packers-<em>Jaguars</em> in Week 1, so I have to go with the numbers here.</p>
<p id="YO37RW"><strong>Bills (+3) over RAVENS</strong></p>
<p id="GKPmm5">The Ravens lost big free agent Benjamin Watson to a season-ending injury against the Lions and have two rookies starting on the offensive line. The Bills may not be able to exploit that much with a weak defensive line, but they do have safety Aaron Williams returning. The last time an Aaron Williams returned, it resulted in <em>7 Days in Hell. </em>Great doc. I'd also like to think this is the beginning of the downfall of John Harbaugh in Baltimore, which will only lead him back home to Michigan to take over for Jim Caldwell. Caldwell will retire on top after winning the Super Bowl this season, of course. </p>
<p id="bbH3Di"><strong>TEXANS (-6.5) over Bears</strong></p>
<p id="wi0BOJ">I feel like this is going to be one of those complete meltdown years for the Bears and we should love it. Brock Osweiler will light up his former coach's weak secondary and the Texans will coast. </p>
<p id="17ShE5"><strong>Dolphins (+10.5) over SEAHAWKS</strong></p>
<p id="UAaSo5">Long #businesstrip for the Dolphins, who have a plethora of running backs, a promising quarterback and Suh. I don't think the Seahawks have a Week 1 letdown in them this year like they did last year, but I like the extra half point here. Dolphins keep it close. </p>
<p id="aCM7As"><strong>Giants (pk) over COWBOYS</strong></p>
<p id="8yia9A">The Cowboys are the glitz and glamour, America's team, the team with a shiny new running back and quarterback leading billionaire Jerry Jones' team into Week 1 of a new NFL season on 9/11 vs. the G-Men of New York. People forget the Cowboys finished last season 4-12 without Tony Romo. And the Giants weren't much better, finishing 1-6 in their last seven games and ending the season only a couple games better than Dallas. In the offseason, the Cowboys added a couple big names on offense and the Giants had a $100 million makeover on the defensive side of the ball. Balanced out, and if the last eight games between these two teams are any indication, the game will be fairly even — the average margin of victory over that span is just over five points.</p>
<p id="UAj3BL"><strong>Lions (+4) over COLTS</strong></p>
<p id="W2n2IP">It wouldn't be Week 1 without <a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/9/8/12830524/recipe-detroit-lions-cocktail-mixed-drink-honolulu-blue-kool-aid-gin-always-the-gin">some Lions </a><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/9/8/12830524/recipe-detroit-lions-cocktail-mixed-drink-honolulu-blue-kool-aid-gin-always-the-gin">K</a><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/9/8/12830524/recipe-detroit-lions-cocktail-mixed-drink-honolulu-blue-kool-aid-gin-always-the-gin">ool-</a><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/9/8/12830524/recipe-detroit-lions-cocktail-mixed-drink-honolulu-blue-kool-aid-gin-always-the-gin">A</a><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/9/8/12830524/recipe-detroit-lions-cocktail-mixed-drink-honolulu-blue-kool-aid-gin-always-the-gin">id</a> and a shocking Colts home loss. Ignoring the dress rehearsal, because Golden Tate told me to, the Lions should pick up right where they left off last season and turn some heads this year. I'm drunk, I guess, so just stick with me and hold my hair back if I start puking... yeah, I know I’m bald. Meanwhile, the Colts are beat up, especially in the secondary, which <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeClayNFL/status/772914718071787522">Stafford will pick apart.</a> Barring a major injury, which should always go without saying, I think the Lions win. </p>
<p id="pQYpaN"><strong>CARDINALS (-6) over Patriots</strong></p>
<p id="7VCZCV">Jimmy Garoppolo gets the start for the Patriots, the first time someone not named Tom Brady — suspension, probable — will start a regular season game for the Patriots in the history of the last eight years. More backup quarterback talk! </p>
<p id="CWtGPN"><strong>Steelers (-3) over REDSKINS</strong></p>
<p id="Fw4d8p">Mike Tomlin said it's less about the players that play — like Le'Veon Bell, out — and more about <a href="http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/week-1-preview-steelers-at-redskins-090716">doing you.</a> I like that. Do you? I really want Kirk Cousins to do well, but I want the Redskins to fail so miserably overall. This is the first of two mostly unexciting Monday Night Football games. Needle doesn't move much for me. </p>
<p id="ShSdNp"><strong>RAMS (-2.5) over 49ers</strong></p>
