LSJ - Week 15

As an early Christmas gift I decided instead of just tweeting out the picks I would write them down for you.  I know some of you need it to keep track of them.  You know who you are BMA grads!!

Locks

The first lock of the week is the Baltimore Ravens over the San Diego Chargers.  The underachieving Chargers look nothing like the teams they have in the past, especially in December.  It would appear they will miss the playoffs and probably start shopping for a GM and a head coach.  Another nail goes in the Norv coffin today, Ravens win 23 - 17.

The second lock of the week is the Patriots over the Holy Rollers aka the Denver Broncos.  Maybe if Tebow played like it was the last 5 minutes all game they would have a chance, but lets not get carried away.  The "Hoody" will have something special for Timmy and everyone will start jumping off the Tebow for MVP bandwagon.  That award still goes to Peyton Manning.  Patriots win 31 - 10.

Shocks

The first shock of the week is the Jets over the Eagles.  The Jets are in a must win situation and the Eagles are still trying to find their way out of the paper bag.  I'm sure they will find their way out next week against the Cowboys, but this week not so much.  The Jets win 23 - 20.

The second shock is the Steelers over the 49ers.  The Steelers haven't played great, and they travel cross country to play in San Fran, and Big Ben is banged up, so add it all up and you get a Steelers win.  Yeah I know, consider it new math.  I just don't trust the 49ers and its Monday night and ESPN will need to heap platitude upon platitude on Worthlessburger.  Doesn't Worthington or LaLoma make that?  Anywho, Steelers win 24 - 17.

Jocks

Drew Brees 300 yards and 2 touchdowns.  It's a broken record for a reason, I think he will have a break some records by season end.  Plus it doesn't hurt they are playing the Vikings!!

Tom Brady 300 yards and 2 touchdowns as well.  I thought about putting Tebow here, but then I didn't think anyone would see the humor in a 50 yard day.  

LSJ - Tofurkey Day

Locks

There are two locks this Thanksgiving Day...okay three, but we all know Chris will have to get sweatpants by nightfall because he ate too much.  The first NFL lock of the week is the Packers over the Lions.  Oh finally Detroit has a chance on Thanksgiving Day, they finally have a team!!  And this year they get the undefeated Green Bay Packers.  Detroit isn't as good as it started, or maybe as lucky.  But the real difference is the pass rush.  If they put the pressure to Rodgers they may have a chance, but even with pressure I don't think they have the DB's to match the weapons of the Packers.   You have a lot to be thankful for this year Detroit, its just a win on Turkey Day won't be one of them.  Packers win 31 - 20.

Dallas is the other lock of the week. The Dolphins have won three in a row, and so has Dallas.  But I think the Cowboys have more talent and that should be enough.  Should is the key word, if the good Cowpokes show up it could look a lot like the Bills game.  If bad Romo shows up it could be a squeaker like last week.  Either way I've got the 'Boys ruling the day and helping me have a great Thanksgiving night.  Dallas wins 27 - 13.

Shocks

The battle of the Harbaugh's is great for ESPN and NFL Network, but I'm not sure it really matters.  Unless you are listening to ESPN radio today or tomorrow.  Baltimore has a good team most weeks, but then they can lay some real clunkers.  (see Jacksonville).  The 49ers keep winning, except against Dallas, and I think they will again tonight.  Baltimore should win, but that's why they play the games!!  Good matchup, but the 9ers win 23 - 20.

Jocks

QB's rule the day for jocks.  I've got Aaron Rodgers throwing for 300 yards and two scores against Detroit and Romo throwing for 275 and two scores against the fins. 

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!  More picks this Sunday and don't forget to tune in Tuesday night as Chris and Matt discuss the week that was in the NFL and whatever else they want too!!

LSJ - Week 9

Locks

The first lock of the week is Pittsburgh over Baltimore.  Baltimore embarrassed the Steelers in Week 1 and the Steelers will be looking for payback.  They will get it as Pittsburgh's play has gotten better and the Ravens have fallen off the map.  Its never a good idea to peak in week 1, which is exactly what it looks like the Ravens did.  The Steelers win 31 - 13.

The second lock of the week is Philly over the Bears.  The Eagles look like they have gotten themselves on track and I've always thought the Bears were overachieving.  The Bears may slow down Vick and the Eagles, but they don't have the offensive fire power to keep up.  Eagles win 27 - 17.

Shocks

The Saints are favored by 9 over the Bucs and I'm not sure why.  Sure on paper the Saints should win, but that's why they play the game.  And the Saints haven't played a great game since they shellacked the Colts 62-7.  And yes, I know it was only two weeks ago, but did you?  Anyway, I like the Bucs on the road for some reason this week 20 - 17.

