The Steelers haven't proven anything yet

Photo creds to Steel City Underground

By: Joe Smeltzer 

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been a good football team over the past four years.

Two AFC North titles, three straight ten-win seasons and three consecutive playoff appearances is a resume that stacks up well with most teams that aren't the New England Patriots. As consistent as the Steelers have been in the "Killer B" era, however, it sure feels like this city changes its opinion of the Steelers on a week-to-week basis. The past two games are a perfect example of that.

As they entered the "BBQ Capital of the World", the Steelers were coming off their worst performance at Heinz Field in quite some time. Although its quest to win the North hasn't been in doubt since last Christmas, Pittsburgh was just 3-2 and hadn't looked impressive in any of its five games. Coming into Arrowhead Stadium, I had a funny feeling that Week 6 was going to work out well.

It wasn't because the Steelers handled KC in both meetings last season, nor was it because I expected Ben Roethlisberger to discover the fountain of youth. The reason I picked the Steelers to bounce back against the Chiefs was that it would be so typical of what's been going on the past few years. So much has been said about Mike Tomlin's inability to take care of business against lesser competition. But what fans should keep in mind if they don't already is that, in recent years, the Steelers almost always bounce back from a tough loss. Since 2014, Pittsburgh has lost two or more games in a row just twice,  both streaks took place during stretches that included games without Big Ben at quarterback. So knowing that the Steelers almost always follow up a crushing loss with a win was a pretty good indicator that Sunday's game would please us, which it did. Hopefully, it didn't please us too much.

Coming into this season, we were hoping that the Steelers would continue their winning ways. At 4-2 and leading a division where they have no serious threat, the Steelers have done that thus far. We also hoped that the Steelers would break some of their habits, such as losing to bad teams and having distractions plague them.  Unfortunately, both of these issues are still relevant six weeks into the season, with new distractions coming in every week. Knowing that the Steelers are 4-2 when they could be 6-0 is frustrating. Even more aggravating is that, with the season nearing its halfway point, there is no reason that Pittsburgh shouldn't be the obvious favorite to win the AFC.

The other teams that were expected to contend in the conference aren't living up to expectations. New England is 4-2, and could easily be 2-4 with an atrocious defense. Oakland has lost four in a row, albeit with a banged up Derek Carr. The one team that to this point has been the shining star of the conference, Kansas City, just lost to these Steelers, 19-13, and got significantly outplayed for most of the game.

Yet, here the Steelers sit at a slightly above average 4-2. Things look pretty promising at the moment, as the Steelers are close to a lock to repeat as AFC North champs. But knowing the problems facing the other "top" teams in the conference, they could be in better shape.

The past two Sunday's have given fans strong reactions for opposite reasons. My advice to myself and all other Steelers fans is to hold off on those feelings until this team, for better or worse, does something other than what they've been doing the past few years. So far, they haven't. It's reasonable to be excited about the Steelers, as they are far and away the best team in their division. It is also fair to be pessimistic, as they are not the best team in the conference, which they should be. I think that we know this team well enough  to realize that, so far, not a lot is different from what we've grown used to seeing.

When the 2017 Steelers start to break the tendencies of the 2016, '15 and '14 teams, we can go crazy. Whether that'd be out of happiness or sorrow remains to be seen.

Steelers-Chiefs: 5 key points

By: Donny Chedrick 
Once again, the 1972 Miami Dolphins can pop the champagne. This time, they can thank the Steelers, after the Killer Bees handed the Chiefs their first loss this past Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium. After Pittsburgh laid an egg the week before at Heinz Field, this was a massive team response. Ben played better, Bell ran wild and the defense did not let the weapons of Kansas City beat them in the 19-13 win. The win put Pittsburgh at 4-2, with sole possession of first place in the AFC North heading into a week when the Steelers meet the Bengals at Heinz Field  Sunday afternoon. Before that, we'll take a look at five things that led to the Steelers win at Arrowhead.
1. The Steelers continue to own the Chiefs

Photo creds to Behind the Steel Curtain

The last time the Chiefs beat the Steelers came two seasons ago when Landry Jones was forced into the starting QB spot after Ben Roethlisberger was injured against the then, St. Louis Rams. Since that day, Pittsburgh has had the upper-hand on KC by winning 43-14 at home last October, squeaking by 18-16 in the AFC Divisional round this past season and winning 19-13 Sunday, with two of those three coming at Arrowhead. In fact, Pittsburgh has lost just once to the Chiefs since 2010, which like 2015 came in a game not started by Big Ben. It seems that the Pittsburgh Steelers don't fear the Kansas City Chiefs, and at this point, it may be the other way around.