<p id="2LAOcO">The game I'd be more interested in watching is this late game. Unfortunately, old turds who pass out on their couch in their work socks with half a glass of whiskey sure to go to waste on the coffee table beside them — like me — will only get to see backup quarterback Colin Kaepernick sit or kneel during the national anthem and that's about it. For as bad as these teams will likely be this season, there are a number of intriguing narratives in this one, like it being the first game back in LA and Chip Kelly's first game as head coach of the 49ers. (I'm going to miss that tobacco-spitting sweat box of a man Jim Tomsula, though). Oh yeah, the football game... Rams win. </p>
<h2 id="Ag1eQ0">ALL-TIME RECORD: 676-581 </h2>
<p id="vEOQDr"><em>If you want in on the Pride of Detroit Yahoo! pick 'em against the spread league, what are you waiting for? Here's the info: ID# 27890 and password is ansah. I’ll track the weekly results in this column every week. </em></p>
<p id="36WeUR"><em>If you like picks with a teaser twist, </em><em><a href="http://www.fourplayfootball.com/">check out Michigan start up FourPlayFootball!</a></em><em> Download the</em><em><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/fourplay-football/id990493981?mt=8"> app on iPhone</a></em><em> or </em><em><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fourplaysports.fourplay&hl=en">Google play for Androiders</a></em><em> and start a league with your friends FOR FREE! You only have to make four picks each week against a 14-point teased spread. If that sounds easy, try it and you could win $1 million if you have a perfect season through the playoffs. Special restrictions apply. If you have any questions about it, reach out to me and I'd be happy to help answer them for you. </em></p>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/9/8/12851354/nfl-picks-against-the-spread-week-1-colin-kaepernick-national-anthemBrian Packey2015-12-27T12:47:58-05:002015-12-27T12:47:58-05:00Week 16 NFL picks against the spread
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<figcaption>Gregory Shamus/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Here are your Week 16 NFL picks against the spread. </p> <p><a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Lions</a> defensive coordinator <a target="_blank" href="http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/21288/lions-dc-teryl-austin-not-a-big-fan-of-holidays-any-of-them">Teryl Austin is not a fan of the holidays</a> and offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter doesn't seem to be either, or at least couldn't rank them off the top of his head, so let's take some time to rank them for Jim Bob and lend some empathy toward those who must work on these otherwise days of celebration.</p>
<p><b>6. Labor Day </b></p>
<p>Why? Because it's the unofficial end of summer, yet extends your summer, and what better way to honor work by not working?</p>
<p><b>5. Halloween </b></p>
<p>Why? It's fun to scare people, and pillow cases and eyes are bigger than stomachs. Inevitable tummy aches are why this isn't higher on the list.</p>
<p><b>4. Memorial Day</b></p>
<p>Why? It's a day to honor those who died in the armed forces, mostly done by taking the day off to grill, drink beer and get sunburnt.</p>
<p><b>3. Independence Day </b></p>
<p>Why? No, not the 1996 <span>Will Smith</span> movie, but the holiday commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence, freeing what became our nation from the British Empire in 1776. What better way to celebrate than by fireworks, grilling, drinking beer and getting sunburnt!</p>
<p><b>2-1-0. Thanksgiving-Christmas-Happy New Year</b></p>
<p>Why? Good foooood! But more importantly these three together serve as the start, middle and end of a month-plus of holiday spirit, giving thanks for family and friends, and lots of time off (more when you're in school) to be able to enjoy time with them. Unfortunately, for athletes who travel all the time and must prepare for games to be played on and around these holidays, they may not get to enjoy them as much as others, so remember that when you're comfortably on your couch cussing out players/coaches and/or screaming for them to be benched/cut/fired (BUT SERIOUSLY, HAPPY TRAILS, JOSH SMITH).</p>
<p>Rank yours in the comments.</p>
<p>On to the picks:</p>
<h4>RAIDERS (-5) over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">Chargers</a>
</h4>
<p><i>Wrong. </i></p>
<h4>EAGLES (-3) over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins" class="sbn-auto-link">Redskins</a>
</h4>
