I went 9-7 last week. That puts me at 139-85 for the season. For a comparison, check out the “experts” over at ESPN.

Here are my picks for the NFL’s Week 16:

*Thursday, December 20, 2007*

Pittsburgh 9-5 at Saint Louis 3-11 – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Pittsburgh by 8½)

The Steelers have dropped two in a row, and so now Cleveland is tied with them for the division lead in the AFC North. Pittsburgh holds the head-to-head tiebreaker, however, so they are still in control of their own destiny. They are just 2-4 on the road this season. Saint Louis has also lost two in a row, and now find themselves alone in last place in the NFC West. The Rams are an embarrassing 1-6 at home on the season. Marshall Faulk’s No. 28 will be retired during a ceremony at halftime. The “retirement” ceremony for head coach Scott Linehan is expected to be held in about two weeks, via press release.

RJ’s Pick – Pittsburgh by 5

*Saturday, December 22, 2007*

Dallas 12-2 at Carolina 6-8 – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Dallas by 11)

The Cowboys lost last week at home to Philadelphia. Tony Romo had a disappointing game, throwing 3 INTs and 0 TDs and completing just 36% of his passes, for a quarterback rating of 22.2. (This is where I will decline to make a joke about Jessica Simpson’s enormous funbags. I’m far too classy for that.) The Panthers surprised Seattle last week, 13-10. But their season is still over.

RJ’s Pick – Dallas by 15

*Sunday, December 23, 2007*

Cleveland 9-5 at Cincinnati 5-9 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Cleveland by 2½)

How ’bout them Brownies? Cleveland has won two straight and has a realistic chance of winning their division. And even if they don’t, they will still almost certainly make the playoffs as a Wild Card (unless they lose their last two games and Tennessee wins both of theirs). They have struggled a bit on the road this season, going 3-4 away from Cleveland Browns Stadium. The Bengals lost last week at San Francisco. Rumor has it that the Bengals locker room is in full meltdown mode, with Chad Johnson and T. J. Houshmandzadeh verbally abusing Carson Palmer while head coach Marvin Lewis stands around with his thumb in his ass looks the other way. They sure know how to run a tight ship in Cincinnati!

RJ’s Pick – Cleveland by 6

Green Bay 12-2 at Chicago 5-9 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Green Bay by 9)

The Packers have won two in a row, and are still in the hunt for home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. The Bears have lost three straight, were eliminated from playoff contention last week, and are so desperate to find some answers at the quarterback position that many expect them to trade for a washed-up Donovan McNabb in the off-season. But I guess Kyle-friggin’-Orton will have to do for now.

RJ’s Pick – Green Bay by 13

Houston 7-7 at Indianapolis 12-2 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Indianapolis by 7½)

Houston has won two in a row, but it was too little, too late; they were eliminated from playoff contention last week. Future emperor-for-life and omnipotent god-king Sage Rosenfels is 3-0 this season as a starter. The Texans are just 2-5 on the road this year. The Colts have nothing really to play for; they have locked up the 2nd seed and a bye in the AFC playoffs. Still, Tony Dungy is going to have his team prepared to go out and win against a division rival in front of the home crowd.

RJ’s Pick – Indianapolis by 11

RJ’S LAME-GAME OF THE WEEK: Kansas City 4-10 at Detroit 6-8 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Detroit by 5)

Kansas City has dropped seven straight. They have scored the fewest points in the AFC. And their head coach is apparently a moron. Detroit was crushed by the Chargers last week, 51-14. The Lions have now lost six in a row, and were eliminated from playoff contention last week. (Playoff contention? Did I just mention “the Lions” and “playoff contention” in the same sentence? I really need to stop drinking absinthe while writing these columns.) So I guess Jon Kitna’s prediction of ten wins is going to fall a few short. Oh, well. Another season or two like this one, and he’s gonna torch his bible and start reading Christopher Hitchens.

RJ’s Pick – Detroit by 2

New York Giants 9-5 at Buffalo 7-7 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: New York Giants by 3)

The Giants lost last week at home to Washington. Interesting fact: They have not won a game by more than six points since Week 7. Eli Manning is having his worst season since his rookie year; in other words, he’s regressing. Maybe he should seriously consider pursuing that second sport. The Bills were shut out by the Browns last week, dashing their playoff hopes.

RJ’s Pick – Buffalo by 3

Oakland 4-10 at Jacksonville 10-4 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Jacksonville by 13)

Oakland has lost two in a row. I find them unworthy of any more of my keystrokes. The Jaguars beat the Steelers in Pittsburgh last week. David Garrard is having a stellar year, with 16 TDs and just 2 INTs, and a quarterback rating of 101.6. However, he hasn’t had a single 300-yard passing game this season. It would not surprise me to see this team make it all the way to the AFC Championship Game.

RJ’s Pick – Jacksonville by 21

Philadelphia 6-8 at New Orleans 7-7 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: New Orleans by 3)

The Eagles won at Dallas last week, which must have been an extremely satisfying victory in an otherwise disappointing season. Philadelphia has been eliminated from playoff contention. The Saints, on the other hand, still have a shot at earning a Wild Card berth thanks to two straight wins. But Reggie Bush is injured (and tarnished). This one should be close.

RJ’s Pick – New Orleans by 1

Atlanta 3-11 at Arizona 6-8 – 4:05 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

The Atlanta Falcons hilarity continues. First they got blown out by Tampa Bay, 37-3, in a game where they managed a total of 34 passing yards. Then five of their players get fined by the NFL for showing their support for an animal-lynching felon during a nationally-televised game. And now Bill Parcells has turned down a job offer to become the team’s executive vice president after Falcons owner Arthur Blank had already gone public with what he thought was a “verbal agreement.” Heh. Arizona lost their second game in a row last week, and they now find themselves out of playoff contention.

RJ’s Pick – Arizona by 14

Tampa Bay 9-5 at San Francisco 4-10 – 4:05 pm (Sheridan’s line: Tampa Bay by 7)

Tampa Bay has won five of their last six. To show you what kind of year Jeff Garcia is having, first take a look at his stats, and then take a look at his wife (they married back in April). San Francisco beat the Bengals last week. Alex Smith and head coach Mike Nolan are pretending to not hate each other, which is progress, I suppose.

