I usually narrow it down to just one, but I just see a lot of value in two different spots this week. First things first. The New Orleans Saints' have been dominant in the last three weeks. It's mostly been their defense, which has been a slightly different personnel, since week 3. They have had Ken Crawley in at CB, and as of the last game, they've had LB, Craig Robertson, in place of the rookie, Anzalone. I don't know why Robertson wasn't the starter in the first place, because he is a beast! I'm really not surprised at all, by the way the Saints defense is playing. This is more like the team I expected to see, before the season started. I think their offense needs to be more consistent, and I think it will, because it has continued to grow, so far. They really are a contender in this weak conference, and watery league. I know the game they got this week is tricky, because they are going against a new QB, they know little about, and it will be rainy and wet in Lambeau. I don't think way too much of the Packers, and that's with Aaron Rodgers. While they were a good NFC team, I thought the Saints could beat them with Rodgers, because I think they match up well with them. Their front seven on defense is pretty solid, but doesn't make up too much for their horrid secondary. The Packers have some good WR's but not much of any running game, and without AR, they will lose at least 3-4 more games, in my opinion. He literally took this weak squad on his shoulders, and led them to an NFC title game, last year after starting like 4-6. He is arguably the best player in football, and will be impossible to replace. Brett Hundley does have some athletic ability, and a strong arm, but very little experience in this league. He may be able to have some glimpses, because I'm sure they will have a gameplan suitable for him, but the Packers can't rely too much on their running game. I think the Saints can get Mark Ingram going again, and use the short passing game, as well as run some simple routes with Michael Thomas, who could have a big game. Hundley played most of the game, last week in Minnesota, and threw 3 INT's, and a TD. Now, New Orleans' defense isn't as nasty as the Vikings', but it's not going to be an easy task for this kid, in just his first start
SAINTS -5.5 at PACKERS
** NEW ORLEANS -5.5
PREDICTED SCORE : SAINTS 29 PACKERS 16
I'm also going to be backing the Jaguars, going into Indianapolis this week, laying 3. A bad team, in the Colts, off of a short week. I'll take it. Jacksonville coming off of a loss this year. I'll take it!. The Jags have bounced back every time, this year, and I don't see why they don't here, either. Their defense should be able to get some TO's out of Brissette. I also don't see Indy stopping Fournette. I see Jacsonville winning this game comfortably.
JAGUARS -3(-125) at COLTS
**JACKSONVILLE -3
Thursday, October 19, 2017
Thursday, October 12, 2017
NFL WEEK 6 PLAY
*** PITTSBURGH +4 at KANSAS CITY
I'm going against the Chiefs again, because they are going to lose, eventually, and what better team to do it, than a team that they just don't match up well with. The Steelers are coming off of a piss poor performance, last week, at home vs the Jags. Jacksonville has a good, young defense and team, that was hard to prepare for. Pitt lost to Philly 34-3, and 30-15 to Miami, last year, within the first six weeks of the season. They also lost Big Ben to an injury, for a few games, and lost three more games in a row. They still ended up being a contender with an AFC Championship game appearance. So, I think they'll be just fine. After that bad loss to a new look, young Eagles team , who had a tough defense, they bounced back big. The next week they beat,(who do you know), the Kansas City Chiefs, by 29, on Primetime. They also ended up sweeping them, by beating them in Arrowhead, in the Divisional Play-Off, after the Chiefs had a bye week. I do realize that was last year, but these teams are very similar. The Chiefs have a decent defense, but have been giving up a good amount of yards and points. Their offense has been on fire, but they haven't played a defense as stout as the Steelers' yet. KC is also banged up after that Texans game. Kelce may not even play, due to a concussion, in the last game. If he does, I'm fine with it, because he could get knocked out again, going down the middle of that Pittsburgh secondary. I don't think Ben is done, he just played the worst game of his career, and I believe he will bounce back this week. The Steelers just need to get back to running the ball, getting Bell involved in the passing game and throwing deep. I think they will do that Sunday in Kansas City. If KC is able to win this game, I don't see it being by more than 3-4 points. I'm calling for Pittsburgh to hand them their first loss.