<p><i>Wrong</i></p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Panthers</a> (-7) over FALCONS</h4>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cowboys</a> (+6) over BILLS</h4>
<h4>LIONS (-9) over <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">49ers</a>
</h4>
<p>Last home game for Megatron? First time these two teams have played at Ford Field since the Jim Harbaugh handshake game? Crazy. Lions win 27-17.</p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Texans</a> (off) over TITANS</h4>
<h4>CHIEFS (-12.5) over <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Browns</a><br>DOLPHINS (off) over <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colts</a><br><a href="https://www.patspulpit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Patriots</a> (-3) over JETS <br><a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bears</a> (+3) over BUCCANEERS</h4>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Steelers</a> (-10) over RAVENS<br>SAINTS (-3.5) over <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Jaguars</a><br><a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Packers</a> (+4.5) over CARDINALS<br>SEAHAWKS (-13.5) over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams" class="sbn-auto-link">Rams</a><br>VIKINGS (-6) over <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Giants</a><br><a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bengals</a> (+3.5) over BRONCOS</h4>
<p> </p>
<h4>LAST WEEK: 10-5</h4>
<h4>ALL-TIME: 658-567</h4>
<h4>SEASON:</h4>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/LJRQiPjDiBOJuoPN_cryVVlNnFE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/5855635/Screen_Shot_2015-12-27_at_12.34.51_PM.0.png">
</figure>
</p>
<p>Scriggl improves to .500 at 110-110.</p>
<p>Leave us your picks in the comments.</p>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/12/27/10669596/week-16-nfl-picks-against-the-spread-favorite-holidays-rankedBrian Packey2015-12-20T12:28:04-05:002015-12-20T12:28:04-05:00Week 15 NFL picks against the spread
<figure>
<img alt="One jersey will be worth more than the other... " src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ODCw1Ko2qtZqxSKamr-gw9SCFqY=/0x77:3464x2386/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48397419/usa-today-8995546.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>One jersey will be worth more than the other... | Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here are your Week 15 NFL picks against the spread. </p> <p>Happy Holidays, everybody.</p>
<h4>RAMS (-1.5) over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bucsnation.com/">Buccaneers</a>
</h4>
<p>The 31-23 finish a lot closer than it really was. I did not expect this one to be a blow out but it really was.</p>
<h4>COWBOYS (+3) over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">Jets</a>
</h4>
<p>KELLEN MOORE! Push.</p>
<h4>VIKINGS (-5.5) over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Bears</a>
</h4>
<p>If the Bears have been good at all, they have been good about keeping games close all season, including a three-point loss to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Vikings</a> earlier this season. But back-to-back bad losses at home before this road game has me feeling like that trend will end here on the road in Minnesota with the Vikings needing a win.</p>
<h4>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Texans</a> (off) over COLTS</h4>
<p>Backup quarterbacks dueling it out for the division lead, so I'm going with defense here.</p>
<h4>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Titans</a> (+14) over PATRIOTS</h4>
<p>Two touchdowns is a lot in the NFL for the worst of teams, but the Titans have shown flashes of decency this season with Marcus Mariota. The Pats lost another RB for the season and <span>Tom Brady</span> is under the weather, so I could see the Titans covering this quite easily.</p>
<h4>GIANTS (+5) over Panthers</h4>
<p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> have a history of upending undefeated teams and they badly need this game. The Panthers, meanwhile, clinched a first round bye last week, so while they still have a lot to play for with home field and an undefeated season, I could see a let down on the road.</p>
<h4>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Bills</a> (-1) over REDSKINS</h4>
<p>You don't like that?</p>
<h4>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Falcons</a> (+3) over JAGUARS</h4>
<p>I can't believe I feel this way, but I think the Falcons will be 7-7 after this one...</p>
<h4>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/">Chiefs</a> (-7) over RAVENS</h4>
<p>Whatever needs to happen... you know.</p>
