The Yankees are still chasing that elusive 27th championship, and will look to catch it tonight by beating Philadelphia in Game 6 of the 2009 World Series at Yankee Stadium.
After New York took a commanding 3-1 series lead in the best-of-seven series, the Phillies put together a winning combination of solid pitching and offense to win Game 5, 8-6 and force the series to return to New York.
The Phillies are trying to become the first team to rally from a 3-1 World Series deficit since the 1985 Kansas City Royals. To do that, Philadelphia might need slugger Ryan Howard to break out of his slump. Howard is batting .158 (3 for 19) with 12 strikeouts. Second baseman Chase Utley, however, is doing more than his share. His five home runs, including two in Game 6, matched the mark set by Yankees Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson in 1977.
The Yanks will be looking to christen their new ballpark with a World Series crown in its first season. They’ve got two chances to do it. A Game 7 would be Thursday night in New York, if necessary.
Pedro Martinez, 38, will get the start for Philly, facing off against Yankees’ 37-year old lefty Andy Pettitte. Martinez and Pettitte have faced each other six times on the mound and both are 3-3, but have never met in a playoff game. Not to mention one this huge.
Pettitte is 3-0 with a 3.24 ERA in four starts this postseason, including a Game 3 win at Philadelphia. Martinez pitched well in a Game 2 loss at Yankee Stadium, and is 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA in as many starts.
The odds makers have the Yankees at –1-½ favorites in Game 6 with a game total of 9 ½.
Look for the Phillies to get ahead early and hold off New York forcing a decisive Game 7.
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The 2009 World Series is underway and so far my predictions are coming to fruition as the teams are knotted up with one game apiece heading into Game 3 at Philadelphia on Saturday night.
The Phiilies thumped New York 6-1 in Game 1 behind a superb performance from left- handed AL Cy Young Award winner, Cliff Lee who pitched a complete game surrendering just one earned run on six hits while striking out 10 of the 32 Bronx batters he faced. Lee out dueled ALCS MVP C.C. Sabathia who toed the rubber seven innings for the Yanks, giving up just four hits and two runs, both coming by way of Phillies second baseman Chase Utley in the third and sixth innings.
Game 2 pitted they Yankees’ A.J. Burnett against Phillies veteran RHP Pedro Martinez. The 38-year old Martinez allowed three runs and six hits in six-plus innings, striking out eight in a 3-1 loss on Thursday night. The right-hander Burnett tossed first-pitch strikes to his first 11 batters, notching his first win in four postseason starts. Burnett struck out nine and walked only two in seven innings. He retired his final eight batters and handed the lead to closer Mariano Rivera for a six-out save.
After powering through the first two rounds of the playoffs, hitting a combined .438 with five homers and 12 RBIs. A-Rod has gone 0 for 8 with six strikeouts. The Phillies $15 million dollar first baseman Ryan Howard is 2 for 9 with a pair of doubles and one RBI. Neither player has been a factor in either of the first two games.
The Series moves to Philadelphia for Game 3 on Saturday night, with New York’s Andy Pettitte set to face Cole Hamels in a match up of lefty’s. Pettitte is 2-2 in seven career starts with a 3.67 ERA against the Phillies, and is 8-4 on the road in 2009. He posted a win in his last appearance on Oct. 25 against the Angels. Hamels last appearance ended in a 10-4 win over the Dodgers on Oct. 21. He is 0-1 in two starts against the Yankees lifetime, with a 2.77 ERA, and is 7-5 in 2009 at Citizens Bank Park.
The odds makers have the Yankees at –1-½ favorites in Game 3 with a game total of 9.
Philadelphia is trying to become the first NL team to repeat as World Series champion since Cincinnati’s “Big Red Machine” in 1975-76. Can the Phillies return home taking two out of three to lead the series 3-2 sending it back to the Bronx? Will New York’s huge payroll buy them their first World Series title in nine years? My bet is on the Phillies in a decisive Game 7.
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As we head into Week 11 of Premier League play, there are some exciting match ups as the top four teams jockey for position atop the leader board. Can Chelsea hang on to the lead they took last weekend or will Manchester United regain the top spot? Here I take a look at this weeks match ups giving you insight on making your EPL soccer wager a winner.
Chelsea remains atop the Premier League table, two points ahead of Manchester United and will play against Bolton for the second time this week in what could prove to be an interesting match. Chelsea defeated the Wanderers on Wednesday 4-nil in a Carling Cup fixture. Bolton is coming off a thrilling victory over Everton 3-2 in their last outing, but will have their hands full against the Blues, which have scored nine goals and conceded none in their last two league matches. Although Bolton's home form recently has been good, it's hard to see a victory over Chelsea, even with home field advantage.
Manchester United will play host to Blackburn and will be looking to get back atop the leader board after losing 2-nil at Liverpool in their last match. Blackburn is currently in 16th place and was thumped 5-nil by Chelsea in their last game, and now must travel to Old Trafford for this week’s game. Man U will try to make quick work of Blackburn, scoring early and should win this game easily.
Two North London rivals will face off when fourth place Tottenham travels to Emirates Stadium where they will play third place Arsenal. The Hot Spurs dropped points in their last match losing 1-nil to Stoke, while Arsenal played to a 2-2 draw with West Ham. Tottenham will want to continue their recent run of good form and show that they are capable of competing with the top teams in the Premier League by taking over sole possession of third place from the Gunners. Arsenal will want to maintain third place in the league and try to close in on Chelsea and Man U. Arsenal wins this one behind home advantage.
With last week’s 2-nil win over Manchester United, Liverpool moved up to fifth in the league and will be hoping to leap frog over the two teams ahead of them with a win at Fulham on Saturday. Fulham played well in their last match against Manchester City, playing to a 2-2 draw. The Reds will be playing with confidence after their win against United and will have Fernando Torres back on the pitch for this week’s contest. Liverpool gets the win.
Birmingham City will host Manchester City on Sunday. Birmingham has won only two of its last six with a win over 8th place Sunderland last week. Man City has been inconsistent this season and despite a hefty payroll has been winless in their last three matches. City blew a two goal lead in their last match, allowing Fulham to even the score in the second half to come way with just a single point. Look for this game to be tight and end in a draw.
Seventh place Aston Villa travels to Goodison Park to play 14th place Everton in a Wednesday evening match, on Nov. 4th. Everton has been plagued by injuries, and are without 11 of their starting players. They dropped their last two games, one of these being a 5-0 defeat at the hands of Benfica. Aston Villa is playing good football coming into the match, but it may not be enough to beat Everton even with the amount of players that are out. I think this one will be a draw.
The Portsmouth Blues are currently at the very bottom of the league table and will host 10th place Wigan Athletic this weekend. The Blues are desperate for a win having only won once in their last six. Wigan is coming off a solid win at Burnely and I do not see Portsmouth wining the battle on the pitch. The best Portsmouth could hope for is a draw, but Wigan will edge them out for the win.
The Black Cats of Sunderland will square off with second from the bottom West Ham at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland on Oct. 31. Sunderland is 3-1-2 in their last six and is coming into the match one point behind 7th place Aston Villa. West Ham has struggled this season, although they had a good draw against Arsenal in their last game. Sunderland will take the three points at home.
Stoke City will host the Wolverhampton Wolves on Saturday at Britannia Stadium. The Potters are currently tied with Sunderland in the standings with 10 points, and beat a tough Hot Spurs squad in their last match. The Wolves are winless in their last four and sit three spots above the bottom of the table. Look for the Potters to get all three points against the Wolves in this one.
