The Steelers season will probably end today.
For this team to make it to the postseason, a lot of things have to go right.
First, Pittsburgh must beat the 13-2 Ravens and must do so in Baltimore. That's no easy feat, not even with Lamar Jackson taking a rest.
If the Steelers find a way to take down the dirty birds, they then must watch and pray for the Texans to beat Tennessee in Houston, which wouldn't be a lot to ask on most days.
On this Sunday, however, there's a good chance Bill O'Brien will sit his stars, as a Chiefs win over the LA Chargers would give the Texans absolutely nothing to play for. Since Kansas City's game starts at 1, about 3.5 hours before the Texans kick off, Houston can relax and see what the Chiefs do before deciding whether or not to send out the A-team.
In the likely event of a Chiefs win, the Steelers will need a Houston team with nothing to play for to beat a Titans squad with their season on the line. Not exactly an ideal predicament.
Just like last year, when the Steelers needed the Browns to win in Baltimore, Week 17 will be a stressful time to breathe for Pittsburgh. What's different this time, however, is that the Steelers can be proud of this season, even if they fail to get into the playoffs.
The year of our lord, 2018 was one sent straight from hell. The Steelers, who were 7-2-1 through 10 games, should have made the playoffs but missed out because of one of the worst collapses in NFL history. This year, the team had no business winning six games, let alone making the postseason.
Yet, here we are, on the last Sunday of the regular season, a few fortunate bounces away from the Steelers doing what they couldn't do last year with Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown at their disposal.
After several years of underachieving, the Steelers are getting the most out of their talent in 2019, and more than that, the team, overall, is likable.
Last season, we heard all about Le'Veon Bell's absence, Big Ben's radio show adventures, and, eventually, AB losing his mind. On the field, a defense that couldn't get a turnover if its life depended on it plagued the team through several close defeats.
This year, we've been hearing not about drama, but instead about the lovable Devlin Hodges. We've seen the defense transformed by the Minkah Fitzpatrick trade, and a motivated Bud Dupree. We've enjoyed Heinz Field coming to its feet whenever Zach Banner is announced as an eligible receiver.
The only chatter has been about whether or not the team will play football in January, and that's how it should be.
The Steelers missing the postseason would still be disappointing. This was a team many expected to win the AFC North in August, and failing to qualify for the playoffs will leave us all wondering what could have been if Roethlisberger's elbow didn't betray him way back in week two. No matter what happens, this Steelers team overachieved, and when was the last time any of us could say that?
Sunday, December 29, 2019
Saturday, December 7, 2019
Good teams win, great teams cover: Championship week edition
It's December, and the boys are back. Let's get into it.
Brad
Utah -6.5 over Oregon (LOL)
Baylor [+9] over Oklahoma
I'm not saying the Bears are going to win this game. However, they did significantly outplay the Sooners for a half in Waco, and would be 12-0 had they just finished the game. Both of these teams can't escape playing close games and this should be no different.
LSU [-6.5] over Georgia
This is probably the safest bet of the weekend. Georgia is a good football team, but LSU is playing for its first SEC championship since 2011. and will feel compelled to just unleash on the Bulldogs. This game will come down to the opening quarter. If UGA can run the ball effectively and kill the clock, this will be a good game. If not, expect a Tiger rout.
NFL
Browns [-7.5] over Bengals
The Browns are angry, which is not a good sign for a horrid Bengals team. The game will start slow, but Cleveland will unload for 24 points in the second quarter.
Falcons [-3] over Panthers
Matt Ryan or the team that just fired its head coach? Matt Ryan.
Dolphins [+5.5] over Jets
I'm officially jumping ship on the Jets. I've supported Sam Darnold and company for too long. I believe Miami will finish strong and reach six wins. Who would have thought?
Jeff
College
Oklahoma [+9] over Baylor
LSU [-7] over Georgia
NFL
Dolphins [+5.5] over Jets
Joe
College
Oklahoma [-9] over Baylor
Baylor had its shot at Oklahoma a few weeks ago, and it blew it. The Sooners know what to expect from Baylor, and they'll be ready to go.
UVA [+28.5] over Clemson
Obviously, I like the Tigers to win, but 28.5 points is a lot of points. UVA can score, and I think Bryce Perkins will lead the offense to enough yards and points to cover the spread.
Ohio State [-16] over Wisconsin
Ohio State will do what Ohio State does.
NFL
Ravens [-6.0] over Bills
Baltimore has won five of its last six games by 14, 17, 36, 34, and 39 points respectively. I think the Ravens can win this game by six.
Packers [-12.5] over Redskins
Aaron Rodgers vs. The Redskins. I like Aaron Rodgers. A lot.
Broncos [+9] over Texans
Denver's been playing in close games all year. Even with Courtland Sutton banged up, I feel safe picking the Broncos to keep this game within a touchdown.
Brad
Utah -6.5 over Oregon (LOL)
Baylor [+9] over Oklahoma
I'm not saying the Bears are going to win this game. However, they did significantly outplay the Sooners for a half in Waco, and would be 12-0 had they just finished the game. Both of these teams can't escape playing close games and this should be no different.
LSU [-6.5] over Georgia
This is probably the safest bet of the weekend. Georgia is a good football team, but LSU is playing for its first SEC championship since 2011. and will feel compelled to just unleash on the Bulldogs. This game will come down to the opening quarter. If UGA can run the ball effectively and kill the clock, this will be a good game. If not, expect a Tiger rout.
NFL
Browns [-7.5] over Bengals
The Browns are angry, which is not a good sign for a horrid Bengals team. The game will start slow, but Cleveland will unload for 24 points in the second quarter.
Falcons [-3] over Panthers
Matt Ryan or the team that just fired its head coach? Matt Ryan.
Dolphins [+5.5] over Jets
I'm officially jumping ship on the Jets. I've supported Sam Darnold and company for too long. I believe Miami will finish strong and reach six wins. Who would have thought?