I'm going against the Chiefs again, because they are going to lose, eventually, and what better team to do it, than a team that they just don't match up well with. The Steelers are coming off of a piss poor performance, last week, at home vs the Jags. Jacksonville has a good, young defense and team, that was hard to prepare for. Pitt lost to Philly 34-3, and 30-15 to Miami, last year, within the first six weeks of the season. They also lost Big Ben to an injury, for a few games, and lost three more games in a row. They still ended up being a contender with an AFC Championship game appearance. So, I think they'll be just fine. After that bad loss to a new look, young Eagles team , who had a tough defense, they bounced back big. The next week they beat,(who do you know), the Kansas City Chiefs, by 29, on Primetime. They also ended up sweeping them, by beating them in Arrowhead, in the Divisional Play-Off, after the Chiefs had a bye week. I do realize that was last year, but these teams are very similar. The Chiefs have a decent defense, but have been giving up a good amount of yards and points. Their offense has been on fire, but they haven't played a defense as stout as the Steelers' yet. KC is also banged up after that Texans game. Kelce may not even play, due to a concussion, in the last game. If he does, I'm fine with it, because he could get knocked out again, going down the middle of that Pittsburgh secondary. I don't think Ben is done, he just played the worst game of his career, and I believe he will bounce back this week. The Steelers just need to get back to running the ball, getting Bell involved in the passing game and throwing deep. I think they will do that Sunday in Kansas City. If KC is able to win this game, I don't see it being by more than 3-4 points. I'm calling for Pittsburgh to hand them their first loss.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL WEEK 7 PLAY
2 TEAM 6 POINT TEASER : AUBURN -1 at LSU
TEXAS A&M +9 at FLORIDA
Last week LSU played a game against Florida that they had circled for a while. It was a must win, and really like their championship game. I'm sure they gave it all they had, and played a good game, but were lucky to come out alive. If Florida's kicker doesn't miss the PAT, who knows what would have happened. Just like they circled the Florida game, I circled this Auburn at LSU game, before the season started. I knew, coming into this season, that Auburn was going to be a much better team than LSU. I was predicting that Auburn breaks their streak of losing in Death Valley since '99. I knew that this game was going to be an opportunity to make some fuckin money! Looking at injuries, though, I am a little skeptical of laying the 7 points. Auburn is banged up on the O line and in the secondary. I am also considering the mental factor of them having to get a big monkey off their back. I honestly think they'll be well prepared and focused, and I recommend laying the lumber with Auburn, if backing a side, because I think they'll win something like 27-9. I've decided to play it safe, and tease it, by going with two things that I see definitely happening Saturday. Auburn will beat LSU and Texas A& M will be a tough game for Florida. The Gators have been exposed, a little, in the first six weeks of this season, as being not that good. The Aggies are a very young team, who has been getting a lot better, and playing good football lately. If Florida were to beat them, I don't see it being by more than about 3-7 points, and that's a big fat IF. I lean for A&M to win here, so play on this.
TEXAS A&M +9 at FLORIDA
Last week LSU played a game against Florida that they had circled for a while. It was a must win, and really like their championship game. I'm sure they gave it all they had, and played a good game, but were lucky to come out alive. If Florida's kicker doesn't miss the PAT, who knows what would have happened. Just like they circled the Florida game, I circled this Auburn at LSU game, before the season started. I knew, coming into this season, that Auburn was going to be a much better team than LSU. I was predicting that Auburn breaks their streak of losing in Death Valley since '99. I knew that this game was going to be an opportunity to make some fuckin money! Looking at injuries, though, I am a little skeptical of laying the 7 points. Auburn is banged up on the O line and in the secondary. I am also considering the mental factor of them having to get a big monkey off their back. I honestly think they'll be well prepared and focused, and I recommend laying the lumber with Auburn, if backing a side, because I think they'll win something like 27-9. I've decided to play it safe, and tease it, by going with two things that I see definitely happening Saturday. Auburn will beat LSU and Texas A& M will be a tough game for Florida. The Gators have been exposed, a little, in the first six weeks of this season, as being not that good. The Aggies are a very young team, who has been getting a lot better, and playing good football lately. If Florida were to beat them, I don't see it being by more than about 3-7 points, and that's a big fat IF. I lean for A&M to win here, so play on this.
Thursday, September 21, 2017
WEEK 3 NFL PLAY
*** DENVER -3 at BUFFALO
I would like to start off by saying that John Elway is one of the best General Mangers in the NFL, that I've ever seen. He makes the right moves, and it works, and it seems to be working very well, lately. They still have a championship defense, and their QB is playing some good football. This game is kind of like last week, when I had Clemson -3 on the road vs Louisville. There were skeptics that thought the line was "fishy". Well, I believe if you know your shit, which means knowing the teams, the players, the circumstances and how this league works, you should know why the line is what it is. This is a short line, because it's a very long trip for the Broncos, and road wins do not come easy in professional football. The Bills also have a good secondary and a decent overall defense. If they have a weakness on defense, though, it is the run D. I don't see them stopping Denver's run game, because there's not too many teams in the league that can, to begin with. Denver also has some very good receivers. One of the main reasons I like this game, is because I just can't see this Bills offense doing much of anything on Denver's defense. Tyrod is an alright player, and that's all I will say. He can manage some games well, but can't win you much. He has a good running game, still, but not an abundance of weapons to throw to. I don't see him faring too well on Sunday. The Broncos should be able to score some, too.