RJ’s Pick – Tampa Bay by 13

Baltimore 4-10 at Seattle 9-5 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

Baltimore lost to the previously-winless Dolphins in overtime last week. The Ravens have now lost eight straight. If the regular season ends with that streak at ten, Brian Billick is toast, guaranteed. Seattle lost to Carolina last week. The are 6-1 at home on the year.

RJ’s Pick – Seattle by 3

Miami 1-13 at New England 14-0 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: New England by 22½)

DOLPHINS WIN! DOLPHINS WIN! (Hey, what am I so surprised about? I picked them to win last week.) Cleo Lemon had a career game, passing for 315 yards, 1 TD, and 0 INTs. The Dolphins were partying like crazy after the game, I’m sure. Can you imagine the kind of spontaneous, uninhibited, orgiastic celebrations that will occur if they somehow manage to win this week? (And I’m just talking about the ‘72 Dolphins!) New England beat the Jets last week despite the worst Tom Brady performance since he walked out on his pregnant girlfriend.

RJ’s Pick – New England by 16

New York Jets 3-11 at Tennessee 8-6 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Tennessee by 9)

The Jets have lost two straight. They are 1-6 on the road this season. Tennessee beat Kansas City last week to remain alive in the hunt for a Wild Card spot. Vince Young has thrown 16 INTs this season and just 9 TDs. Everyone, please repeat after me: “Merril Hoge was right.”

RJ’s Pick – Tennessee by 6

RJ’S GAME OF THE WEEK: Washington 7-7 at Minnesota 8-6 – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Minnesota by 6½)

Washington has won two in a row. They need to win this week in order to have a chance of making the postseason. Minnesota has won five in a row. A win here would almost ensure a Wild Card berth for the Vikings. Tarvaris Jackson will need to utilize all of those advanced quarterbacking skills he learned while playing college ‘ball at Alabama State (LOL).

RJ’s Pick – Washington by 2

*Monday, December 24, 2007*

Denver 6-8 at San Diego 9-5 – 8:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: San Diego by

Denver lost last week at Houston. They are just 2-5 on the road this season. San Diego has won four straight. The Chargers have won the AFC West for the second year in a row despite all the challenges they’ve faced: LaDainian Tomlinson’s slow start, injuries to key players, out-of-control wildfires, and having Norv Turner as their head coach. (Rimshot!) They are 6-1 at home.

RJ’s Pick – San Diego by 14

(If you’re interested, you can check out the full list of Danny Sheridan’s Odds and ESPN’s NFL “Expert” Picks.)

2007 Weekly Results
Week One – 11-5
Week Two – 9-7
Week Three – 10-6
Week Four – 7-7
Week Five – 9-5
Week Six – 10-3
Week Seven – 9-5
Week Eight – 10-3
Week Nine – 9-5
Week Ten – 7-7
Week Eleven – 10-6
Week Twelve – 10-6
Week Thirteen – 7-9
Week Fourteen – 12-4
Week Fifteen – 9-7

I went 12-4 last week. That puts me at 130-78 for the season. For a comparison, check out the “experts” over at ESPN.

Here are my picks for the NFL’s Week 15:

*Thursday, December 13, 2007*

Denver (6-7) at Houston (6-7) – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Houston by 1) [Worth Watching!]

Denver crushed the Chiefs last week, 41-7. The Broncos are just 2-4 on the road this season. Houston beat Tampa Bay last week. They are 4-2 at home this year. Sure thing first-ballot Hall of Famer Sage Rosenfels will start under center again this week for the Texans.

RJ’s Pick – Houston by 11

*Saturday, December 15, 2007*

Cincinnati (5-8) at San Francisco (3-10) – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Cincinnati by [Worth Missing]

The Bengals are just 1-5 on the road this season. But the 49ers have gone 1-5 at home.

RJ’s Pick – Cincinnati by 4

*Sunday, December 16, 2007*

Arizona (6-7) at New Orleans (6-7) – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: New Orleans by 3.5) [Worth Watching!]

Arizona got spanked by the Seahawks last week, and now they only have a slim chance of making the postseason as a Wild Card. The Cardinals are just 2-5 on the road. New Orleans beat Atlanta on MNF last week to keep their meager playoff hopes alive. The Saints have lost four of six at home so far this season.

RJ’s Pick – New Orleans by 1

Atlanta (3-10) at Tampa Bay (8-5) – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Tampa Bay by 12) [Worth Missing]

It’s been an interesting week for the Atlanta Falcons organization. They got blown out at home on MNF to a mediocre team, Michael Vick was sentenced to 23 months in federal prison, and their head coach, Bobby Petrino, resigned, meaning Emmitt Thomas will act as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Atlanta is 1-5 on the road and has dropped straight. (The curse of Joey Harrington lives on!) Tampa Bay is 5-1 at home and Jeff Garcia is expected to return this week.

RJ’s Pick – Tampa Bay by 17

RJ’S LAME-GAME OF THE WEEK: Baltimore (4-9) at Miami (0-13) – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Baltimore by 3) [Worth Watching!]

Baltimore has lost seven straight after a 4-2 start. They are just 1-5 on the road, and their offense is near the bottom of the league in most categories. This game is Miami’s best remaining shot at avoiding an 0-16 season, but it isn’t their last shot. After this week, the Dolphins play at New England (LOL), but then close out the season at home against the Bengals, which is at least arguably a winnable game for them. Still, they’d love to get it done this week instead of waiting until the last week of the season. I suspect they’ll throw everything they’ve got into this game, knowing that an almost ritualistic slaughter awaits them next Sunday at the hands of Belichick’s boys.

RJ’s Pick – Miami by 4

Buffalo (7-6) at Cleveland (8-5) – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Cleveland by 5.5) [MUST SEE]

The Bills have won two in a row, have a winning record, and are in the hunt for a Wild Card spot despite having allowed 76 more points than they have scored this season. The Browns have won three of their last four, have a winning record, and could possibly even win their division despite having allowed the most points and yards per game in the NFL. Cleveland is 5-1 at home, and has a vastly superior offense.

RJ’s Pick – Cleveland by 9

Green Bay (11-2) at Saint Louis (3-10) – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Green Bay by 9.5) [Worth Missing]

The Packers stomped Oakland last week, 38-7. The Rams lost to the Bengals last week with rookie Brock Berlin starting under center. The only question in this one is what the margin of victory will be.