The Burnley Clarets are back in the Premiere league after 33 years and will take on Hull Tigers this weekend. Burnley were disappointing in their home game last weekend, going down 3-1 to Wigan, but are currently sitting in the middle of the pack in 11th. The Tigers are 1-1-4 in their last six matches and are coming off a draw at home against Portsmouth in Week 10. Burnley takes three the points in this one.
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We are halfway through the 2009 season and Week 8 hosts three of the best NFC match ups all year. The Philadelphia Eagles play host to rival New York Giants, the Arizona Cardinals get a home game against the Carolina Panthers and, the New Orleans Saints will square off against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night. Big news from last year WEEK 8 was the Titans beating the Indianapolis Colts, going on to post a 13-3 record and winning the AFC South. Oh, what a difference a year makes as the Titans are still searching for their first win in 2009. All three of the remaining unbeaten teams – Indianapolis (6-0), New Orleans (6-0), and Denver (6-0) – will be in action this week. Teams with byes are the Bengals, Chiefs, Patriots, Steelers, Buccaneers and Redskins.
Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Seattle Seahawks @ Dallas Cowboys
Line: Dallas -9 ½ (Total 45)
The Seahawks (2-4) are coming off a bye week, losing their last outing 27-3 to the Arizona Cardinals. Seattle ranks 18th overall in passing offense, and has allowed 15 sacks this season. Defensively they are faring no better. The Cowboys’ (4-2) defense was finally able to get to the oppositions quarterback and that resulted in a win against the Falcons on Sunday. They sacked Matt Ryan four times and forced two interceptions. An NFC East division title is suddenly a reality again for the Cowboys as the Giants surrendered their second straight loss in Week 7. The Cowboys D shuts down Seattle while Romo and Barber have solid performances to win this one at home.
Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Houston Texans @ Buffalo Bills
Line: Houston –3 ½ (Total 40 1/2)
Houston (4-3) is coming off back-to-back wins, and is really starting to look like a team that could have a winning record by season end. QB Matt Schaub continues to play well and leads the league in passing yards and touchdown passes. The defense is still a bit shaky. The Bills (3-4) were able to pick up their third win of the season against a struggling Carolina Panthers, but still hopeless offensively. Buffalo QB Trent Edwards will make a late turnover costing the Bills a loss in this one.
Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Saint Louis Rams @ Detroit Lions
Line: ** (Total **)
The Rams (0-7) have lost 17 consecutive games, and have had four games where they have scored fewer than 10 points this season, being outscored 211-60 overall, including 117-23 after halftime. Enough said. The Lions (1-5) were shut out by the Packers 26-0, in their last outing on Oct. 18. The Lions' mile long injury list looks a little better after their bye week. QB Matthew Stafford has missed two games and is still listed as questionable. The Lions’ pass rush has been a problem and is allowing opponents to complete 74 percent of their passes--worst in the NFL. They have also allowed eight runs of 20 yards or more, tied for second-worst in the NFL. Two of the leagues ugliest teams go head-to-head. The difference will be at quarterback with the Rams Marc Bulger having a little better outing to notch the Rams first win of the season.
Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Denver Broncos @ Baltimore Ravens
Line: Baltimore -3 ½ (Total 41)
Denver (6-0) has won six straight games with their latest coming against the San Diego Chargers on the road, Oct 19. QB Kyle Orton has played well giving up just a single interception thus far in the season, but Orton and the Broncos will have a tough time trying to solve the Ravens defense. The Ravens (3-3) is well rested and should be prepared for their date with the Broncos. If Baltimore can mitigate stupid penalties and play smart football they may be able to hand Denver their first loss of the year. They will need to contain Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal, while providing enough protection for Flacco to get things done. Baltimore will force key turnovers and will put up solid rushing yards to win this one at home.
Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles
Line: Philadelphia –3 (Total 45)
The Eagles (4-2) beat the Redskins in their last outing, but that isn’t saying much against a team that pretty much beat themselves. Philadelphia was far from dominating. Scoring 27 points off of turnovers. The Giants (5-2) beat themselves on Sunday, turning the ball over four times. QB Eli Manning's per pass completion average was only 9.5 yards, his lowest in a single game this season. New York is still one of the best teams in the NFC and should bounce back. This will be a test for both teams and could prove to be one of the week’s best games. New York will make big plays late and win this one on the road in a classic NFC rivalry game.
Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Miami Dolphins @ New York Jets
Line: New York –4 (Total 40)
Miami (2-4) has a 2-0 record in the AFC East division with the hardest part of their schedule behind them. However, Chad Henne is no Pennington and showed his lack of experience with a second half meltdown against the Saints on Sunday. But don’t just blame Henne, the offensive line provided no time for him to throw. RB Ricky Williams ran for three touchdowns in the 46-34 loss. The Jets (4-3) were able to bounce back with a win against the Raiders one week after QB Mark Sanchez's six-pick implosion. Despite the loss of Leon Washington, the Jets run game stepped up and rushed the ball for over 300 yards. The Jets will need to rely on their run game and just let Sanchez manage the game. This will be a good AFC East divisional contest. The Fins fall behind early and never recover as the Jets work the ground attack and get it done at home.
Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Cleveland Browns @ Chicago Bears
Line: Chicago –13 ½ (Total 40)
Browns (1-6) QB Derek Anderson has the worst quarterback rating in the league (40.6), and has gone 23-for-70, with one touchdown and three interceptions in three games. So just how bad is Cleveland? They are giving up 414.9 yards per game--170.6 yards rushing and 244.3 passing. The Bears (3-3) Jay Cutler threw three interceptions on Sunday in a 45-10 loss at Cincinnati, and now has 10 interceptions on the year. Cleveland will struggle on both sides of the ball as Chicago’s D “bears” down. Cutler tosses a couple of TDs, and that should be enough to win.
Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – San Francisco 49ers @ Indianapolis Colts
Line: Indianapolis -11 (Total 45)
San Francisco (3-3) lost a close game to the Houston Texans 24-21 last Sunday, despite a decent outing from 49ers’ back up QB Alex Smith, who came into the game in the second half. Will Smith start against the Colts on Sunday? San Francisco’s running game has struggled this season. RB Frank Gore returned to the lineup after missing a majority of the past four games with an ankle sprain and has had little success, gaining just 32 yards on 13 rushing attempts. The Colts’ (6-0) Peyton Manning is playing better than he ever has in his entire career. But let’s don’t leave out that Indy’s D is giving up just 12.8 points a game. That's the second best in the league. The 49ers’ defense will have a long day trying to control the Colts passing attack as well as establishing their running game. Peyton Manning and Reggie Wayne will combine for multiple TDs, as the Colts continue their unbeaten streak.
Sunday, November 1 4:05 pm – Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tennessee Titans
Line: Tennessee -3 (Total 45)
The Titans (0-6) are coming off a much needed bye week after losing six consecutive games including getting clobbered 59-0 by the Patriots in their last outing. One question regarding the Titans is whether the team will make the switch from Kerry Collins to Vince Young at quarterback. Collins has completed 108 of 197 passes with five touchdowns and eight interceptions. Tennessee’s is ranked 31st in the league overall and is dead last against the pass, having given up at least 300 yards passing in all but one game this season. The Titans have given up 19 touchdown passes and has surrendered 198 points in six games. Jacksonville (3-3) is coming off a bye week, barely edging out a winless St. Louis Rams team 23-20 in overtime on Oct. 18. The Jaguars beat the Titans, 37-17 earlier this season but the Titans have long been a team that has given them fits. Tennessee holds a 16-12 series edge and also won the only playoff game between the two clubs in 1999. This will be a hard-hitting physical battle. The Titans get a big day from RB Chris Johnson and get their first win.
