NFL Week 4 Picks

Raiders (+9) over TEXANS

I think I've got a good read on the Texans: amazing, unstoppable offense; horrendous defense. The Jets, Jags and Titans all reached 20+ points against this squad. So while I like the Texans to win, it should be another high scoring shootout.

Titans (-3) over JAGUARS

I can't yet write off the Titans. They've lost to the defending champs on the road, the surprisingly good Jets on the road, and a desperate Texans team at home. At 0-3 their playoff chances look grim, but 0-4 would be a death sentence. I don't have the stats to back me up, but I'm pretty sure teams that start 0-4 don't make the playoffs.

Ravens (+2) over PATRIOTS

The Ravens have destroyed two of the worst teams in the NFL (Chiefs and Browns) at home, and beaten a tough Chargers squad on the road. They've haven't done anything to make me think they can't go into Foxboro and hand the Pats a loss.

Bengals (-6) over BROWNS

I wish Michael Irvin still worked for ESPN. Irvin, perhaps best known for sporting a quadruple windsor knot tie that barely made it past his neck, loved to throw the term "lock of the week." Well, Irvin would have given the Bengals his stone cold, lead pipe lock of the week. The Browns have looked horrendous on offense and defense, the players have already quit on their head coach, and they already switched quarterbacks. They've scored one offensive touchdown in nine games. Unless you think Derek Anderson can suddenly turn things around, bet the farm on the Bengals.

Giants (-8.5) over CHIEFS

This is a dangerous line for the Giants. This is their second consecutive road game, and they play at Arrowhead. Kansas City actually has one of the few remaining home field advantages in the NFL, but in the end, the Giants have too much going for them.

Lions (+10) over BEARS

The Bears lost to the Pack in week 1 and got bailed out by missed field goals in weeks 2 and 3. They could easily be 0-3. The Lions looked decent against the Skins last week...

/burns Redskins jersey

...so I think the Lions have a chance (but only if Kevin Smith plays).

REDSKINS (-7.5) over Bucs

The Skins are horrible, but the Bucs can't score. Even the most offensively inept team in the league should be able to score 10 points against the Bucs.

COLTS (-10) over Seahawks

No Hasselbeck + Seahawks on the road = Definite Colts win. I'm taking the Colts this week in pick 'em.

SAINTS (-7) over Jets

Both of these 3-0 teams are 6-0 against the spread. I say Drew Brees keeps the Big Easy bandwagon going with a gritty win over Dirty Sanchez.

Bills (-1) over DOLPHINS

This feels like a trap game from Vegas. New quarterback from Miami + 0-3 team should = Bills win. Probably the least confident of all the picks on this one.

49ERS (-9.5) over Rams

This is another high line from Vegas. I'm a little worried that the Niners won't be able to score enough points with Gore out to cover this line. However, with Kyle Boller at the helm, the Niners D should stop the Rams

BRONCOS (+3) over Cowboys

The Cowboys have beaten the Panthers and Bucs but hardly looked good doing it. So you're telling me they are going into the thin air of Denver and hanging a big L on the 3-0 Broncs? Good sir, I would call you a liar.

STEELERS (-6.5) over Chargers

This is a rematch from last year where Troy Palamalu scored that crazy TD at the end of the game to allow the Steelers to cover the spread...only they didn't allow the TD and the Chargers ended up covering. I say Tomlin puts on his game face and dominates the Turner-led Bolts.

Packers (+3.5) over VIKINGS

He who shall not be named returns to play his old team, blah blah blah. BRIT FAR!! BRIT FAR!!! Just a lofty gunslinger back there in the pocket!! He wears Wrangler jeans!! He's a kid having a good time!! On principle alone, I'm taking the Pack.

Week 4 Quick Picks

Suicide Pool: Colts

Stone Cold, Lead Pipe Lock: Bengals -6

Last Week: 9-7

Season: 16-14