Take this to the bank...

I have two selections for the week:

Ravens giving 6.5 to the Browns - for 3 Stars
Philly/Houston over - for 2 stars

Just looking to make a dent...check out the other post for comments on all games...

Keeping it real...

When you are down 8 stars + juice, it is time to go back to basics...that means picking smart...here is the write up for this week...check my next post for the official picks of the week...

GuruJoe:

In a nutshell tihs week is a tough one if you want to win money. If you want action then flip a coin on a few games but for money making my plays are:Balt -6.5 - This defense is playing sick. I can't see Charlie Frye scoring at all against this defense. Balt O is moving methodically and capable of putting up some points while the Balt D is capable of shutting out a horrible Clev O.Cincy/PItt over 43 - I think Carson wants revenge and the Cincy D is hurting bad. The combination means points by Cincy and points by us Pitt. Troy might be playing on one arm still and Pitt is coming off the Monday night game. Both teams are going to be up for this game so if Ben can wash away the rust there should be some points scored.Jets - I don't think Buff should be giving anyone 5 points. Jets have shown some heart in 2 games and are capapble of making a game vs Just Punt. Buffalo D has played well but I'm not sold on either of these teams. I have trouble betting on either team here but its interesting based on Jets heart.

GuruBob:

Skins @ Hosuton

The Skins have started the season with 2 big losses to MN and @ Dallas. The offense has been as effective as an AA meeting at a bar. Portis didn't play last week and clearly wasn't 100% in the opener. All reports indicate that he is going to play and ready to run. Houston has lost its first two games and appears to have not solved anything on D...their pass defense has been horrendous...of course, the Colts do that to a lot of team...but they also yielded over 300 yards to the Eagles. If you have a struggling offense and are on the road, there is no better place to go than Houston to get it back on track.

I am guessing this game is about a FG game with the total around 37. Based on the fact that the Skins have done nothing on O, I would stay away from the line...however, the total could be some where to look. If this number is in the high thirties, the over might be a play here. The Skins D is giving up yards and gave up some points to the Boys last week...I would recommend playing over anything in the 30's...

"The Man" has this game at Skins by 4 and total at 37.5...the over could be a play...GuruJoe talk to me here...

NYJ @ Buffalo

Buffalo's D has been solid against the pass and a sieve against the run...the J.E.T.S. Jets Jets Jets beat a very bad Titans' team on the road and then proceeded to only play about 1.5 quarters at home against the Pats, but made that game very interesting. The J.E.T.S. Jets Jets Jets are 19th against the run and that is the only thing the Bills can do...

I wouldn't touch this game for anything. I am guessing it is about a pick em game and the total in the mid 30's...

"The Man" has the Bills giving 5.5 and the total at 34.5...I am not sure Just Punt and the Bills should be giving any points to anyone...5.5 seems like a lot, but ultimately we need to learn more about these two teams before we make a play...but the J.E.T.S. Jets Jets Jets are intriguing...

GB @ Detroit

It is scary how close the Lions were to beating the Bears last week...huh Roy? Nice prediction...and you thought our - 8 stars thus far was bad...Roy thinks the first week they should have scored 40...they scored 6...they were going to beat the Bears...they lost by 26...

GB looked horrible against the Bears, but better against the Aints...Favre looked better, but there is no running game to speak of. They have been decent against the run, but 30th against the pass after just two games.

This would be a no play game for me as well. I am guessing the line will be GB getting about 5 and the total in the low 40's....

"The Man" is giving Favre and the Pack a TD and the total at 39.5...like I said...I wouldn't touch this game...

Jax @ Indi

The Colts offense is already rolling...of course, facing Houston will have that effect on your offense...the Jags D is not Houston...Jax comes off a big win against my Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers...that game was about as hard hitting as I have seen in a long time...this game will truly test the toughness of the Colts.

I am guessing the line here is Indi by around 4 and the total around 43...I would not touch the line as the Jags are coming off an emotional win...I would be very interested in anything under 45...I see this game being played close to the vest...

"The Man" was not impressed with the Jags victory as they are now getting a TD...the total is at 42.5...this is close as the Jags could very easily stay within a TD, but I would ultimately stay away...

Bears @ MN

I guess the QB controversy is over in Chi-town...Grossman has looked very good, but these games were against the Pack non-attack and the cowardly Lions...the Vikes have been playing ball control offense by handing it off to Chester Taylor and asking old man Johnson not to make mistakes...so far, it has worked...Ryan Longwell has as many TD passes as the old man...I personally think the old man will have to make a play this week if they want to win...

I am guessing the Bears will be giving about 2 points and the total will be in the mid 30's. I personally look for the Bears to pull this one out as I am not a believer that the Vikes are as good as their record. I am very tempted by the Bears on any line under 3...I would not touch the total...

"The Man" has the Vikes getting 3.5 and the total at 35...3.5 too much to give on the road in a big divisional game...

TN @ Miami

The non-memorable Titans go to the fish out of water...I am shocked by the egg laid by the Fins against Buffalo...but what better way to turn a season around than to face one of the 3 worst teams in the NFL...the Titans are horrible and will prove it once again this weekend...

The line should be Fins giving about a TD and the total in the high 30's...I wouldn't touch this game for anything. I think the Titans stink and the Fins should blow them out, but I would like to see it on the field and get that offense going before I count on them again...

"The Man" has the Fins giving 10.5 and the total at 35.5...I don't understand the Fins giving 10.5 to anyone after their first 2 weeks...stay away...

Cinci @ Pitt

The Bungles come to the Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. Carson Palmer has looked good and ready to exact revenge, but Kimo is in NYC...the Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers come off a slobber knocker against the Jags. They were shut out and quite frankly lost playing their game...tough D and run the ball...the difference is that the Jags exectued it better...the Bungles are really beat up...they lost their C, S, and LB last week...not to mention that Thurman is still suspended...I just don't know if their defense will be able to overcome all these missing players...the other question is will the Steel Curtain be able to contain the juggernaut...

I live in Pittsburgh, so I know the line is around 2 and the total is around 42...I would tend to go over this game, but would not touch the line itself...although GuruBob and GuruJoe will be in attendance...

"The Man" has Cinci getting 1.5 and the total at 43...the over is very intriguing as I think both teams will score...GuruJoe, can you talk me out of this?

Carolina @ TB

Could these two teams win the award for most disappointing thus far? Chris Simms has looked lost...the Cadillac is looking more like a Citation...the typical TB D has looked average at best...on the other side, Carolina's O-line is beaten up...Steve Smith has yet to play, but has been upgraded to probably for this week...if Jake can stay off his back, SS is the type of weapon that changes a game...one of these teams will virtually take themselves out of the division race after this game with an 0-3 record...