RJ’s Pick – Green Bay by 13

RJ’S GAME OF THE WEEK: Jacksonville (9-4) at Pittsburgh (9-4) – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Pittsburgh by 4) [MUST SEE]

Jacksonville needs a win to make sure they stay a game ahead of Cleveland for the fifth seed Wild Card spot. Pittsburgh needs a win to make sure they stay a game ahead of Cleveland in the AFC North. Both teams will be rooting for Buffalo this week. Anyway, it should be a good, close, low-scoring game. I give the advantage to the Steelers only because they are 7-0 at home.

RJ’s Pick – Pittsburgh by 1

New York Jets (3-10) at New England (13-0) – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: New England by 24.5) [MUST SEE]

Two words: Revenge Game. Bill Belichick has had this date circled on his calendar (probably in elven blood) ever since Jets head coach Eric Mangina Mangini blew the whistle on “Tapegate” after the first week of the season. There will be no debate about whether or not the Patriots are “running up the score” this week; Belichick will put triple digits up on the scoreboard if he can. This ain’t gonna be pretty. I don’t care what the spread is, the Patriots are going to cover.

RJ’s Pick – New England by 42

Seattle (9-4) at Carolina (5-8) – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Seattle by 7) [Worth Missing]

Seattle has clinched their division. They have won five in a row. The only question is whether they’ll get the third or fourth seed in the NFC playoffs. Carolina has been virtually eliminated from playoff contention after their ugly loss last week at Jacksonville. They are just 1-5 at home this season.

RJ’s Pick – Seattle by 20

Tennessee (7-6) at Kansas City (4-9) – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Tennessee by 4) [Worth Missing]

Tennessee lost a heart-breaker last week to San Diego in overtime. Vince Young looked awful as usual. The Titans have now lost four of their last five, and would find themselves missing the playoffs if the season ended today. They desperately need to win this game. Kansas City has dropped six straight, and they are just 2-5 at home this season. They have scored the second-fewest points in the NFL.

RJ’s Pick – Tennessee by 8

Indianapolis (11-2) at Oakland (4-9) – 4:05 pm (Sheridan’s line: Indianapolis by 10.5) [Worth Missing]

Indianapolis has all but secured yet another division title and a playoff bye. Oakland, on the other hand, is awful.

RJ’s Pick – Indianapolis by 15

Detroit (6-7) at San Diego (8-5) – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: San Diego by 9.5) [Worth Watching!]

Detroit lost an absolute heart-breaker last week to the Cowboys, 28-27. If I was still capable of feeling normal human emotions, I would have wept. Thankfully, as a lifelong Lions fan, I am bereft of all affect during Sundays in December. San Diego is 5-1 at home this season, while the Lions are 2-4 on the road. I see little reason to expect anything other than a blowout by the Chargers. However, hope springs eternal among the terminally neurotic Lions faithful.

RJ’s Pick – Detroit by 3

Philadelphia (5-8) at Dallas (12-1) – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Dallas by 10) [Worth Missing]

The Eagles have dropped three straight, and have been pretty much eliminated from playoff contention. The Cowboys had a scare last week at Detroit, but were still able to pull out the last-minute win. Tony Romo has become sort of a secular god to Cowboys fans. I hear the most popular new sex toy among women in the Dallas area is a Tony Romo bobblehead. (Andrea Kremer apparently prefers the Tom Brady bobblehead. To each her own.)

RJ’s Pick – Dallas by 14

Washington (6-7) at New York Giants (9-4) – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: New York Giants by 4) [Worth Watching!]

Hey, the Redskins actually won a game last week! They had dropped four in a row prior to that. At 6-7, they still have a credible chance of getting the final Wild Card playoff berth in the CFL NFC. The Giants have all but sewn up the fifth seed Wild Card. Expect a close one.

RJ’s Pick – New York Giants by 2

*Monday, December 17, 2007*

Chicago (5-8) at Minnesota (7-6) – 8:30 pm (Sheridan’s line: Minnesota by 9.5) [Worth Watching!]

The Bears are pretty much finished for the season after last week’s loss. From the Super Bowl to last place in the NFC North in just one year; such is life in the present-day NFL. The Vikings have won four in a row, and would make the playoffs as the sixth seed if the season ended today. However, the season does not end today; there are still three more games to be played. QB Tarvaris Jackson has actually looked pretty good in his last three outings, so he’s certainly due to have a bad game. Rookie RB Adrian Peterson was held to just 3 yards on 14 carries last week, showing just how inconsistent he can be. I’m going with the upset.

RJ’s Pick – Chicago by 3

(If you’re interested, you can check out the full list of Danny Sheridan’s Odds and ESPN’s NFL “Expert” Picks.)

2007 Weekly Results
Week One – 11-5
Week Two – 9-7
Week Three – 10-6
Week Four – 7-7
Week Five – 9-5
Week Six – 10-3
Week Seven – 9-5
Week Eight – 10-3
Week Nine – 9-5
Week Ten – 7-7
Week Eleven – 10-6
Week Twelve – 10-6
Week Thirteen – 7-9
Week Fourteen – 12-4

I went 7-9 last week. (Hey, it happens.) That puts me at 118-74 for the season. For a comparison, check out the “experts” over at ESPN.

Here are my picks for the NFL’s Week 14:

*Thursday, December 6, 2007*

Chicago 5-7 at Washington 5-7 – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Washington by 3)

Both teams need a win in order to stay alive in the race for an NFC Wild Card spot. The Bears are 3-3 on the road this season, while the Redskins are 3-3 at home. Washington has lost four straight, and I think last week’s heart-breaker was a back-breaker as well.

RJ’s Pick – Chicago by 3

*Sunday, December 9, 2007*

Carolina 5-7 at Jacksonville 8-4 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Jacksonville by 10.5)

Carolina is 4-2 on the road this season, but they have yet to beat a team with a winning record. Jacksonville is 4-2 at home, and nearly pulled off the upset at Indianapolis last week.

RJ’s Pick – Jacksonville by 14

Dallas 11-1 at Detroit 6-6 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Dallas by 10)

Dallas has won six straight and is undefeated on the road. Detroit has dropped four in a row, but is 4-2 at home this season. Only a barking madman would pick the upset.