PREDICTED SCORE : BRONCOS 20 BILLS 12
I would like to start off by saying that John Elway is one of the best General Mangers in the NFL, that I've ever seen. He makes the right moves, and it works, and it seems to be working very well, lately. They still have a championship defense, and their QB is playing some good football. This game is kind of like last week, when I had Clemson -3 on the road vs Louisville. There were skeptics that thought the line was "fishy". Well, I believe if you know your shit, which means knowing the teams, the players, the circumstances and how this league works, you should know why the line is what it is. This is a short line, because it's a very long trip for the Broncos, and road wins do not come easy in professional football. The Bills also have a good secondary and a decent overall defense. If they have a weakness on defense, though, it is the run D. I don't see them stopping Denver's run game, because there's not too many teams in the league that can, to begin with. Denver also has some very good receivers. One of the main reasons I like this game, is because I just can't see this Bills offense doing much of anything on Denver's defense. Tyrod is an alright player, and that's all I will say. He can manage some games well, but can't win you much. He has a good running game, still, but not an abundance of weapons to throw to. I don't see him faring too well on Sunday. The Broncos should be able to score some, too.
PREDICTED SCORE : BRONCOS 20 BILLS 12
Thursday, September 14, 2017
ANOTHER NFL WEEK 2 PLAY
**** MINNESOTA +7(-105) AT PITTSBURGH
I never want to react to just one game, in football, and I'm not. I did see a lot from Minnesota in their home opener, though. I expected this team to be a play-off team, and potentially go 11-5. I look at what they did in 2015, when they went 11-5 with Teddy Bridgewater in at QB. They had AP, who had 1,485 on the ground that year. They were very well balanced. Now, I think I definitely overestimated the Saints, but the Vikings' receiving core has definitely gotten better. Diggs has turned into a good WR, and Thielen is really solid, too. They both had almost 1,000 yards receiving last year, and that was with no running game, so they were keyed on more. Just think what they can do this year, having this 1-2 punch at RB, and being able to keep defenses modest. This Vikings team reminds me a lot of the 2013 Seattle Seahawks. They have a nasty defense, which could be the best in the league this year, because I really don't see a weakness. They have a very good, game managing QB, and a great running game. For all the Bradford doubters, still out there, I will say that he led the league in completion percentage last year(71%), and only threw 5 INT's. That's pretty impressive when you have no other dimension to your offense. Their WR's aren't spectacular, but very solid. I know it's early, but this team is my favorite to win the NFC, now. I think the Steelers are a good team, but I see the Vikings going into Pittsburgh on a short week, and beating them. I'm taking the ML too.
PREDICTED SCORE : VIKINGS 24 STEELERS 19
**** MINNESOTA +7(-105) AT PITTSBURGH
I never want to react to just one game, in football, and I'm not. I did see a lot from Minnesota in their home opener, though. I expected this team to be a play-off team, and potentially go 11-5. I look at what they did in 2015, when they went 11-5 with Teddy Bridgewater in at QB. They had AP, who had 1,485 on the ground that year. They were very well balanced. Now, I think I definitely overestimated the Saints, but the Vikings' receiving core has definitely gotten better. Diggs has turned into a good WR, and Thielen is really solid, too. They both had almost 1,000 yards receiving last year, and that was with no running game, so they were keyed on more. Just think what they can do this year, having this 1-2 punch at RB, and being able to keep defenses modest. This Vikings team reminds me a lot of the 2013 Seattle Seahawks. They have a nasty defense, which could be the best in the league this year, because I really don't see a weakness. They have a very good, game managing QB, and a great running game. For all the Bradford doubters, still out there, I will say that he led the league in completion percentage last year(71%), and only threw 5 INT's. That's pretty impressive when you have no other dimension to your offense. Their WR's aren't spectacular, but very solid. I know it's early, but this team is my favorite to win the NFC, now. I think the Steelers are a good team, but I see the Vikings going into Pittsburgh on a short week, and beating them. I'm taking the ML too.
PREDICTED SCORE : VIKINGS 24 STEELERS 19
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
NFL WEEK 2 PLAY
THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
* HOUSTON +6 at CINCINNATTI
After week 1, all I can say is you can not, and will not win them all in this business. I am now on to week 2, and I am going with a team, I expect to bounce back. The Texans didn't look good at all last week vs Jacksonville, and I think it was mostly the statue of a QB that started and played most of the game. Their O line got killed, but I think it was mostly due to the fact that the Jaguars defense looked fast and furious. They had 10 sacks! Their head coach, Doug Marrone, knows how to coach a defense, and Fournette looked like the real deal vs a good Texans defense. I think starting Watson was the right move, and what they should have done from the get-go. He will give them a better chance to win, because of his mobility, and I believe he will continue to grow and get better. Houston's O line took a hit from having a Tackle missing, due to a holdout, and they will be missing another starter on the line, due to injury. With all that being said, I still think they can win this game. Pretty much all of their defense is healthy, and most of the important players on offense, plus they own the Bengals. Cincinnati is a team that should be worried. I thought before the season started, that they would possibly make it back to the play-offs, because Marvin Lewis is a solid coach. He is, but I think his time is done with this team. They probably should have fired him two years ago. I also think the fact that Dalton has always folded so badly in prime time games and in the play-offs, that the Bengals should look elsewhere for a QB. This last performance in week 1, by Dalton, was historically bad. Losing 20-0 in you home opener is just pathetic. I do expect them to play a lot better, but this is a prime time game vs a team they have not been able to beat. Even Tom Savage was able to lead the Texans to a victory over the Bengals last year. I think Houston just has more going for them and their head coach still has a future. I say the Texans win this game, but I will grab all of those points, just in case.