I am guessing this game has Carolina as a small favorite or a pick em game...the total is probably in the mid-30's...I would stay away from this game altogether...

"The Man" has Carolina giving 3 and the total at 33.5...stay away as I mentioned before.

Balt @ Cleve

The old Cleveland Browns (Ravens) travel to Cleveland to face the new Browns...if I were a Cleveland fan, I would certainly like them to switch uniforms...the Ravens D has been stellar looking like they are in old form...their offense has been steady, but far from spectacular...Cleveland meanwhile continues to get beat up...McClutcheon is on IR...Roye, Joe J, and Baxter are doubtful...this doesn't look good for the new Cleveland Browns...

I know this line is 6.5 and the gurus say jump...the total is probably in the mid-30's...I can't see Cleveland scoring here...the Ravens D is just too strong...my only fear with the total is Frye and company making mistakes...check back on this one for a selection...

"The Man" has the Ravens giving 6.5 and the total at 33.5...this is at least a 2 TD game...GuruJoe pointed this one out early and I agree...this will be a large play...

G-men @ Seattle

The New York Football Giants had an incredible come from behind victory in Philly...Seattle was able to climb to 2-0 with a win against AZ last week...Seattle's D did a nice job of containing the high octane offense of the Cards. The G-men finally decided to start playing in the 4th quarter...

I am guessing Seattle will be giving about 5 and the total will be in the mid-40's...I would not touch this game...

"The Man" has the Hawks giving 3.5 and the total at 43...too close to what I think...

The Rams @ AZ

St. Louis' new run first offensive attack has produced one whopping TD...they managed to hold Denver to less FG's than them and win in week one and then lost badly at SF...AZ meanwhile was able to hold on against SF in week one and could not muster an offense in week 2 at Seattle. I see this game being similar to when the 49ers came for a visit...

I am guessing the Rams will be getting about 5 and the total will be set in the mid-40's. I would not touch the line, but would be intrigued by the over. I would go over any total of 43 or lower...

"The Man" has the Cards giving 4.5 and the total at 45...too close for me...

Philly @ SF

The Eagles soar to SF for the weekend...they will be without Kearse for the rest of the year...Hood and Sheppard probably won't play...the D looked solid against the G-men and then wilted in the 4th quarter...prevent D clearly prevented victory in this one...the 49ers meanwhile had all cylinders going agains the Rams...

I am guessing the line will be close, but will say Eagles will be giving a small number...the total should be around 43...I would not touch the line, though I think the Eagles will win this one...I would be interested in the over as I think both teams will score...go over any number below 41...

"The Man" has Philly giving 6 and the total at 41.5...the over is really tempting me...the line is too many points on the road...

Denver @ NE

Denver has looked awful on offense...they can still run the ball, but have been unabel to get anything done through the air...NE has been very balanced, but not overly impressive in their first two victories...if Tom Brady can continue to spread the ball around and the running game continue to be effective, they will continue to win.

I would put this line at Denver +5 and the total around 40...I wouldn't touch this game as you never know what Jake the Snake will show up...let's see where the total is...

"The Man" has Denver getting 6.5 and the total at 38.5...too close for my liking...

Atlanta @ NO

I can tell you right now that I would not this game for anything...this is an emotional game as the Aints return home for the first time in a long time...Atlanta is clearly more talented and playing very well...I am not convinced by the Aints wins in Cleve and GB...STAY AWAY from this one...

Line should be Atlanta giving about a FG and the total in the low 40's...

"The Man" says to give NO 3.5 and the total at 43...I said I wouldn't touch this game and I meant it...

More money to be made here than the champagne room...

Your official week 2 picks are:

The Miami Dolphins as your first 4 Star pick...lead pipe lock of the week...
The New York Football Giants as a 2 Star pick
The Denver Broncos as a 2 Star pick

See below for further analysis:

Buffalo @ Miami

How did Just Punt keep last week so close? How did the Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers demolish the Fins? Now what? I look for Daunte and the Fins to establish their running game against a Buffalo D that gave up 180+ yards...not to mention that Troy Vincent has been put on IR and Takeo Spikes thinks it is a monetary reason rather than football decision...dissention on the Bills mounts...no pun intended...

The Fins come in pretty healthy and somewhat embarassed by my team...and it doesn't take much of an offense to contain Just Punt...I think the Fins should be favored by at least 7 and the total around 38...I would take the Fins on any line under 7...

"The Man" has this game at Fins -6 with a total of 37...I really like the Fins here...I am not convinced by the Bills one week wonder...I would not touch the total as I think Just Punt might do nothing...

GuruJoe adds: Fins -6 Buff - Again, one team gets embarassed on the road, the other shows they could have something this year. WRONG, the Fins were embarassed and the Bills showed something but I think both are exceptions. Buff hung with NE based on a fumble return. Saban is of the Belicheck/Parcells mode. He's going to be pissed at the Fins play last week and poor Just Punt is going to suffer as a result. I like the Fins here.

NYG @ Philly

This game is very interesting...Philly won a road game in week one against a weak Houston team...NYG lost at home in Prime Time to Eli's older brother (why can't a younger brother win one at some point?). I have said all along that I believe the Eagles will be back...Westbrook is probable, which scares me and more importantly Lito Sheppard is out...which hurts their passing D tremendoulsy against a very strong passing team... NYG lost to Indi, but didn't look horrible...I can't see NYG losing this game based on the Lito injury, but that is why they play the games...I would put this line at NYG -1 and the total at 41...without Lito, I would take the G-men getting any points...I would not touch the total...

"The Man" has Philly as a 3 point favorite at home and the total at 41...I can't believe the G-men are getting 3 points...especially with Sheppard hurt...I am falling in love with the G-men getting 3...GuruJe, please talk me out of it...

GuruJoe adds: My Favorite of the week seems to be the G-men getting 3 vs Philly. These Giant/Philly games are dogfights. A FG on either side could be alot of points given how both teams appear poised for the season. With Lito out there's going to be more support needed back there which could open it up for Tiki. I agree so much that I benched McNabb in my one league in favor of Warner because I fear a low scoring match here......like my marriage.

KC @ Denver

KC without Green is horrible...Denver should rule this game...if this line is less than 9, then it isn't enough...I would put the over/under as low because I am not sure KC will score...36?

"The Man" has this line at -11 and the total at 38.5...I don't think that is enough...Dmaon Huard is going to be the QB...I love Denver in this position...I would not touch the total...

GuruJoe: Den -11 KC - I agree with GuruBob completely. Den was embarassed last week. KC had major setbacks with losing Roaf and Saunders last year and now they lose their QB and have to play Huard AT Denver. Not enough folks. Sorry Kansan, your team is struggling.