The second shock is the Jets over the Bills.  The Bills are favored at home this week, and the Jets haven't looked like the Super Bowl appearing team I predicted earlier this year.  If the Jets want to make the playoffs, and I think Sexy Rexy does, it is a must win for the Jets this week.  Jets win 20 - 17.

Jocks

Michael Turner gets to face the Colts this week.  And I think a heavy dose of Turner is just what the Falcons have planned for the Colts.  Turner will run for 100 yards and get 2 scores.

Aaron Rodgers gets to face the Chargers today.  Which Chargers team will show up this week?  Great questions, but I think I know which Aaron Rodgers shows up for the Packers.  The kind that throws for 300 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Sucks to be the Chargers.

Tune in Tuesday night at 10:00 pm eastern as Chris & Matt discuss the week that was in the NFL and whatever else they feel like at the time.  www.blogtalkradio.com/sidelinershow 

LSJ - Week 7

Locks

The first lock of the week is the Saints over the Colts. ESPN.com has the one at 14, and I have feeling the Colts will cover. But this isn't about who covers its about who wins. The Saints should keep marching with a win against the hapless Colts. Saints win 31 24-13.

The second lock of the week is the Ravens over the Jaguars. Not a great Monday night game since the Jags dropped their starting QB right before the season started. I don't know what they were thinking, it worked before but they had a decent backup. Now they got nothing but another whipping, and this one on Monday night. Ravens roll 27 - 6.

Shocks

The first shock of the week is the Texans over the Titans. The Titans have had a decent start to the season with Hasselbeck running the offense, but Chris Johnson hasn't been Chris Johnson this year at all. The Texans are the better team and need to show it on the road in Tennessee. The Texans win 24 - 20.

The second shock of the week is the Falcons over the Lions. Detroit got their panties in a wad at the end of the 49ers game, and they will again this week. Maybe not from the handshake at mid-field but because of the whipping on the field. The Falcons need to start winning if they intend to make e playoffs and a road win in Detroit is a good place to start. Dirty Birds win 27 - 23.

Jocks

The first jock is Ray Rice. He will combine (rushing & receiving) for 130 yards and two touchdowns this week. He is one of the most versatile backs in the league and will continue to show why against the Jags.

The second lock is Aaron Rodgers throwing for 300 yards and two scores against the Vikings. Anytime you can embarrass a divisional rival you do it. The Vikings don't need much helps his year, and Rodgers is more than up for the task.

Let us know your thoughts on this week in the NFL at (909) 4SL-SHOW. Listen live every week at 10 pm eastern as Chris and Matt discuss the week that was in the NFL. www.blogtalkradio.com/sidelinershow

LSJ - Week 4

Locks

The first lock of the week is the Bucs over the Colts.  The Colts have to pin all of their hopes on Painter...yeah thats how they feel as well.  The Bucs aren't great, but they will be good enough.  The Colts lose bad 24 - 6.

The second lock of the week is the Falcons over the Seahawks.  The Falcons haven't looked like the PreSeason Super Bowl pick that I made, but its only the quarter pole.  The Falcons have a get right game this week against the Seahawks and Michael Turner will get back to running the ball.  The Falcons win 31 - 13.

Shocks

The first shock of the week is the Lions over the Cowboys.  I hate picking against the Boys, but Detroit looks for real.  What also looks for real is Stafford to Johnson, they should hook up at least twice this week.  The Lions win 31 - 20.

The second shock of the week is the Jets over the Ravens.  The Ravens handled their business week 1 against the Steelers, and the Jets stumbled last week, which is all the logic I need to pick the Jets to win 24 - 23.

Jocks

Calvin Johnson will score two touchdown on the Boys and gain 125 yards receiving.

Drew Brees will throw for 300 yards and two scores.

NFL Divisional Playoff Round - LS&J

Locks

The first lock of the week is the Steelers over the visiting Ravens.  The Steelers just seem to have Baltimore's number with Big Ben and they are at home.  This game should be close with the Steelers winning by a field goal.  The Steelers win 20 - 17.

The second lock of the week is the Patriots over the Jets.  I think the Jets have talked themselves out of this win.  If Cromartie didn't like Brady before the game he really won't like him after it.  The Jets lose the second biggest game in franchise history 27 - 20.

This week we have three locks because there is no way Seattle beats the Bears this week.  I have not been big on the Bears all year but Peppers will neutralize the passing game and there isn't much of a running game.  The Bears control this one start to finish 20 - 6.