* HOUSTON +6 at CINCINNATTI
After week 1, all I can say is you can not, and will not win them all in this business. I am now on to week 2, and I am going with a team, I expect to bounce back. The Texans didn't look good at all last week vs Jacksonville, and I think it was mostly the statue of a QB that started and played most of the game. Their O line got killed, but I think it was mostly due to the fact that the Jaguars defense looked fast and furious. They had 10 sacks! Their head coach, Doug Marrone, knows how to coach a defense, and Fournette looked like the real deal vs a good Texans defense. I think starting Watson was the right move, and what they should have done from the get-go. He will give them a better chance to win, because of his mobility, and I believe he will continue to grow and get better. Houston's O line took a hit from having a Tackle missing, due to a holdout, and they will be missing another starter on the line, due to injury. With all that being said, I still think they can win this game. Pretty much all of their defense is healthy, and most of the important players on offense, plus they own the Bengals. Cincinnati is a team that should be worried. I thought before the season started, that they would possibly make it back to the play-offs, because Marvin Lewis is a solid coach. He is, but I think his time is done with this team. They probably should have fired him two years ago. I also think the fact that Dalton has always folded so badly in prime time games and in the play-offs, that the Bengals should look elsewhere for a QB. This last performance in week 1, by Dalton, was historically bad. Losing 20-0 in you home opener is just pathetic. I do expect them to play a lot better, but this is a prime time game vs a team they have not been able to beat. Even Tom Savage was able to lead the Texans to a victory over the Bengals last year. I think Houston just has more going for them and their head coach still has a future. I say the Texans win this game, but I will grab all of those points, just in case.
Thursday, September 7, 2017
ANOTHER NFL WEEK 1 PLAY
WEEK 1 MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
*** SAINTS +4(-125) at VIKINGS
I really do think the Saints are going to have a good year in '17. Everyone says they have to stay healthy. Well, of course, just like any other year. The Saints have had some bad luck with that in the most recent seasons, so hopefully they are due for some breaks. Since the middle of the '15 season, I have been contemplating this year's defense, as being a good one. I expected it to be good, as long as the Saints made some good moves to keep improving it, and I believe they have. If I were a Saints fan(which I am), I would be excited about this season's D. I am also hyped about the running game they have. They will have a true three-headed monster, much like '09, and they will have two dimensions on offense, of how they can beat you. I think losing Sneed for this game, doesn't help, but also doesn't hurt all that much. I believe in the other WR's and the running game, so I think they will go 2-1 without him. I see the Vikings as a possible play-off team this year. They have a nasty defense, and they really missed out on having no running game last year. They have fixed that, in my opinion. Bradford is decent, and will have to do less this year. I do think the Saints will be able to get to him and force some mistakes, possibly. Minnesota also has kind of weak passing attack. Their defense can be ran on, as well. New Orleans hasn't won an opener the last three seasons, but the last one they did win, was in '13, which ended up being a good season. I think they will start this season off well, and win this game. I suggest taking it now, and buying it up to +4. I am an insurance policy guy. I believe they win this game, but the worst case scenario would be Vikings by three or four.
PREDICTED SCORE : SAINTS 26 VIKINGS 17
*** SAINTS +4(-125) at VIKINGS
I really do think the Saints are going to have a good year in '17. Everyone says they have to stay healthy. Well, of course, just like any other year. The Saints have had some bad luck with that in the most recent seasons, so hopefully they are due for some breaks. Since the middle of the '15 season, I have been contemplating this year's defense, as being a good one. I expected it to be good, as long as the Saints made some good moves to keep improving it, and I believe they have. If I were a Saints fan(which I am), I would be excited about this season's D. I am also hyped about the running game they have. They will have a true three-headed monster, much like '09, and they will have two dimensions on offense, of how they can beat you. I think losing Sneed for this game, doesn't help, but also doesn't hurt all that much. I believe in the other WR's and the running game, so I think they will go 2-1 without him. I see the Vikings as a possible play-off team this year. They have a nasty defense, and they really missed out on having no running game last year. They have fixed that, in my opinion. Bradford is decent, and will have to do less this year. I do think the Saints will be able to get to him and force some mistakes, possibly. Minnesota also has kind of weak passing attack. Their defense can be ran on, as well. New Orleans hasn't won an opener the last three seasons, but the last one they did win, was in '13, which ended up being a good season. I think they will start this season off well, and win this game. I suggest taking it now, and buying it up to +4. I am an insurance policy guy. I believe they win this game, but the worst case scenario would be Vikings by three or four.