Jeff
College
Oklahoma [+9] over Baylor
LSU [-7] over Georgia
NFL
Dolphins [+5.5] over Jets
Joe
College
Oklahoma [-9] over Baylor
Baylor had its shot at Oklahoma a few weeks ago, and it blew it. The Sooners know what to expect from Baylor, and they'll be ready to go.
UVA [+28.5] over Clemson
Obviously, I like the Tigers to win, but 28.5 points is a lot of points. UVA can score, and I think Bryce Perkins will lead the offense to enough yards and points to cover the spread.
Ohio State [-16] over Wisconsin
Ohio State will do what Ohio State does.
NFL
Ravens [-6.0] over Bills
Baltimore has won five of its last six games by 14, 17, 36, 34, and 39 points respectively. I think the Ravens can win this game by six.
Packers [-12.5] over Redskins
Aaron Rodgers vs. The Redskins. I like Aaron Rodgers. A lot.
Broncos [+9] over Texans
Denver's been playing in close games all year. Even with Courtland Sutton banged up, I feel safe picking the Broncos to keep this game within a touchdown.
Thursday, November 28, 2019
Good teams win, great teams cover: Turkey Day edition
Happy Turkey Day! Let's get into it.
Brad
Bears -4 over Lions
This is a blowout
Cowboys -6.5 over Bills
Also a blowout. The Bills will get exposed
Saints -7 over Falcons
Another blowout. The Saints won't lost to Atlanta twice.
Jeff
Lions +4 over Bears
Bills +6.5 over Cowboys
Saints -7 over Falcons
Joe
Bears -4 over Lions
I loved David Blough at Purdue, but he isn't ready for the NFL yet. He's starting as a last resort, and that's trouble, especially against a good Chicago defense.
Cowboys -6.5 over Bills
Buffalo is pretty poor for an 8-3 team. Dallas is pretty good for a 6-5 team. The Cowboys are at home and need a win. I think they get one.
Saints -7 over Falcons
What Brad said.
Brad
Bears -4 over Lions
This is a blowout
Cowboys -6.5 over Bills
Also a blowout. The Bills will get exposed
Saints -7 over Falcons
Another blowout. The Saints won't lost to Atlanta twice.
Jeff
Lions +4 over Bears
Bills +6.5 over Cowboys
Saints -7 over Falcons
Joe
Bears -4 over Lions
I loved David Blough at Purdue, but he isn't ready for the NFL yet. He's starting as a last resort, and that's trouble, especially against a good Chicago defense.
Cowboys -6.5 over Bills
Buffalo is pretty poor for an 8-3 team. Dallas is pretty good for a 6-5 team. The Cowboys are at home and need a win. I think they get one.
Saints -7 over Falcons
What Brad said.
Sunday, November 10, 2019
Path to the Big 10 title/College Football Playoff still goes through Ohio State
If you're a Penn State fan, Saturday's loss to Minnesota sucked.
It was a game the Nittany Lions should have won, could have won, almost won, but didn't win. The players didn't execute, and the coaches didn't always put them in an ideal position to do so. As a result, Penn State is no longer undefeated, and the common thought is that its college football playoff hopes are dead.
Although this loss is significant to an extent, and could well result in the Nittany Lions not getting a Rose Bowl bid, how much does it change as far as the playoff goes?
At 11:59 Saturday morning, I don't think anybody would have argued that Penn State could get to the playoff without beating Ohio State.
A loss to the Buckeyes would eliminate any chance of the Nittany Lions winning the Big 10, and without a conference title, it's hard to imagine the playoff committee putting Penn State in over teams like Oregon, Oklahoma or good ole Alabama [with or without an SEC championship]. Although the Nittany Lions are no longer ranked in the top four, the path to the playoff is, although difficult, still there.
If Penn State beats Ohio State in two weeks, it will win the Big 10 East. If the Nittany Lions win the Big 10 East, they'll play in the championship game against the winners of the Big 10 West. The Big 10 West champion will be Minnesota, so, therefore, the Nittany Lions would have a chance to negate their only loss of the season.
If Penn State finishes 12-1 with a win at Ohio State, plus three more quality conference wins, and with proof that they could beat the team that slayed them, it's hard to imagine the committee passing them up.
Pretty simple, isn't it? The bad news is, Penn State probably won't beat Ohio State. It doesn't matter that Chase Young will probably be suspended. The Buckeyes could start Neil Young at defensive end and still put a national championship contender on the field. Playing Ohio State anywhere is a chore.
Playing in Columbus is a death sentence, and unless something epic transpires Nov. 23, dreams of a national title returning to Old Main will be buried under the Horseshoe's turf while the Buckeyes sing "Carmen Ohio" in celebration of another expected win.
At the moment, Saturday's loss stings, but it's not as if Penn State had a great chance at a College Football Playoff appearance anyway. In all likelihood, when we look back on 2019, we'll see that the reason Penn State misses the College Football Playoff will be because it isn't on Ohio State's level. Not because of losing to Minnesota.
It was a game the Nittany Lions should have won, could have won, almost won, but didn't win. The players didn't execute, and the coaches didn't always put them in an ideal position to do so. As a result, Penn State is no longer undefeated, and the common thought is that its college football playoff hopes are dead.
Although this loss is significant to an extent, and could well result in the Nittany Lions not getting a Rose Bowl bid, how much does it change as far as the playoff goes?
At 11:59 Saturday morning, I don't think anybody would have argued that Penn State could get to the playoff without beating Ohio State.
A loss to the Buckeyes would eliminate any chance of the Nittany Lions winning the Big 10, and without a conference title, it's hard to imagine the playoff committee putting Penn State in over teams like Oregon, Oklahoma or good ole Alabama [with or without an SEC championship]. Although the Nittany Lions are no longer ranked in the top four, the path to the playoff is, although difficult, still there.
If Penn State beats Ohio State in two weeks, it will win the Big 10 East. If the Nittany Lions win the Big 10 East, they'll play in the championship game against the winners of the Big 10 West. The Big 10 West champion will be Minnesota, so, therefore, the Nittany Lions would have a chance to negate their only loss of the season.
If Penn State finishes 12-1 with a win at Ohio State, plus three more quality conference wins, and with proof that they could beat the team that slayed them, it's hard to imagine the committee passing them up.