Sunday, November 1 4:05 pm – Oakland Raiders @ San Diego Chargers
Line: San Diego –16 ½ (Total 41)
Oakland (2-5) fell in the hole early in their last contest against the Jets and eventually came out on the losing end, as they were blanked 38-0. The Jets racked up 316 yards on the ground and 143 yards in the air. Set aside Shane Lechler and Sebastian Janakowski and the Raider are an unsightly lot. San Diego (3-3) dismantled the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium last weekend 37-7, but still hasn’t demonstrated that they can make plays on the defensive side of the ball, as Kansas City rushed for more than 100 yards. The two teams meet in Week 1 on MNF with San Diego coming away with a hard-fought victory. The Raiders will struggle on both sides of the ball as the Chargers dominate them with a balanced offensive attack.
Sunday, November 1 4:15 pm – Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers
Line: Green Bay -3 (Total 47)
The Vikings (6-1) winning steak came to an end in Week 7 when they ran into a very tough Steelers team at Heinz Field. Minnesota turned the ball over several times and committed a season-high 11 penalties. QB Brett Favre completed 34 of 51 passes for 334 yards, but did not have a touchdown and was part of two key turnovers in the fourth quarter. The Vikes D played well, holding the NFL's second-ranked passing offense to just 175 yards. Green Bay’s (4-2) Aaron Rodgers led the Packers to a 31-3 road victory in their last outing against the Cleveland Browns. Rodgers was 15-of-20 for 246 yards and three touchdowns. The last time these two teams played, Rodgers was sacked eight times. This is probably one of the most anticipated games of the season as Brett Favre returns to Lambeau Field to take on his former team. Minnesota’s Adrian Peterson will have a 100-yard rushing day, as the Vikes tenacious D shuts down the Packers, coming away with the win.
Sunday, November 1 4:15 pm – Carolina Panthers @ Arizona Cardinals
Line: Arizona -9 (Total 42)
Arizona (4-2) got a huge win against New York on Sunday night- their first victory at the Meadowlands since 1999. Running back Beanie Wells had the best game of his career, gaining 67 yards on 14 carries, including a 13-yard touchdown run. It was the first touchdown of his NFL career. Carolina (2-4) was only able to put up 9 points in a loss to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. Panthers QB Jake Delhomme is in the midst of his worst season as a pro with a league-high 13 interceptions, including three to Buffalo in his last appearance. He ranks 32nd in the league in passer rating with a mark of 56.5. He has only four touchdown passes on the season. Carolina ranks second in the league in pass defense and the rushing defense is solid. The Cardinals defense is coming off its best consecutive performances in years, and should have no problem shutting down the Panthers weak offense for the win.
Monday, November 2 8:30 pm – Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints
Line: New Orleans –8 ½ (Total 54)
The Saints (6-0) fell behind, 7-0 in the first quarter to the Miami Dolphins, and eventually dug themselves into a 24-3 hole before rallying for 36 points in one half to come away with 46-34 victory, keeping their unbeaten streak alive. Great teams in the NFL are never out of games and the Saints proved they can come back from any deficit. New Orleans is scoring 39.7 points per game and have scored 238 points so far this season; that is the second most in NFL history through six games. Atlanta (4-2) is allowing over 350 yards per game on defense. One of the main reasons is because of the defensive line's inability to put pressure on the quarterback. The Falcons need to improve in that area before they take on Drew Brees and the Saints on Monday night or else they are in for a long evening. This will be the game of the week. Big scoring. Back-and-forth shootout. New Orleans gets the win.
The Phillies and the Yankees have met once before in the 1950 World Series. Smokin’ Joe DiMaggio, Whitey Ford and the Yankees swept Robin Roberts, Ritchie Ashburn and the Phillies, in a tight series. Now the defending World Series Champion Philadelphia Phillies will square off against the New York Yankees in this years’ Fall Classic, starting on Wednesday in the Bronx.
The Phillies are back in the World Series for the second consecutive year after claiming their third consecutive NL East title with a regular season record of 93-69. They eliminated the wild card Colorado Rockies in four games of the NLDS, and then took out the Los Angeles Dodgers, for the second straight year, 4-1 in a best-of-seven series to be crowned 2009 National League Champions.
The Yankees (103-59) finished the regular season with the best record in Major League Baseball and made quick work of the Minnesota Twins sweeping the ALDS in three games, then powering their way past a very good Anaheim Angles ball club, eliminating them in six games in the ALCS.
This years odds currently have the Phillies at +500 and the Yankees at –120 to win this year’s Fall Classic.
Let’s take a peek at some of the strengths, and weaknesses for each team heading into this year’s World Series, and shed some insight to assist you in making sure your bet is a winner.
Offensively there is no argument that the Phillies have a strong lineup and finished the regular season leading the NL in runs (820), doubles (312), home runs (224), total bases (2,493), RBIs (788) and slugging percentage (.447). Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard has had another incredible year, finishing the regular season with 45 home runs. Howard has been lighting up opposing pitchers in the postseason with a .355 batting average and 14 RBIs.
The Yankees led the majors during the regular season with 915 runs, 244 of which were home runs. First baseman Mark Teixeira led the team with 39 long balls but is batting just .205 with five RBIs thus far in the playoffs. Then there is A-Rod who is dominating baseball right now. He is batting an astonishing .438 with 12 RBIs and five home runs so far this postseason. The 34-year old Yankees third baseman has reached the World Series for the first time in his 16-year and now wants the one thing that Philadelphia’s Ryan Howard has -- a World Series ring.
Next we look at pitching.
One thing for certain is the disaster that was the Phillies bullpen during the regular season, ranked 13th overall, but has come through in the postseason when it mattered most. Now they will be facing the most powerful line up in baseball and will need consistency from their 7th ranked starting rotation that has found its center with left- handed AL Cy Young Award winner, Cliff Lee, who has been magnificent in this years postseason run.
ALCS MVP C.C. Sabathia led the Yankees in wins and was tied for most in the league with 19. He is 3-0 with a 1.19 ERA in the playoffs, and has struck out 20 in 22 postseason innings, while holding opponents hitting to just .205.
Sabathia and Lee, two former Cleveland Indian teammates, will face each other in Game 1 in what should be the biggest pitching duel of the 2009 postseason. Lee is dominating going 2-0 with an 0.74 ERA in three postseason starts, while Sabathia is 1-2 with a 5.55 ERA in four career starts against the Phillies, including a loss with Milwaukee in Game 2 of last year’s NL division series. Lee is 4-4 with a 5.02 ERA in nine career starts against New York
The odds makers have the Yankees at –1 ½ favorites in Game 1 with a game total of 8.
The table for a great World Series as the teams are pretty evenly matched. My predication is Philadelphia in seven. The Phiilies take Game 1 since they saw Sabathia last year in the playoffs and beat him up pretty good, Game 2 belongs to the Yankees as they bounce back to even the series. The Phillies return to Citizens Ballpark taking two out of three to lead the series 3-2 and with New York squeaking out a win in Game 6 to force a decisive Game 7.
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The Phillies will have to wait to see who they will face off against in the 2009 World Series, as the Angels recovered from a two run deficit to beat the Yankees 7-6 in Game 5 on Thursday in Anaheim.
It’s was a comeback of epic proportions as the Angels put together a game-winning rally in the bottom of the seventh to extend the AL Championship Series to a sixth game tonight in New York.
Trailing 6-4, Bobby Abreu drove in one run with a groundout, while Vladimir Guerrero swatted in the tying run and Kendry Morales knocked in what would eventually be the game-winner.
Angles Catcher Jeff Mathis started the rally with a single. Mathis set a postseason club record with six consecutive at-bats with hits, in Games 2, 3 and 5.