PREDICTED SCORE : SAINTS 26 VIKINGS 17
WEEK 1 POWER PLAY 2017
**** TENNESSEE -2 (bought down to -1 for (-140) to insure, just in case) vs OAKLAND
The Titans are going to be an improved team in '17, from what they were last year. I think it starts with them adding two new CB's, with rookie, Adoree Jackson, and adding free-agent, Logan Ryan. The secondary was one of their weaknesses last year. I think they can be improved and this will help their defense a lot, because it's going along with a good front seven. I also think that they have added weapons, which they desperately needed. Two of their top leading receivers from a year ago were their TE and RB. That's not good, so they added a solid veteran, Eric Decker, and drafted a stud, Corey Davis. They also drafted a speedy, potential weapon, Taywan Taylor. I think Mariota will also build on last year and have a good year, because now he actually has some people to throw to. This team went 9-7 last year, and critics say it's because they played in the worst division. That may be true, but you also have to remember Mariota missed the last game, and they were limited on offense.
Oakland is a team, that didn't do much to improve on defense, from last year. I don't think their draft was that good, but I guess we will see. They will have mostly the same starters on defense, from last year, and the defense was extremely shaky. I think adding Cook and Lynch was not bad, but Lynch's best years are behind him, I think. He has never played for a team, that had a passing game like this, so he should benefit from that. I could see him starting out this year fast, and then fading. He has a lot of miles on him. The biggest discrepancy of the Raiders last year was the lack of quality wins. They only beat three teams with winning records last year, whom were all one game above .500, and only one of those teams made the play-offs. Oakland's 12-4 record last year, was one of the gaudiest I've ever seen. They barely beat their opponents, on average, and the only tough defense they played last year, the Chiefs, they failed to score more than 13 on, and were swept in the series. Looking at the Raiders' schedule, and how tough it is this year, I don't think they win any more than eight or nine games in '17. I always tend to look at who the coach of a team is, and how good he is, and I don't think much of Del Rio. I think he's above average, and that's where it ends. Tennessee has a good offensive mind, as their head coach, and Dick LeBeau on the defensive side. It's like I always say, two heads are better than one. I see the Titans as a play-off team this season, and here's how I see the game going. Tennessee was able to hold Oakland to only 17 points in a match from last season. They lost the game by a TD, but that was with no weapons to throw to and a weak secondary. The Titans are a new look team this year, and it will be different. I see this as what should be a pretty close game, and even could come down to the wire. I also see in my vision, a home opener win for the Titans, as they start a good season off the right way.
PREDICTED SCORE : TITANS 24 RAIDERS 21
The Titans are going to be an improved team in '17, from what they were last year. I think it starts with them adding two new CB's, with rookie, Adoree Jackson, and adding free-agent, Logan Ryan. The secondary was one of their weaknesses last year. I think they can be improved and this will help their defense a lot, because it's going along with a good front seven. I also think that they have added weapons, which they desperately needed. Two of their top leading receivers from a year ago were their TE and RB. That's not good, so they added a solid veteran, Eric Decker, and drafted a stud, Corey Davis. They also drafted a speedy, potential weapon, Taywan Taylor. I think Mariota will also build on last year and have a good year, because now he actually has some people to throw to. This team went 9-7 last year, and critics say it's because they played in the worst division. That may be true, but you also have to remember Mariota missed the last game, and they were limited on offense.
Oakland is a team, that didn't do much to improve on defense, from last year. I don't think their draft was that good, but I guess we will see. They will have mostly the same starters on defense, from last year, and the defense was extremely shaky. I think adding Cook and Lynch was not bad, but Lynch's best years are behind him, I think. He has never played for a team, that had a passing game like this, so he should benefit from that. I could see him starting out this year fast, and then fading. He has a lot of miles on him. The biggest discrepancy of the Raiders last year was the lack of quality wins. They only beat three teams with winning records last year, whom were all one game above .500, and only one of those teams made the play-offs. Oakland's 12-4 record last year, was one of the gaudiest I've ever seen. They barely beat their opponents, on average, and the only tough defense they played last year, the Chiefs, they failed to score more than 13 on, and were swept in the series. Looking at the Raiders' schedule, and how tough it is this year, I don't think they win any more than eight or nine games in '17. I always tend to look at who the coach of a team is, and how good he is, and I don't think much of Del Rio. I think he's above average, and that's where it ends. Tennessee has a good offensive mind, as their head coach, and Dick LeBeau on the defensive side. It's like I always say, two heads are better than one. I see the Titans as a play-off team this season, and here's how I see the game going. Tennessee was able to hold Oakland to only 17 points in a match from last season. They lost the game by a TD, but that was with no weapons to throw to and a weak secondary. The Titans are a new look team this year, and it will be different. I see this as what should be a pretty close game, and even could come down to the wire. I also see in my vision, a home opener win for the Titans, as they start a good season off the right way.