More interest than our wives, but still not convinced...

NO @ GB

NO won their first pillow fight of the year and I can't see them losing this one either...they beat a bad Cleveland team on the road...now they face a bad GB team on the road...the problem is what will Favre do on any given day...I would touch this game or total...which I would put at NO -1 and 42...

"The Man" says GB deserves a 2.5 point lead...I am not convinced this is enough, but I want to see more out of NO before I make a call...the total is 38, which is just a little too close for me, but I would tend to go over...

GuruJoe adds: NO +2.5 GB - I dont think Favre factor is enough on this team anymore. NO finally has a QB with a head on his shoulders and some weapons that are back and healthy. I'm not writing NO into the playoffs but they are certainly a FG better than GB. It won't take much Defense to dismantle GB and rip Favre's head off.

Cleveland @ Cinci

Have we mentioned that Cleveland sucks? Palmer looked pretty good against KC...I can't see the Browns keeping this within a TD...their D and O are that bad...I put the total of this game right around 43...I think it should be a blow out by Cinci, but you never know what will happen with such a rivalry...

"The Man" has this game at 10.5 and 41.5...I really think Cinci covers this spread, but I wouldn't mind seeing one more week before I pick them...the over is intriguing, but I am afraid whether or not Cleveland can score on anyone...and there is no secret Romeo will run the ball and try to make this game shorter...

GuruJoe: Cincy -10.5 Clev - This is hard to pass up. Have we mentioned that Clev STINKS. They are horrible and Cincy can use this game to continue to get Palmer and offense in rythm. This smells of at least a 2 TD rout here. If this wa s under 10 I'd jump for certain.

Lions at Bears

Lions performed admirably against the Hawks at home...but they lost...Da Bears...killed GB on the road...Roy Williams guaranteed a victory...what do you make of this? I would put this game at Bears favored by about a TD...and the total around 35...

"The Man" has this game at Bears - 9 and the total at 32...I certainly wouldn't touch this total...and with a total this small it is hard to give 9...Lions +9 doesn't look bad...

GuruJoe: Detroit +9 at Chicago - Think Martz is going to work with that offense to get them moving a bit this week? Think he was happy with 6 points last week? Problem is they are going against the Bears D but let's not read too much into the Bears win last week other than GB sucks. Chicago O still has alot to prove and I think Marinelli showed a little something with the Detroit D. I don't see 9 points here. I'm warming up to 9 real quick.

St. Louis @ SF

SF tried to make it a game...Bulger lead his team nicely with no TO's behind a solid running performance...Alex and his small hands showed some fortitude by fighting until the end against AZ...

I personally can't see SF winning this game...I put this line at Rams - 3 and the total around 41...are the Rams really committed to the run? If they need to pass, then I love the over...but we shall see what the experts say...

"The Man" agrees with the -3, but the total is at 43.5...I am very tempted by this over...doesn't this seem like a repeat of last week's AZ vs. 49ers' game?

GuruJoe: STL/SF over 43.5 - Small hands put some points up last week vs AZ. STL shut down Plummer. SF has weapons in Bryant, Davis and now Gore running the ball after dumping that bum Barlow. STL always has weapons. This is interesting but not my favorite play because small hands has much more history of SUCKING than he does scoring......hmmmmmm, nevermind.

NE @ NYJ

If you believe in the J.E.T.S Jets Jets Jets,, please let me know now...they looked pretty good against the horrible TN team...NE looked less than impressive against Just Punt and the Bills...I will buy into NE before I buy into the J.E.T.S Jets Jets Jets...I put this line at NE -2 and the total around 38...I would not touch this line, but for some reason, I see this as being a shout out...I see Chad doing enough damage to score some late points...go over anything in the mid-high thirties...

"The Man" has the line as Pats - 6, which seems a little high, and a ttal of 37...I am trending toward the over here...this is exactly where I thought there would be money to be made...

GuruJoe: NE -6 J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets - This is almost scary but I'm not buying into the NE near loss to Buffalo nor the win by the Jets over TN. Lets not forget HOW BAD the Jets were last year. Let's also not forget the master Belicheck is pissed at his student for moving to the Jets. He's gonna want to almost embarass him. I like this game alot under 7.

Similar to our wives...these are the no touch games...

Carolina @ MN

Carolina disappinted in week one...MN shocked me in week one, although I still contend that the Skins are the weakest of the NFC East teams...Justin Hartiwg is questionable as well as Steve Smith...this makes the Carolina offense highly suspect...the Vikes come off a big win at the Skins...oh did I mention that Dan Morgan is most probably out...

If Carolina had won week one, then I think this would be a definite trap...now they really need a road win...this is a tough one for me...I think MN should be a small home favorite (i.e. less than 3)...and the total at around 37...I wouldn't touch this game...

"The Man" has this one as the Vikes by 1 and the total right at 37...this is a don't touch...

Houston @ Indi

Houston was not very impressive against Philly at home and the Colts looked very crisp on both sides of the ball at the G-men...I can't see the Texans keeping this real close...Indi by 9 and the total at 45...I like the over and Indi by this number...
Detroit @ Chicago

"The Man" has Indi favored by 13.5 and the total at 47...again too close for my comfort...I prefer to find the error on the favorite side not under dog...

TB @ Hot Lanta

I was shocked by both these teams performances in week one...Ed Hartwell is supposed to be back...John Abraham is questionable...if John is healthy, then that is a big difference...I can't see Hot Lanta losing this one at home, especially after last week's huge win...but TB got embarassed at home...

I am guessing this game is Hot Lanta by 3 and a total in the high 30's...I want to see what these teams end up being before I would touch a game like this...

"The Man" is giving theBucs 5.5 and the total at 35.5...this is a no play for me...

Oak @ Balt

Did I tell you Oakland sucks...the problem here is that Baltimore may be inflated by their big victory on the road...of course, Oakland sucks...I would give up to 10 points...and the total will be around 37, only because Oakland may not score again...

"The Man" has this game at 12.5 and a total of 34...both are a little too close for my comfort...

AZ @ Seattle

The Cards looked good against SF, but they could not put them away...Seattle struggleed on the road at Detroit...so is Hutchinson the final answer...don't get me wrong, he is a stud, but that is the easiest position to replace in pro football...remember te Hawks are a much better home team historically than road team...if the Cards had finished the job, then I would be more hesitant in this game...

I think the Cards will be lucky to keep it within 10 points...I bet the line is more like 5...total is probably around 40...I like any line over 7 by Seattle and over 40...

Of course "The Man" has this game at 7 and 47...I would not touch this under nor the line...

