LSJ - Super Bowl

Lock

I'm picking the Patriots over the Giants.  I have gone back and forth on this, even while typing it, but finally decided the holes on the Giants are less than the holes for the Pats.  What's the difference you ask? The Giants have been talking smack all week, making predictions, talking about how they rattle Brady, the IT department screws up and displays the Championship website early, and on and on.  The New York media TRIED to stir up controversy with Brady's words, but he diffused it and that was that.  Gronk isn't healthy and that can't be good for Pats fans, but I think Brady will pull it out in the 4th QTR 34 - 31.

Jocks

The jocks will be the QB's as both Brady and Manning will throw for 300 yards and 2 TD's apiece.  Winning QB gets the MVP.

Enjoy the Super Bowl and live tweeting commentary on the game and commercials!!  Listen Tuesday as Matt & Chris discuss the Super Bowl, the ads, the Vegas caucus, snow, and as always weird news on www.blogtalkradio.com/sidelinershow at 10:00 pm eastern.  

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 - Week 8

Locks

The first lock of the week is the Chargers over the Chiefs.  I'm not sure who the Chiefs have been channelling the past couple of weeks, but I'm pretty sure it won't work this week.  The Chiefs have a nice little win streak going and the Chargers record is better than it has been at this point in the season before, but they don't look like the San Diego Chargers.  So with the logic the Chiefs are playing great and the Chargers aren't, the Chargers win 24 - 17.

The second lock of the week is Patriots over the Steelers.  The Steelers haven't looked like the Steelers of the past, especially on defense and the Patriots have shown they can score.  The Pats D will do just enough and Brady will do more than just enough to have the Pats win 23 - 20.

Shocks

The first shock of the week is the Boys over the Eagles.  I have thought long and hard about this one, it really depends on which QB shows up for each team.  But to me this game is all about the front 7 on defense.  The Cowboys have a better front 7 and will generate good pressure on Vick which is necessary to beat the Eagles.  The Eagles are horrible against the run and the Cowboys may have found something in Murray.  The Cowboys in on the road 27 - 24.

The second shock of the week is the Colts over the Titans.  I know they got run out of the stadium last week, but I'm not sold on the Titans.  Johnson hasn't run like Chris Johnson and they don't have Britt anymore.  The Colts will win a game this year, and why not this one.  The Colts win 17 - 13.

Jocks

The first jock of the week is Arian Foster.  The Jags won't have two great weeks in a row so Foster will run for 125 yards and a touchdown. 

The second jock is Wes Welker.  He is the primary receiver of Brady and against the Steelers that's good enough for me.  Welker catches a TD pass and gains 125 yards receiving.

Text us with your thoughts to 909-4SL-SHOW and listen live Tuesday night at 10 pm eastern on www.blogtalkradio.com/sidelinershow

LSJ - Week 6

Locks

The first lock of the week is New York Jets over the Miami Dolphins.  The Dolphins have lost their starting quarterback for the year, who wasn't very good, and now have to rely on a backup that is even worse.  It would appear the Fins are at the head of the line for Andrew Luck.  That cause will be helped today as the Jets get back to .500 with a 20 - 6 win.

The second lock of the week is Bears over the Vikings.  The Vikings have looked deplorable some weeks and looked like an actual NFL team for a half on other weeks.  McNabb is over the hill and finished...but didn't we learn that last year when he was in Washington?  The Bears aren't great, but they will be good enough to beat their divisional rivals at home 23 - 17.

Shocks

The first shock is the Giants are favored over the Bills.  I'm not jumping on the band wagon of the Bills just yet, but no one circles the wagons like the Buffalo Bills.  I don't even know what that means, but I've heard Chris Berman say it so many times, I figured I'd try it out.  The Bills excel at creating turnovers and the Giants excel at turning the ball over.  Sounds like a match made in heaven for the circling wagons of the Bills.  They win on the road 31 - 27.

The second shock will be the Cowboys winning on the road against the Patriots.  That's right, Chris will be crying on his wings this afternoon and singing GaGa on Tuesday night.  Which Romo shows up is key for Dallas, and the Patriots defense blows so with good Romo showing up the Boys get a much needed victory on the road 31 - 30.