PREDICTED SCORE : TITANS 24 RAIDERS 21
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
COLLEGE FOOTBALL FREE PLAY
** MINNESOTA -25 vs BUFFALO
COACH FLECK'S DEBUT!
So here we are at the start of a brand new football season and I'm going to get it cranked by picking a couple of college games. Now, for those who have followed, you should know that I will not play too many college games. I specialize in mostly NFL forecasting, but here and there my sportsbook site gives me a free bet with a new deposit, and I like to re-deposit in the beginning and cash out at the end. This means that this first straight bet play is guaranteed. If I lose they refund me, so I think this is worth it. Caoch P.J. Fleck will be making his debut with the Gophers, and to me he's making his real debut to CFB. I think he's an extraordinary coach, and did a phenomenal job with Western Michigan last year. I also think that good coaches usually make a statement in their first game with a new team. He did lose his first game with W. Michigan in '13, and also went 1-11 in that first season, but that was different. He had to totally build that program there, and that's not the case with Minnesota. They already have had a pretty decent football program, going 9-4 last year in the Big 10, and have been pretty consistent on the defensive side of the ball. They are only bringing back 5 starters on defense this year, but 2 of those players are their best defensive players, and their 2 sack leaders from last year. There is also enough upperclassmen on the defense to not lack too much experience. They're bringing back 7 starters on the offense and that includes their 2 headed monster of a running game, who accounted for over 1,700 rushing yards last season. I really think the Gophers could be a contender and surprise team in the Big 10 west this year. As for Buffalo, they were just awful on offense last year, and their defense was really not better. I do think they can and probably will be improved this year on both sides, but I also don't see them being on the level of this Minnesota team.
PREDICTED SCORE : GOPHERS 35 BULLS 6
Another play I kind of like -
* LSU -14 vs BYU
I think the Tigers have the top 2 coordinators in the country, and while they're only bringing back 5 starters on defense, they too have a lot of upperclassmen coming back. They also have a great offensive back field, which includes arguably the best RB in CFB. Arden Key will be out, but I think they've got some good talent that's come in, and I believe there is a talent gap between these programs. I do think the Cougars are a good, hard-nosed team, but I don't think their defense will be able to stop Matt Canada, and his offense for four quarters. Speaking of Canada, this guy is really hard to prepare for, and has said that he has never had talent like LSU. I think he will have some fun with the RB's he has and will run a lot of different, intelligent plays this year, that will make the Tigers' offense hard to stop. On defense, I think they should be just fine, especially for this game, because Aranda is the best defensive coordinator right now.
PREDICTED SCORE : TIGERS 34 COUGARS 16
COACH FLECK'S DEBUT!
So here we are at the start of a brand new football season and I'm going to get it cranked by picking a couple of college games. Now, for those who have followed, you should know that I will not play too many college games. I specialize in mostly NFL forecasting, but here and there my sportsbook site gives me a free bet with a new deposit, and I like to re-deposit in the beginning and cash out at the end. This means that this first straight bet play is guaranteed. If I lose they refund me, so I think this is worth it. Caoch P.J. Fleck will be making his debut with the Gophers, and to me he's making his real debut to CFB. I think he's an extraordinary coach, and did a phenomenal job with Western Michigan last year. I also think that good coaches usually make a statement in their first game with a new team. He did lose his first game with W. Michigan in '13, and also went 1-11 in that first season, but that was different. He had to totally build that program there, and that's not the case with Minnesota. They already have had a pretty decent football program, going 9-4 last year in the Big 10, and have been pretty consistent on the defensive side of the ball. They are only bringing back 5 starters on defense this year, but 2 of those players are their best defensive players, and their 2 sack leaders from last year. There is also enough upperclassmen on the defense to not lack too much experience. They're bringing back 7 starters on the offense and that includes their 2 headed monster of a running game, who accounted for over 1,700 rushing yards last season. I really think the Gophers could be a contender and surprise team in the Big 10 west this year. As for Buffalo, they were just awful on offense last year, and their defense was really not better. I do think they can and probably will be improved this year on both sides, but I also don't see them being on the level of this Minnesota team.
PREDICTED SCORE : GOPHERS 35 BULLS 6
Another play I kind of like -
* LSU -14 vs BYU
I think the Tigers have the top 2 coordinators in the country, and while they're only bringing back 5 starters on defense, they too have a lot of upperclassmen coming back. They also have a great offensive back field, which includes arguably the best RB in CFB. Arden Key will be out, but I think they've got some good talent that's come in, and I believe there is a talent gap between these programs. I do think the Cougars are a good, hard-nosed team, but I don't think their defense will be able to stop Matt Canada, and his offense for four quarters. Speaking of Canada, this guy is really hard to prepare for, and has said that he has never had talent like LSU. I think he will have some fun with the RB's he has and will run a lot of different, intelligent plays this year, that will make the Tigers' offense hard to stop. On defense, I think they should be just fine, especially for this game, because Aranda is the best defensive coordinator right now.