TN @ SD

TN Sucks...SD looked good and had a great game plan against Oakland...run LT and don't let Rivers pass...and their D looked great in doing it...Oakland is bad and TN is also pretty bad...I give SD at least 7 and the over/under at 38...I am not convinced TN will score...

"The Man" has SD as a 12 point favorite and the total at 37.5...I wouldn't touch this game with Donald Trump's wallet...

Skins @ Dallas

The Skins looked pathetic against the Vikes and now Portis is not playing...the Boys looked good for the first quarter and then fell apart...I just don't see the Skins without Portis holding up against the Dallas D...and the Skins D is not that scary...if Troy Williamson could catch a cold...Boys by 3 and the total around 37...don't touch...

"The Man" has the Boys favored by 6.5 and the total at 37...this line seems steep to me...but the total is right on...the problem is that Drew might be upset with the talk of his demise...I would stay away...

The Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers @ Jax

Can Big Ben play? Do the Jags have anyone who can play D-line...I was very afraid of this game before the Jags' injuries...now I feel a lot better...I say it is a pick 'em game with a total of around 35...but keep an eye on Ben and check back for an update here...

"The Man" has us favored by 2.5 and the total of 37.5...I want to see if Ben is going to play before I opine...

Lotion has it feeling like Ground Hog Day!!

Another week, another winner. As is usually the case this time of year, Lotion is dominating college football. 3-0 on released selections, even better for the paying customers. Last week Lotion told you that UNLV had a legitimate chance to beat Iowa State outright. Well, the game was close the entire way with UNLV having 4 cracks inside the ISU 10-yard line in the final minute of play. In fact, ISU needed replay to overturn an apparent UNLV touchdown on the last play of the game to hold onto the win. The 14.5 points you were getting with UNLV were a generous gift from the boys in Vegas. Anyway, difficult week this week. Lotion still able to find a diamond in the rough. As Always, Stick with the Program……it is proving again, as it has proved in the past, it is the ONLY way to make Cheese:

TOP PICK:

Texas -32. Those that know Lotion understand Lotion has made his fortune betting dogs and staying away from big numbers. Also, Lotion normally stays away from teams laying a big number after an emotional loss. However, this is different situation. This line would have been 40 points had Texas beat Ohio State last week. Also, with strength of schedule now out of the BCS equation, we are back to the days of making statements by pounding teams into submission. Lotion could write a book about why this game will not be close……no need to even waste the time. The Horns hook ‘em here and hook ‘em REAL hard. Lay the big nut in this game.

Breaking News!!!!

McNair is not wearing a boot...

This is the weekend news...

GOOOOOO IRISHHHHHHH!!!!...sorry, needed to get my ND homerism in...

Next homerism..the Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers weren't afraid to whip up a Batch...he was very serviceable...and is now 3 - 0 as a Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers starter (but 2 of those were before they won the big prize).

Bush was somewhat impressive in week one, but remember it was against the Browns...

Don't get excited about Shaun getting nothing in his first road game without Hutchinson...if this trend continues, then be worried...

I love the trade for Branch...lookout NFC West...Boldin and Fitz vs. Jackson and Branch...tough to call which is better...

Before we name Chad Pennington the next MVP, please realize they played the Titans...who no one will remember...

As a homer, I wish Palmer's knee would start bothering him, but he looked pretty good against an average KC D...

Pats struggle against Just Punt Losman...someone please explain...

The Rams D can't be that good can it...is Jake reverting back to the good old days?

The Ravens domination completely surprised me...I loved Gruden apologizing to the season ticket holders...I hope it leads to performance on the field...

The O-Line of the Panthers was very disappointing...can Steve Smith affect the O-line that bad...very interesting...their O sucked in general...

In contrast, the Falcons O and D surprised me...

I told you Philly would be a surprise in the NFC Beast...I know it is only one week...just kidding...but I would prefer to be 1-0 than 0-1 like the rest of the division...

The Boys were disappointing, but the Jags are tough...we shall see...the NFC East will be the most interesting division in football...

Older brother showed the little brother how to do it...and yes that pisses me off... but both Peyton and Eli looked pretty good...but the under would have hit...

The Skins had one of the most disappointint debuts...I think the Vikes are average at best and the Skins did nothing...how much longer before those creaky Brunell knees give out...

Did I mention the Raiders Suck??? I want to see Rivers do it against a real team before I am convinced...

Breaking News!!!!

GB Sucks

Oakland sucks

Titans suck

Lotion gets the credit...

It is time to recap this past weekend of football...

First of all, I need to apologize for violating my own rule...I was pressing this first weekend...I promise that I will keep to my normal thoughts and not pressure you with picks...assuming 10% juice, that puts my star total at -4.7 stars...trust me, it won't happen again and it will be over come...my "regular" job required more time than normal and did not allow me to converse with gurujoe...that is when it gets real good...

On another note...I love Lotion going 3 - 0 in his first three picks on this site...trust me, we are keeping it real...

The Cancer is Spreading

Parcells versus T. O. which superego will win…my bet is on the Tuna…maybe that hamstring injury was for real, but I know it didn’t endear him to his teammates much.
T. O. could end up being a great weapon for Bledsoe…which will only help Terry Glenn and the running game…Jones and Barber are a formidable team at RB…especially if Jones could stay healthy…Witten also adds to the passing game…the biggest question for this team in addition to T. O. of course is the depth of the O-line…they gave up the 4th most sacks in the NFL last year…of course, with the Drew statue at QB, it is hard to protect a guy with less mobility than my 98 year grandma…

All experts think the Dallas D will be greatly improved this year and should be a difference maker…this team appears to be the popular choice to give the G-men the biggest run for the division and I can’t say I disagree…
Unfortunately, I don’t have “The Man’s” number right in front of me…however, I do recall that I would not touch this number…here is a breakdown of their schedule: they will sweep Skins and Philly in the division and split with the G-men…their other home games include Houston, Indi, TB, NO and Detroit…the only challenge here is Indi, which I think will pull off the win…so that gives them a record of 9 – 2 for those of you keeping score at home…on the road, it gets a little tougher with Jax, Carolina, TN, AZ, and Hot Lanta…TN is the only obvious win here…I will give them one more against AZ…that puts them at 11 – 5…but this team could easily end up 8 – 8 if the Cancer gets too bad…

Not Foreskin, Redskin…

The Skins come into the season with a creaky-kneed Mark Brunell as the starting QB…Portis is fighting a shoulder injury…Lavar has taken his ball and gone to NYC…

Brunell had a good year last year with only 10 TD’s to go along with 23 TD’s…he had over 3,000 yards passing…the problem is that he is certainly not getting any younger and there is another grind of the NFL season on those creaky knees…the really bad news for the Skins is that Todd Collins or Jason Campbell are the backups…Collins is completely inadequate…Campbell is unproven and has not impressed since being drafted in the first round…