Pretty simple, isn't it? The bad news is, Penn State probably won't beat Ohio State. It doesn't matter that Chase Young will probably be suspended. The Buckeyes could start Neil Young at defensive end and still put a national championship contender on the field. Playing Ohio State anywhere is a chore.
Playing in Columbus is a death sentence, and unless something epic transpires Nov. 23, dreams of a national title returning to Old Main will be buried under the Horseshoe's turf while the Buckeyes sing "Carmen Ohio" in celebration of another expected win.
At the moment, Saturday's loss stings, but it's not as if Penn State had a great chance at a College Football Playoff appearance anyway. In all likelihood, when we look back on 2019, we'll see that the reason Penn State misses the College Football Playoff will be because it isn't on Ohio State's level. Not because of losing to Minnesota.
Saturday, November 9, 2019
Good teams win, great teams cover part IX
After a week off, the boys are back, and they are buzzin. Let's get into it.
Brad
College
Florida (-26) over Vandy
Florida's going to come out strong after that disappointing loss to Georgia last week.
Duke (+8) over Notre Dame
Just a gut feeling.
Penn State (-7) over Minnesota
Until Minnesota prove that they're as good as their undefeated record, I'm still going to see the Gophers as overrated.
Cincinnati (-35) over UcConn
I see Cincinnati as the best team in the American conference. UcConn is one of the worst teams in the country. Give me the Bearcats at home. By a lot.
NFL
Rams (-3.5) over Steelers
The Rams are slowly heating up. I see a last second Rams touchdown giving LA a 17-13 victory.
Lions (+2.5) over Bears
Detroit will win this one straight up.
Jets (+2.5) over Giants
I'm still on board with the Jets and Le'Veon Bell. NYJ wins a close one over NYG.
Cowboys (-3) over Vikings
The Vikings still have Kirk Cousins under center. Cousins can't beat teams that are above .500, and Dallas is 5-3. You do the math.
Jeff
College
Baylor -2
Alabama -6.5
Wake Forest -3
NC State + 31.5
Bills +3
Ravens -10
Colts -10.5
Seahawks +6.5
Joe
College
Vanderbilt (+27) at Florida
The last time Vanderbilt was a massive underdog, it upset a ranked Missouri team. That wont happen today, but I think four touchdowns is enough for Vandy to handle.
Oklahoma (-14.5) over Iowa State
After losing out on an undefeated season, the Sooners our pissed off. I expect Iowa State to feel their wrath today.
SMU (-21.5) over East Carolina
See above
Minnesota (+6.5) over Penn State
I have a bad feeling about this one. The Gophers are fired up, and the Lions can't afford to look ahead to Ohio State.
NFL
Cardinals (+4.5) over Bucs
Last week, Tampa Bay played well in a losing effort at Seattle. Given who the Buccaneers are, that can only mean Tampa lays an egg this week.
Browns (-2.5) over Bills
Cleveland is too talented to lose forever. I like Baker and the boys at home against an overrated Buffalo team.
Packers (-5.5) over Panthers
The Packers are the opposite of Tampa Bay. If anybody knows how to keep calm after a tough loss, it's Aaron Rodgers. On the other side, does anybody see Kyle Allen getting a win in Lambeau Field? I don't.
Bengals (+10.5) against Ravens
Baltimore will win, but after having its two best performances of the season in consecutive weeks, it's natural to expect somewhat of a letdown. Cincy can keep this close, and I think it will.
Brad
College
Florida (-26) over Vandy
Florida's going to come out strong after that disappointing loss to Georgia last week.
Duke (+8) over Notre Dame
Just a gut feeling.
Penn State (-7) over Minnesota
Until Minnesota prove that they're as good as their undefeated record, I'm still going to see the Gophers as overrated.
Cincinnati (-35) over UcConn
I see Cincinnati as the best team in the American conference. UcConn is one of the worst teams in the country. Give me the Bearcats at home. By a lot.
NFL
Rams (-3.5) over Steelers
The Rams are slowly heating up. I see a last second Rams touchdown giving LA a 17-13 victory.
Lions (+2.5) over Bears
Detroit will win this one straight up.
Jets (+2.5) over Giants
I'm still on board with the Jets and Le'Veon Bell. NYJ wins a close one over NYG.
Cowboys (-3) over Vikings
The Vikings still have Kirk Cousins under center. Cousins can't beat teams that are above .500, and Dallas is 5-3. You do the math.
Jeff
College
Baylor -2
Alabama -6.5
Wake Forest -3
NC State + 31.5
Bills +3
Ravens -10
Colts -10.5
Seahawks +6.5
Joe
College
Vanderbilt (+27) at Florida
The last time Vanderbilt was a massive underdog, it upset a ranked Missouri team. That wont happen today, but I think four touchdowns is enough for Vandy to handle.
Oklahoma (-14.5) over Iowa State
After losing out on an undefeated season, the Sooners our pissed off. I expect Iowa State to feel their wrath today.
SMU (-21.5) over East Carolina
See above
Minnesota (+6.5) over Penn State
I have a bad feeling about this one. The Gophers are fired up, and the Lions can't afford to look ahead to Ohio State.
NFL
Cardinals (+4.5) over Bucs
Last week, Tampa Bay played well in a losing effort at Seattle. Given who the Buccaneers are, that can only mean Tampa lays an egg this week.
Browns (-2.5) over Bills
Cleveland is too talented to lose forever. I like Baker and the boys at home against an overrated Buffalo team.
Packers (-5.5) over Panthers
The Packers are the opposite of Tampa Bay. If anybody knows how to keep calm after a tough loss, it's Aaron Rodgers. On the other side, does anybody see Kyle Allen getting a win in Lambeau Field? I don't.
Bengals (+10.5) against Ravens
Baltimore will win, but after having its two best performances of the season in consecutive weeks, it's natural to expect somewhat of a letdown. Cincy can keep this close, and I think it will.
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Win tonight could mean big things for Penn State
The mood for tonight's game against Michigan is quite different from what the college football world expected it to be back in August.