PREDICTED SCORE : TIGERS 34 COUGARS 16
Thursday, February 2, 2017
SUPER BOWL LI ANALYSIS
*** NEW ENGLAND -3 vs ATLANTA
Let me start this off by saying that since before this season started, I thought that if the Patriots were healthy at the right time, they would win it all this year. I have also thought, throughout this whole year, that they have looked like the best team. I've thought they really have had the top defense after their first few games. This team shut out a play-off team 27-0, while having a third-string, rookie QB start for them. I know the Texans aren't a strong play-off team, but WOW! That just shows you how good this team around Tom Brady really is. Just look at how good they were early last season. When they were healthy, they were phenomenal, and then they started to have players drop like flies. By the time they played Denver in the play-offs, their offensive line was depleted, and they had to face that Broncos rush. Well, this year they are fully healthy, with the exception of Gronk, and I think Brady has shown he doesn't really need him. Martelus Bennett is a solid TE, and they have several other weapons. Edleman is a star, in my opinion, and I think having Dion lewis healthy, makes their offense super dangerous. All I am hearing is how good Atlanta's offense is, but they don't realize how unstoppable Brady and co. are. They have a very versatile running game, which consists of Blount, who will pierce holes in your D line, and they have speedy Lewis, and White, who can make big plays catching the ball. Their offensive line has been stellar, as well, protecting the middle, which is what Brady needs. Now, Atlanta's RB's are pretty deadly, and all I have been hearing is that NE's LB's can't cover too good. I will expect them to DO THEIR JOBS Sunday, and for the Pats's No. 2 ranked rushing defense to contain these backs and not let them do too much. It seems like Belichick always takes something away that offenses do, and it's sometimes taking a player completely out of the game. Well, good luck stopping Julio, cause he is a physical freak, but I have seen teams contain him this year and win. I wouldn't be surprised to see Belichick let him have no more than about 7-10 catches for about 10 yards per catch, and nothing else. They will probably completely shut down either Sanu or Gabriel.
On to the Falcon defense, I will say they can stop the run pretty well, but teams that have beat them, mostly exploit their secondary. That shouldn't surprise anyone when they are ranked 28th in the league. I honestly think Atlanta gives up too many points to be a real champion. They can rush the passer, but it's mostly blitzes, and Brady gets rid of the ball in like 2 seconds. Not to mention, that the Pats can run the football and neutralize that rush. Its a lot easier to look like a pass rushing machine when you play a bad offensive line like Seattle's was, and a Green Bay offense, that doesn't have any RB to hand off to, or split out, really. Atlanta's secondary is young and vulnerable, and while I think Brady respects them to the fullest, he knows that he's going to score points. Belichick could be thinking that he needs to score 38-40 to win the game, so watch out for a surprise onside kick. Opening kick-off, maybe? Sounds crazy, but Atlanta's offense is crazy good, but if you look at what they did vs real stingy D's, like the Pats, this year, they did't fair all that well. They put up 23 vs the Broncos, who started a raw rookie QB in that game. Just think if Denver had a good QB playing that game, and they could have actually moved the ball. Then they got held to just 15 by Philly, in a game they lost. I know that was the regular season, and that the Falcons are playing real good ball right now, but this Patriots defense is pretty stout. I think Malcolm Butler is a good CB, and could prove himself in this game. I'd also watch out for Julio Jones choking with some dropped balls, because I've seen him do it before. We've all seen Matt Ryan choke, but I think he is as focused as ever. All those people that said NE's D was overrated, right before the AFC championship, have been debunked. They shut down one of the league's best offenses, and hottest teams. Bell did get knocked out, but he only had 3 YPC beforehand, and they did not let Brown beat them. That's a lot easier said than done, too.
I also seem to stick with the theory of a good defense almost always beats a good offense. There's a reason why the No.1 scoring defense has beat the No.1 scoring offense in 4 out of 5 Superbowls. Let's talk about that one time the defense lost. That's because that '89 49ers team had the best offense, and also had the No.3 scoring defense, and Denver had a shitty offense. I always take balance over anything, because it's real important, and the Pats are more balanced, by beating their opponents by an average of 12 PPG, while Atlanta is only by 8 PPG, and also giving up a whopping 25PPG on defense, and even 20 PPG in the playoffs. I also am very aware that the league was weak this year, but the Pats dominated mostly everyone they played. The AFC was the better conference, clearly, in my opinion, and I thought the NFC was just shit. Dan Quinn and Kyle Shanahan have done great jobs this year, but now they have to go against the big boys, and they may just be out matched. I have a great prop bet for Dion Lewis' receptions at OVER 2.5 $$$, and OVER 24.5 receiving yards for him, as well. I think he could be a big factor, and make some plays, baby. I'll predict he has at least 4-5 catches for at least 40-50 yards receiving. I also have a teaser that I don't think will lose 7PT 2T Teaser - Patriots +4, OVER 51 points. ENJOY YA'LL!