Shock

The shock of the week is the Green Bay Packers will go into Atlanta and beat the Falcons at home.  The Falcons are great at home but I really like how the Packers defense is playing.  The Packers win a close one 31 - 30.

Jocks

The first jock is Tom Brady.  The Jets have been flapping their gums all week and that just seems to fire the Patriots more.  Brady will throw for 275 yards and two touchdowns.

The second jock is Aaron Rodgers who will throw for 300 yards and 2 touchdowns against the Falcons.  

Should be a good weekend of football.  Tune in Tuesday night to hear Chris and Matt discuss the week that was in the NFL Playoffs.  Listen live at www.blogtalkradio.com/sidelinershow

NFL Week 15 - LS&J

Locks

The first lock was the (7-6) now (8-6) Chargers over the (5-8) now (5-9) 49ers.

The second lock of the week is the (9-4) Bears over the (5-8) Vikings.  The Vikings have been busy trying to ready a college stadium and decide who was going to play quarterback for them.  Favre and Jackson have been ruled out making Joe Webb the starter on Monday night.  Cutler and the Bears should have no problems dismantling the Vikings who sounded like the season was over last week.  It won't be any better on a cold night in the twin cities, Bears win 23 - 6.

This week we get three locks because there is no way the (11-2) Patriots are losing to the (8-5) Packers.  Especially with no Aaron Rodgers.  The Packers have the same problem as the Vikings, a backup quarterback no one has any confidence in.  The Pats will run the score up on another team in a game only Pats fans want to watch.  The Patriots win 38 - 3.

Shocks

The first shock of the week is (9-4) Eagles over the (9-4) Giants.  The Giants passing game is suspect right now and the running game may be effective but it won't be enough.  The Eagles with Vick are a totally different team and they will win a close one on the road.  Eagles win 27 - 23.

The second shock of the week is (10-3) Saints over the (9-4) Ravens.  The Ravens looked horrible against the Texans in the second half of last weeks game.  The Saints have been looking more and more like the Super Bowl winning team from last year.  They haven't been getting the turnovers like they did last year, and they have been turning the ball over more.  The trends reverse this week, the Saints will win the turnover battle and the battle of the scoreboard.  Saints win 26 - 24.

Jocks

The first jock was Philip Rivers throwing for 300 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Hopefully you didn't mark it down and won't hold it against me.

The second jock is Peyton Hillis.  Sorry Suzy, but with the Browns going against the in-state rivals Bengals.  The Bengals haven't stopped much of anything and we assume the Browns are going to stay with Hillis on the ground while starting Colt McCoy.  Hillis will run for over 100 yards and get 1 score.

We may be on vacation but the NFL isn't.  Don't forget to listen live in January!!

NFL Week 14 - LS&J

Locks

This pains me in unspeakable ways, but I will have to pick the (8-4) Eagles to take down the (4-8) Cowboys on the road tonight.  The Cowboys have played way better under Jason Garrett, but Indy hanging 21 points in the 4th quarter on the Dallas D doesn't bode well with me.  Also, the Cowboys offense didn't generate a lot of points or movement on their own.  Eagles win 31 - 23.

The second lock of the week is (8-4) Ravens to beat the (5-7) Texans on the road Monday night.  I usually like road dogs but in these two picks I'm going with the favorite because the home dogs have played like well, dogs.  The Ravens D will slow down the offense of the Texans enough to take a close one in Houston 23 - 20.

Shocks

The (10-2) Patriots are on the road at the (9-3) Bears this weekend.  I'm not a huge believer in the Bears, but I am a huge believer in let down losses.  The Pats are a young team with a struggling D.  The defense turned in their best performance of the year and I don't expect them to repeat it two weeks in a row.  The Bears D has taken out a lot of quarterbacks this year, I don't expect them to take Brady out but he will get knocked around.  The Bears win 27 -24.

The second shock is the (6-6) Raiders over the (7-5) Jaguars.  I have picked the Jags to get upset several times this year and I've been wrong every time.  I think this week will be different because apparently I'm a gambler who thinks this time it will be different.  Oakland is playing tough this year and one never knows which Raider team will show up.  I'm thinking it is going to be the good one this week as they win the battle of the field goal in Jacksonville 22 - 19.

Jocks

Philip Rivers is the first jock going up against the Chiefs.  This is a must win game for the Chargers if they want to get into the playoffs.  Rivers knows this and will get (running or throwing) three touchdowns and at least 300 yards passing.  I wouldn't be shocked if he crossed the 4,000 yard mark on the year.