Before the season, the common thought was that Michigan was a national championship contender, while Penn State would be a team in transition without Trace McSorley, having come off an unremarkable 9-4 season in 2018.
Yet as the year has unfolded, the perception of both teams has changed. Michigan is 5-1 but has been underwhelming thanks to a shaky offense. Penn State, on the other hand, is 6-0 and has looked pretty good in most of those wins. The Nittany Lions comes into tonight's "White Out" game as eight-point favorites. If they win tonight, something big could be happening in Central PA. Something much bigger than people expected before the year.
If the Nittany Lions can pull one out against Michigan, every remaining game, aside from the one at Ohio State Nov. 23, should be a win.
That means that, if all goes the way it's supposed to, Penn State will finish the regular season with 11 wins for the first time since 2008, and have a decent shot at its second Rose Bowl appearance in four years.
That's not to say that all of Penn State's remaining opponents are easy. Minnesota is the best its been in years under PJ Fleck, and although Michigan State has been disappointing, no trip to East Lansing is easy, especially considering Penn State will come in beat up after facing Iowa and Michigan's defenses in consecutive weeks. Nonetheless, both Michigan State and Minnesota are games Penn State should win, so all the Nittany Lions have to do is beat Michigan tonight to have an inside track at 11-1.
If Penn State loses to Jim Harbaugh, however, who knows what that will mean for the rest of the season? A loss at home, in a White Out against a good but beatable opponent, could crush the spirits of a young team. That loss of confidence could turn an 11 win season into a nine-win season, which would leave fans feeling underwhelmed, to say the least.
In any case, whatever Penn State does won't win them the Big 10 unless they can upset Ohio State in Columbus. This is obviously a tall order, as the Buckeyes might be the best team in the country, but the last three games between Penn State and Ohio State have been among the closest and most entertaining in college football over that time, so we can expect another tight one around Thanksgiving. If Penn State is undefeated by the time it rolls into Colombus and can pull out a win, then, our dreams can move to those of a national championship.
Last week's win at Iowa was great, but the lights are brighter this week. If Penn State beats Michigan, there's no reason it shouldn't finish 11-1. If it loses, however, more disappointment could be in order, just like 2018.
Before the season, the common thought was that Michigan was a national championship contender, while Penn State would be a team in transition without Trace McSorley, having come off an unremarkable 9-4 season in 2018.
Yet as the year has unfolded, the perception of both teams has changed. Michigan is 5-1 but has been underwhelming thanks to a shaky offense. Penn State, on the other hand, is 6-0 and has looked pretty good in most of those wins. The Nittany Lions comes into tonight's "White Out" game as eight-point favorites. If they win tonight, something big could be happening in Central PA. Something much bigger than people expected before the year.
If the Nittany Lions can pull one out against Michigan, every remaining game, aside from the one at Ohio State Nov. 23, should be a win.
That means that, if all goes the way it's supposed to, Penn State will finish the regular season with 11 wins for the first time since 2008, and have a decent shot at its second Rose Bowl appearance in four years.
That's not to say that all of Penn State's remaining opponents are easy. Minnesota is the best its been in years under PJ Fleck, and although Michigan State has been disappointing, no trip to East Lansing is easy, especially considering Penn State will come in beat up after facing Iowa and Michigan's defenses in consecutive weeks. Nonetheless, both Michigan State and Minnesota are games Penn State should win, so all the Nittany Lions have to do is beat Michigan tonight to have an inside track at 11-1.
If Penn State loses to Jim Harbaugh, however, who knows what that will mean for the rest of the season? A loss at home, in a White Out against a good but beatable opponent, could crush the spirits of a young team. That loss of confidence could turn an 11 win season into a nine-win season, which would leave fans feeling underwhelmed, to say the least.
In any case, whatever Penn State does won't win them the Big 10 unless they can upset Ohio State in Columbus. This is obviously a tall order, as the Buckeyes might be the best team in the country, but the last three games between Penn State and Ohio State have been among the closest and most entertaining in college football over that time, so we can expect another tight one around Thanksgiving. If Penn State is undefeated by the time it rolls into Colombus and can pull out a win, then, our dreams can move to those of a national championship.
Last week's win at Iowa was great, but the lights are brighter this week. If Penn State beats Michigan, there's no reason it shouldn't finish 11-1. If it loses, however, more disappointment could be in order, just like 2018.
Good teams win, great teams cover part VII
You know the drill. Here we go
College
Florida (-5) over South Carolina
South Carolina's upset over Georgia was historic. The Gamecocks will suffer a hangover at home, as Florida knows a win is necessary to stay in the running in the SEC East.
Missouri (-21) over Vanderbilt
God Vandy is awful. It lost at home by 24 against UNLV. UNLV has made one bowl game since 2000 and hasn't come close before or after its only bowl appearance of the decade in... 2013. Enough said.
Arizona State (+13.5) over Utah
I see a good, high-scoring game in Salt Lake City.
NFL
Chiefs (-3) over Broncos (Correct)
Texans (even) over Colts
The spread has this as the game of the week and with good reason. The difference lies in the quarterback position. Deshaun Watson is better than Jacoby Brissett. Houston 27, Indy 23.
Ravens (+3.5) over Seahawks
Lamar gets a big win over a good team, cementing himself as a top 10 and arguably top five QB in this league.
Jeff
College
Ohio State (-28.5) over Northwestern (Right)
You know why
South Carolina (+5) over Florida
LSU (-18.5) over Mississippi State
LSU is good. Too good for Joe Moorhead.
NFL
Broncos (+3) over Chiefs
Rams (-3) over Falcons
The Rams have struggled, but the Falcons have struggled worse. Atlanta won't stop LA's offense
Jags (-3.5) over Bengals
I honestly don't think the Bengals will win a game.
Joe
College
Wisconsin (-31) over Illinois
Wisconsin's defense is possibly the best in the country, and its offense can run it down Illinois' throat. Easy money.
App State (-15.5) over UL Monroe
The Sun Belt is getting some love. App State is ranked, and UL Monroe is mediocre. Three touchdowns won't be a problem.