RJ’s Pick – Detroit by 1

Miami 0-12 at Buffalo 6-6 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Buffalo by 7)

The Dolphins are four losses away from the worst regular season in NFL history. Buffalo really needs to win this one if they are to have any chance of making it to the postseason. (Their last three games are against Cleveland, the Giants, and Philadelphia.)

RJ’s Pick – Buffalo by 11

New York Giants 8-4 at Philadelphia 5-7 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Philadelphia by 3)

The Giants are 5-1 on the road. Philadelphia has dropped two straight and is just 2-4 at home. I smell an upset.

RJ’s Pick – New York Giants by 4

Oakland 4-8 at Green Bay 10-2 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Green Bay by 10.5)

Oakland has won two in a row, but they are still terrible. The Packers lost last week, but they are still one of the top five teams in the league. (The others being Dallas, New England, Indianapolis, and Pittsburgh – in no particular order.)

RJ’s Pick – Green Bay by 16

RJ’S THIRD-BEST GAME OF THE WEEK: San Diego 7-5 at Tennessee 7-5 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Pick ‘em )

San Diego has won two in a row, but they are just 2-4 on the road this season. Tennessee is 4-2 at home, and is battling for an AFC Wild Card spot.

RJ’s Pick – Tennessee by 4

RJ’S LAME-GAME OF THE WEEK: Saint Louis 3-9 at Cincinnati 4-8 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

The Rams have won three out of four since their bye week, and almost won the other game, too (against Seattle). Cincinnati has had a disappointing season, but is a respectable 3-3 at home. This is a tough call.

RJ’s Pick – Cincinnati by 5

Tampa Bay 8-4 at Houston 5-7 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

Tampa Bay has won four straight, but they are just 3-3 on the road this season. Houston’s season pretty much ended with their loss last week at Tennessee, but they are 3-2 at home.

RJ’s Pick – Houston by 1

RJ’S SECOND-BEST GAME OF THE WEEK: Arizona 6-6 at Seattle 8-4 – 4:05 pm (Sheridan’s line: Seattle by 6.5)

If the season ended today, the Arizona Cardinals would be in the playoffs as a Wild Card. A win here would not only help solidify their position as a potential Wild Card, but would place them just one game behind Seattle for the division lead, and would give them the head-to-head tiebreaker as well. But the Seahawks are no pushover. They have won four in a row and are 5-1 at home. A win here, and they have pretty much wrapped up the NFC West.

RJ’s Pick – Seattle by 10

Minnesota 6-6 at San Francisco 3-9 – 4:05 pm (Sheridan’s line: Minnesota by

The Vikings slaughtered the Lions like lambs last week, 42-10. Detroit’s pathetic secondary made Tarvaris Jackson look almost like a credible NFL quarterback, as he was able to pass for multiple TDs for the first time in his career. Rookie running back sensation Adrian Peterson is healthy again, and the very presidential Chester Taylor is more than adequate in a backup role. Meanwhile, San Francisco sucks.

RJ’s Pick – Minnesota by 6

Cleveland 7-5 at New York Jets 3-9 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Cleveland by 3.5)

Neither team has much defense, but at least Cleveland has a potent offense. That’s why the Browns look playoff-bound, and the Jets are a joke.

RJ’s Pick – Cleveland by 9

Kansas City 4-8 at Denver 5-7 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Denver by 6.5)

Kansas City has lost five in a row. Denver has dropped two straight. I see no reason why Denver shouldn’t win, but I predict it will be low-scoring and close.

RJ’s Pick – Denver by 2

RJ’S NUMBER-ONE GAME OF THE WEEK: Pittsburgh 9-3 at New England 12-0 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: New England by 10.5)

Pittsburgh has won two straight, and has the best defense in the NFL, by far. They have allowed the fewest points, the fewest total yards, the fewest passing yards, and the second-fewest rushing yards. They’ve also recorded two shutouts so far this season. However, they are only 2-3 on the road. New England is four wins away from an undefeated regular season. But they have, frankly, looked like crap in their last two games. They won both games, of course, but just barely – by three points each. And both those games were against a sub-par opponent. I don’t know if it’s the colder weather, or the wear-and-tear of a long season, or what, but this team has simply lost some of its mojo. Unless they can get their act together in a short week, a quality team like the Steelers (who are still fighting for a possible playoff bye) is going to end their hopes of going 16-0.

RJ’s Pick – Pittsburgh by 3

Indianapolis 10-2 at Baltimore 4-8 – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Indianapolis by 9.5)

Indianapolis got a huge win last week over Jacksonville, and has now won three straight. They are 5-1 on the road for the season. Baltimore threw everything they had at New England on MNF last week, and it still wasn’t good enough. They shot their wad and came up short, and then we all got to watch their defense in total meltdown mode. Heh. That team used to be good once, too. Like, just last season.

RJ’s Pick – Indianapolis by 13

*Monday, December 10, 2007*

New Orleans 5-7 at Atlanta 3-9 – 8:30 pm (Sheridan’s line: New Orleans by 4.5)

New Orleans has lost three of their last four. Last week’s loss was particularly painful, as division-leading Tampa Bay came from behind to get the win. Now the Saints only have a slight chance of making the postseason as a Wild Card. Atlanta has lost three straight. They’ve benched Joey Harrington again (lol) in favor of Chris Redman. I predict Tony Kornheiser will spend a significant portion of the third quarter rambling on about Bobby Petrino’s coaching future. I further predict that a sizable percentage of the viewing audience will be watching the game on mute during said third quarter.

RJ’s Pick – New Orleans by 2

(If you’re interested, you can check out the full list of Danny Sheridan’s Odds and ESPN’s NFL “Expert” Picks.)

2007 Weekly Results
Week One – 11-5
Week Two – 9-7
Week Three – 10-6
Week Four – 7-7
Week Five – 9-5
Week Six – 10-3
Week Seven – 9-5
Week Eight – 10-3
Week Nine – 9-5
Week Ten – 7-7
Week Eleven – 10-6
Week Twelve – 10-6
Week Thirteen – 7-9

I went 10-6 last week. That puts me at 111-65 for the season. For a comparison, check out the “experts” over at ESPN.