The second jock is Aaron Rodgers for the Packers.  He is quietly putting together quite a nice season and lucky for him he draws the Lions today.  Rodgers will throw for over 300 yards and score at least two touchdowns.  He only got 181 the first time against them, don't expect this to happen again!!

Leave us your comments on this weeks games on our facebook page - www.facebook.com/sidelinershow 

NFL Week 13 - LS&J

Locks

The first lock of the week is the (7-4) Eagles over the (5-6) Texans at home.  The Texans secondary is horrible and Vick is throwing the ball the best he ever has.  I don't see the Eagles having too many problems Thursday night with the Texans.  Look for the Eagles to win 31-20.

The second lock of the week the (9-2) Falcons on the road over the (7-4) Buccaneers.  The Bucs have had a great season but the Falcons are way too strong.  It will be a low scoring affair but Matty Ice and Co. will walk out of Tampa with a 20 - 16 win.

Shocks

In a Sunday night showdown the (8-3) Steelers take on the (8-3) Ravens on the road.  The Ravens won the first in Steel town but Big Ben was missing.  He is now walking with a boot on but should be ready to play Sunday night.  With Roethlisberger in the pocket the Steelers will take one from the Ravens on the road.  Steelers win 16 - 13.

The second shock is the (9-2) Jets over the (9-2) Patriots on the road.  Rex Ryan says his team was built to beat the Pats and I'm going to believe him based on their track record.  Also, I have to respect him for comparing himself to Brady.  To the game, the Jets win a squeaker over the Pats with Revis coming up with a key interception in the last two minutes to preserve the win. Jets win 27-24.

Jocks

Peyton Hillis will cross the 1,000 yard mark on the season and will get 125 yards against the Dolphins.  The Dolphins will limit him to one score, but the former Razorback will help the Browns take down the fish.

The second jock is Drew Brees.  SI's Sportsman of the Year gets the chance to go against the horrible Bengals.  Brees will add another 300 yards to his stat sheet and throw at least 2 touchdowns. 

Listen live Tuesday night as Chris & Matt discuss the week that was in the NFL.

NFL Week 10 - LS&J

Locks

The first lock of the week is the (5-3) Eagles to beat the (4-4) Redskins in Landover.  The Redskins have a feud between their head coach and quarterback and that is ALWAYS a recipe for disaster.  The Eagles have Vick back and Jackson back, spelling bad news for the soap opera that is Washington.  The Eagles take care of business on the road 24 - 13.

The second lock of the week is for the (6-2) Steelers to take down the (6-2) Patriots.  The Patriots were very quietly beating teams and then they got stomped by Cleveland.  It is not likely for the Patriots to lose two in a row, but also unlikely they would lose to the Browns.  Rothlisberger is still getting on the same page as his receivers, but it is only getting better spelling gloom for the Pats young secondary.  Pittsburgh wins in OT 27-24.

Shocks

The first shock of the week is the (6-2) Ravens to beat the (6-2) Falcons on the road.  Ray-Ray is on the record saying he (and most NFL players) do NOT like playing on Thursday night.  But you know Ray-Ray will be all fired up to knock some heads.  The game will go down to the last 5 minutes with a kicker deciding the game.  Falcons miss the attempt and the Ravens win 24 - 23.

The second shock is the (4-4) Texans to upset the (4-4) Jaguars.  The Texans secondary is used to being torched, but lucky for them they play the Jags this week!!  Garrard probably won't light up the Texans secondary like he did the Cowboys a couple of weeks ago.  The Texans should be able to move the ball and post a needed win to stay in the playoff hunt.  The Texans win 27 - 17.

Jocks

The first jock is Eli Manning.  Yes the Cowboys have a new coach, but they also have a new defense coordinator.  The smart play is on the Giants offense over the so far uninspired Dallas defense.  The Cowboys MAY get better, but it won't be this week.  Baby Bro Manning throws for 300 yards and 3 TD's as nothing changes for the Cowboys.

The second jock is Michael Vick.  He should be able to light up the Redskins D both with his legs and his arm.  Through the air on the ground Vick will net 300 yards and 2 scores as the Redskins have NO clue how to handle him. 

Tune in this Tuesday as Chris & Matt are back on the mic and throwing opinions out like 3 dollar bills.  The dollar bills may be more valuable, but Chris & Matt are definitely more entertaining!! 

Week 6 Locks, Shocks, & Jocks

Locks

The first lock of the week is the (3-2) Colts to beat the (3-2) Redskins. The Colts are favored by 4 on the road and will win by 7. The Redskins haven't been consistent and against the weak Indy D they will put up some points, unfortunately the fightin Peytons will put up more. Colts win 31 - 24.

