So, back on the winning track (kind of). Two games over .500 is a start, although losing the Big Bet made me go backward monetarily. I will take the winning week as a springboard for a monster this week (I hope?!)
For those that are new to this site, I will select every game against the spread. I will be selecting one big bet at $250 per, whereas everything else will be $100. Winners count as winners, whereas, losses will be calculated including a 10% vig to make the math that much simpler. On to the picks.
Pittsburgh Steelers -3 1/2 at Cleveland Browns
Ok, so first game and I am breaking the gambling rules by selecting the visiting team on a short week. I don't like it, but instead of coming back down to earth after a big win over Ravens last week, I think the Steelers are going to be energized and really put it to the Browns. I am thinking about making this my Big Bet. We will see.
Chicago Bears +3 1/2 v. Minnesota Vikings
I cannot select two road, intradivisional favorites in a row. That would drive me crazy. And besides, this Bears defense is no joke. The only question is can they bounce back after a second, heart-breaking defeat last week with the Packers blocking Cairo Santos' last-second field goal.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers -6 at New York Giants
This game, and this line is utterly preposterous. Tommy DeVito? What on earth to make of him? Really, I don't care as I think Baker Mayfield will be happy to have Mike Evans back! But this game is also why I picked the Bears. Can't select three road favorites in the first 3 games.
Detroit Lions -7 at Indianapolis Colts
Until somebody proves otherwise, I am selecting the Lions. I almost don't care the spread. 1st in scoring offense, 2nd in total offense, 3rd in rushing offense, 6th, in passing offense, 5th in scoring and rushing defense all make for a helluva squad.
Tennessee Titans -7 1/2 at Houston Texans
Only because Houston played Monday night. The return of Nico Collins really does make for a more potent offense, though, so I was tempted to give the points, but Tennessee's defense is 1st against the pass and 2nd in total defense.
Miami Dolphins -7 1/2 v. New England Patriots
A whole lot of favorites here, but I think that Miami could put together a bit of a win streak here to make the playoff chase interesting down the line.
Washington Commanders -10 v. Dallas Cowboys
As I stated last week, going against the Cowboys until proven otherwise, almost no matter the spread. And Dallas is on a short week this week (and next week, too!)
Kansas City Chiefs -10 1/2 at Carolina Panthers
OK, not sure if it is me that is not even trying and just picking favorites, or if these games really are out-of-control this week. Picking KC not because of Mahomes, but because their 3rd rated defense is palying the worst rated offense.
Denver Broncos -6 at Las Vegas Raiders
I can't help myself. The Broncos have been undersold on the betting lines all year, and the Raiders - except for Brock Bowers - might be tanking. Oh year, and Maxx Crosby, that guy plays 100% no matter what.
Arizona Cardinals +1 at Seattle Seahawks
I could see this game go either way. Even though it is only 1 point, I will take it. Perhaps a 28-27 push.
Green Bay Packers -5 1/2 v. San Francisco 49ers
Jordan Love will make a crucial turnover. San Francisco is getting George Kittle back. He will be the difference. That was my thoughts before seeing that Brock Purdy and Nick Bosa are both out, and maybe Trent Williams. You know Bosa is hurt because he would have loved sacking Jordan Love.
Los Angeles Rams +3 v. Philadelphia Eagles
I actually think Philly is the better team and will win. I do, however, really like this Rams team and would love to see them end up in the playoffs. It will be hard to find a game with better receivers than A.J. Brown, Devonta Smith, Cooper Kupp, and Puca Nakua. Should be a fun one to watch!
Baltimore Ravens -3 at Los Angeles Chargers
Baltimore will be angry after their loss to the Steelers. The Chargers defense is number 1 in scoring, but they are 11th total and rushing, and 12th passing. Baltomre is first in total offense, second in scoring and rushing, and 3rd in passing. They are last in the league against the pass, so there might be some plays for Justin Herbert to exploint, but I think the Ravens win bigger than most think.
Big Bet:
Green Bay Packers -5 1/2 v. San Francisco 49ers
Jordan Love will make a crucial turnover. San Francisco is getting George Kittle back. He will be the difference. That was my thoughts before seeing that Brock Purdy and Nick Bosa are both out, and maybe Trent Williams. You know Bosa is hurt because he would have loved sacking Jordan Love.
Too many injuries for San Francisco against a really good team.
Record
Last Week's Record: 8-6
Last Week's Big Bet: 0-1
Year-to-Date Record: 77-82-7
Big Bet Year-to-Date: 6-5
Last Week's Winnings (Losses): ($25)
Year to Date's Winnings (Losses): ($1,245)