Michigan (+8) against Penn State
I see Penn State winning this game, but the trend of lopsided match ups between these two teams is due to come to a stop. Lions by six in a slugfest.
NFL
Giants (-3.0) over Cardinals
Last week's win was draining for Arizona. This Giants team is getting healthy, and getting better. The returns of Saquon Barkley and Evan Engram will spark New York to a win, and earn them a tie for second in the NFC East as either Philly or Dallas will lose to the other.
49ers (-10.0) over Redskins
The 49ers know how to win and know how to look good doing it. Washington knows how to suck.
Dolphins (+17.0) against Bills
Buffalo should win this game without much of an issue. However, 17 points is a lot of points. Not sure I trust the Bills offense enough to whip Miami that badly.
Saturday, October 12, 2019
Good teams win, great teams cover Part VI
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| Big day for Jalen Hurts and the Sooners (Photo creds to foxnews.com) |
Jeff is on a sabbatical, so Joe and Brad will run the show this week. More for me and you.
Brad
College
Notre Dame (-11) over USC
In a spite game for Notre Dame, the Irish take over in the second half.
Florida (+13.5) over LSU
The Tigers will win, but it will be a one possession nail biter.
Alabama (-17) over Texas A&M
Either A&M will pull a shocking upset, or the Tide will roll by 30+. I'm betting on Bama.
NFL
Seahawks (-1.5) over Browns
Baker isn't clutch
Dolphins (+3.5) over Redskins
I legitimately have more faith in the Dolphins than the Redskins
Chargers (-6.5) over Steelers
I typically bet against the Steelers. It worked last year, but I stopped when the Steelers started to suck. Now, I'm going to bet against them this week. Hopefully it works.
Joe
College
Texas (+10.5) over Oklahoma
This game will be decided by a touchdown or fewer. These two teams are too good for the Sooners to just run away with it.
Wisconsin (-10) over Michigan State
The Badgers are the second best team in the Big 10. Jonathan Taylor will do his thing against an underwhelming Michigan State team.
Iowa (+3.5) over Penn State
I never trust Penn State in Iowa city. I hope I'm wrong, but I see the Hawkeye defense making life hard for Sean Clifford.
NFL
Cowboys (-7) over Jets
Three of the Jets' four losses have come by two touchdowns or more. Dallas is a good team, so I don't see this one being decided by a touchdown or fewer.
Packers (-4.0) over Lions
Rodgers at Lambeau. Don't think Detroit has an answer.
Cardinals (+2.5) over Falcons
Atlanta hasn't won a road game all year. This is a good time for Kyler Murray to have a big game and add to the misery of a franchise that blew the Super Bowl just two years ago.
Iowa (+3.5) over Penn State
I never trust Penn State in Iowa city. I hope I'm wrong, but I see the Hawkeye defense making life hard for Sean Clifford.
NFL
Cowboys (-7) over Jets
Three of the Jets' four losses have come by two touchdowns or more. Dallas is a good team, so I don't see this one being decided by a touchdown or fewer.
Packers (-4.0) over Lions
Rodgers at Lambeau. Don't think Detroit has an answer.
Cardinals (+2.5) over Falcons
Atlanta hasn't won a road game all year. This is a good time for Kyler Murray to have a big game and add to the misery of a franchise that blew the Super Bowl just two years ago.
Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Steelers' hope lies in the North's ineptitude
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| Photo creds to Behind the Steel Curtain |
1-4. 1.5 games out of first place. There was no reason to believe that Pittsburgh can get off the canvas. The Steelers needed to beat the hated dirty birds at home and didn't do it.
By midnight Tuesday morning, the Cleveland Browns changed my mind when they got embarrassed in primetime in the City by the Bay. The Browns reminded me that the AFC North is terrible.
Now, I'm not suggesting that the Steelers will win the division. This team has a lot of work to do to make that happen and will have to do so with somebody not named Ben Roethlisberger as its field general. What I'm saying is that the AFC North is so bad, it'd be unfair not to think the Steelers at least have a chance. Not a great chance, but maybe a chance similar to the shot I have of getting married before the age of 30. Not great, but not entirely unreasonable.
Sure, the Ravens got a win in Heinz Field Sunday, but did Baltimore impress anybody? The birdies needed overtime to fend off Devlin Hodges. At 3-2, the Ravens record is bland, and so is their resume. Their two other wins have been against a Dolphins team that's the worst in the NFL and a
Cardinals squad in transition, the latter of which was a six-point squeaker in Baltimore.
The Browns were thought by some to be Super Bowl contenders. Instead, they are 2-3 with two of their losses coming by an average of 29 points. In one of Cleveland's wins, however, it put up 40 points against the Ravens in Baltimore. So yeah, the first place Ravens are quite vulnerable, and they're currently the kings of the North.
Coming into the season, every team in the division sans Cincinitti was a projected playoff contender. The three over teams had their share of concerns, but none were supposed to be bad. Right now, it looks like all three of them might be bad. So relative to the rest of the division, the Steelers aren't too far behind.
I know what the 1-4 record looks like. I know the Steelers are starting a quarterback that began the year on the practice squad.
I also know that there are also some positives to take away from the first five weeks.
I know that three of the Steelers' four losses have come by a combined total of nine points.
I know that the Steelers defense is greatly improved. Last year, that unit couldn't force a turnover if moving the team to North Korea was the only alternative. Now, no other defense in the league has forced more, and only the great Patriots have forced as many.
I remember last season, when it looked impossible for the Steelers to miss the playoffs, and they found a way to do that. Maybe the reverse can be true in 2019.
The Steelers have thrown themselves in a ditch. There's no sugarcoating that. If they are to make the postseason, they'll likely have to finish no worse than 9-7. To do that, they must go 8-3 the rest of the way, and that'd be a tall task with Ben Roethlisberger behind center, let alone Hodges or Mason Rudolph, the former of which must beat a future Hall of Famer in Phillip Rivers next Sunday to keep the season alive.
Winning the AFC North for the fourth time in six years doesn't look likely. Because of how bad the rest of the division and, for that matter, the rest of the AFC is, it's possible.