The RB’s have nice depth with the addition of T.J. Duckett…Portis is a stud when healthy and Duckett has proven to be a nice complement…Betts isn’t too shabby either…

The WR’s are a strength for this team…Santana Moss, El, Lloyd, Patten...tough to name another team with such depth…mind you I am not a huge El fan and I think they overpaid for him…$31 million for a guy who has never caught 50 balls seems a stretch…but he is a good second guy and very good third guy…throw in Chris Cooley and Brunell has a lot of weapons around him…

The Skins D ranked in the top half of virtually every defensive category…Lavar has joined the rival Giants, but considering he was the most talented player in the league to be benched last year…oops…I forgot about T. O…but you catch my drift…he didn’t add much…the interesting switch on D is that Ryan Clark has left to join the Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers and was replaced by Adam Archuleta…Adam is a much better run supporter than Clark, but nearly as good in coverage…we shall wait and see how this affects them…

The Skins made the playoffs last year with an 11 – 5 record…I just have this funny feeling that this is going to be a down year…I can’t Brunell making it through another year without injuries…plus, they play in a tough division and then have to play the NFC South which might be the toughest division…”The Man” has their total wins at 9 for the season…I think this is high, but too close to call…here is how I have their schedule breaking…I think they get swept by the G-men and Boys and splitting with Philly in the division…that gives them a division record of 1 – 5…their other home games include MN, Jax, TN, Carloina and Atlanta…they should be able to get 4 wins here with their only loss against Carolina…on the road they face Houston, Indi, TB, NO, and St. Louis…2 wins is likely and a third is not out of the question…but I am going to say they lose to Indi, Bucs, and Rams…that puts their record at 7 – 9…if Brunell can repeat his season from a year ago, then this could be reversed, but I would be shocked if we see and Skin in the post season…

More money to be made here than the champagne room...

Atlanta @ Carolina

The Black Birds…er Falcons…travel to the Carolina Panthers in week one. This is a very big division game early. I think this game is much more important to Atlanta than Carolina. If Atlanta wants to join the elite in this division, they need to start winning some of these games on the road. Atlanta was one of the worst teams against the run last year (ranked 26) and made many efforts to fix this in the offseason…recently adding Grady Jackson…I think the Carolina Panthers will be more interested in testing that average pass D. I guess we will see how much of an impact John Abraham will have with the pass rush coming out of the gate. Carolina certainly can run if Foster is healthy, but they are more comfortable chucking it downfield to Steve and company. Smith injured his hamstring in practice earlier this week. All reports I see are that he is not going to be 100%, but will play. Luckily for the Panthers, Steve Smith at 75% is better than most WR’s in the league at 100%.

Carolina dominated the Falcons last year, winning the two games by a combined 68 – 17. Michael Vick looked confused trying to stay in the pocket and pass…the Carolina D also has the speed to contain him. Personally, I don’t see much different here. I think Abraham will help the Atlanta D, but Carolina has just too much talent at every position for the Birds…I am guessing the line will be Carolina by 5.5 and the total around 40…if this is the case, I would be very tempted to take Carolina and the over. Carolina will want to come out in its home opener and set the stage for the year. Of course, in the past this team has killed me in week 1…a few years ago, they upset MN on the road and I was out of my suicide pool. Last year, they laid an egg against the Aints at home in the opener…I personally think they felt bad for them and let them win. I like this team and think you better get on them early…of course, let’s see where the line is… “The Man” has the line at Carolina -5 and the total at 39 – I really like Carolina and the over in this one. Of course, this is under the assumption that Steve Smith starts. If Steve Smith is going to play, then make Carolina your first 2006 4 star pick. In addition, I really like the over in this game…I want to see Atlanta stop someone before I believe in that D…put 3 stars on the over.

Cinci @ KC

The Herm Edwards era in KC begins this weekend with a visit from the Cinci Bungles…I have to admit that Carson Palmer looked real good in his one preseason appearance…but let’s remember it was against the Packers and was preseason…the Chiefs added Ty Law in the offseason and he will be tested early and often in this game facing Chad and Housh… Luckily for the Chiefs, the Bengals stop the run about as well as ExLax would help stop a case of the runs…and Odell Thurman is out the first four games due to a suspension…what better way to defend Carson Palmer and that high powered offense than run the ball 50 times and keep them on the sidelines…the only problem is that LJ may have a lot of long runs and they will score too fast even on the ground…this game looks like one of those games that whoever has the ball last will win…

Being that Carson has had limited action, I would put the Chiefs as a small favorite and the total around 46…I would stay away from the line, although I am tempted to take the Chiefs…if this over/under is lower than 44, you must jump on it…both these teams will score…”The Man” has the Chiefs giving 2.5 and the total at 46.5 – I can’t see this game not going over this number…I am putting a 2 star play on the over in this game.

49ers at Cards

The 49ers will face the AZ Cardinals on the road to open the season…it is no secret that I don’t think much of the 49ers and the Cards could be a surprise this year…hey haven’t we said that every year for the last three years? I just don’t see how the worst defense against the pass can stop the high powered Cardinal attack…who is going to cover Fitz, Boldin, Johnson…and oh by the way they have this guy named Edge running the ball…

Alex Smith might end being a decent QB once all the pieces are put in place, but he nor they are in place now…the 49ers had the worst pass offense and gave up the 5th most sacks last year…how has this changed? Oh that’s right; you trade away your top WR…Antonio Bryant had a good year last year for the lowly Browns…so maybe he can replace Brandon Lloyd…I would have recommended adding him to the mix not replacing Lloyd…

I would put AZ as a TD favorite…the total should come in the low 40’s…once I see what the line is, I will opine…I like the Cards and would tend to go over anything over 42 because SF should be able to score some junk points at a minimum…”The Man” has AZ giving 7.5 and the total at 42.5 – I was really hoping the line was under a TD…but the hype around the Cards offense is out there…of course, I don’t understand this total being so low…put 3 stars on the over and Kurt and company will make you a happy man…

There is more interest here than most of our wives have in bed...

Denver @ Rams

The Horned Goats…aka the Rams host the Broncos…or as some people refer to them as the mules. These are two tough teams for me. I still can’t forget the “Greatest Show on Earth” days…even though they have been long gone…they have a new coaching staff that keeps preaching their commitment to the run…last year they were in the bottom third of rush offense and top 5 in pass offense…the Denver D was #2 against the run and 29 against the pass…how long do you think they will stay committed to the run?