<h4>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> (-3) over RAIDERS</h4>
<p>Green Bay dominates this series, winning by an average of over 23 points per game dating back to Oakland's time in LA.</p>
<h4>SEAHAWKS (-14.5) over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Browns</a>
</h4>
<p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/">Seahawks</a>, ugh, are putting up 35 points per game in four straight and giving up just 14 points, skewed by a 39-30 comeback win against the explosive <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Pittsburgh Steelers</a>. And yet, they are still playing for a playoff spot, so they'll be focused and ready to impress their fans, who they haven't played in front of this month. Also, the Browns.</p>
<h4>STEELERS (-6) over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighreport.com/">Broncos</a>
</h4>
<p>The Steelers are another team that has been lighting up the scoreboard lately, but they'll be tested against the vaunted Broncos defense. The Broncos offense will not be able to keep up, though.</p>
<h4>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Dolphins</a> (+2) over CHARGERS</h4>
<p>Last game in San Diego? Go out with a dud? Sure.</p>
<h4>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a> (-4.5) over 49ERS</h4>
<p>No Andy Dalton, no problem in San Fran.</p>
<h4>EAGLES (+3.5) over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Cardinals</a>
</h4>
<p>Cardinals by a field goal.</p>
<h4>SAINTS (-3) over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Lions</a>
</h4>
<p>My brother will be at the game, but it will be like most Sundays at Ford Field for him. What a sad, sad Monday Night Football game this turned out to be.</p>
<h4>LAST WEEK: 9-7</h4>
<h4>ALL-TIME: 648-562</h4>
<h4>SEASON:</h4>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/vVESasPlKW0ufpJXnwxkwrcswMY=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/5841721/Screen_Shot_2015-12-20_at_11.28.16_AM.0.png">
</figure>
</p>
<p>scriggl with a 6-10 week last week to put him at 102-103. Leave your picks in the comments and I'll track week-to-week.</p>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/12/20/10629856/week-15-nfl-picks-against-the-spread-making-that-late-chargeBrian Packey2015-12-12T16:30:02-05:002015-12-12T16:30:02-05:00Week 14 NFL picks against the spread
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/L7GB5rCbmF2SUWp6jVAMGS1ncR4=/0x0:4896x3264/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47948145/GettyImages-486091514.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>John Moore/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here are your Week 14 NFL picks against the spread. You should definitely take these picks to your local bookie and make these picks.</p> <p>There was <a target="_blank" href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/12/9/9877718/lions-notes-should-you-raise-your-children-to-be-lions-fans">a question in the headline</a> a few days ago -- '<i>Should you raise your children to be Lions fans?' -- </i>with a link in the article to <a target="_blank" href="https://thecauldron.si.com/on-family-and-fandom-d49e8fddf892">a read by Tommy Beer at The Cauldron</a>. It was a good read, because I too have children (well, one right now, but a son is on the way), and I too would like to have sports experiences with them like those I have shared with my father. It was also a timely read, because after last week's Lions loss I had a few friends ask me if I planned to raise my son as a Lions fan. Before I could even respond they added that it would be bad parenting to do so. I think they were serious, too.</p>
<p>My response to that question is with a question like that in this headline.</p>
<p>The answer to both questions can honestly be the same, even if you'd obviously prefer one over the other (little gamblers, because it's easier than being a Lions fan...just kidding!) The question is kind of silly is my point.</p>
<p>I don't remember my Dad suffocating me with Detroit sports stuff growing up. He was a die-hard fan and we were in Michigan. It was easy for me to decide on my own. I don't think my Dad infiltrated my thoughts and planted it into my subconscious. I don't think so anyway. My little brother was somehow a Packers and 76ers fan growing up, so either he failed miserably with him or ... okay, I think my whole point is ruined.</p>