Saturday, October 5, 2019
Good teams win, great teams cover Part V
Let's get it.
Brad
College
Purdue (+27.5) over Penn State
I think Pennsylvania State will win, but I doubt its by 28
Georgia (-24.5) over Tennessee
This one could get ugly, albeit being played at Neyland Stadium. The Vols nightmare gets worse.
UCF (-3.5) over Cincinnati (LOL)
NFL
Buccaneers (+3.5) over New Orleans
Look out for the Bucs, who just put up 55 on the Rams. I think Teddy Bridgewater's magic runs out. TB 26, NO 25.
Chargers (-6) over Broncos
The Broncos are de facto tanking
Browns (+3.5) over 49ers
Give me Baker and the points in a primetime game.
Jeff
College
Oklahoma (-32) over Kansas
Jalen Hurts
Iowa (+3.5) over Michigan
Michigan is overatted
Auburn (-3) over Florida
This will be a tough one, but I see Auburn remaining undefeated until it plays Alabama.
NFL
Cowboys (-3.5) over Packers
Expecting a good game but without Davante Adams, the Packers will struggle offensivley
Cardinals (+3.5) over Cincy
The Bengals couldn't stop a Mason Rudolph led Steelers offense, and I don't see them stopping Kyler Murray.
Bears (-5) over Raiders
The Raiders offense will be stiffed by the Bears defense.
Joe
College
Penn State (-27.5) over Purdue
No Elijah Sindelar, no Rondale Moore, no good for Purdue. Take Penn State by a lot.
Wisconsin (-34.5) over Kent State
Wisconsin is a playoff contender. Kent State is not.
Texas (-10.5) over WVU
Texas will be motivated by last year, and I think that combined with a clear difference in talent will lead to a win. Horns up.
NFL
Titans (-2.5) over Bills
Buffalo has been fantastic, but they'll need to come down eventually. Tennessee at home is a safe bet.
Eagles (-14) over Jets
Without Sam Darnold, this is some EZ Money.
Ravens (-3.5) over Steelers
I hope I'm wrong, but Pittsburgh can't cover the tight end and struggles with running QB's. The Ravens have three of the former, and one of the latter.
Brad
College
Purdue (+27.5) over Penn State
I think Pennsylvania State will win, but I doubt its by 28
Georgia (-24.5) over Tennessee
This one could get ugly, albeit being played at Neyland Stadium. The Vols nightmare gets worse.
UCF (-3.5) over Cincinnati (LOL)
NFL
Buccaneers (+3.5) over New Orleans
Look out for the Bucs, who just put up 55 on the Rams. I think Teddy Bridgewater's magic runs out. TB 26, NO 25.
Chargers (-6) over Broncos
The Broncos are de facto tanking
Browns (+3.5) over 49ers
Give me Baker and the points in a primetime game.
Jeff
College
Oklahoma (-32) over Kansas
Jalen Hurts
Iowa (+3.5) over Michigan
Michigan is overatted
Auburn (-3) over Florida
This will be a tough one, but I see Auburn remaining undefeated until it plays Alabama.
NFL
Cowboys (-3.5) over Packers
Expecting a good game but without Davante Adams, the Packers will struggle offensivley
Cardinals (+3.5) over Cincy
The Bengals couldn't stop a Mason Rudolph led Steelers offense, and I don't see them stopping Kyler Murray.
Bears (-5) over Raiders
The Raiders offense will be stiffed by the Bears defense.
Joe
College
Penn State (-27.5) over Purdue
No Elijah Sindelar, no Rondale Moore, no good for Purdue. Take Penn State by a lot.
Wisconsin (-34.5) over Kent State
Wisconsin is a playoff contender. Kent State is not.
Texas (-10.5) over WVU
Texas will be motivated by last year, and I think that combined with a clear difference in talent will lead to a win. Horns up.
NFL
Titans (-2.5) over Bills
Buffalo has been fantastic, but they'll need to come down eventually. Tennessee at home is a safe bet.
Eagles (-14) over Jets
Without Sam Darnold, this is some EZ Money.
Ravens (-3.5) over Steelers
I hope I'm wrong, but Pittsburgh can't cover the tight end and struggles with running QB's. The Ravens have three of the former, and one of the latter.
Wednesday, October 2, 2019
Pittsburgh Steelers: Five takeways from Monday's win
By Donny Chedrick
 |
| Photo creds to Las-Vegas review journal |
Ahhhh,
that’s refreshing. A Steelers win. Sure, they played the Cincinnati Bengals,
the weakest team in the AFC North and one of the weaker teams in the entire
AFC. Still, credit is due for Mike Tomlin, Randy Ficthner and Keith Butler. A week
after being criticized for a losing performance in San Francisco and facing a
lot of pressure – they answered. A cautious game plan on offense worked. An
aggressive look on defense also worked – very well. The Steelers are 1-3 and
have another huge AFC North matchup on the horizon. Before that, here are five
key points from last week’s win.
1.
“Rush
the Quarterback”
 |
| Photo creds to Pack Insider |
The Steelers welcomed some of their former
legends back to Pittsburgh Monday night. Among them was former head coach Bill Cowher.
To a rousing ovation during halftime at Heinz Field, the Cowher mantra was in
full force against the Bengals. Cowher used to push his defense to “rush the
quarterback” and is an important part of why “Blitzburgh” became a nickname in
the 1990’s.
The current Steelers had Bengals QB Andy Dalton running for his
life. Granted, they took advantage of a bad offensive line, but that’s what they
are supposed to do. Pittsburgh collected eight sacks. Cam Heyward led the way
with 2.5, TJ Watt had 1.5 with several
guys collected one sack apiece, including rookie Devin Bush, who may have had
his best game as a Steeler. The guy next to him did alright, too.
2.
Bush
& Barron
 |
| Devin Bush finally showed something Monday. (Photo creds to Oklahoman) |
In the first three games of the season, Bush and
free agent acquisition, Mark Barron have received a fair amount of criticism.