2. Brown and Bell saved the game

Photo creds to Chiefs Wire

 For as good as the Steelers defense played Sunday afternoon,  two of the best-skilled players in the league saved the game. For the first time in their careers, both Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell accumulated 150+ yards receiving and rushing, respectively, in the same game. Bell looked like he did in the two games against Kansas City last year - dominant. Brown made a catch in the 4th quarter that will be remembered as one of his finest when his career is over. The catch ended up being a touchdown and it all but iced the game for Pittsburgh.

3. Defensive rebound

Photo creds to The Kansas City Star

After being embarrassed by rookie running back, Leonard Fournette a week earlier,  the Steelers defense made sure it wouldn't let a rookie run wild on them again. Not only did the defense shut down  Kareem Hunt, they didn't allow Alex Smith and Tyreek Hill to burn them either. Hunt had nine rushes for 21 yards and five receptions for 89 yards. Hill had one carry for -9 yards and five receptions for 34 yards. Smith had an average 234 yards passing, most of which came in the 4th quarter. The way the defense performed Sunday made it look like it could contend for a Super Bowl just a week after it was embarrassed at home.

4. Mike Mitchell's antics 

There were a few downfalls that came with the Steelers win Sunday and one of them is the play of Mitchell. The veteran safety made multiple plays that not only cost the Steelers penalty yards but almost cost multiple players the rest of their season. Mitchell is almost to the status of Vontaze Burfict and in some people's minds. He is at that level of dirtiness. He makes plays on occasion and plays well enough to be a starter on the Steelers defense, but at some point could the antics be too much for the team to keep him in?


5. Martavis Bryant trade request 

Photo creds to PennLive.Com

 The Steelers seemingly can't have a big win go without some controversy. After the win in Baltimore, it was the Antonio Brown-saga. A few hours after the victory in Kansas City, it came out that wide receiver Martavis Bryant wasn't happy with his position on the team to the point where he requested a trade. Whether any players say this is a distraction or not, it 100% is. Hopefully, it doesn't lead to lackluster performances on the field.

Steelers-Chiefs three keys to victory

1. Run the Ball

Photo creds to Espn.com

Last week, the Steelers only ran the ball 20 times against the worst run defense in the NFL. Today, they are up against another poor run defense in Kansas City. So hopefully, Pittsburgh will learn from last week's mistakes and use Le'veon Bell more often.

Last week, Bell only ran for just 47 yards on 15 carries. Obviously, a three-yard average doesn't cut it for an elite running back like Bell. So while the Steelers need to run the ball more often, Bell needs to step up when he has the ball.

2. Throw to receivers not named Antiono Brown more often

The Steelers have the best wide receiver in the NFL. Besides that, that, however, Ben Roethlisberger hasn't had much help from his receivers. For the Steelers offense to get going, it is crucial that Big Ben finds a way to get more people involved. Ben should throw to AB, of course. But he should also throw to JuJu Smith-Schuster, Martavius Bryant and, god forbid, a tight end not named Heath Miller.
The Steelers might just be in luck today. Without Eric Berry, the Chiefs secondary has struggled and is prone to allowing big plays. Through five games, KC has allowed 14.5 yards per catch, the highest average in the league. If Big Ben can sling the ball around to more than just AB, it could open up a lot of possibilities for the Steelers

Neuteralize the big play

Photo creds to Chiefs.Com

Kareem Hunt and Tyreek Hill are the two most dangerous members on the Chiefs offense. Both of these guys can make a big play at any point. If the Steelers defense can limit Hunt, the leading rusher in the NFL, and Hill, who averages over 14 yards per catch, from going off for long runs, that will take away a huge dynamic of the Chiefs offense. Hill and Hunt are KC's two biggest weapons. If Pittsburgh can limit them, then KC will be in for a fight.