Here are my picks for the NFL’s Week 13:

RJ’S GAME OF THE WEEK THAT YOU WON’T BE ABLE TO SEE BECAUSE IT’S ON THE NFL NETWORK, WHICH OUGHT TO REALLY GRIND YOUR GEARS: Green Bay 10-1 at Dallas 10-1 – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Dallas by 7)

Dallas has won five in a row, and Green Bay has won six straight. The Cowboys are 5-1 at home, and the Packers are 5-0 on the road. The winner of this matchup will almost certainly wind up with home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. The loser will have to console themselves with a playoff bye and a Divisional Round home game. I think it’ll be close.

RJ’s Pick – Dallas by 3

*Sunday, December 2, 2007*

Atlanta 3-8 at Saint Louis 2-9 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

This one is a real yawner. The Rams have been playing pretty well since their bye week, so I predict they’ll get the win here.

RJ’s Pick – Saint Louis by 7

Buffalo 5-6 at Washington 5-6 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Washington by 6)

After having clawed their way back into the playoff hunt, the Bills have been humiliated in their last two outings. Meanwhile, the Redskins have lost three straight, and now one of their star defensive backs, Sean Taylor, has been murdered. (Apparently – and this was news to me – a severed femoral artery isn’t the kind of injury you can just walk off.) This has been a tragic season for both teams, with Bills TE Kevin Everett having suffered a severe neck injury in the opening week. Anyway, this one could go either way, but I like the upset.

RJ’s Pick – Buffalo by 1

Detroit 6-5 at Minnesota 5-6 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Minnesota by 3)

The Lions have lost three in a row, yet would still make the playoffs if the season ended today. (You gotta love the NFC!) The Vikings have won two in a row, and rookie running back/superhero Adrian Peterson is expected to be healthy enough to play this week. A loss for either team would almost certainly doom their postseason hopes. And I’m a Lions fan, so y’all know what I’m about to do.

RJ’s Pick – Detroit by 4

Houston 5-6 at Tennessee 6-5 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Tennessee by 4)

Houston needs a victory in order to stay alive in the AFC Wild Card race. Pretty much the same thing could be said for the Titans, who have dropped three straight.

RJ’s Pick – Houston by 2

RJ’S GAME OF THE WEEK THAT WILL ACTUALLY HAVE MORE THAN FOURTEEN PEOPLE WATCHING IT: Jacksonville 8-3 at Indianapolis 9-2 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Indianapolis by 7)

Well, the Colts finally look like themselves again. After losing two close games to the Patriots and Chargers, and barely beating the Chiefs at home, Indianapolis spanked the Falcons last Thursday in Atlanta. And WR Marvin Harrison could finally be back in the lineup this week. They’ll need to bring their ‘A’ game against the Jaguars, who have won three straight and are looking to grab a share of the lead in the AFC South with a win in this one.

RJ’s Pick – Indianapolis by 3

RJ’S LAME-GAME OF THE WEEK: New York Jets 2-9 at Miami 0-11 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

I weep for the Dolphins, and first-year head coach Cam Cameron. Eleven games, eleven losses – and six of those defeats were by exactly three points, including a 31-28 loss in Week Three at the hands of the Jets. This week is revenge time.

RJ’s Pick – Miami by 4

San Diego 6-5 at Kansas City 4-7 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: San Diego by 4.5)

San Diego is just 1-4 on the road. But Kansas City has lost four in a row, and is just 2-4 at home. Hmmm. I predict the Chiefs keep it close and pull out a late win in a low-scoring affair.

RJ’s Pick – Kansas City by 2

Seattle 7-4 at Philadelphia 5-6 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

Philadelphia head coach Andy Reid will probably give QB Donovan McNabb the start this week instead of A. J. Feeley, unless Eagles fans riot in disgust and mindless rage – always a possibility! But whoever starts under center for Philly, Seattle should win this one. They’ve won three in a row, and QB Matt Hasselbeck has been solid pretty much all season. (There’s no quarterback controversy in Seattle!) The Seahawks are just 2-3 on the road this year, but the Eagles are 2-3 at home.

RJ’s Pick – Seattle by 8

San Francisco 3-8 at Carolina 4-7 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Carolina by 2.5)

Yuck. Carolina hasn’t won a game since Eid, and is still winless at home. The 49ers are an embarrassment as well. Why couldn’t this game be on the NFL Network???

RJ’s Pick – San Francisco by 6

Cleveland 7-4 at Arizona 5-6 – 4:05 pm (Sheridan’s line: Arizona by 1.5)

The Browns have won four of five since their bye week. The Cardinals have lost four of their last six. University of Phoenix Stadium is usually not a fun place to play for visiting teams, but I’m going to go with the Brownies anyway.

RJ’s Pick – Cleveland by 5

Denver 5-6 at Oakland 3-8 – 4:05 pm (Sheridan’s line: Denver by 3.5)

Denver just completely blew it against the Bears last Sunday. That was a real nut-crushing kind of loss. Just totally, absolutely horrible. Meanwhile, the Raiders actually won a game last week. I hear head coach Lane Kiffin was so excited, his testicles finally descended.

RJ’s Pick – Denver by 7

New York Giants 7-4 at Chicago 5-6 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: New York Giants by 2)

The Giants were slaughtered at home by the Vikings last week. QB Eli Manning completed just 43% of his passes and threw four interceptions. He’s had just one good outing in his last five games – and that was against Detroit’s pass defense, so it almost doesn’t count. The Bears somehow got a ‘W’ last week, despite not having a running game, a passing game, or cheerleaders.

RJ’s Pick – Chicago by 4

Tampa Bay 7-4 at New Orleans 5-6 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: New Orleans by 3)

This is it: If Tampa Bay wins this game, the NFC South is essentially theirs. However, I picked New Orleans to win the division, and I just know the Saints aren’t going to make a liar out of me. (At least not this week…)

RJ’s Pick – New Orleans by 6

Cincinnati 4-7 at Pittsburgh 8-3 – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

The Bengals are certainly capable of putting a lot of points up on the board, but I don’t think they will against Pittsburgh. Especially on that field…

RJ’s Pick – Pittsburgh by 10

*Monday, December 3, 2007*

New England 11-0 at Baltimore 4-7 – 8:30 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

The only question I have for this one is: What will the point spread be? After barely beating the Eagles 31-28 in a home game where they were 24-point favorites, how will the oddsmakers respond? The Ravens are pathetic; they’ve dropped five in a row. Will the spread be a semi-reasonable 15 points? Or an eye-popping 25? We’ll find out soon enough…

RJ’s Pick – New England by 29

(If you’re interested, you can check out the full list of Danny Sheridan’s Odds and ESPN’s NFL “Expert” Picks.)