Jocks

Tom Brady will throw a lot, because thats what the Patriots do.  The Cowboys D hasn't been that great against the pass so Brady will throw for 300 yards and two touchdowns.

Drew Brees will also throw a lot, because thats also what he likes to do.  Unfortunately for the Saints they play the Bucs who have a decent defense and will "hold" Brees to a 275 yard and 2 touchdown game.

Listen Tuesday night as Chris will serenade Matt with Lady Gaga's You and I because the Pats go down at home.  We are live at 10:00 p.m. eastern on www.blogtalkradio.com/sidelinershow 

LSJ - Week 5

Locks The first lock of the week is the Patriots over the Jets. The Jets feel like this is a must win game early in the season so it will be entertaining to see how Rex Ryan spins it after the game. Pats win 27 - 17. The second lock is the Lions over the Bears. Stafford to Johnson just can't be stopped. Lions win 24 - 10. Shocks The first shock is the Bills over the Eagles 23-20. The second shock is the Falcons over Packers 30-27. Jocks Tom Brady 300 yards and 2 TDs. Aaron Rodgers 300 yards 2 TDs.

LSJ - Week 1

Locks

The first lock of the year is the season opener at the not so frozen tundra at Lambeau Field. The Packers will get their rings and a banner, oh and more importantly a W!! They are favored by 5 on ESPN.com but they aren’t going to cover against the Saints. It will be a shoot-out, but the fans will go home happy 37 – 34.

The second lock of Week 1 is on Sunday night and it PAINS me to write it. The Jets will beat the Cowboys at home Sunday night. They are playing on 9/11, in New York, what more do I have to say!! The Jets are favored by 5 according to ESPN, I’m not sure they will cover, but they will get the W 27 – 24.

A bonus lock of the week because of the two Monday night games is a gimme with the Patriots over the Dolphins. I know the Fins have played Bill’s Boys pretty good the last couple of years, but not on Monday. The Patriots are favored by 7 and they will cover. Brady and the boys win 31 – 10.

Shocks

The only shock I can see in the nationally televised games is the Raiders over the Broncos. The Donkeys are favored by three at home, but I think the Raiders will win by at least three. I think the Broncos will have trouble stopping the Oakland rushing attack. Oakland wins 20 – 17.

The second shock is Titans over the Jaguars. This shouldn’t be a shock, but ESPN.com still has the Jags favored by three over the Titans even though they cut their starting QB two days before the season starts. The Titans win 17 – 6.

Jocks

The first jock is Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers will pick up where he left off last year torching the Saints DB’s for over 275 yards and 2 scores.

The second jock is Tom Brady who will torch the Dolphins for over 300 yards and three scores.

Tune in Tuesday night to hear Chris and Matt break down the week that was in the NFL at 10:00 eastern on http://bit.ly/78Rrk.



2011 NFL Picks

Well last week we gave you our AFC picks for the upcoming season.  Yesterday we were going to go through our NFC picks but technical difficulties kept us off the air.  You can download the PDFs here but we'll also recap our Superbowl picks for you:

Matt has the Falcons beating the Jets
Chris has the Patriots beating the Packers

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 12 - LS&J Turkey Day Special

Game Already Started

There are 12 minutes left in the first quarter and I have no idea what has happened.  But I do know what will happen!  The Patriots will take down the Lions on the road and the woes will continue for the competitive Lions.  Pats win 31 - 17.

Locks

The (8-2) Jets are heavy favorites over the (2-8) Bengals.  The Bengals won't get it going today against the surging Jets.  Sanchez is leading 4th quarter and OT comebacks, but this week it won't be necessary.  The Jets win in a laugher, 34 - 16.  

The (7-3) Saints are marching into Dallas hopefully getting Reggie Bush back against the (3-7) Cowboys.  Firing Wade is the best thing to happen to the 'Boys this year, but it won't help against the formidable Saints.  The Saints Passing will be too much against the shaky secondary for the Boys.  The Saints win a close one 27 - 24.