LHP John Lackey shut out the Yankees for six innings before being pulled in the seventh with bases loaded. The Yankees scored six times in the remainder of the inning to take a 6-4 lead.
The Angels will go with LHP Joe Saunders tonight on the mound. Saunders is 2-1 with a 6.28 ERA in five career starts against New York. He is 1-0 with a 2.16 ERA in one regular season start, with a no-decision in the2099 postseason.
New York’s Andy Pettite will be looking for his first playoff win as he gets the call in Game 6 for the Yankees. Pettite’s last appearance on Oct 17 resulted in a 5-4 loss against Anaheim. He has gone 12-10 in 28 starts against the Halos with a 4.70 ERA.
The odds makers have the Yankees at –1½ favorites in Game 6 with a total of 9.
The Angles will hope to extend their Game 5 rally into tonight’s ballgame, as the Yankees try and crush Anaheim’s World Series dreams.
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Week 7 is here and we are one third of the way through the season. Three of the remaining four unbeaten teams – Indianapolis (5-0), Minnesota (6-0) and New Orleans (5-0) – will be in action this week. Denver (6-0) has a bye in Week 7 after a 34-23 win at San Diego on Monday night. The four undefeated teams through the first six weeks are the most since the 1970 merger. My pick for game of the week is the Minnesota Vikings at the Pittsburgh Steelers. Two of the toughest rushing defenses going head to head. Teams with byes are Baltimore, Denver, Detroit, Jacksonville, Seattle, and Tennessee.
Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – New England Patriots @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Line: New England -14 ½ (Total 45)
The New England Patriots (4-2) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers will play at Wembley Stadium in Jolly Ole England this weekend as part of a multi-year commitment to play a limited number of games in the United Kingdom on an annual basis. This is technically a home game for the Bucs. The Pats are coming off a 59-0 win, crushing the Titans in Week 6. New England set an NFL record for the largest lead at halftime, 45-0, and QB Tom Brady notched his name in the NFL history books, recording five touchdown passes in a single quarter. The Buccaneers (0-6) are coming off a close loss to the Carolina Panthers last week. Tampa Bay rookie wide receiver and kick returner Sammie Stroughter had a 97-yard kick-return touchdown in the contest and finished with 207 yards. Look for the Patriots to have another big day with tons of points on the scoreboard. Cheerio’.
Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – Green Bay Packers @ Cleveland Browns
Line: Green Bay –7 (Total 42)
The Packers (3-2) committed a season-high 13 infractions for 130 yards in a 26-0 win over the Lions in Week 6. The teams pass protection has not gotten any better and they averaged a sub par 3.6 yards on the ground against a depleted Lions defense. The Browns (1-5) are still trying to find a solution for their quarterback situation as the team comes off another loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Browns defense gave up 543 yards of total offense to Pittsburgh, more than twice the Browns' total of 197. Pittsburgh's win marks the 12th win in a row and the 18th over the Browns in 19 games. The Packers come away with an easy road victory.
Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – San Diego Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs
Line: San Diego -5 ½ (Total 44)
Is it time to count San Diego (2-3) out of the chase? After only five games, the Chargers are trailing the Broncos by 3 ½ games following Monday's loss to Denver. Now they head to Arrowhead Stadium for what is always an intense rivalry game with the Chiefs. If Kansas City pulls off the win it will pay huge dividends to the Broncos, who would pretty much have the AFC West wrapped up, barring a total meltdown. The Chiefs (1-5) notched their first win in 11 months beating a Redskins team that is in turmoil in Week 6. QB Matt Cassel threw for just 186 yards against Washington, with no touchdowns. Pass protection continues to be a problem for Cassel who was sacked five times and hit on 10 other passing attempts. San Diego stays in the hunt with a win in KC.
Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – Indianapolis Colts @ St. Louis Rams
Line: Indianapolis -13 (Total 45)
There should be no question whether the Indianapolis Colts (5-0) will dispatch the Rams early in this one. The question is will Peyton Manning throw for over 500 yards against the struggling Rams? Indianapolis is coming off a bye week in which they were able to get some much-needed rest after a grueling five-game stretch to begin the season. The Colts are good just about everywhere. QB Peyton Manning has been on fire, completing 133-of-181 pass attempts (73.5 percent) for 1.645 yards, 12 touchdowns and four interceptions. He has a 114.1 passer rating. The Rams (0-6) are coming of an excruciating 23-20 overtime loss to Jacksonville on Sunday. St. Louis is winless in six games this season and has lost 16 consecutive games since defeating Dallas on Oct. 19, 2008. (Yawn). The Colts stay unbeaten and the Rams remain winless.
Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – San Francisco 49ers @ Houston Texans
Line: Houston –3 (Total 44)
San Francisco (3-2) continues to display no real offensive explosiveness and are ranked 29th offensively in the NFL in total yards through five games. Quarterback Shaun Hill has been sacked 16 times. The 49ers are surrendering sacks more frequently than all but three other teams. The Houston Texans (3-3) are a complete contrast to the 49ers. Houston can’t stop anyone, but the offense is unstoppable at times. QB Matt Schaub has had several 300-yard games. Houston’s 3-3 start equals the best in team history. It's the third time they've been .500 after six games. Houston finds a way to win this one at home with a late scoring drive.
Sunday, October 25 4:05 pm – Minnesota Vikings @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Line: Pittsburgh –4 (Total 45)
The Minnesota Vikings (6-0) eeked out a win in their last outing against the Ravens on Sunday at home, and now head to Pittsburgh to take on a team that has won three consecutive games. Vikings QB Brett Favre threw a 58-yard pass to wide receiver Sidney Rice late in the fourth quarter to set up the game-winning field goal. Pittsburgh improved to 4-2 last week with a 27-14 win over Cleveland. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger tossed for 417 yards, the fourth-highest total in club history, and two touchdowns as Pittsburgh racked up 543 yards of total offense. Wide receivers Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes each went over the 100-yard mark for the second time this season. This will be the toughest contest the Vikings will have played this season. Away from home and out of the dome, this one is too close to call.
Sunday, October 25 4:05 pm – Buffalo Bills @ Carolina Panthers
Line: ** (Total 40)
Buffalo (2-4) snapped their three-game losing streak and eight-game winless streak in AFC East games with their victory over the Jets last weekend. Buffalo ranks last in the league against the run, allowing an average of 181.8 yards per game, 10 yards per game worse than 31st-ranked Tampa Bay. The Bills continue to get dinged with injuries as QB Trent Edwards was knocked out in the second quarter of Sunday’s game, due to a concussion. Back up Ryan Fitzpatrick will most likely start against the Panthers on Sunday. Carolina (2-3) won their game on Sunday against Tampa Bay but did it on the ground, running 48 times for 267 yards and three touchdowns. The passing game is horrible. Wide receiver Steve Smith has just 21 catches for 259 yards and no touchdowns this season. Some how the Panthers get it done on the ground against a poor Buffalo defense.
Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – Chicago @ Cincinnati Bengals
Line: Cincinnati –1.5 (Total 42)
The Bears’ (3-2) running game ranks 27th in yards per game (89.8) and 23rd in average gain per run (3.8 yards). In a loss to Atlanta on Sunday, quarterback Jay Cutler had 34-yards rushing, as the Bears ran for a measly 49 yards on 20 attempts, an average of 2.5 yards per carry. Matt Forte was especially ineffective with 23 yards on 15 tries for a 1.5-yard average. For the first time all year the Bears did not have a sack, and for the second year in a row they failed to sack the Falcons Matt Ryan, but did intercept him twice. Cincinnati (4-2) is coming off a loss at home last week to the Houston Texans. QB Carson Palmer completed 23 of 35 passes for 259 yards with a TD and one interception. WR Chad Ochocinco had his first 100-yard day since the last game of 2007, including a 50-yard reception. The leagues leading rusher Cedric Benson averaged a season-low 2.8 yards per carry against the Texans. Due to injuries, the once deep Bengals defensive line is now left in total disarray leaving one to wonder if this year’s magic might be over. Cincinnati will rely on Benson to pound it out on the ground against a mediocre Bears front line and win a close one at home.