The second lock is the (3-2) Titans over the (3-2) Jaguars. Tennessee is coming off a road win over the Cowboys, and for whatever reason Vince Young just seems to win. Lucky for Vince he has Chris Johnson who will run all over the Jags D. Titans win 20 - 13.

Shocks

 

The first shock of the week (4-1) Ravens on the road over the (3-1) Patriots. The Pats D isn't any better than last year when the Ravens spanked them at home in the playoffs and the Ravens offense is much better with T J Houshmandzadeh *championship* & Anquan Bolden. The Ravens win 27 - 24.

The second shock is the (4-1) Falcons over the (3-2) Eagles. Vick isn't healthy yet and neither will the Eagles offense. The Falcons just have more talent and are playing better. Matty Ice will lead the Falcons in the 4th quarter to their 5th win of the year 27 - 20.

Jocks

The first jock is All Day, or Adrian Peterson. The Cowboys D got Chris Johnson last week and this week Peterson. Farve has an injured wing, too many texts I guess, so Minnesota will give the rock to Peterson. Adrian will wear them down and out rushing for over 125 yards and 2 scores.


The second jock is Ben Rothlisberger. You may think he will be rusty after sitting out the first four games of the year, but he has had two weeks to prepare for the Browns. Oh yeah, Big Ben gets to start against the Browns. Big Ben will throw for 250 and 3 scores as the Steelers roll against the Browns.

Listen live Tuesday night at 10:00 eastern for Chris & Matt to break down the week that was in the NFL!!

LS&J Week 4

Locks

The first lock of the week is the (2-1) Patriots taking on the (2-1) Dolphins in an AFC East Divisional matchup.  Lucky for the Dolphins they are playing at home, but unfortunately they are playing the Pats.  The Pats, favored by 1 on ESPN.com, are coming off allowing the Bills 30 points, but their defense will look sharper and as always Brady & Co. will be slinging it around the field.  The Pats win 31 - 24.

The second lock of the week is the (2-1) Eagles over the (1-2) Redskins.  McNabb comes back to Philly, and the reception won't be warm and neither will the Redskins offense.  Vick will keep the Redskins D guessing with his feet and to his two young electric receivers Maclin and Jackson.  The Eagles win easy 34 - 17.

Shocks

The biggest shock of the year is how Pittsburgh has run their record to 3-0 without Big Ben.  That all ends today as Ray Ray and the Baltimore Ravens come calling.  The Steelers have won because of their defense, but their offense won't get anything going against the stingy Ravens D.  The Ravens O will do just enough to get the W.  Ravens 17 and the Steelers 6.

The second shock is that the (1-2) Giants are favored by 4 points over the (3-0) Bears.  The Bears will run the record to 4-0 and get the league talking about if they are for real.  They aren't, but that isn't the point.  The Giants are in real turmoil.  The head coach is on the hot seat, the offense looks anemic, and we aren't really sure if they have a defense or not.  The Bears win 24 - 17.

Jocks

The first jock is Drew Brees.  The Saints are playing the Panthers at home and will have a field day against the hapless Panthers.  Brees will go for over 300 yards and 3 scores.

The second jock is DeSeab Jackon.  One of the Eaglet receivers is bound to have a great day and we are projecting Jackson because of his electric speed.  Jackson will snagg 2 touchdowns and get over 125 yards.

Well there it is, listen Tuesday at 10:00 eastern to see how we did and hear Chris & Matt discuss the week that was in the NFL week 4.  Listen live at www.blogtalkradio.com/sidelinershow 

LS&J Playoff Style - Divisional Weekend

Arizona at New Orleans

Arizona is coming off a shootout win over the Green Bay Packers last Sunday night.  The highest scoring game in playoff history taught us one thing, if Arizona’s defense doesn’t show up again this week the Cardinals playoff run will be over.  Shootouts are fun to watch, but not so much for defensive coordinators.  Aaron Rodgers is a pretty good quarterback, but Drew Brees right now is even better.  New Orleans struggled down the stretch losing their last three.  That streak ends tonight in New Orleans as the Saints will go marching up and down all over the 11 players alledgedly playing defense.  The Saints win 30-20.

The player to watch in this game will be my supposed “man crush” Drew Brees.  If he throws for 300 yards and three touchdowns the Saints will not lose.  Pierre Thomas will play tonight and do just enough to keep the Cards D honest with the run.  Brees will manipulate the safety’s and hit the open man, rust schmust. 