<p>No, but seriously, my children are going to get way more Detroit sports in their lives than any other sports as long as I'm around, but I'm not necessarily going to actively push them one way or the other. Is Daddy a Lions fan? Yes, duh. Does Daddy gamble? That's none of your damn business and I'd appreciate it if you stayed out of my personal affairs. If my children follow my lead as a Detroit sports fan, great, I can't wait to share in the ups and downs with them. If they want to take down the Detroit sports paraphernalia from their walls when they're old enough to realize they're there and pick up their hometown teams (Atlanta) or their heart desires other teams, fine, but we'll still have fun with sports!</p>
<p>Caveat and overriding point: I'm not saying this is how you should raise your children, because there are so many good ways, and I don't really want to be told how I should raise mine.</p>
<p>But let me tell you how to gamble:</p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Vikings</a> (+7.5) over CARDINALS</h4>
<p>The spread got as ugly as +11, which would've been nice to have when the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cardinals</a> were up 10 in the fourth quarter, but I knew the Vikings would put up a valiant fight after getting embarrassed the week before. I picked against the Vikings last week because I didn't think they were the best team in the NFC North, but I also don't think they're the kind of NFL team that gets stomped in consecutive weeks. Feel me?</p>
<h4>BEARS (-3.5) over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins" class="sbn-auto-link">Redskins</a>
</h4>
<p>Feeling with zero reference to fact: The <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bears</a> can't win this season by more than a field goal.</p>
<p>Fact: The Bears have two wins by more than a field goal this season. Their average margin of victory in their five wins is actually 6.8, but that's skewed on the high side because they beat the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams" class="sbn-auto-link">Rams</a> by 24. Take out that Rams game and it is 2.5.</p>
<p>So why did I take -3.5 here? Because I don't know, man; I just like the Bears here.</p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Steelers</a> (+3) over BENGALS</h4>
<p>The <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bengals</a> snapped a three-game rivalry skid against the Steelers with a 16-10 win at the beginning of last month. <span>Ben Roethlisberger</span> threw three interceptions in that game. The Steelers responded by winning three of their next four while averaging almost 36 points per game. The Bengals are putting up 33 points per game in their last three games. If you're thinking about that 16-10 game and betting big money on the under 50 here, you might want to rethink. This is going to be a shootout and I think the Steelers are going to win.</p>
<h4>BROWNS (-1.5) over <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">49ers</a>
</h4>
<p>Oh, <span>Johnny Manziel</span> is starting? Cool! When the <a href="http://www.49ers.com/news/article-2/Game-Preview-Five-Things-to-Watch-When-the-49ers-Visit-the-Browns/51c4b803-0cfd-4856-9493-77ec9c0bd27e" target="_blank">No. 1 thing to watch </a>is the return of the kicker and <i><span>Shaun Draughn</span> </i>to Cleveland, you know for sure this is the Week 14 Puke Game of the Week.</p>
<h4>CHIEFS (-10) over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">Chargers</a>
</h4>
<p>After the Chargers won four straight games in this series from 2012-2013, the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chiefs</a> have taken the last three, and the last two have not been particularly close (21 average margin of victory). The Chiefs are on fire, winning six straight, while the Chargers have lost seven of their last eight. This spread isn't even right, as it has ballooned to 12 in some books, so... of course I'm taking the Chargers to cover here. Just kidding. This will not be like the Vikings-Cardinals game, because one of these teams actually sucks.</p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Lions</a> (+1) over RAMS</h4>
<p>Stop me if you have read or heard this already this week: It will be interesting to see how the Lions respond to last week's heartbreaking loss to the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Packers</a>. You were probably screaming STOP! before you got to the second 'to' and/or you've already clicked out of this article and/or why am I still typing if you have done that? But seriously, if you're still here, I don't even know how <i>I am </i>going to respond to that game this weekend, so there's no telling which Lions team shows up in St. Louis. I wouldn't be surprised if they lose, but I predicted a one-point victory and the Lions are now three-point favorites, so I'll stick with them until I die of a coronary.</p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Titans</a> (+7) over JETS</h4>