PREDICTED SCORE : PATRIOTS 34 FALCONS 23
Let me start this off by saying that since before this season started, I thought that if the Patriots were healthy at the right time, they would win it all this year. I have also thought, throughout this whole year, that they have looked like the best team. I've thought they really have had the top defense after their first few games. This team shut out a play-off team 27-0, while having a third-string, rookie QB start for them. I know the Texans aren't a strong play-off team, but WOW! That just shows you how good this team around Tom Brady really is. Just look at how good they were early last season. When they were healthy, they were phenomenal, and then they started to have players drop like flies. By the time they played Denver in the play-offs, their offensive line was depleted, and they had to face that Broncos rush. Well, this year they are fully healthy, with the exception of Gronk, and I think Brady has shown he doesn't really need him. Martelus Bennett is a solid TE, and they have several other weapons. Edleman is a star, in my opinion, and I think having Dion lewis healthy, makes their offense super dangerous. All I am hearing is how good Atlanta's offense is, but they don't realize how unstoppable Brady and co. are. They have a very versatile running game, which consists of Blount, who will pierce holes in your D line, and they have speedy Lewis, and White, who can make big plays catching the ball. Their offensive line has been stellar, as well, protecting the middle, which is what Brady needs. Now, Atlanta's RB's are pretty deadly, and all I have been hearing is that NE's LB's can't cover too good. I will expect them to DO THEIR JOBS Sunday, and for the Pats's No. 2 ranked rushing defense to contain these backs and not let them do too much. It seems like Belichick always takes something away that offenses do, and it's sometimes taking a player completely out of the game. Well, good luck stopping Julio, cause he is a physical freak, but I have seen teams contain him this year and win. I wouldn't be surprised to see Belichick let him have no more than about 7-10 catches for about 10 yards per catch, and nothing else. They will probably completely shut down either Sanu or Gabriel.
On to the Falcon defense, I will say they can stop the run pretty well, but teams that have beat them, mostly exploit their secondary. That shouldn't surprise anyone when they are ranked 28th in the league. I honestly think Atlanta gives up too many points to be a real champion. They can rush the passer, but it's mostly blitzes, and Brady gets rid of the ball in like 2 seconds. Not to mention, that the Pats can run the football and neutralize that rush. Its a lot easier to look like a pass rushing machine when you play a bad offensive line like Seattle's was, and a Green Bay offense, that doesn't have any RB to hand off to, or split out, really. Atlanta's secondary is young and vulnerable, and while I think Brady respects them to the fullest, he knows that he's going to score points. Belichick could be thinking that he needs to score 38-40 to win the game, so watch out for a surprise onside kick. Opening kick-off, maybe? Sounds crazy, but Atlanta's offense is crazy good, but if you look at what they did vs real stingy D's, like the Pats, this year, they did't fair all that well. They put up 23 vs the Broncos, who started a raw rookie QB in that game. Just think if Denver had a good QB playing that game, and they could have actually moved the ball. Then they got held to just 15 by Philly, in a game they lost. I know that was the regular season, and that the Falcons are playing real good ball right now, but this Patriots defense is pretty stout. I think Malcolm Butler is a good CB, and could prove himself in this game. I'd also watch out for Julio Jones choking with some dropped balls, because I've seen him do it before. We've all seen Matt Ryan choke, but I think he is as focused as ever. All those people that said NE's D was overrated, right before the AFC championship, have been debunked. They shut down one of the league's best offenses, and hottest teams. Bell did get knocked out, but he only had 3 YPC beforehand, and they did not let Brown beat them. That's a lot easier said than done, too.
I also seem to stick with the theory of a good defense almost always beats a good offense. There's a reason why the No.1 scoring defense has beat the No.1 scoring offense in 4 out of 5 Superbowls. Let's talk about that one time the defense lost. That's because that '89 49ers team had the best offense, and also had the No.3 scoring defense, and Denver had a shitty offense. I always take balance over anything, because it's real important, and the Pats are more balanced, by beating their opponents by an average of 12 PPG, while Atlanta is only by 8 PPG, and also giving up a whopping 25PPG on defense, and even 20 PPG in the playoffs. I also am very aware that the league was weak this year, but the Pats dominated mostly everyone they played. The AFC was the better conference, clearly, in my opinion, and I thought the NFC was just shit. Dan Quinn and Kyle Shanahan have done great jobs this year, but now they have to go against the big boys, and they may just be out matched. I have a great prop bet for Dion Lewis' receptions at OVER 2.5 $$$, and OVER 24.5 receiving yards for him, as well. I think he could be a big factor, and make some plays, baby. I'll predict he has at least 4-5 catches for at least 40-50 yards receiving. I also have a teaser that I don't think will lose 7PT 2T Teaser - Patriots +4, OVER 51 points. ENJOY YA'LL!
PREDICTED SCORE : PATRIOTS 34 FALCONS 23
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