Jocks

Drew Brees will light up the Dallas secondary for 300 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Getting Reggie back won't be the help it will be next week, but it really doesn't matter this week.  A weak secondary is better for Brees than a Bush back from injury.

Stay tuned for the rest of Week 11 LS&J later in the week.  Happy Turkey day!!

NFL Week 11 - LS&J

Locks

The first lock of the week is the (6-3) Eagles over the (6-3) Giants.  It's a huge matchup in the NFC East for the outright lead in the division.  Vick is coming off a historic performance and the Giants are coming off a humiliating loss to the Cowboys at home.  It won't get any better in Philly this week as the Eagles soar with Vick once again 31 - 23.

The second lock is the (4-5) Chargers over the (3-6) Broncos.  The Denver Donkey's showed some life last week against KC, but the Chargers are getting healthy and they always play well in November & December.  The Broncos will cover the spread, but lose on the scoreboard.  Chargers win 27 - 20.

Shocks

The first shock is the (6-3) Bears over the (5-4) Dolphins.  Yes its shocking the Bears are 6-3, but it is also shocking the Dolphins are favored at home.  The Bears are 3-1 on the road and the Dolphins are 1-3 at home.  Who am I to argue with history and trends?  Bears win an ugly one 19-17.

The second shock is the (6-3) Colts over the (7-2) Patriots.  Another late year matchup everyone wants to watch.  At least everyone associated with The Sideliners!!  The Colts are banged up but keep winning games and the Pats are quietly putting together quite the record.  The Fighting Mannings will roll into Gillette Stadium and pull one out in the 4th quarter. Colts win 27 - 23.

Jocks

Since the Colts have no running game to speak of Peyton Manning will have to throw the ball around the yard to put points on the board.  He is averaging almost 300 yards a game and will go over that mark on Sunday afternoon in Foxborough with at least 2 touchdowns for good measure.

The other jock of the week is Ray Rice.  The Ravens are playing the 1-8 Panthers who are having BIG quarterback issues.  The issue is keeping them healthy!!  The team is in disarray and Baltimore should have a big day.  Ray Rice makes the engine run and he will gain 125 total yards and score a couple of touchdowns. 

Tune in Tuesday to listen to the week that was in the NFL and hear how Chris & Matt's AFC picks are turning out.

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!! 

NFL Week 7 - LS&J

Locks

The first lock of the week is the (3-3) Packers beating the Vikings (2-3) Vikings. Neither team has show much this year. The Packers have injuries galore and no running game. The Vikings have talent but haven't put it together this year. They won't be able to win this week with Farve really showing his age. Maybe he should start hitting on media relations people for the Vikings...then again they are in Minnesota. Green Bay wins 27 - 20.

The second lock of the week is (4-1) Steelers over the (3-2) Dolphins at Miami. The Steel Curtain looks like it is back with a vengeance, as long as Harrison doesn't retire. Big Ben is back, for now, and while the Dolphins look decent they just don't have the weapons to deploy against the Steelers D. Pitt wins going away 24 - 10.

 Shocks

I'm not sure what is more shocking, the fact that the (1-4) Cowboys haven't won at home yet or they are favored to beat the (4-2) Giants!! They are 4 point favorites at home and I have no clue why!! The Giants will send this Cowboys fan into deeper despair winning on the road 34-31.

The second shock will be the (4-1) Patriots winning on the road over the (2-4) Chargers. The Chargers, my Preseason Super Bowl winner usually start slow. This is a REALLY slow start and show nothing of playoff form let alone championship form. The Pats will put the Bolts in a deeper hole winning 24-17.

Jocks

The first jock is Tony Romo. The Cowboys offense gets a lot of yards and since they will be behind they will have to air it out. Plus, Romo will have to pass more because of all the penalties the team gets. Romo will throw for over 300 yards and 3 tds.

The second jock will be Kyle Orton. That's right, Orton. Who would have thought Denver would be chucking the ball all over the field like its nothing. This week they play the Raiders at home and I fully expect a full air assault. Orton will throw for 300 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Tune in this Tuesday night to hear Chris & Matt discuss the week that was in the NFL at 10:00 eastern at www.blogtalkradio.com/sidelinershow!!

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 - 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 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.