Baltimore at Indianapolis

Ahh the latest Baltimore team against the original team from Baltimore.  Grudge match.  Rematch.  That’s right the two teams met in Indianapolis in Week 11. The Colts won a squeaker 17-15, allowing Baltimore 5 field goals.  Baltimore will have to score touchdowns to win this game, and I do expect a close game considering how Baltimore’s D demolished Chris’ Patriots last week.  Also, because Peyton and the offense could show rust early in the game since they haven’t played meaningful minutes since early December.  The Fightin Peyton’s will be too much for Baltimore this week, the Colts will win a squeaker 20-17.

The player to watch this week is again Ray Rice.  He is the Raven’s offense, and he must get it going against the Colts D to keep Baltimore in the game.  Peyton has had some of his worst days against Baltimore, he will be good enough but not great.  Rice will run for 100, catch for 50, and score at least one touchdown.  A nice day at the office, but not good enough.

Dallas at Minnesota

To me, this is the toughest game to pick.  The teams seem to be matched pretty evenly with Minnesota getting a slight edge because they are playing at home.  But being the homer I am, I can’t pick against the Cowboys.  Especially the way that D is playing right now.  Romo’s record on the road is better than at home in December and January so there’s another good sign.  I look for the Cowboys to put a lot of pressure on Favre forcing him into some bad decisions.  Also, look for Adrian Peterson to have at least one fumble.  The Cowboys win in the last two minutes, 24-23.

The player to watch in this one is Adrian Peterson.  He will be what keeps Minnesota in the game.  Dallas hasn’t played a running back like him all year, speed and strength.  Peterson will rush for 125 yards and two touchdowns.  Ultimately, it will be his one fumble problems that end the season early for the Vikes.

New York at San Diego

The Jets are riding high, playing themselves into the playoffs then delivering the goods once arriving.  Well, the J-E-T-S, JETS JETS JETS, will L-O-S-E LOSE, LOSE, LOSE this weekend against the stronger Chargers.  The Bolts have won 11 in a row, and against some pretty good teams.  Phillip Rivers is showing he is an elite quarterback and he will lead the Chargers against the best D in the league.  The Chargers haven’t been held under 20 this season.  The lowest they scored was 20 at Dallas in December.  I don’t think the Jets will be able to put enough points on the board to offset the Chargers offense.  The Chargers win 27-17.

The player to watch in this matchup is Antonio Gates.  Revis and Jackson will be a great matchup, but that will leave Gates to pickup any slack for Jackson’s lower productivity.  Norv will find the week spots in the Jets D that will allow for Gates to catch the ball in the soft spots.  Expect the big tight end to have 8 catches for 100 yards and a touchdown.

That’s the playoff’s this week, tune in Tuesday night at 10:00 pm eastern to see how we did, plus more.  Catch the podcast on iTunes or live Tuesday night at www.blogtalkradio.com/sidelinershow .

LS&J Playoff Style - Wild Card Weekend

For Wild Card Weekend we will do something different for LS&J.  I am going to pick the winners for all four games and then a player to watch.  

Jets @ Bengals

In the first of three rematches from Week 17, the Jets meet the Bengals.  The Bengals were 6-2 at home and the Jets were 5-3 on the road.  The Jets dismantled the Bengals in Week 17, but I don’t think the Bengals were properly motivated.  What did they have to play for?  I think the Bengals will have a chip on their shoulders after losing to the Jets BAD last week on national television.  The Bengals will win 23-17 over the Jets.  

The player to watch is Cedric Benson.  All eyes may be on the Chad Ochocinco and Darrelle Revis matchup but in really matters how Cincy runs the ball.  If they can get Cedric going then maybe Chad might catch a ball or two.  If they don’t it could be a long afternoon for Ochocinco and Co.  I think Cedric will run for a C Note and have a score to boot.

Eagles @ Cowboys

The next matchup is another matchup from Week 17.  But not only is this a rematch, it is a divisional rivalry.  Dallas embarrassed Philly by shutting them out, but Dallas’s D won’t score it’s third shutout in a row.  Wade has the D hitting on all cylinders and Romo just had the best year of any Dallas quarterback, and Dallas has had more than it’s share of hall of famer’s at the position.  Dallas will beat Philly for the third time this year, but it will come down to the last five minutes of the game.  Cowboys 27 and the Eagles 23.

The players to watch are DeMarcus Ware, Jay Ratliff, and Anthony Spencer.  These guys HAVE to get pressure on McNabb if Dallas is going to win it’s third straight over Philly and get the first playoff win since 1996.  Ware didn’t record a sack last week but Ratliff got two.   These guys will get 5 sacks on McNabb or force him into a bad pass resulting in an interception.  A Dallas win will be on the back of the D.