Barron, a former first round-pick out of Alabama garnered some well-deserved
flack. Bush still needs some time to develop and fans shouldn’t expect Ryan
Shazier-like play instantly. Bush has already played more snaps as a rookie
than Shazier did his entire first year.
The 10th overall pick who the
Steelers traded up for had an incredibly solid game Monday night, especially
against the run. Bush gathered nine total tackles, seven solo, with one sack
and three tackles for loss. Barron also had himself a solid night as well. He
still got beat in the pass game a few times but snagged an interception in the
second half. Barron led the team in total tackles with 11 (eight solo) with one
tackle-for-loss and the INT.
3.
Conservative,
but effective
 |
| Photo creds to Forbes |
Monday was a must-win for the Steelers. An 0-4
start would have spelled doom on the season. They needed a game plan to win,
and they got it on both sides of the ball. It can continue to develop as the
season goes on and as Rudolph gets more comfortable, but for Monday, it was the
right plan. Rudolph didn’t have to do too much. In his second start, he didn’t
throw it much down the field, with his long being a 43-yard touchdown to rookie
Diontae Johnson. The second-year man out of Oklahoma State ended up with a
conservative, yet efficient night. 24-28 passing, 229 yards with two touchdowns
and no interceptions. It was a clean game and it was exactly what the Steelers
needed.
4.
25/25/25,
3/3/3 Club
Jaylen Samuels did something special against
Cincy. He became just the fourth player in the last decade to have 25+ rushing
yards, 25+ receiving yards and 25+ passing yards in a game – joining Cam
Newton, who did it in 2011, along with Christian McCaffrey and Julian Edelman,
who both accomplished the feat in 2018. Samuels also became the first player
since Terrelle Pryor in 2016 to have at least three rushing attempts, three
receptions and three passing attempts,
running ten times for 26 yards, catching eight passes for 57 yards and
going 3-3 through the air for 31 yards. A week after not getting a single touch
offense, Samuels was the most versatile player on the field.
5.
Hope
At 1-3 the Steelers still aren’t favorites to win the AFC
North or even make the playoffs, for that matter. Ben Roethlisberger is out for
the season and the north is competitive. The Browns (2-2) and Ravens (2-2) haven’t
lit the world on fire, and that leaves a gleam of hope for the Steelers. Rudolph
will make his third career start Sunday afternoon against the Ravens. A win
builds on that hope, but there would have been no hope at all if the Monday’s
game went the other way.
Monday, September 30, 2019
In a must-win Monday night game, the Steelers have the perfect opponent
 |
| Photo creds to Bengalswire.usatoday.com |
It's not because they are the better team, which they are.
It's not because Pittsburgh never loses at home on Monday night, which it doesn't, and it's not because Cincinnati's poor run defense will allow James Conner to have a field day, which it could.
It's because whenever the Steelers need to beat Cincinnati, and yes, we are already at "must-win" status in week four, they get it done.
There have been times when the Bengals have gotten the best of Pittsburgh on a big stage. In 2005, Cincy got a win in Heinz Field that many thought would mark the death of the Steelers' playoff hopes. It didn't.
Instead, it was Pittsburgh who knocked the Bengals out for real one month later at Paul Brown Stadium on its way to a fifth Super Bowl championship.
Almost a decade after Super Bowl XL, the Bengals again won a battle at Heinz Field, and in the process ended Le'Veon Bell's season. The keyword here is "battle." The war took place at Paul Brown Stadium on a Saturday in January. Once again, the Steelers won the war.
Even when the Steelers don't make the playoffs, they find a way the screw with Cincy. In week 17 of the 2006 season, the Bengals needed a win to qualify for the postseason, and that win would have to come against the already eliminated, mediocre Steelers. With nothing to play for, Pittsburgh ended the Bengals season for the second year in a row on a touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes in overtime.
Tonight, both teams come in at 0-3, and both need a win. It's rare for a game in September to mean so much to the Steelers, but that's what happens when you lose three straight out of the gate. If the Steelers lose tonight, they are done. Finished. Down for the count. Toast.
If they win, however, they'll find themselves one game out of first place in the AFC North at 1-3. That sounds ridiculous, but it gets even weirder.
If the Steelers beat the Bengals tonight and beat the Ravens at Heinz Field next Sunday, and if the Browns lose at San Francisco next week, the Steelers, at 2-3, will be tied for first in the division. It's crazy, but none of it is even a little unrealistic. Every team in this division is flawed, and when that's the case, things can get whacky.
Getting their first win of the season on Monday Night Football could be the first step to getting the Steelers back into the AFC playoff picture. Or, it can also mean nothing and serve merely as a small triumph amid the team's first losing season since the year Operation Iraqi Freedom took place.
Whatever happens over the next 13 games, we can count on the Steelers rising to the occasion and beating the Bungles. They always do.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Good teams win, great teams cover Part IV
Before we get started, here are the standings through three
Jeff: 15-3
Brad: 12-6
Joe: 7-11
Now time for part IV
Jeff
College
Ohio State (-17) over Nebraska
Clemson (-27) over North Carolina
Miami (OH) (+2.5) over Buffalo
NFL
Texans (-4) over Panthers
Seahawks (-5) over Cardinals
Steelers (-4) over Bengals
Brad
College
Nebraska (+17) vs. Ohio State
The Huskers are a solid 3-1 Big 10 team getting Ohio State at home in a night game. Memories of Purdue last year, Iowa two years ago and Penn State three years ago are skeletons in the closet for Ohio State.
Alabama (-37.5) over Ole Miss
Last year Ole Miss scored off the get go. Bama went on to score 62 consecutive points and that was at Ole Miss.
Texas Tech (+27.5) against Oklahoma
OU always has some close calls thanks to being in the Big 12. This will be their first. Oklahoma 41, Texas Tech 30.
NFL
Ravens (-6.5) over Browns
Baker Mayfield is overrated
Patriots (-7) over Bills
The Bills lucked into a 3-0 record. The Patriots have destroyed every team they've played, albeit with two of those wins coming against the Jets and Dolphins.