Final prediction
The Steelers are coming off what will hopefully be their worst performance of the season against the team with the best record in the NFL, in Arrowhead Stadium, nonetheless. Knowing all of that, things don't look good. But I have a feeling about this game.

This team has shown us over the past few years that sometimes things look the darkest just before the sun rises. When the Steelers lose to "lesser competition," they bounce back. I think that will show itself again today. I have faith that Pittsburgh finds a way to execute all three of these keys. Believe that.


Steelers 24, Chiefs 14

NFL Week 6 Preview/Predictions

Graphic Creds to Bradly W. Stewart

By: Joe Smeltzer

Hello all. It's week six of the NFL season, which means the family is back at it for some picks. Joseph Arthur Smeltzer has had a tough year so far. He is just four games over .500. But don't worry. He will rise again.

Ryan Carlton Stewart is off this week, due to a new rule that everybody has one "bye week" if they should choose to do so. I will not write about the Steeler game in this preview; I have a seperate article planned for that since it is a later game. Well, enough explaning. Let's get into it. 

1:00

Will the Patriots lose?

Patriots (3-2) at Jets (3-2) 

Line: NE -9.0

Photo creds to CBS Sports

Yes, New England has started slow. Yes, it should have lost to Tampa last week. But in the midsts of all of their problems, who leads the NFL in passing yards? Tom Brady. As long as the king is on his throne, I feel safe picking the Patriots. Especially against the Jets.

Patriots 31, Jets 21

This could get ugly

Dolphins (2-2) at Falcons (3-1) 

Line: ATL -12.0

Photo creds to National Geographic Kids

Miami stinks. I think losing to the Jets and Saints by a combined score of 40-6 proves that. While the Dolphins defense has played pretty well, it hasn't faced a quarterback like Matt Ryan yet. If the Falcons attack is in sync, knowing how awful Miami's offense is, this could get lopsided. 

Falcons 31, Dolphins 7

The Haves vs. The have-nots

Packers (4-1) at Vikings (3-2) 

Line: Green Bay -3.0

The rest of the NFC North wishes they were the Packers. Minnesota will feel that envy again Sunday afternoon. 

The big matchup to watch in this game is Green Bay's star wideout, Jordy Nelson, vs. Minnesota's star corner, Xavier Rhodes. If the Packers can send Nelson to the slot, where he has done quite well, to help him avoid Rhodes, expect Jordy to have a big day. If Aaron Rodgers is clicking, and Nelson can get loose, I don't expect Case Kennum to answer that.

Packers 31, Vikings 14

Shootout 

Lions (3-2) at Saints (2-3) 

Line: NO -4.5

Drew Brees has been a beast since 2000 (Photo creds to ProFootballTalk)

In studying the matchups for this game, Detroit measures up pretty well. The Lions have the personnel to match up with the Saints top weapons. If this game were at Ford Field, I would like Detroit's chances. But unless the Saints are playing a top team, which they are not, it's hard to bet against Drew Brees in the Superdome. Although Detroit got the best of New Orleans last season, my gut tells me that things will be different this time around. 

Saints 31, Lions 27

Bears (1-4) at Ravens (3-2) 

Line: Bal -6.5 

Photo creds to this-blue-moon

Baltimore looked like a different team last week. After two horrendous showings against Jacksonville and Pittsburgh, the Ravens finally looked competent in their 30-17 win at Oakland. Knowing that the Ravens could be getting hot, and knowing that Chicago has been outscored 64-21 on the road this season, I'm comfortable picking the dirty birds. Take Baltimore and the points, baby.

Ravens 34, Bears 17

Who the hell cares?

Browns (0-5) at Texans (2-3)

Line: Cleveland is the underdog. 

Talking about the Browns is no longer fun. So I won't. 