Ravens @ Patriots

New England just hasn’t been the New England we have all come to expect over the past several years.  And it only got worse when Wes Welker went down with a knee injury last week and will miss the playoffs.  The Pats looked bad earlier this year when Welker was out.  Welker caught 120 passes from Brady, and that’s with missing three games.  Brady lost his favorite target, and the Ravens will make sure New England loses the game.  Baltimore look to put pressure on Brady and shutting down Moss will be easier with no Welker.  Baltimore wins 24-20.

The player to watch is Ray Rice.  Baltimore is still a run first team and the running starts and ends with Rice.  Ray will run for 100 yards and score at least two touchdowns.  One of his TD’s may be receiving because Flacco also likes to throw to him, he’s the leading receiver with 78 receptions.  For the Ravens to win, Rice will have a big day, count on it.

Packers & Cardinals

The last of the grudge matches happens in the desert Sunday night.  The Packers are the team no one wants to play and the Cardinals are looking for an identity.  Warner looks like the Warner of New York and not the Warner of the Rams, which is not good news for Cardinal fans.  Also, with Anquan Boldin doubtful to play in Sunday’s game there is only one team to take.  The Packers will win going away 38-24.

The player to watch is Aaron Rodgers.  He had a great year throwing for over 4,400 hards with 30 TD’s and only 7 pics.  Rodgers will throw for over 300 yards and multiple touchdowns in a laugher in the desert.  Grant will keep the defense honest while Rodgers makes the big plays, sorry Arizona, just be glad you broke the Super Bowl Loser hex.  

Tune in Tuesday at 10:00 pm eastern, for Chris and Matt discussion of the pics and the week that was in the NFL and more.  Listen live at www.blogtalkradio.com/sidelinershow . 

LS&J Week 13

Locks

Lots of great games on the schedule this week, too bad LS&J won’t be reflecting that!! The first lock of the week is San Diego over the Browns. Yep, that’s right we are REALLY going out on a limb with this one!! Rivers will have a great day and the running game will be serviceable as the Chargers light up in the inept Browns. The Chargers win going away 38-10.

The second lock is Pittsburg to take down Oakland. I don’t know if Big Ben will be back, but it doesn’t matter. Oakland is in total disarray. “Just Win Baby” has turned into, “Just show up on time and collect a check, Baby!” There is no defense for the offense and the defense has been offensive! Yeah, while your thinking about that, Pittsburgh scored again!! Steelers start to make their playoff push with a 24-10 win over the Raiders!!

Shocks

The first shock of the week is the Ravens over the Packers. While Aaron Rodgers has had a pretty good year it has felt uneven for the Pack this year. The Ravens are trying to make the playoffs in the tough AFC. That is why we are taking the Ravens to pound the ball with Rice & McGahee and shorten the game while keeping Rodgers off the field. Ravens win a boring low scoring affair 20-13.

The second shock of the week is Tennessee to continue their winning ways against the Colts. Yes I’m picking on the Colts for the second week in a row but the Titans are on a roll, having run off 5 straight wins after starting with 6 straight losses. The Titans won’t end up in the playoffs when it is all said and done, and with Vince Young it isn’t always pretty, but they just win. The Titans just win with Vince, simple as that. With Texas taking on Nebraska Saturday night we are sticking with the Texas theme and Vince winning it in the final seconds. Titans 23 and the Colts 20.

Jocks

The first jock is Drew Brees. The Redskins have played two tight games, but they were against NFC East rivals. The Saints will march up and down the field with Brees playing with the Redskins DB’s like a cat plays with a mouse. Brees will have over 300 yards and account for 3 touchdowns.

The second jock is Carson Palmer. Palmer gets the pleasure of going up against the Lions and will take full advantage of it. It must be the Bengals year because they are 8-3 and could be 9-2 if not for a fluke loss against Denver in Week 1. The Lions have nothing going for them, other than the season is almost over! Palmer gets 300 yards and multiple touchdowns. The Bengals should ROMP!!

LS&J for Week 11

Locks

The first lock of the week is the Patriots over the Jets.  The Jets took it to the Patriots in Week 2, but don’t look for a repeat performance.  The Jets have lost 4 of the last 5 and while the Patriots are coming off a last second loss to the Colts, the Jets will not make it two in a row.  Brady will light up the Jets and it won’t be close.  Patriots win 31-10.