<p>This will be low scoring and I actually like the Titans as an upset here.</p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bills</a> (-1.5) over EAGLES</h4>
<p><span>Sam Bradford</span> hasn't turned the ball over in three games. The only thing that concerns me in this game is that Rob Ryan was seen in Buffalo this past week wearing all Bills gear. I still think Bradford's luck of turnover-less games will run out and the Bills will win.</p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Saints</a> (+3.5) over BUCCANEERS</h4>
<p>The Saints lost to the Bucs in September, as well as their seven-game win streak against Tampa Bay, but I think they start a new one on Sunday. Yes, Saints cover AND win.</p>
<h4>PANTHERS (-7) over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons" class="sbn-auto-link">Falcons</a>
</h4>
<p>Wins seem to become a little harder for undefeated teams the longer they go undefeated, so I almost went Falcons in this I-85 rivalry, but I just couldn't bring myself to... The Falcons have been so damn miserable since starting 5-0, losing six of their last seven, and they really don't have <i>any</i> great wins on their schedule. They will need a miracle in this one.</p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colts</a> (pick) over JAGUARS</h4>
<p>This is contingent on <span>Matt Hasselbeck</span> playing, but I think the Colts will beat the Jags for the seventh straight time.</p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Seahawks</a> (-6) over RAVENS</h4>
<p>Welp, the Seahawks are back. They have won three straight while averaging 35 points and the <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Ravens</a>-<a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Dolphins</a> game last week didn't even add up to that total. This spread has more than doubled in some books, so this should be the easiest cover of the week.</p>
<h4>
<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/oakland-raiders" class="sbn-auto-link">Raiders</a> (+7.5) over BRONCOS</h4>
<p>I think the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Broncos</a> will win, which will be their ninth straight against the Raiders, but I'm taking this because of the half point. The spread hasn't moved a whole lot and the Raiders absolutely need this game if they want to keep any hopes of the playoffs alive, so I expect them to keep this game within a touchdown.</p>
<h4>PACKERS (-7.5) over <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cowboys</a>
</h4>
<p>I fully expect the Packers to ride their Week 13 Hail Mary to a resounding win in this musty 'Game of the Week.' An early Christmas miracle with <span>DeSean Jackson</span> making a cameo dressed up as Santa Claus would be needed for the Cowboys to win this game.</p>
<h4>
<a href="https://www.patspulpit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Patriots</a> (-3.5) over TEXANS</h4>
<p><span>Tom Brady</span> after a down week looking to rebound on prime time only getting 3.5 points? Sign me up.</p>
<h4>DOLPHINS (+1.5) over <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Giants</a>
</h4>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/08/sports/football/giants-tom-coughlin-jets-loss.html?_r=0"> This from the <i>Times</i></a> was interesting:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>If each Giants game this season had ended with 75 seconds remaining in regulation on the scoreboard clock, the team's record would be 9-3.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>If they didn't have four Super Bowls, and two in the last eight years, I'd actually feel for them, I really would. The Lions would be 5-7 if plays couldn't happen with 0.0 seconds on the clock and maybe 6-6 if a flag were thrown in Seattle. They would be 8-4 if the second halves in Week 1 and Week 7 didn't count and 8-3* if games in London didn't count. I feel ya, Giants!</p>
<p>Dolphins win this one with more than 76 seconds remaining on the clock.</p>
<h4>LAST WEEK: 9-7<br>ALL-TIME: 639-555<br>SEASON:</h4>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JksmyeeAaa7a51w5jWQsNiVMkKA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4652119/stand.0.PNG">
</figure>
</p>
<p>Scriggl with another strong week last week, 10-6, pushing him to what I believe is now a 96-93 record.</p>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/12/12/9988498/week-14-nfl-picks-against-the-spread-should-you-raise-your-childrenBrian Packey