Texans 77, Browns 10

4:05

These teams broke the Eagles heart way back when 

Bucs (2-2) at Cardinals (2-3)

Line: TB -1.5

Aside from the field goal kicking against New England and a clunker at Minnesota, Tampa Bay has looked pretty good this year. The Cardinals, on the other hand, beat two of the leagues worst teams by a combined total of six points. 

Tampa Bay is an up-and-coming franchise that should make the playoffs in the NFC. Arizona, on the other hand, is on a downward spiral. Without David Johnson, this offense has nothing going for it. While I don't expect the Cardinals to lose by 27 like they did last week in Philly, I think Jameis Winston, Mike Evans and DeSean Jackson will burn the Cardinals secondary and put some points on the board.

Bucs 35, Cardinals 17

A surprisingly interesting contest 

Rams (3-2) at Jags (3-2) 

Line: JAX -2.5

Coming into the season, I would have never thought that this would be a matchup worth thinking about. But both Jacksonville and LA have played well through the first five games. Although I don't expect the Rams to embarrass themselves the way my Steelers did last week against Jacksonville, I think that they will experience similar problems with Jalen Ramsey and the Jags talented secondary

Last Sunday, a big reason for Jacksonville's success against the Steelers attack was that by only using one safety, the Jaguares baited Pittsburgh into calling a lot of pass plays. It worked almost to perfection. The Steelers threw the ball 55 times, ran it just 20 times, and scored nine points.

Although the Rams offense isn't as celebrated as Pittsburgh's, they do share some similar characteristics. The Steelers have one of the NFL's best running backs in Le'Veon Bell, while the Rams have another quality back in Todd Gurley. If the Rams are smart, they will make Gurley the main focus of their offense. If they fall for the bait the way the Steelers did, then they'll be in trouble. Jacksonville's secondary is among the best in the league, and I think Jared Goff will learn that Sunday afternoon.

Jags 24, Rams 14

Will DC return?

Chargers (1-4) at Raiders (2-3)

Line: OAK -3.5

The big question coming into this game is whether Derek Carr will make his return to the Raiders offense. Regardless of what Carr's status is, I like Oakland's chances at home against a bad football team.

E.J. Manuel held his own last week against the Ravens, so while the Raiders back-up is not on Carr's level, and probably wouldn't make them a top team in the AFC, I think Manuel's services would be enough to beat an aging Phillip Rivers. The Raiders obviously hope to have Carr back, but if they don't, I still think Oakland is in good hands, at least for this weak.

Raiders 27, Chargers 17

Awful Primetime Game Part I

Giants (0-5) at Broncos (3-1) 

Line: Den -11.5

Let's see. An 0-5 team that just lost it's top three wide receivers to injury is going to Denver, where the Broncos are 3-0 on the year. Is the point a little generous. 

Denver 31, New York 7

Awful Primetime Game Part II

Colts (2-3) at Titans (2-3)

Well, somebody has to win the AFC South. Think about that for a second.

Titans 23, Colts 17

NFL Week 5 preview/predictions

Graphic Creds to Bradley W. Stewart

By: Joe Smeltzer


Hello, all. It's time for Week 5 of myself, my cousins and David Rutz giving you our NFL picks. Jeffery Stewart is currently in the lead at 32-16. But I vow to make a run. Hopefully, this week will be the start of the comeback. Everybody is undefeated this week thanks to Tom Terrific. Now, the real tests of Week 5 begin.

1:00
Jets (2-2) at Browns (0-4)

The Cleveland Browns, who are 0-4 on the year, 1-19 in their last 20 games, 11-41 since 2014 and coming off a 24-point loss at home a team that came in at 0-3, are favored to win a football game. What does that tell you about the New York Jets? Blah.




Bills fans, rejoice

Bills (3-1) at Bengals (1-3)
Line: Cin -3.0
For the past three weeks, the Buffalo Bills have done the opposite of what I picked them to do.

On the surface, this seems like a decent setup for the Bengals. Cincy has played well the past two weeks and is favored to beat a still unproven Buffalo team at home. As much as I want the Bills to do well, I still expect them to fall off as the year goes on. My heart tells me that Cincy will beat an ordinary Buffalo team. My heart says that the Bills will prove me wrong again. I'll go with my head, only because I want the Bills to do well.