2007 Weekly Results
Week One – 11-5
Week Two – 9-7
Week Three – 10-6
Week Four – 7-7
Week Five – 9-5
Week Six – 10-3
Week Seven – 9-5
Week Eight – 10-3
Week Nine – 9-5
Week Ten – 7-7
Week Eleven – 10-6
Week Twelve – 10-6

I went 10-6 last week. That puts me at 101-59 for the season. For a comparison, check out the “experts” over at ESPN.

Here are my picks for the NFL’s Week Twelve:

*Thursday, November 22, 2007*

RJ’S GAME OF THE WEEK: Green Bay 9-1 at Detroit 6-4 – 12:30 pm (Sheridan’s line: Green Bay by 3.5)

The Packers are looking ahead to their big matchup next week against Dallas. The Lions, who have dropped two straight, simply need to win this one more.

RJ’s Pick: Detroit by 3

New York Jets 2-8 at Dallas 9-1 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Dallas by 14)

Congratulations to the Jets for getting their first win since September last week. They only have a few days to savor their one-game winning streak, however, before they get demolished by the Cowboys on Turkey Day. A one-sided blowout like this will put more people to sleep than tryptophan.

RJ’s Pick: Dallas by 24

Indianapolis 8-2 at Atlanta 3-7 – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: Indianapolis by 11.5)

The Colts are still banged-up and struggling. The Falcons never know who they are going to start at quarterback. Indy is the superior team, but I expect this game to be close.

RJ’s Pick: Indianapolis by 5

*Sunday, November 25, 2007*

Buffalo 5-5 at Jacksonville 7-3 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Jacksonville by 7.5)

The Bills defense was looking rather impressive this year until they allowed 56 points at home to the Patriots last week. The Jaguars have won two big games in a row, and trail the Colts by just one game in the AFC South.

RJ’s Pick: Jacksonville by 10

Houston 5-5 at Cleveland 6-4 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Cleveland by 4)

The Texans aren’t out of it just yet! At 5-5, they are alone in last place in the AFC South, but would be in a tie for first place if they played in the AFC West. Their chances of making the playoffs as a Wild Card are somewhat slim, however, especially with their 0-3 division record and 3-4 conference record. The Browns continue to surprise and impress.

RJ’s Pick: Cleveland by 1

Minnesota 4-6 at New York Giants 7-3 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: New York Giants by 7.5)

There’s no reason to expect Minnesota to win this one. Although it’s always possible the Giants could lose it.

RJ’s Pick: New York Giants by 4

New Orleans 4-6 at Carolina 4-6 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: New Orleans by 2.5)

New Orleans has lost two in a row after winning four in a row (after losing four in a row to start the season). Now that we’ve recapped their entire year, I think it’s fair to say they are a streaky sort of team. Carolina has lost four in a row and is 0-4 at home. Whichever team loses is pretty much out of playoff contention.

RJ’s Pick: New Orleans by 6

RJ’S LAME-GAME OF THE WEEK: Oakland 2-8 at Kansas City 4-6 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Kansas City by 6)

The Raiders have dropped six straight and are probably the second-worst team in the AFC. Kansas City has lost three in a row and has scored the fewest points in the AFC. The over/under for this game is just 34.5. Translation: BOR-ING.

RJ’s Pick: Kansas City by 3

Seattle 6-4 at Saint Louis 2-8 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Seattle by 3)

The Seahawks are just 1-3 on the road this season. The Rams have won two straight. This game has some upset potential…but I wouldn’t bet on it.

RJ’s Pick: Seattle by 8

Tennessee 6-4 at Cincinnati 3-7 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

Tennessee has dropped two tough games in a row. (That’s what happens when Vince Young actually passes the ball.) The Bengals have given up the second-most points in the NFL. I expect a high-scoring, relatively-close game with a lot of turnovers on both sides.

(Bonus video footage of Vince Young [he appears at about 1:40] whining about the criticism he’s received from “Myrtle Hodges” … one can only assume he meant Merril Hoge. But it’s not just the names of ESPN analysts that Young has difficulty with; in fact, he manages to completely butcher the English language throughout the entire press conference. It’s almost like this guy scored a six on the Wonderlic or something!)

RJ’s Pick: Tennessee by 5

Washington 5-5 at Tampa Bay 6-4 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s line: Tampa Bay by 3.5)

The Redskins have dropped two in a row. The Buccaneers have won two in a row, and are 4-1 at home.

RJ’s Pick: Tampa Bay by 7

San Francisco 2-8 at Arizona 5-5 – 4:05 pm (Sheridan’s line: Arizona by 10.5)

San Francisco has lost eight in a row, and is now widely-regarded as the worst team in the NFC. Arizona has won two in a row and is in the playoff hunt.

RJ’s Pick: Arizona by 14

Baltimore 4-6 at San Diego 5-5 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: San Diego by 9.5)

Baltimore has now dropped four straight after last week’s heart-breaking loss at home to Cleveland. San Diego is absolutely schizophrenic this season, but they are 4-1 at home.

RJ’s Pick: San Diego by 4

Denver 5-5 at Chicago 4-6 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: No line)

The Broncos are back in business after winning their last two games. Chicago’s disappointing season continues.

RJ’s Pick: Denver by 2

Philadelphia 5-5 at New England 10-0 – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s line: New England by 22)

The Eagles have won two straight to get back to .500. Donovan McNabb looked awful last week before leaving the game with a sprained ankle. The Patriots remain undefeated after obliterating Buffalo last week in their first game since having a bye week. I see New England favored by 22 and I just shake my head: nope, sorry, it won’t be that close.

RJ’s Pick: New England by 31

*Monday, November 26, 2007*

Miami 0-10 at Pittsburgh 7-3 – 8:30 pm (Sheridan’s line: Pittsburgh by 16)

The Dolphins remain winless, but at least their defense has been playing well over the last three games. The Steelers were shocked by the Jets last week, but I don’t expect any surprises here.

RJ’s Pick: Pittsburgh by 13

(If you’re interested, you can check out the full list of Danny Sheridan’s Odds and ESPN’s NFL “Expert” Picks.)

