NFL 2009 Week 13: Picks & Selections

Benjamin Lee Eckstein & J. McCarthy

2009 NFL Week 13 Picks

Falcons-x (+5.5) over Eagles

Took the bundle with the Redskins last week and got the cover, and while 5.5 ain't quite as big a bundle, Vic is buying the home team in the ATL. However, we're expecting a similar scenario, where the Birds win, but just by a fingernail. So you're questioning my mental capability picking the Falcons without their fabulous young QB Matt Ryan. Understood. Chris Redman, the backup, who had a superb career at Louisville, stepped in for Ryan in the first quarter of last week's game against Tampa Bay, and hit on 23 of 41 for 243 yards and two touchdowns. Not too shabby for a number two. Then there's Atlanta's record at home the last two years, which is sitting at a VERY healthy 12-1. Kinda tough to buck that number. But because of the questionable status of RB Michael Turner, we'll keep this selection on the light side. Eagles 24-21.

Titans (+7) over Colts-x

What do you do when you're 11-0 and have clinched the AFC South and a spot in the playoffs? We'll find out Sunday. Don't think that Indy will start resting players just yet, but they can't possibly bring the same intensity this week as they did for the last three games (New England, Baltimore and Houston). Now the Horseshoes have to deal with a Tennessee team that has ABSOLUTELY no resemblance to the team they beat in Nashville back in October, 31-9. Since the bye, the Titans rocked with a perfect 5-0 straight up mark, and 4-1 against the spread. Vince Young has been a revelation, while all Chris Johnson has done is lead the entire NFL in rushing with 1,396 yards. Since Jeff Fisher's kids have covered five of the last seven against the Colts, and have a boatload of confidence, they should be able to get another spread W inside the Lucas Oil barn.

Steelers-x (-14) over Raiders

Big Ben is back, and BOY does Pittsburgh need him now. The Steelers have dropped three in a row, which happens about as often as Tiger Woods...nevermind. They have not dropped four in a row since the 2003 season, and it ain't gonna happen here. The Steelers are 10-1 in their last 11 at home, while Oakland has covered only three of its last nine. Feeling a big fat bagel for the Silver & Black, with Pitt dropping a 24 spot on the visitors.

Redskins-x (+10) over Saints

If Sean Payton can get his players back at a fever pitch just six days after smothering the Patriots in a game that everyone admitted was a HUGE statement, then he IS the best coach in the NFL. And I'll never doubt New Orleans again. But we feel that double digits is worth a shot. Washington is on a 3-0 spread roll, has won 10 of the last 13 against the Saints, including an impressive 19-14 victory in D.C. last season.

Packers-x (-3) over Ravens (Mon)

Really like what Aaron Rodgers and Green Bay have done since the bye week, winning five of seven, straight up and against the spread. And if we're talking defense, most people would think Baltimore, but under Dom Capers, the defensive coordinator, Green Bay has allowed a league low 281 yards per game. Don't forget that Ravens QB Joe Flacco is still fighting a sprained ankle, which is why Baltimore has averaged only 16 points the last four games.

Giants-x (+2) over Cowboys

Despite the recent tumble, losing five of the last six, the New Yorkers always are ready for the hated invaders from the Big D, covering four of the last five games at home against the'Boys.

Browns-x (+13.5) over Chargers

San Diego is coming off two big division wins (32-3 over Denver and 43-14 over Kaycee) and is flying to Dallas next week. How could the Lightning Bolts possibly be interested in this game? They CAN'T, but will still win by 10.

Chiefs-x (+5) over Broncos

Kaycee has won five of the last six at home against Denver, so we like the dog.

Texans (PK) over Jaguars-x

Houston has covered 11 of the last 15 against Jax, so we'll open the wallet, but just a hair.

Bengals-x (-13) over Lions

Since Detroit has won only TWO of its last 25, Cincy looks pretty solid, but the number is huge, so stay light.

Bucs (+6.5) over Panthers-x

If Carolina is gonna roll with Matt Moore in his first NFL start, we gotta tickle Tampa.

Bears-x (-9) over Rams

Chicago is desperate for a win, and St. Louis is coming to town...BONUS!

Seahawks-x (PK) over 49ers

Seattle has covered five of the last seven at home, while SF has won just four of the last 15 on the road.

Cards-x (+4) over Vikings

Looks like Kurt Warner is a go after the concussion, but if he's not, then we are a no go on this selection.

Patriots (-3) over Dolphins-x

Just got word that Tom Brady is questionable, so we'll wait on his status before committing to this game.

 

x-home team

Last week: 6-10

Season record: 92-83-1

 

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