Sunday, October 24 4:05pm – New York Jets @ Oakland Raiders
Line: New York–6.5 (Total 35)
The New York Jets (3-3) are coming off what could possibly be their worst outing of the season, and rookie QB Mark Sanchez showing his inexperience in his last three appearances. The Jets’ rushed for 318 yards against Buffalo, the second-most in team history but still managed to lose. Oakland (2-4) may have pulled off the biggest upset of the season beating the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, 13-9. Oakland had lost four of five games to start the year and 77 of their last 101. QB JaMarcus Russell completed 17 of 28 passes for 224 yards with an 86-yard touchdown pass Zach Miller, the only one in the game. Jets get a much needed when in Oakland in Week 7.
Sunday, October 18 4:15 pm – New Orleans Saints @ Miami Dolphins
Line: New Orleans – 6.5 (Total 47)
The New Orleans Saints (5-0) are smokin’. They lead the NFL averaging 38.4 points per game with the league’s top rushing offense -- 177.0 yards per game. The Saints knocked off the previously unbeaten New York Giants last week 48-27 as seven different players scored touchdowns in the game. Quarterback Drew Brees passed for 369 yards and four touchdowns, posting a near-perfect 156.8 passer rating. The Dolphins (2-3) have won two in a row including a win in Week 5 in Monday-night contest against division-rival the New York Jets. Back up QB Chad Henne passed for two touchdowns and posted a 130.4 rating in the game against New York, while running back Ronnie Brown ran for two touchdowns, including the game-winner with six seconds remaining. A solid Saints defense gets the job done while the offense has another record setting day.
Sunday, October 25 4:15 pm – Atlanta Falcons @ Dallas Cowboys
Line: Dallas -4 (Total 47)
The Falcons’ (4-1) Matt Ryan has guided Atlanta to seven wins in their last eight games and threw two touchdown passes in a Sunday night victory over the Chicago Bears. But it is more then the play of Ryan alone, as the Falcons seem to be clicking on both sides of the ball. The defense played tough and on four trips inside the Atlanta 20-yard line, the Bears came away with only one touchdown. The offensive line has not allowed a sack since the season opener. Tight end Tony Gonzalez leads all players at the tight end position with 471 receptions and 5,560 yards and with his first catch of the contest in the second quarter, improved his streak of consecutive games with a reception to 136. It's the third-longest active streak in the NFL. The Cowboys (3-2) are coming off a bye and defeated Kansas City in Week 5. Quarterback Tony Romo has been average at best; throwing just six touchdown passes with four interceptions and has a passer rating of 86.5. The pass blocking has been suspect and the receivers have not stepped up, with the exception of tight end Jason Witten, who ranks second with 422 catches and third with 4,847 yards. The Cowboys rank 27th in the league against the pass and have been average at best against the run, allowing 106.4 yards per game. Ryan leads Atlanta to 5-1, while Dallas drops to .500.
Sunday, October 25 8:20 pm – Arizona Cardinals @ New York Giants
Line: New York -7 (Total 47)
The 2008 NFC champion Arizona Cardinals (3-2) will do battle with the 2007 NFC champion New York Giants on Sunday night in the Big Apple. Cards QB Kurt Warner passed for 276 yards last week against the Seahawks, reaching 30,000 career yards, tying Hall of Famer Dan Marino for the fastest to reach that mark. The Cardinals are tied for first in the NFC West with San Francisco, and have won their first two road games of the season for the first time since 1991. Arizona is beginning to look like last years Super bowl runner up. New York (5-1) leads the NFC East and is coming off their first loss at New Orleans. The Giants were dominated in almost all aspects of the game. MVP quarterback Eli Manning, who has 11 touchdowns versus just three interceptions and ranks seventh in the NFL with a 102.2 passer rating, couldn't move the ball with any consistency against a tenacious Saints defense. Since the start of the 2008 season, Manning has won nine of his past 10 starts at Giants Stadium. Sunday makes it 11.
Monday, October 26 8:30 pm – Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins
Line: Philadelphia -7 (Total 38)
After an embarrassing loss to Oakland in Week 6, the Eagles (3-2) play another team that is in total shambles when they square off against the Washington Redskins this Monday night. The Raiders sacked quarterback Donovan McNabb sacked six times, while running backs Brian Westbrook and LeSean McCoy had a combined total of 11 rushing attempts. Michael Vick was on the field for just two plays the entire game. Donovan McNabb completed just 22 of 46 passes against the Raiders, and the defense gave up 224 passing yards to a guy who hadn't thrown for more than 128 since Week 1. The Redskins (2-4) lost to a Kansas City team that had been winless in their last five games. After failing to produce any points in the first half for the second time in three weeks, QB Jason Campbell was benched in favor of Todd Collins. Collins fared no better. Veteran running back Clinton Portis managed just 31 yards on 14 carries. The Redskins defense is the only thing keeping them in games. Look for the Eagles to take out last week’s monumental loss to the Raiders out on the Redskins, improving their record to 4-2 and moving into second place in the NFC East.
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One day after the Phillies eliminated the Dodgers from their World Series bid; the Angels will try to stay alive in Game 5 of the ALCS against the New York Yankees tonight.
It’s do-or-die for Anaheim after a 10-1 shellacking in Game 4 on Tuesday, giving New York a 3-1 lead in the series. It was the second-worst postseason beating in Angels' history. They lost Game 5 of the 2002 World Series, 16-4, to the Giants.
Now Anaheim will need to win three in a row. Six of 28 teams have rallied from a 3-1 deficit in a league championship series - most recently in 2007, when the Boston Red Sox came back against Cleveland on the way to a World Series title.
Game 4 was a disaster for Anaheim as they faced a well-rested CC Sabathia and fared no better against him than they did in Game 1. Sabathia surrendered just one run on five hits over eight innings, while Angels LHP Scott Kazmir struggled with his control allowing five early runs on six hits and four walks, and was pulled midway through the fifth inning.
But overall the bullpen hasn’t been the problem for Anaheim. It’s the fact the Angels are only hitting .201 in the first four games of the ALCS and have scored just 10 runs in the series’ 42 innings. All this from a line up that set a team batting record of .285.during the regular season.
For the Yankees it’s all been pretty much perfect right down to Alex Rodriguez’s ability to solidifying his status as one of the best in the game. Rodriguez has helped his critics dismiss their concerns by hitting five home runs in the postseason, tying Reggie Jackson and pulling within one of Bernie Williams' team record.
The Angels will go with RHP John Lackey tonight on the mound. Lackey is 3-4 with a 3.03 ERA in 13 postseason appearances, and is 1-1 with a 1.38 ERA in two starts this year. He is 5-7 lifetime against the Yankees in 16 starts.
New York’s A.J. Burnett. Burnett is still looking for his first playoff win despite two decent outings in the same number of starts. He has a no-decision in Game 2, allowing just three hits and two earned runs over seven innings. He has had six-career start against the Angels, going 2-2.
The odds makers have the Angels at –1½ favorites in Game 5 with a total of 8 ½.