The Broncos are going to start a Bell, which one will be tolling who knows…and more importantly, does it matter? Sammy Winder might be coming back to run behind this line…the Broncos came out flat last year in the opener against Miami. They have looked good in a meaningless preseason so far. Luckily for them, the Rams can’t stop the run or pass.

Denver should be a road favorite to open the season…I am guessing a small 2 or 3 points. I hate taking road games early in the year and will not. The over/under should be around 43…if this number is 42 or lower, then I would take the over…”The Man” has the line at Denver -4 and the total at 46 – I don’t like the line…I still think this game goes over, but I would ultimately stay away and let the other games do your wallet good…

Cowboys @ Jags

TO will make his regular season debut against the Jax Jags in Jacksonville. The Jags have a tough D and will try to control the tempo of the game…the Cowboys will probably do the same to avoid mistakes…you think there first play will be play action long to TO?...that seems like a Parcells type move…he will want to make a statement about his offense right away…I think this game ends up being a slugfest. I think the Jags should survive, but it certainly will be close…

The line is probably right around pick ‘em and the total at 36…if this is the case, then I would stay away…”The Man” is giving the Boys 2.5 and the total at 36.5 – I almost considered making the Boys a play as it should be a good game and they have a legit shot to win outright…I would consider buying the .5 point, but ultimately would recommend staying away…

Indi @ NYG

Manning’s place…well which one…who will step up and take control of the gridiron in NYC this weekend…well actually NJ…Peyton goes to face his younger brother Eli…could there be any more hype? Archie, who wishes he had the talent of one of his sons, is all over the place talking about how close they all are and how tough this is…yeah, I feel sorry for a team with their collective net worth… I think Eli is going to be a very good QB and will continue to develop…but his older brother will show him how to do it…the Colts D is very athletic…I think they will confuse Eli…Eli has several weapons and it wouldn’t shock me completely to see them win, but they have issues against the pass…and that is the bread and butter of the Colts O…

I am guessing the Colts are probably a small road favorite and the total will be around 46…after all, this game pits the #3 and #4 offenses from last year…I wouldn’t touch either line here…although I am actually intrigued by the under. The Colts have a history of starting slow on offense and then turning it on…”The man” usually starts out over hyping this offense…the Colts have won their past 4 opening games, but have averaged only 21 points in those games…while this number would be a monumental task for a team like the Bears, this is disappointing for the Colts…”The Man” has Peyton giving Eli 3.5 and the total at 48 – ultimately, I say stay away, but I am real tempted by the under as I believe the G-men will be fired up in the night home game…

MN @ Skins

The Vikings hit the road to start the season to face the Washington Redskins…the Redskins have not looked good in preseason…I am not as enamored with the Skins as many others…Portis is already banged up…Brunell is on two creaky knees and Todd Collins is the back up…the WR corp has talent, but I think they are over hyped…the D was solid last year, but not great. I just don’t see them surviving the NFC Beast schedule…

The Vikings meanwhile are relying on Brad Johnson and Chester Taylor to get their offense rolling…this just isn’t a very good team…they are a below average D and an average at best offense…Chester has looked good as Jamal’s back up, but he has never been the man…how he does in that role is the key…

I see the Skins as a 4 point favorite with the total around 38…I don’t think you can touch this game…I actually like the Skins to win, but not giving the points…the total is tough here…what will the D’s be like…Can the Vikes score? Can Brunell lead the Skins into the end zone? Too many questions for my liking…”The Man” says 4.5 and 35 – I don’t know about you, but I am amazed at how good I am at this…I am tempted by the Skins as I believe the Vikes are a mediocre team at best…but that last preseason game of the Skins is just enough to scare me away…

If you touch these games you have more balls than Lance Armstrong...of course, you probably do regardless...

It is the first weekend of pro football and it is a big week. Before the weekend games, there will be a write up for most games. I generally don’t like to do too much early in the season because there are too many unknowns. I generally won’t touch games with two horrendous teams…see NO at Cleveland week one…and thus won’t spend the time to analyze them. I will break these games down as don't touch, intriguing and rated plays. They will be in three separate posts. Here are the games as I see them…after I figure what I think the lines are, I go to "The Man" and find out how close I was and find the nuggets...these games have more junk in them the the nuggets found at McD's:

Miami at Pittsburgh

Miami is visiting the Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday night to kick off the season. Big Ben decided to have his appendix removed and will thus miss at least the first week. The only good news from this is that he has a long time before his second game the following Monday night at Jax. I have to admit that I heard the Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers were favored by 3 and that now it is at a pick ‘em game. Charlie “Whipping Up A” Batch is a respectable backup…assuming he can play for a whole game without getting hurt. He won two games last year while Big Ben was out…and those ended up being two huge wins. Hines Ward appears to be set to take to the field…and this guru had no doubt from the beginning.

The word about this game is that Ben is out and the vaunted Miami D will cause all kinds of problems for Batch…they were a middle of the road D last year at best. I am not seeing what they did to upgrade this questionable D. If Batch can have a workmanlike effort and NOT make mistakes, I still think the Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers win. Home opener, prime time in Pittsburgh, Super Bowl ceremonies…all this equals big emotion…big crowd participation…and ultimately a big Defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers victory. I wouldn’t touch the game with Ben out. Line should be a pick ‘em or small Steeler line (1 or 2)…I would put the over/under around 37 and again generally would not touch this side of the bet in an emotional game. “The Man” has the line as a pick ‘em and total at 34.5 – final analysis is stay away…

Ravens @ TB

The Baltimore(ons) Ravens hit the road the first game of the year and rumor has it McNair hasn’t missed a practice yet and “The Boot” is not making the trip. TB has put its eggs in Phil Simms basket…uh, I mean Chris. This will be a first early big test for the young Simms as the man. I personally think the Ravens D will have one last prideful stand and their offense will be much better this year. Of course, TB wasn’t the best D in the land for nothing. This will be a heavy does of Cadillac and ball control. I think McNair and the Ravens will come out guns blazing, hoping to show the NFL their new offense with a legitimate QB.

You have to like the home team in games like this. The talent is very similar on both sides of the ball and both teams are coming in relatively healthy. All reports are that Jamal Lewis will be ready as will Mason. I would put this line at TB by 4 based on home field advantage and the over/under at a small 35. I would not touch either of these in week one, but I think TB wins the game out of the gate. “The Man” has this line at TB by 3 and the total at 34 - damn I’m good…again, stay away…

Buffalo @ NE

The Pats have invited Just Punt Losman and the Buffalo Bills to play on Sunday. The Pats and Sweat Shirt Bill will dominate this game from the first snap…Buffalo played the Pats tough on the road last year then got demolished at home…the difference you may ask between the road game and home game…that is right Just Punt Losman played at home and Kelly Kelly Kelly K.E.L.L.Y. Kelly Kelly Kelly Holcomb played in NE…JP is the man to start for the Bills…enough said.