2007 Weekly Results
Week One – 11-5
Week Two – 9-7
Week Three – 10-6
Week Four – 7-7
Week Five – 9-5
Week Six – 10-3
Week Seven – 9-5
Week Eight – 10-3
Week Nine – 9-5
Week Ten – 7-7
Week Eleven – 10-6

I went 7-7 last week. That puts me at 91-53 for the season. For a comparison, check out the “experts” over at ESPN.

Here are my picks for the NFL’s Week Eleven:

*Sunday, November 18, 2007*

Arizona 4-5 at Cincinnati 3-6 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Bengals by 3)

Arizona beat the Lions last week. They are just 1-4 on the road this year. DE Bertrand Berry is done for the season with a torn left tricep. The Bengals won in Baltimore last week, 21-7. All their scoring in that game came on field goals – seven of them. They have allowed the third-most points in the league.

RJ’s Pick – Cincinnati by 1

Carolina 4-5 at Green Bay 8-1 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Packers by 10)

Carolina lost at home to Atlanta last week, for their third straight defeat. RB DeShaun Foster injured his toe in the game, and is questionable for Week 11. The Panthers still haven’t won a home game this season, although they are 4-1 on the road. QB Vinny Testaverde turned 44 this week. To put that in perspective, he’s the same age as Chris Jim Everett, who retired a decade ago. Green Bay shut out the Vikings last week, 34-0. They’ve scored the second-most points in the NFC, and have won four in a row. RB Ryan Grant has performed very well in two of his last three games, so it looks like the Packers may have a running game after all.

RJ’s Pick – Green Bay by 14

Cleveland 5-4 at Baltimore 4-5 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Browns by 3)

Cleveland lost a close one to Pittsburgh last week. The Browns have scored the fourth-most points in the NFL. They are just 1-3 on the road this season. The Ravens lost to Cincinnati last week, for their first home loss of the season. They have dropped three straight after starting the season 4-2. Baltimore has scored the second-fewest points in the AFC. QB Steve McNair looked awful in his last two starts, but he is going to be out for the next two-to-three weeks with a dislocated shoulder. That means Kyle Boller, who has been only marginally more effective than McNair this season, will be starting.

RJ’s Pick – Cleveland by 6

Kansas City 4-5 at Indianapolis 7-2 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Colts by 14½)

The Chiefs lost at home to Denver last week. QB Damon Huard was injured in the second half against Denver and was replaced by Brodie Croyle, who will start this week’s game. RB Larry Johnson has been ruled out for this week. Kansas City has scored the fewest points in the AFC. Indianapolis lost to San Diego on SNF last week in a bizarre game where QB Peyton Manning threw a career-high six interceptions, and kicker “Automatic” Adam Vinatieri missed a go-ahead 29-yard field goal attempt with under two minutes left. The Colts have lost two in a row, and their offense is all kinds of banged up. Now DE Dwight Freeney is on injured reserve and out for the year.

RJ’s Pick – Indianapolis by 8

Miami 0-9 at Philadelphia 4-5 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Eagles by 10½)

The Dolphins lost to Buffalo last week, 13-10. That was the second game in a row they’ve lost by that exact score. RB Jesse Chatman had another solid performance in a losing effort. DE Jason Taylor injured his ankle and may not be able to play this week. Miami has allowed the second-most points in the league. The Eagles won at Washington last week. They are just 1-3 at home this season; that lone victory was a 56-21 drubbing of the Detroit Lions way back in Week Three. The mainstream sports media is abuzz with talk that “the Eagles are back” and such. I don’t buy it, but they should at least get back to .500 with a victory over the winless Dolphins.

RJ’s Pick – Philadelphia by 7

New Orleans 4-5 at Houston 4-5 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Saints by 1)

The Saints were shocked at home by the previously-winless Rams last week. RB Reggie Bush suffered a mild concussion in the game, but is expected to play this week. New Orleans is ranked 29th in the league in passing yards allowed per game. Houston had a bye last week. It is presently unknown who will start at quarterback for the Texans this Sunday: the healed and rested Matt Schaub, or All-American Hebrew Superhero Sage Rosenfels. But what is known, is that all decent human beings are rooting for the latter.

RJ’s Pick – New Orleans by 4

RJ’S GAME OF THE WEEK: New York Giants 6-3 at Detroit 6-3 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Giants by 2½)

The Giants lost to Dallas last week, so they can pretty much kiss any chance of winning the NFC East goodbye. RB Brandon Jacobs is having a superb season, averaging 5.3 yards per carry. WR Plaxico Burress has been ineffective his last three games. QB Eli Manning has thrown at least one interception in eight of nine games this season. The Lions died in the desert lost at Arizona last week. Attention Mike “Offensive Genius” Martz: negative 18 yards rushing on eight attempts isn’t going to cut it. Not unless you want your team to lose the rest of their games, and cause Jon Kitna to lose his religion. Detroit remains unbeaten at home. RB Kevin Jones might sit out this week in order to rest his foot for the Thanksgiving Day game. If that’s the case, T. J. Duckett would likely start in his place. Also, Kitna is suffering from a back injury, and CB Fernando Bryant injured his ankle against the Cardinals.

RJ’s Pick – Detroit by 3

Oakland 2-7 at Minnesota 3-6 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Vikings by 6)

Oakland lost at home to the Bears last week, for their fifth loss in a row. I have nothing else worthwhile to say about the team. The Vikings were crushed by Green Bay last week. Worse than the loss, though, was the knee injury suffered by rookie superstar running back Adrian Peterson. His lateral collateral ligament is torn in his right knee, so he is expected to never walk again miss a few games. And even worse than that for Vikings fans, Tarvaris Jackson is expected to start under center this week.

RJ’s Pick – Oakland by 2

San Diego 5-4 at Jacksonville 6-3 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Jaguars by 3)

San Diego beat the Colts last week. (No, wait – that doesn’t sound like an accurate description of the game. “San Diego somehow managed to not end up with fewer points on the board when time mercifully expired last week in a game against the Colts.” There, that’s much better.) It’s not every week that a team commits six turnovers on the road, yet still controls time-of-possession by a wide margin and almost wins. Nor is it a frequent occurrence that a team goes up 23-0 in the second quarter, yet finishes the game with just 177 total yards. Norv Turner is a bigger natural disaster in Southern California than the wildfires or the earthquakes. I’m thinking he needs to be un-hired before rioting breaks out. Also, the Chargers are just 1-3 on the road this season. Jacksonville beat the Titans last week, in Nashville. They are 4-1 on the road, but just 2-2 at home. QB David Garrard is expected to be able to play this week, but it’s unknown at this time whether or not he’ll start.