The Yankees will try and end the series tonight at Anaheim and capture the club's first World Series berth in six years. The Angles will need to wake their slumbering lumber and provide some much need offense behind a solid pitching performance from John Lackey.
Week 6 is here and there a couple of great games on the schedule. Looking back to 2008 Week 6, the Dallas Cowboys lost starting quarterback Tony Romo to a fractured left pinkie, forcing Romo to miss the next four games and quite possibly ruining the Cowboys playoff hopes, as they dropped 3 of 4 without their starter. My pick for game of the week is a tie between the New York Giants at the New Orleans Saints and the Monday night game of the Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers. San Diego took the AFC West title with the same 8-8 record as the Broncos. This match up may decide who wins the division this season. Teams with byes are the Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, and the San Francisco 49ers.
Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – Houston Texans @ Cincinnati Bengals
Line: Cincinnati –4.5 (Total 45)
The only thing that is worse than Cincinnati’s passing attack is their passing defense. The Texans (2-3) defense will have a difficult time containing the leagues leading rusher, Cedric Benson, so this should prove to be a high scoring affair. After beating Cleveland in Week 4, the Bengals (4-1) are coming off their second consecutive win, 17-14 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Cincy quarterback Carson Palmer has been successful against teams that stack the run. Houston has lost two of their last there, both on not being able to convert inside the red-zone. The Bengals are better at closing out games and will get the win at home.
Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – Detroit Lions @ Green Bay Packers
Line: Green Bay –13.5 (Total 48)
Green Bay (2-2) has yet to prove they are a formable team by not being able to blow out anyone other then St. Louis. The Lions (1-4) have been on the losing edge of some very close contests. The Packers passing game could wreak havoc on a weak Lions secondary, but Detroit should be able to move the ball against a weak Green Bay defense as well. Detroit will need to get pressure on Aaron Rodgers with a decent pass rush against a questionable Packers o-line. This game will be decided late in the fourth quarter with Green Bay edging this one out a home.
Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – St. Louis Rams @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Line: Jacksonville -10 (Total 41)
The St. Louis Rams (0-5) are who are arguably the worst team in the league, have gotten blown out in three straight games and now travel to Jacksonville to take on the Jaguars (2-3), who were shutout 41-0 by the Seahawks in Week 5. The Jags beat the Titans by 20 at home and should be able to do the same to a much worse Rams team. Jacksonville will improve their record to 3-3 winning this one at home.
Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – Baltimore Ravens @ Minnesota Vikings
Line: Minnesota -3 (Total 43)
The Ravens (3-2) may have the best chance yet of containing Vikings running back Adrian Peterson. The question is, can Baltimore’s poor secondary stop Minnesota’s passing game? Or will Favre exploit the Ravens weakness by passing for large amounts of yardage and multiple touchdowns? The Ravens should be able to pick up ample yardage as Minnesota’s (5-0) defense is not as good as one might think. They are 11th against the run and 17th against the pass. The last time these two teams met was on Dec. 25, 2005, with the Ravens winning 30-23 at home. The Vikings will triumph in this one, with multiple touchdown receptions.
Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – New York Giants @ New Orleans Saints
Line: New Orleans –3 (Total 47)
The Saints (4-0) have proven themselves to be the best team in the league this season by having one of the most potent offenses with a defense that is ranked 6th overall. The Giants (5-0) are coming off a bombing of the Oakland Raiders 44-7, but have narrowly escaped losses at Dallas, Kansas City and Washington. No they will face a very good team on the road. New Orleans is coming off a bye a have posted blowouts against the Eagles and Bills on the road and the Jets at home. The Saints defense is good against both the pass and the rush and the offense has been able to mix it up with both passing and rushing attacks. Look for Drew Brees to have a breakout day as the Saints improve to 5-0.
October 18 1:00 pm – Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Line: Pittsburgh –14 (Total 38)
The Browns (1-4) are coming off their first win over the Bills, 6-3. Cleveland’s passing defense is ranked 11th in the league and could be a factor in keeping this game close, as the Steelers do nothing but pass. However, with the combination of a Browns defense that is ranked 32nd against the run and probably one of the most inept offenses in the NFL, I can’t see them scoring more than 10 points against a solid Steelers defense. Pittsburgh (3-2) will be able to move the ball well and if they utilize the run should be able to have extended periods of possession, controlling the clock. Steelers win by 14 to make it three straight victories.
Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm –Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Line: Carolina –3 (Total 40)
The Panthers (1-3) got its first victory of the season by rallying past Washington, 20-17 in their last outing and now may have a chance to increase their wining streak to two when they travel to Tampa Bay this week. The Buccaneers (0-5) has yet to prove the ability to beat a single team and was unable to keep up with Philadelphia Eagles in a 33-14 blow out in Week 5. Carolina won’t have to do much to defend against Tampa Bay and will win ths one on the road.
Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – Kansas City Chiefs @ Washington Redskins
Line: Washington –6.5 (Total 37)
The Redskins (2-3) have yet to play a single team that has won more than one game, with the exception of the Giants in Week 1. Kansas City (0-5) was as close to a win as they had been all season in Week 5, falling to Dallas 26-20 in overtime. Now the two will square off in Week 6. Both teams are averaging less than 17 points a game, which puts them squarely in the lower third of the league, and are 24th and 25th in rushing yards per game. Washington should be able to move the ball through the air as Kansas City ranks 30th in pass defense. The Redskins win this low scoring affair at home.
Sunday, October 18 4:05 pm – Philadelphia Eagles @ Oakland Raiders
Line: Philadelphia - 14 (Total 41)
The Raiders (1-4) are coming of a 44-7 beating at the hands of the Giants and is off to a dreadful start, as they cannot find a way to get anything going on either side of the ball. The Raiders have only scored four touchdowns in five games. They are ranked last in the league in both total yards (191) and passing yards (108) per game. In addition, they are second to last in points scored and are averaging only nine points per game. The Eagles (3-1) finished up Week 5 with a 33-14 win over Tampa Bay and despite giving up 21 points per game, should not be challenged by the Raiders lack of offensive production, wining this one in the road.
Sunday, October 18 4:05 pm – Arizona Cardinals @ Seattle Seahawks
Line: Seattle –3 (Total 47)
The Seahawks (2-3) are a better team with Matt Hasselbeck at the helm. Seattle is 0-3 without him, and 2-0 with him. He played a big part in last week's 41-0 mauling of Jacksonville. The Seahawks defense has allowed just eight points per game and has 10 sacks in three home games. The Cardinals (2-2) have struggled on offense this season and will have their work cut out for them when they visit Qwest Field on Sunday. The Seahawks will most likely attack the Cardinals with their ability to pass the ball against an Arizona defense that ranks last against the pass. Seahawks pull this one off at home.
Sunday, October 18 4:15 pm – Tennessee Titans @ New England Patriots
Line: New England - 9 (Total 43)
The Titans (0-5) are among the four winless teams in the NFL, and have been outscored 139-84 this season. Tennessee is 25th in total defense and is fourth-to-last in points allowed. They couldn’t stop the pass to save their lives (31st in the NFL). The Patriots (3-2) can pass the pigskin, which will probably lead to an all-out air assault against the Titans. The Pats are undefeated at home beating the likes of Baltimore and Atlanta. Tom Brady’s QB rating has dipped to 85.9 this year, but he still posses a threat with 1,341 yards through the air. New England rolls over Tennessee, as Titans fans wonder, “Where is Vince Young”?