I am guessing this line will be high – NE giving 9 and the over/under around 42…I wouldn’t touch this game to start the season…usually “The Man” puts high numbers on games like this…if I had any faith in JP, then I would go over any number over 40…but I am not sure they will score…”The Man” has the line at NE -9 and the total at 39 – honestly folks, I did not look at these lines before posting them…that is how damn good I really am…stay away from this game in case Just Punt Losman decides to learn how to play late in the game…I hate the backdoor cover…

Philly @ Houston

Houston we have a problem…Dominack Davis is out, but look who is coming to dinner. Ron Dayne has been reunited with his O-coordinator, Kubiak, from last year…and the love-fest is spewing…Gary is so lucky to have him…and Ron just couldn’t imagine playing anywhere else…BLAH!!!...this is like watching one of those bad prime time soaps my wife tries to make me watch instead of football…I have a message for Houston…if the former Heisman Trophy winning Ron Dayne is that important to your team, then you probably aren’t going to be very good…it’s true, it’s true…Brokeback Mountain has nothing on these guys…

The Eagles are heading to Texas and appear to be healthy…Westbrook looks like he will be back. I think the Eagles are going to surprise people…and I really like the addition of Stallworth…nothing like a trip to Houston to get rolling through the season…

The Texans are devoid of talent on offense, but their D is very suspect. I see the Eagles being an early road favorite (giving 3?), which I hate…I am guessing the over/under will be in the low 40’s…overall, I would stay away from this game unless these numbers are way off…”The Man” has the line at Philly -5.5 and the total at 37 – I do not like this line at all…I want to see Philly do something before I jump completely on the bandwagon…I don’t think you can go from 6 – 10 to giving 5.5 points early in the season…to anyone…

NO @ Cleveland

The first pillow fight of the year will take place in Cleveland when they play host to the NO Aints…what better way to get Charlie Frye acclimated to being the starter than inviting the ineptness that is the Aints D…Brees should add some credibility to the Aints offense…and there are some weapons there. The big question in my mind is whether his shoulder is really healed. He didn’t look bad in the preseason, but it seemed his passes lacked a zip to them…I think neutral Switzerland has a better defensive system than the Aints…I am not fooled by that 3rd ranked pass D…Rueben Droughns could have a nice day…if someone will block for him…

I see this game as a lot of running and trying not to make mistakes…you know Romeo will hand the ball off to Rueben and try to manage the clock…he doesn’t want to put his young QB into a position to make mistakes…I think Sean Peyton, who learned from Parcells, will do a similar thing on the road. While Brees is a veteran, he will want to try to keep mistakes to a minimum and find a way to win the first game and maybe get the offense on a roll…Cleveland should be a small home favorite and the over/under should be in the high thirties (38)…I never touch games like this…”The Man” has this game at Cleveland -3 and the total at 35.5 – I told you I wouldn’t touch this game and I meant it…

Seattle @ Detroit

Seattle hits the road and visits the Detroit Lions…Seattle is a very good football team and last year they learned how to win on the road. They play solid D and hand it to Shaun…I can’t argue with that game plan…lucky for them, the chances of Detroit stopping Shaun are as about as good as a Dominoes pizza driver getting through the fat farm with all his pizzas intact…I actually think Stevens is a big loss for the Hawks…he is solid and Hasselbeck’s safety blanket…

Detroit comes into this game with Kitna at the helm…while he is not spectacular, Matt Millen and company I think are hoping that he can cut down the mistakes and take advantage of the talent on offense, i.e. Roy Williams, Marcus Pollard, Kevin Jones, et al…I think he should help, but he is not the long term answer…

Seattle should be a road favorite by about 4.5…again, I would not touch a road favorite the first week of the season…the total should come in the low 40’s…again, I would not touch, although the over would be tempting if it is less than 41…”The Man” has Seattle giving the Lions 6.5 and the total at 45 – I think this total looks a little high to me, but maybe Detroit will actually be able to score this year…no play here…

NYJ @ TN

Your next big pillow fight of the early season places the J.E.T.S. Jets Jets Jets in one corner and the Tennessee “I don’t want to remember these” Titans in the other…here comes Chad with a hard left to Pac Man Jones behind…Kerry Collins responds with a hard pillow to the head of Jonathan Vilma…look out…Kevan Barlow is now in the game…I think you get my point…this game will be as exciting as watching Hall & Oates in concert in a dry county…which I have to admit that I was forced to attend once…but thank God it wasn’t a dry county and I actually knew the beer wench…my wife wondered how I could miss 4 songs taking a leak…so, that is the time it takes to chug 4 free beers…but I digress…

I obviously don’t see anything here to do…in other accounts, I gave this game to the hapless Titans, but I think I am going to rethink that…Kerry Collins looks to be the starter and Young will get a couple of series…and Billy Volek will be pouting on the bench because he lost his job…I just don’t see how either QB will be able to get into a rhythm…Collins hasn’t been there long enough to build a rapport with Givens or Bennett, who aren’t horrible WR’s…

I am guessing this game is real close to a pick ‘em game…and I don’t see how you can pick one of these teams…over/under should be around 36? I wouldn’t touch this game with any of your wallets…”The Man” is giving the J.E.T.S. Jets Jets Jets 2.5 points and the total at 36 – keep your money in your wallets on this one…

Chicago @ GB

The Chicago Bears travel to the heated tundra of Lambeau Field (hey it isn’t frozen yet)…the Bears will be a road favorite. I really hate to see Favre going through these pains. The Bears win this game, but it should be close…the Bears D will force some mistakes and the offense will do just enough to win…the problem is that if Favre can go a game without the mistakes, he is dangerous enough to win this game…

I put this line as Bears -4…and the total at a small 34…this is a stay away game if ever there was one…”The Man” says 3.5 and 35 – I haven’t changed my mind…stay away…

SD @ Oakland

The Bolts invade Raider nation…the Raiders are not a good team…Aaron Brooks will make some mistakes against the very solid SD defense…SD will be able to establish the run, which will help Rivers in his debut as the starter and leader of this team…I don’t see the Raider D being able to contain LT…

SD should be a favorite by about 4 or 5…I would stay away from this game simply because of the pressure on Rivers and I want to see how he handles it for a game or two…the total should be in the high thirties…I think both teams will try to establish the running game, thus making it a shorter game…I would not touch the total unless it is way off…”The Man” has SD giving 3 and the total at 39 – this looks low to me, but with Rivers getting his first start as the starter on the road I would stay away…

Will their wings be clipped?