RJ’s Pick – Jacksonville by 1

Tampa Bay 5-4 at Atlanta 3-6 – 1:00 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Buccaneers by 3)

Tampa Bay had a bye last week. They have given up the fourth-fewest points in the league. They are just 1-3 on the road this season. The Falcons beat Carolina last week, 20-13. That was their second win in a row. So far this year, Atlanta’s record at home is 2-2. They have scored the second-fewest points in the NFC. I expect a very low-scoring game, like 14-12 or 12-10.

RJ’s Pick – Atlanta by 2

Pittsburgh 7-2 at New York Jets 1-8 – 4:05 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Steelers by 9)

The Steelers edged Cleveland last week, 31-28. QB Ben Roethlisberger is quietly having a great year, with a quarterback rating currently at 110.2. Pittsburgh has given up the fewest points in the league. They have won three straight, but are just 2-2 on the road. The Jets had a bye last week. They have dropped six straight games. Simply put, they are a very bad team. It will be interesting to see if they are the underdogs when they travel to currently-winless Miami in Week 13.

RJ’s Pick – Pittsburgh by 20

Chicago 4-5 at Seattle 5-4 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Seahawks by 6)

Da Bears won at Oakland last week, 17-6. RB Cedric Benson gained just 76 yards on 29 carries, which is approximately 2.6 yards per attempt (which is pathetic). Three-toed sloths run with more of a burst than Benson does. Rex Grossman took over late in the second quarter after starting QB Brian Griese left the game with an injured shoulder. Grossman managed to toss a long touchdown pass to WR Bernard Berrian, but was otherwise largely ineffective. It’s not known yet who will be the starter at quarterback this week. Chicago is 3-2 on the road this season. The Seahawks whipped the 49ers on MNF last week, 24-0. They’ve given up the second-fewest points in the NFL. Seattle’s remaining seven games are all against teams with a 4-5 record or worse. They are 4-1 at home. RB Shaun Alexander sat out last week with assorted minor injuries, and might not play this week either.

RJ’s Pick – Seattle by 3

RJ’S LAME-GAME OF THE WEEK: St. Louis 1-8 at San Francisco 2-7 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Rams by 3)

The Rams beat New Orleans last week, 37-29. QB Marc Bulger had his best game of the season by far, completing 27 of 33 passes for 302 yards, 2 touchdowns, and no interceptions. WR Isaac Bruce injured his hamstring again, so he may be out for a couple games. San Francisco lost to Seattle last week on MNF. They’ve now lost seven straight. They have scored the fewest points in the NFL.

RJ’s Pick – St. Louis Rams by 5

Washington 5-4 at Dallas 8-1 – 4:15 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Cowboys by 10½)

The Redskins lost at home to the Eagles last week, 33-25. In the five games they’ve played since crushing the Detroit Lions back in Week Five, they have lost three games, barely beaten the 4-5 Cardinals at home, and barely beaten the 1-8 Jets in overtime. Now WR James Thrash is out with a high ankle sprain, and safety Sean Taylor is out for at least two weeks with a knee sprain. Dallas beat the Giants last week, 31-20. They’ve won three in a row, and have the second-highest scoring offense in the league. QB Tony Romo might just be the most popular figure in professional football right now, with all the glowing praise and attention he’s been getting in the media this season.

RJ’s Pick – Dallas by 16

New England 9-0 at Buffalo 5-4 – 8:15 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Patriots by 14½)

New England had a bye last week, but Tom Brady still threw for 400 yards and five touchdowns. (I’m kidding. I think.) The only question for the Patriots now is, will they head into the playoffs undefeated, or with a loss or two? This week they go on the road to face a team that could realistically pull off an upset…but probably won’t. The Bills beat Miami last week, but barely; the final score was 13-10. Still, they’ve won four in a row, and suddenly have a decent shot at a Wild Card spot. However, RB Marshawn Lynch, TE Robert Royal, and CB Kiwaukee Thomas were all injured last week, and it is uncertain if they will be able to play this Sunday. The potential loss of Lynch is most worrisome, as the Bills offense is struggling as it is.

RJ’s Pick – New England by 12

*Monday, November 19, 2007*

Tennessee 6-3 at Denver 4-5 – 8:30 pm (Sheridan’s Line: Broncos by 2½)

Tennessee lost a crucial game to Jacksonville last week, 28-13. Ironically, it was arguably the best passing performance of Vince Young’s career: 24 completions on 41 attempts, for 257 yards and a touchdown. He also threw two interceptions, however. DE Travis LaBoy (who has possibly the gayest name ever…but don’t tell him I said that!) suffered a concussion and might not start this week. CB Nick Harper and WR Brandon Jones also sustained concussions last week. This merely proves the old adage that the Jacksonville Jaguars enjoy inflicting bodily harm upon the Tennessee Titans. The Broncos beat the Chiefs last week, in Kansas City. They are just 2-3 at home this season, and have allowed the fourth-most points in the AFC. WR Javon Walker might be ready to come back and play this week, after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his knee earlier this year. MNF games in Denver are always enjoyable to watch, and I suspect this one won’t be any different.

RJ’s Pick – Denver by 5

Recap

RJ’s Week 11 Picks: BENGALS, PACKERS, BROWNS, COLTS, EAGLES, SAINTS, LIONS, RAIDERS, JAGUARS, FALCONS, STEELERS, SEAHAWKS, RAMS, COWBOYS, PATRIOTS, BRONCOS

- I picked ten Home teams and six Away teams

- I picked thirteen Favorites and three Underdogs

(If you’re interested, you can check out the full list of Danny Sheridan’s Odds and ESPN’s NFL “Expert” Picks.)

2007 Weekly Results
Week One – 11-5
Week Two – 9-7
Week Three – 10-6
Week Four – 7-7
Week Five – 9-5
Week Six – 10-3
Week Seven – 9-5
Week Eight – 10-3
Week Nine – 9-5
Week Ten – 7-7