Bengals 24, Bills 14


Battle of the Cats

Panthers (3-1) at Lions (3-1)
Line: Det -2.5
The Panthers are a hard team to get a handle on. They've played well this season, and deserve to be 3-1. At the same time, the Cam Newton era has seen one great ride, and not a whole lot else. So I am always skeptical of Carolina.
Detroit has a lot of things going for it. The Lions are playing at home; they have an above average offense and one of the best field-generals in the NFL. There are two matchups in particular that I think will have a huge impact on this matchup.

Det WR Golden Tate vs. Car CB Captain Munnerlyn 
Tate is having a quietly good season, while Munnerlyn has not done well covering slot receivers. If Tate has a big day- which he hasn't yet, the Panthers will be in trouble.

Det G TJ Lang vs. DL Kawann Short
These men are two of the best in the NFL at their positions. If Lang can limit Short, that will limit the Panthers best defensive lineman. This matchup favors Carolina more than Munnerlyn vs. Tate, but if Lang does well than the Lions have a high chance of success.

I think that this will be a close game. If Golden Tate goes off, which I think he will, then the Lions will win.

Lions 31, Panthers 20

Surprisingly compelling 
Giants (0-4) at Chargers (0-4)
Line: NYG -3.0

On the surface, this looks like a slam dunk for "who the hell cares?" But this is one of those games where, despite neither team being good, it could still make for exciting football.
Neither one of these teams is as bad as its record would indicate. The Chargers could easily be 3-1, while the Giants were expected by many to win the NFC East and still could make a run, as the division is up in the air. I think that LA will again be competitive, but this Giants team is too talented to start 0-5. Expect the Giants to win, and expect Odell Beckham Jr. to be obnoxious.

Giants 24, Chargers 21

Cardinals (2-2) at Eagles (3-1)
Line: PHI -6.5

Yes, Fletcher Cox is injured. Yes, the Cardinals historically get the best of Philly. But I have a feeling about this Eagles team.
Philly might not be a threat to go to the Super Bowl just yet. But I don't think it would be a stretch to say that the Eagles could win the NFC East.
Philly is first in the division, and its defense is the main reason why. Even without Cox, I expect the Eagles D to have a big afternoon, with Brandon Graham being a big reason why. Grahm is a stud at defensive end, and he could have a favorable matchup going up against Cardinals tackle Jared Valdheer, who has struggled this season. If the Eagles make a few big plays on defense and get some takeaways, they will win the game. Grahm could well be a cause of some of those moments.

Eagles 22, Cards 14


I'm going to this game
Jaguars (2-2) at Steelers (3-1)
Line: Pit -7.5
Yes, the Steelers are known to play down to their competition. But come on now. The Jags haven't proven anything yet, and if Blake Bortles leads Jacksonville to a win in Heinz Field with yours truly in attendance, I will eat my hat.

Steelers 34, Jags 14

4:05

Teams that aren't as good as we thought they'd be
Ravens (2-2) at Raiders (2-2) 
Line: Oak -3.0
Yes, Derek Carr is hurt. But the Baltimore Ravens have been so horrendous the past two weeks that I'd have a hard time picking them against anybody. E.J. Manuel has done a serviceable job filling in for Carr, and I think that this game is in the Black Hole, as well as Manuel's solid QB performance will lead to more misery for the Dirty Birds.

4:25
Will the Cowboys break the cycle? 
Packers (3-1) at Cowboys (2-2)
Line: Dal -3.0
The Packers have so often gotten the best of Dallas in the past 50 years, and Sunday won't be any different. Two of Dallas' best players, linebacker Sean Lee and offensive tackle Tyron Smith are doubtful, and that does not bode well for Americas Team. Losing Lee, in particular, would be devastating, as the Cowboys defense has enough problems as it is. If a Jared Goff-led offense can put up 412 yards against Dallas, imagine what Aaron Rodgers can do.