The Philadelphia Eagles are coming off a tumultuous year to say the least...McNabb and Owens had the biggest fight since Ross and Rachel from Friends...Westbrook failed to make it through another full year...Andy Reid started getting criticized after the Super Bowl appearance and all those NFC Championship game appearances...can these get back to the old form or will it be another down year...

I personally think this team will come back a little...McNabb palyed in 9 games and was 4 - 5 in those games, but he was injured for several of those games...McNabb is back and looks healthy...remember he had no WR's back in the glory days...TO was enough to get them to the Super Bowl...and he actually didn't play in the playoffs tha year due to injury until the Super Bowl...

Westbrook and Buckhalter have a lot of talent, but can't seem to stay offthe injury list...Buckhalter has looked good in preseason...Westbrook sat out a couple of games due to a sore foot...this group is ok, but not spectacular...and if they start having their normal health problems, then they will be in trouble here.

The most notable deletion from last year is TO...the most notable addition is Dante Stallworth, who was recently acquired in a trade from the Aints...he fell out of favor with new coach Sean Peyton, but he could be a nice deep option for the Eagles...after these two, the depth is questionable...but not more than it was three years ago...LJ Smith is a nice safety outlet...he won't light it up like some other TE's in the league, but is solid...

The Philly D was not very good last year...of course, the Freak Jevon Kearse has not been playing to his contract...of course, they don't have much on the front 4 to help him...signing Darren Howard could be a huge addition...and help the pass rush tremendously...

The Eagles liked their LB's enough to trade away veteran Simoneau...he had fallen to 5th on the depth chart...their safeties could be the best in the league...Brown and Shepperd are solid on the corners...I think this defensive unit wil step up this year...

"The Man" has Philly coming back and winning 8.5 games...I know I will not be touching this line without looking at the schedule...alhtough, this team could reach 10 wins...here is how I see the breaking: I am going to give them the split with G-men and the Skins...and being swept by Dallas...that is 2 - 4 in the division...their other home games include: GB, Jax, TN, Carolina and Atlanta...I think they will go 3 - 2 in these games...beating GB, TN and Atlanta...that puts them at 5 - 6...their other road games include: @ Houston, @ SF, @ NO, @ TB, and @ Indi...again, I think they go 3 - 2 in these games with losses at Indi and TB...that makes them 8 - 8...I could see this team sweeping the Skins and winning one from Dallas...I am also not convinced they can't beat Jax, Carolina or TB...this team is going to be interesting to watch...

G-spot...errrr I mean Men...

Unfortunately, we are coming to the end of the preseason and we still have several NFC teams to review...whatever I can't get done by this weekend, I will at least post my projected wins and losses...

Peyton's little brother ran the 4th best offense last year. Eli has many weapons around him...Tiki, Plax, Amani "I'm not a" Toomer (Say this in your best Governor Arnold voice...it is fun really), Shockey, et. al...last year, the G-men did a good job of protecting the young QB...I think that unit should continue to get even better.

The rest of the offense is studly. Plaxico, Toomer, Carter, Sinorice Moss definitely comprise a very talented WR corp...throw in the threat of Shockey and the air is looking pretty good. Oh, and don't forget about that guy named Tiki...he had a great year last year...he has the running and pass catching skills. I think this offense is still going to be real good...the problem is their schedule is brutal...

On defense, they were a middle of the pack team against the run and near the bottom against the run...so what do they do...they go get Lavar Arrington, who has all the talent in the world if he is healthy and his head is in the right place...then to help shore up the secondary they get Will Demps and Sam Madison...Demps is solid...Madison used to be great...if he can maintain his play, then he is a great addition...but he certainly isn't getting any younger...

You want to talk about brutal schedules...the NFC East is in trouble this year...not only is it a very tough division, but they play the tough AFC South...I hate to say it, but I see a lot of beating up within the division and conference. I think the G-men will split with everyone in the division except the Skins...that gives the 4 - 2 in the division...their other home games include: Indi, TB, Houston, Chicago, and NO...I think they will go 4 - 1 against these teams...Indi being the only loss...their road games include trips to Seattle, Hot Lanta, Jax, TN, and Carolina...the only gimme here is TN...I think they will escape from Hot Lanta with a win and then lose the other 3 games...that gives the a total of 10 - 6 for the year..."The Man" has their total at 9 - 7...and it is tough to argue with that number...I just think Eli should be able to improve again and they will be back near the top of the division...they should move to SF and become the Giants out there...then they would only have one team to worry about...

Breaking News!!!!

I'm Back!!!! Unfortunately, this thing called work gets in the way of the real fun in life. My deadline is gone and I am ready to focus...

Additional breaking news...I examined all the recent cuts and moves...and I got nothing...I don't see any big deals or anything that is going to change the face of football...sorry folks I got nothing here...

I could talk about how long Hank Fraley will stay healthy or playing football now that he is a Brown...I could talk about Marcus Vick hanging on to the practice squad...I could mention the trade of Doug Gabriel to the Pats...and there is a lot more...but ultimately, I think it all means nothing...so that is what I have...nothing...

Gabriel is the biggest potential move as the Pats look to life beyond Mr. Branch...

There will be lots of posts the next week...so please keep coming back.

Lotion Husks Bulldogs

Lotion called in with a report. After much analysis the pick of the day is the Nebraska Cornhuskers giving 24 to the LA Tech Bulldogs...He says this is going to be a 48 - 3 type of game...

A quick MLB note...as if playing in Mexico wasn't enough...

Randall Simon is back in Major League Baseball. He was playing in Mexico before signing a minor league deal with the Texas Rangers. His stint was going so well at AAA that the Phillies decided to trade for him...here is ESPN's headline on the trade:

Phillies acquire former sausage-beater from Rangers

I thought this was absolutely hilarious and had to share it with all of you. How would you like that to be your big come back headline. Here are some other ones that athletes might not appreciate:

Sure Jeff, We'll Take Your Whining Ass Back, Love Art
OJ Hopes to Drive the Bronco(s) to the Super Bowl - Look What Else It Did For Him
OJ Knifes Way Through the Line With Success
George Foreman vs. Mike Tyson - Lend Us an Ear and We Will Grill Together
Gibbs Returns to Coaching after a Long Drive - He Just Couldn't Get Out of the Circle
McGuire Returns to the Diamond after Vacationing with Barry
Dave Dravecky Gets One Arm Up in Return
Bo Knows Balco - Looks Stronger Than Ever
Martina Navritalova Back from the Bush
Pete Rose Bets He Can Make It Again
John Daly Finds the Drink in Successful Return
Lance not Nuts about Return
Jamal Lewis Makes Wrong Call on Return - What a Dope