Sunday, October 18 4:15 pm – Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets
Line: New York -9.5 (Total 38)
The Jets (3-2) are coming of a 31-27 loss to Miami on Monday night, and will look to stay tied for first with the New England Patriots in the AFC East when they take on division rival the Buffalo Bills. After starting 3-0, the Jets have lost two straight. Buffalo (1-4) has only managed eight touchdowns in five games this season with an average of 15.4 points per game, and are ranked 25th in the league with just 290 total yards per game. They are coming off a tough loss losing 6-3 to the Browns on Sunday. Buffalo’s pass defense ranks 6th, so the Jets will need to get their ground game going against the Bills who have shown that they have problems with stopping the run. The Jets defense is only giving up 17 points a game and is limiting their opponents to just 110 yards rushing per game. The Jets bounce back and get a victory at home.
Sunday, October 18 8:20 pm – Chicago Bears @ Atlanta Falcons
Line: Atlanta –3 (Total 46)
The Bears (3-1) are coming off a bye one week after destroying the Detroit Lions 48-24 in Week 4.Chicago has also beaten Pittsburgh and Green Bay and would probably be atop the division if not for an undefeated Minnesota Vikings. The Falcons (3-1) spanked the 49ers in their last outing 45-10, with their only loss coming by way of the New England Patriots in the previous week. Atlanta QB Matt Ryan is 2-for-2 this year at home and he looked good last week against San Francisco on the road. Defense will be key as both teams have proved they can put big numbers on the board. This one will be close and high scoring, with the Falcons coming away with the win at home.
Monday, October 19 8:30 pm – Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers
Line: San Diego –3.5 (Total 44)
The Denver Broncos (5-0) are one of five undefeated teams and are coming off a win against the Patriots in Week 5. The Broncos now have their sights set on beating division rival the San Diego Chargers in front of a national television audience on Monday night. The Chargers (2-2) managed to almost lose to the Raiders in Week 1, then lost to the Steelers and have generally played awful with the exception of their passing game. But that may be fruitless as Denver’s defense has been tremendous, and is ranked 5th against the pass. The Broncos offensive line has been solid and QB Kyle Orton has been one of the most accurate passers in the league with only one interception thus far. Denver is also ranked 4th in the league in total rushing yards. San Diego’s Philip Rivers is putting together another great season, throwing for 1,245 yards, and averaging eight yards per attempt. San Diego will need to get on the board early and find a way to put some pressure on Orton. Denver wins a big one at Mile High.
Matt Martz is a sports writer for located in Central California. Blessed is the gambler who expects nothing, for ye shall not be disappointed.
Week five is here and we are already one quarter of the way through the 2009 NFL season. This week teams will begin to spread out and separate themselves in the standings. The Titans are still looking for a win at 0-4, a long way from the 13-3 they were in 2008. After losing two straight, last years Champion Pittsburgh Steelers evened their record at 2-2 with an impressive win over the San Diego Chargers, and the Denver Broncos are 4-0 post Cutler era. My pick for best game of the week is New England at Denver. Week four team bye weeks are, the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, New Orleans Saints, and the San Diego Chargers.
Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills
Line: Buffalo –6 (Total 40)
The Browns (0-4) Derek Anderson might have secured the quarterback job for the rest of the season following his 269-yard, one-touchdown game against the Bengals in week four. WR Mohammed Massaquoi caught eight passes for 148 yards. But Cleveland’s defense still remains a question mark. The Bills (1-3) fell behind 31-3 heading into the final quarter and never recovered losing to the Dolphins 38-10 in their last outing. RB Fred Jackson has 18 receptions for 160 yards while Bills No. 1 receiver Terrell Owens is 8-for-158. Need I say more? The Bills win this one in a low scoring affair against a questionable Browns defense.
Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Dallas Cowboys @ Kansas City Chiefs
Line: Dallas –8.5 (Total 43)
The Cowboys (2-2) have posted two victories against teams with winless records, and two losses against teams that are undefeated. Posing the question, can Dallas be a contender against the leagues top teams? The answer is doubtful. Tony Romo has gone two consecutive games without throwing a touchdown pass, the defense is mediocre at best, and the running attack is has been hampered by Marion Barber’s nagging quad strain. Kansas City’s woes are many but it could boil down to just one thing. The Chiefs (0-4) cannot convert on third downs. They have converted just nine of 51, less than 18 percent, and are dead last in the NFL in third-down conversions. Look for Dallas to get the win against another team with a winless record.
Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Minnesota Vikings @ St. Louis Rams
Line: ** (Total **)
The Vikings (0-4) are atop the NFC North and are coming off an impressive win or rival the Green Bay Packers. QB Brett Favre was 24-31, for 271 yards and 3 TDs against his former team. But even with Favre the Vikings success is also their ability to run the ball. RB Adrian Peterson is averaging 103 yards per game with 5 TDs on the year. The Vikings have had the NFL's best defense against the run the past three seasons, but have also improved their pass defense. The Rams (0-4) were shut out 35-0 by the 49ers in their last outing and continue to struggle putting points on the board, having only scored 24 points in their last four. Things just don’t seem to get any better for St. Louis heading into week five, as the will still be without RB Frank Gore and starting QB Marc Bulger is considered questionable for Sunday's game against Minnesota. The Vikings improve their record to 5-0 after Sunday’s contest.
Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Oakland Raiders @ New York Giants
Line: New York –16 (Total 41)
The Giants (4-0) cruised to an easy victory over the last place AFC west Chiefs on Sunday and will square off against the Oakland Raiders -- the second worst team in the AFC west, in week five. New York WR Steve Smith has 34 receptions in the first four games, the most-ever by a Giants receiver in the first four games of a season. QB Eli Manning was reported to have injured his heel in last week’s game against the Chiefs, but the latest is that it is a minor injury and he will be allowed to play. This is good news for the Giants but bad news for the Raiders who are looking for a break. Oakland (1-3) is just plain awful. QB JaMarcus Russell was 12-for-33 for 128 yards in his last outing against the Texans, but you can’t blame him alone. Oakland’s receiving corp dropped nine passes, catching just four of 16. The Giants tenacious defense and potent offense will humiliate the Raiders and send them home 1-4.
Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Philadelphia Eagles
Line: Carolina ** (Total **)
Tampa Bay (0-4) led 10-0 at the half in their last game against the Redskins but fell apart losing by a final of 16-13. The Bucs are sticking with rookie quarterback Josh Johnson who made his first NFL start Sunday against the Redskins, passing for 106 yards with a touchdown and an interception while rushing for 44 yards. RB Cadillac Williams has struggled and the Bucs defense rates a C- at best. The Eagles (2-1) are coming off their bye week and should make quick work of Tampa Bay. Quarterback Donovan McNabb is expected to start Sunday’s game, and it has been announced that Michael Vick will dress but his role is yet to be defined. Tight end Brent Celek has 22 receptions in the first three games, while wide receiver DeSean Jackson is averaging 21.6 yards per reception. The Eagles have registered six interceptions and 10 sacks in their first three games and have held opponents to 3.6 yards per carry average. Look for the Eagles to dominate the Bucs and improve to 3-1.
October 11 1:00 pm – Pittsburgh Steelers @ Detroit Lions
Line: Pittsburgh –10.5 (Total 44)
The Steelers (2-2) find themselves in third place in their division with a slow 1-2 start but rebounded nicely beating San Diego in week four. QB Ben Roethlisberger was practically perfect; completing 26 of 33 passes for 333 yards, two touchdowns, no interceptions with a 128.9 passer rating. The Steelers run defense has been solid and the return of SS Troy Polamalu should improve the passing defense. Just when the Lions (1-3) shook the winless monkey off their back in week three, QB Matt Stafford suffered a right knee injury in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 48-24 loss at Chicago. Initial reports have stated Stafford suffered a dislocated, or partially dislocated, kneecap and that it popped back into place, but his start on Sunday is questionable. The Lions will also be without WR’s Adam Jennings and Calvin Johnson who were placed on injured reserve. The Steelers will dominant the Lions and walk away with the win.
Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Washington Redskins @ Carolina Panthers
Line: Carolina –3.5 (Total 37)
The Redskins (2-2) are coming off a win over the Buccaneers in week four and will have a chance at two straight when the face off against the 0-3 Carolina Panthers. RB Clinton Portis continues to be Washington’s bright spot on offense and would have had his first 100-yard game of the year if not for a penalty on Malcolm Kelly during Sunday’s game. Playing through an injury Portis chewed up 79 yards on 18 carries. The Panthers have had a rough start and are hoping to turn things around after a much needed week four bye. On offense, the Panthers have struggled and defensively, have given up 182.7 rushing yards per game. QB Jake Delhomme is 32nd in the league in quarterback rating .The Redskins will stack the box stopping the run to take this one on the road.
Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens
Line: Baltimore -8 (Total 42)
The Bengals (3-1) find themselves tied with the Ravens atop the AFC north division after a come from behind win over the Browns last weekend. The winner of week fives match up will move into sole possession of first place in the division. The Bengals lost both games to the Ravens in 2008 and will try to end the run this weekend. Baltimore (3-1) is coming off their first loss of the season to the New England Patriots. QB Joe Flacco was 27-47 for 264 yards with 2 TDs, and 1 INT. The Ravens have averaged 33 rushing attempts in the first three games, but ran it only 17 times on Sunday. RB Ray Rice rushed for 103 yards on 11 carries. The Benglas will have their hands full with their first true test of the season. The Ravens edge out Cincinnati in a close one relying on their solid defense to get the win at home.
Sunday, October 11 4:05 pm – Atlanta Falcons @ San Francisco 49ers
Line: San Francisco –2.5 (Total 41)
The Atlanta Falcons (2-1) are coming off a bye into week five, and should be well rested. TE Tony Gonzalez has proven to be a big boost to the team's passing game, while the Falcons are trying to find its trademark running game. Quarterback Matt Ryan has shown development in his sophomore year and is hitting almost 66 percent of his passes, hooking up with Gonzalez on numerous occasions. San Francisco (3-1) has surprised everyone as is first in the NFC west heading into week five. Much of the 49ers success can be based on a stout defense and an offensive line that controls the line of scrimmage. With RB Frank Gore out of the lineup with ankle injuries, rookie Glen Coffee will continue to get the call. San Francisco’s defense will force Ravens Matt Ryan to throw the ball more as they shut down the running game and win this one at home.
Sunday, October 11 4:15 pm – Jacksonville Jaguars @ Seattle Seahawks
Line: ** (Total **)
Jacksonville started out the season 0-2 but is coming off a big 37-17 win over the Titans, evening their record to 2-2. QB David Garrard was 27-37 for 323 yards with 3 TD tosses in Sundays match, as the Jags wasted no time in launching an air assault against a tough Titans run defense. The Jags have also switched up their defense from a 4-3 to a 3-4 and it has proved successful. The Seahawks (1-3) are suffering through another injury-plagued start to a season. Starting quarterback Matt Hasselbeck has missed the last two games with a fractured rib he suffered in the game against San Francisco in week two, and is still listed as questionable to start against Jacksonville on Sunday. Seattle needs to get its ground game going in order to try and keep the ball away the Jags. With Hasselback, the Seahawks win this one at home, without they slip to 1-4.
Sunday, October 11 4:15 pm – Houston Texans @ Arizona Cardinals
Line: Arizona –5.5 (Total 48)
Despite a decisive win over the Raiders holding Oakland to just six points in their last appearance, the Houston Texans (2-2) are ranked 25th in the NFL in total defense and 22nd in scoring defense. The Texans have added defensive personnel and should get a much better idea whether the new additions to the starting secondary are tangible against Arizona this weeked. The secondary will have its share of challenges covering the Cardinals receiving corp. The Cardinals (1-2) haven't played nearly as well in three games as they did in the playoff run last season. The Redbirds should benefit from their recent bye week. The run game is struggling, and the pass protection has been poor with quarterback Kurt Warner being sacked seven times, in two losses.Much of the pressure to improve falls upon the offensive line. The Cardinals need to take a more balanced approach on offense and get rookie running Beanie Wells involved. Look for Arizona to rebound and even their record against the Texans at home.
Sunday, October 11 4:15 pm – New England Patriots @ Denver Broncos
Line: New England -3 (Total 41)
The Denver Broncos (4-0) will face their toughest opponent so far this season and new head coach Josh McDaniels will have a chance to beat his former team when the Patriots visit Mile High on Sunday. Denver has fared much better than most thought post Cutler. QB Kyle Orton doesn't always look pretty, but he is getting the job done and WR Brandon Marshall is coming on. The defense remains solid, anchored by veteran CB Champ Bailey. Behind the leadership of MVP quarterback Tom Brady who arguably had his best game of the season against the Ravens last weekend, the Patriots (3-1) have proven they are still the team to beat. The Pats defense has improved despite key personal changes and has allowed just six touchdowns in four games. This will be a hard fought battle with Pats winning on a late fourth quarter scoring drive.
Sunday, October 11 8:20 pm – Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee Titans
Line: Indianapolis –3.5 (Total 46)
“Remember the Titans? (of 2008). With Tennessee’s abysmal start this season one has to wonder why QB Vince Young has yet to start a game. Tennessee coach Jeff Fisher has given no indication that he is about to make a change and is sticking with veteran QB Kerry Collins. Collins hasn’t played as well as he did in 2008 and already has five interceptions after having only seven all of last season. The Colts (4-0) are one of the five remaining undefeated teams and have stepped up their defense allowing just 73 yards rushing over the past two games in wins over Arizona and Seattle, after giving up 353 yards in the first two games in wins over Jacksonville and Miami. On the other side of the ball QB Peyton Manning has been on a roll through the first four games of the season. Manning was nearly unstoppable in last weeks win over Seattle, completing 31-of-41 passes for 353 yards, two touchdowns and had one interception. Manning completed passes to seven different receivers. The Titans will lose at home, distancing themselves from any chance of a postseason run.
Monday, October 12 8:30 pm – New York Jets @ Miami Dolphins
Line: New York –2 (Total 37)
Jets rookie QB Mark Sanchez has surprised a lot of people by avoiding typical rookie mistakes in the Jets first three games. However, it all fell apart in Sunday’s match up against the Saints. Sanchez threw three interceptions, one for a 99-yard TD by Darren Sharper, and losing a strip sack in his own end zone for another New Orleans touchdown. He also threw two fourth-quarter picks and was sacked four times. New York’s defense was solid considering that the Saints came into the game averaging 438 yards of offense, but was held to 343 by the Jets (3-1). The Dolphins (1-3) finally got some relief after posting their first victory of the 2009 season with a big win against the Bills on Sunday. QB Chad Henne was mistake-free in his first professional start, replacing injured starter Chad Pennington, going 14-for-22 passing for 115 yards and no interceptions. For a team with a losing record, the Fins have had little trouble running the ball with their running back trio of Ronnie Brown, Ricky Williams and Patrick Cobbs. They lead the league with 183.5 yards rushing per game. The Jets will need to shut down Miami’s wildcat offense if they want to win this one. The Fins lost to the Jets at home in week one last year and then beat the Jets in the last game of the 2008 season. Look for Sanchez to lead the Jets to a victory at Land Shark stadium and claim his first ever Monday Night Football victory.
Matt Martz is a sports writer for the Bakersfield Californian located in Central California. Blessed is the gambler who expects nothing, for ye shall not be disappointed.
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