Giants (-3) over Redskins
Daniel F'n Dimes baby. When Daniel Jones was picked, I told friends he wasn't going to be a bad player. Jones has shut up his critics including the aforementioned, overrated Mayfield.
Joe
College
UVA (+10.5) over Virginia
I'll believe in Notre Dame beating a ranked opponent by more than one touchdown when I see it.
UcConn (+42.5) over UCF
42 points is a lot of freaking points. I'll always take the dog to cover in that situation.
Ohio State (-17.5) over Nebraska
The Buckeyes are head and shoulders above anybody in the Big 10. Nebraska shouldn't have been ranked to start the season and isn't as good as its 3-1 record shows. Give me the Bucks.
NFL
Chargers (-14.5) over Dolphins
Miami might be the worst team of all time
Bears (-1.5) over Vikings
That Chicago defense is the real deal. I think the Bears will be just fine playing Kirk Cousins at home.
Broncos (-3) over Jags
We all love Gardner Minshew, but he's never started a road game. Denver is a touch environment, and I think the Broncos are due to get a win. Playing an already sub-par Jacksonville squad with a rookie quarterback is a nice setup.
Jeff: 15-3
Brad: 12-6
Joe: 7-11
Now time for part IV
Jeff
College
Ohio State (-17) over Nebraska
Clemson (-27) over North Carolina
Miami (OH) (+2.5) over Buffalo
NFL
Texans (-4) over Panthers
Seahawks (-5) over Cardinals
Steelers (-4) over Bengals
Brad
College
Nebraska (+17) vs. Ohio State
The Huskers are a solid 3-1 Big 10 team getting Ohio State at home in a night game. Memories of Purdue last year, Iowa two years ago and Penn State three years ago are skeletons in the closet for Ohio State.
Alabama (-37.5) over Ole Miss
Last year Ole Miss scored off the get go. Bama went on to score 62 consecutive points and that was at Ole Miss.
Texas Tech (+27.5) against Oklahoma
OU always has some close calls thanks to being in the Big 12. This will be their first. Oklahoma 41, Texas Tech 30.
NFL
Ravens (-6.5) over Browns
Baker Mayfield is overrated
Patriots (-7) over Bills
The Bills lucked into a 3-0 record. The Patriots have destroyed every team they've played, albeit with two of those wins coming against the Jets and Dolphins.
Giants (-3) over Redskins
Daniel F'n Dimes baby. When Daniel Jones was picked, I told friends he wasn't going to be a bad player. Jones has shut up his critics including the aforementioned, overrated Mayfield.
Joe
College
UVA (+10.5) over Virginia
I'll believe in Notre Dame beating a ranked opponent by more than one touchdown when I see it.
UcConn (+42.5) over UCF
42 points is a lot of freaking points. I'll always take the dog to cover in that situation.
Ohio State (-17.5) over Nebraska
The Buckeyes are head and shoulders above anybody in the Big 10. Nebraska shouldn't have been ranked to start the season and isn't as good as its 3-1 record shows. Give me the Bucks.
NFL
Chargers (-14.5) over Dolphins
Miami might be the worst team of all time
Bears (-1.5) over Vikings
That Chicago defense is the real deal. I think the Bears will be just fine playing Kirk Cousins at home.
Broncos (-3) over Jags
We all love Gardner Minshew, but he's never started a road game. Denver is a touch environment, and I think the Broncos are due to get a win. Playing an already sub-par Jacksonville squad with a rookie quarterback is a nice setup.
Friday, September 27, 2019
For better or worse, Big 10 opener will tell a lot about Penn State
For Penn State, tonight’s game at Maryland is massive for a multitude of reasons.
Every game is important in college football more so than in other sports, and a loss will kill any hope Penn State has at appearing in the college football playoff. It’s also the Big 10 opener, the start of a brutal conference slate that features matchups with four ranked teams, three of which will be played on the road.
The most important thing about tonight for Penn State, however, is that it marks the first opportunity for the Nittany Lions to show what they are made of. The first three games haven’t proved much. Idaho and Buffalo were supposed to be blowout wins, and they were. The Pitt game was much closer than people anticipated, but as we saw last Saturday against Central Florida, the Panthers might be better than advertised.
Tonight, Penn State leaves the confines of Beaver Stadium and plays its first road game against a pretty solid opponent.
Maryland hasn’t had a winning season since 2014, and is coming off a disappointing loss at Temple. But these Terps are good, and its largely because of an explosive offense led by running back Anthony McFarland. Penn State’s defense is supposed to be the heartbeat of this football team and thus far, it has been, but it will certainly be facing its stiffest test.
Maryland has talent on the other side of the ball as well, led by former Clemson Tiger Shaq Smith at linebacker. The Penn State offense has struggled in six of its last eight quarters of football, and quarterback Sean Clifford needs to be better tonight than he was against Pitt for the Nittany Lions to win. And he’ll have to start a football game on the road for the first time since high school.
Although Byrd Stadium doesn’t compare with Beaver, Ohio or Michigan Stadium, any conference road game is a challenge.
Clifford is one of a number of Penn State’s starters, particularly on offense, that haven’t started a game on the road, let alone under the lights. Maryland’s fanbase will be ready to go. They understand what a win the 12th ranked team in the country would mean for the program, so much so that the school cancelled its classes Friday to celebrate the occasion of Friday Night football. James Franklin’s history with Maryland also makes for an intriguing storyline, as it does every year.
If this game were at Beaver Stadium, I’d have no problem picking the Nittany Lions to win. Because it is on the road, however, Penn State could go down, and it will be in a world of hurt if that happens.
A loss at Maryland wouldn’t exactly instill confidence for a team with a schedule that features Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State and Iowa, and could open the floodgates for a year where not even bowl eligibility is a formality.
The Nittany Lions are supposed to win tonight. They are the team that's ranked. They have the more established program. They have more talented athletes on the field. But they’ve also proven zilch through three games. A win over Maryland on the road in primetime would prove something. It wouldn’t make Penn State the Big 10 favorites, but it would set a positive tone for the rest of the 2019 season.
On the contrary, a loss could kill the campaign before it really starts.
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