The second lock is the Ravens over the Colts. After a last second win over the Patriots, look for a letdown in Baltimore.  The Ravens are tough at home (3-1) and while they have lost some games late, the Colts D doesn’t intimidate anyone.  The Ravens will run for 200 yards and Flacco will do just enough for the Ravens to hand the Colts their first loss of the year.  Ravens 24 and the Colts 20.

Shocks

The first shock is that the Broncos are four point favorites over the Chargers!!  Orton is a game time decision and didn’t practice on Friday, with that being said, the Chargers will win in the thin air of Denver.  This won’t be a pretty game, if you like seeing a lot of punts this could be your game!  The Chargers will make less mistakes and take advantage of Denver’s.  The Broncos will continue to be called the Donkeys another week.  I got the Chargers over the Denver Donkey’s 17-10.

The second shock is the Falcons over the Giants.  The Falcons are seven point dogs to the Giants and neither team has really shown much the last several weeks.  The Giants have lost four in a row after winning their first five games.  The Falcons on the other hand have lost three out of their last four with their only win against the Redskins.  This is a battle of 5-4 teams, with the winner having a leg up for a possible playoff berth on the line.  There are four 5-4 teams and only two spots!  The Falcons D will harass Eli all afternoon and Matt Ryan will find White & Gonzalez all afternoon.  The Falcons win 24-20.

Jocks

The first Jock will be Rashard Mendenhall. The Steelers play against the Chiefs this year, and the Chiefs have not played that great against the run, they rank 26^th.  The Steelers have always loved running they ball, and they will be loving it again Sunday afternoon.  Mendenhall will have over 125 yards running with multiple touchdowns.

The second jock will be Kurt Warner.  He goes back to St. Louis and will torch the secondary of the Rams for over 300 yards and at least three touchdowns.  Steven Jackson running the ball will be the best defense the Rams play all day.  Keep the ball out of the Warners hands, that is what the Rams must do to keep it close.  A healthy Bolden isn’t what the doctor ordered for St. Louis.  

LS&J for Week 10

Locks

The first lock of the week is the the (4-4) Jaguars traveling to the (4-4) Jets.  The Jets started the year off with three straight wins and have since gone 1-4.  The Jags have been up and down all year with not much excitement all year.  The Jets will get it right this week and get the job done against the Jaguars.  The Jets D will be the key, and we fully expect Rex Ryan to come up with a scheme that will give Garrad & Co. fits all week.  Jets win 24-17.

The second lock is the Ravens smacking down Cleveland Browns Saturday night.  I’m not sure what ESPN was thinking when they scheduled this game, but I can’t imagine they thought the Browns would be in total disaray and have a record of 1-7.  The second half of the season will not start great for the Man-genius as he gets it handed to him 31-10.

Shocks

The first shock is the Patriots over the Colts.  The Pats may be on the road in Indy but the past several weeks Brady has looked like Brady and Moss is chewing up DB’s and spitting them out.  We expect the game to be decided in the last five minutes of the fourth quarter with the Patriots making the plays on D to stop Manning and Brady with a clutch play to lock it up.  The Patriots win 27-24.

The second shock is the Bengals, seven point dogs, will beat the Steelers in Steel town.  The terrible towels will be needed to dry the eyes of Pittsburgh fans as Carson Palmer and Co. prove they are for real.  It is a battle of 6-2 teams and first place in the AFC North is up for grabs.  Cedric Benson will continue to get yards on the ground and Palmer & Ochocinco will hook up for a late touchdown to give the Bengals the 27-24 win over the Steelers.

Jocks

The first jock is Joe Flacco.  That’s right, a Baltimore QB has made the list as a jock instead of a RB or LB.  But Joe has been steady all year and may throw for 4,000 yards this year.  He will get a good chunk this week against the Browns will throw multiple touchdowns.  The Ravens won in Week 3 and Flacco threw for 342 yards.  He might not get 342, but he will throw more than the 1 he did that week.  

The second jock is Wes Welker.  Moss may get all the media attention, but Welker makes that offense go.  The two losses suffered by the Pats were when Welker was out with injuries.  Welker gets more catches and more importantly frees Moss up to make the big plays because you HAVE to cover Welker.  Welker may not have a ton of yards, but watch the game and you will see why Moss is more open with him on the field and he will have the most receptions of any reciever in the game.  

Send your thoughts to us by calling or texing (909) 4SL-Show and tune in Tuesday night at 10:00 pm eastern as Chris and Matt will discuss the week that was in the NFL, and much much more at www.blogtalkradio/sidelinershow or podcast whenever is convenient.