Packers 38, Cowboys 28

Sunday Night
Chiefs (4-0) at Texans (2-2)
Line: KC -1.0
I don't know why my comrades keep doubting DeShaun Watson. I was the only one who picked Houston to take down Tennesse, which they did, 57-14. Now, I am the only one giving them a shot against Kansas City. The Texans are playing at home with a hot offense, against a KC team that struggled with the banged-up Redskins last week. Houston, we have a solution.

Texans 34, Chiefs 20

Monday Night
Vikings (2-2) at Bears (1-3) 

Neither one of these teams are making the playoffs, but my gut tells me that Mitchell Turbisky gets the W in his debut. I was high on this guy in college, and unlike most, was high on him in the draft. I'm sure the UNC product will make it a point to not make Joseph Arthur Smeltzer look like a fool.

Bears 24, Vikings 13. 



Other games
Colts over 49ers
Titants over Dolphins
Rams over Seahawks 

Five takeaways from Steelers-Ravens

By: Donny Chedrick
This past Sunday’s 26-9 win over the Ravens was the first time since 2012 that the Steelers earned a victory in Baltimore. With the win, Pittsburgh took sole possession of first place in the AFC North at 3-1 and have a chance to sweep the Ravens December 10 for the first time since 2008 - the same season the Steelers would eventually win its sixth Lombardi Trophy. Sunday was one of the more convincing performances in Baltimore in recent memory and before the Steelers come back home to meet the Jaguars, we'll dive into five things from the win at M&T Bank Stadium.

1.    Most complete game

Photo creds to Pittsburgh Post Gazette

The 26-9 victory was without a doubt the best the Steelers have looked this season. Pittsburgh controlled the clock for over 35 minutes, forcing three turnovers, outgaining the Ravens by nearly 100 yards and holding them to 73 yards on the ground. The Steelers made timely plays on defense and the offense looked better than it did in the first month of the season, largely because one player finally got going.

2.    Le'Veon Bell is back

Photo creds to ESPN.Com

It took until the first day of October, but “Juice” finally got loose. Bell had his breakout game Sunday, and hopefully that type of play is here to stay. Bell ran the  ball 35 times while collecting 144 yards and two touchdowns. He was a factor in the receiving game as well for the first time this season with four receptions for 42 yards. The best part for the Steelers was that he looked like Lev Bell for the first time all year. He was patient and hit the holes the best he has all year. He was arguably the biggest impact player on the field Sunday, especially for the offense.

3.    Turnaround in the trenches

Photo creds to Ebony Bird

After what the Steelers went through in Chicago, the offensive and defensive lines took it upon themselves to make a statement in Baltimore. The Ravens were held to under 100 yards on the ground and the Steelers sacked Joe Flacco four times. If Pittsburgh carrier this type of play in the trenches into the coming weeks, it could become a  scary team to face.

4.    Mike Hilton

Photo creds to Steelers Store

He was one of the best stories coming through training camp and became a crowd favorite. Sunday, Hilton recorded his best performance in black and gold. Hilton collected four tackles, which didn't lead the team, but he made impacts elsewhere. Hilton snagged his first career sack when he took down Flacco in the third quarter, then later picked off Flacco to help seal the game. Having Hilton play with this hungry attitude will be huge for the Steelers' depth later on in the season if injuries form in the defensive backfield.

  

5. Antonio Brown's outburst

Possibly the only negative to Sunday's game came when AB decided to show his dissatisfaction after Ben Roethlisberger avoided him on a pass downfield when he was open. Brown threw a Gatorade cooler and made a big scene on the sideline, to sum up a frustrating four-catch, 34-yard performance. Ben later came out to say that Brown has been more of a distraction to the team than he realizes and the leaders will need to come together to calm things down in what so far has been a pretty fine opening to the season for the Steelers.


The Steelers return home this Sunday to take on the AFC South- leading Jacksonville Jaguars. With a win, the Steelers would improve to 4-1 and continue to hold sole possession of first place in the AFC North.

NFL Week 4 preview/predictions

Credit to Bradley W. Stewart for the graphic

By: Joe Smeltzer Hello all. The boys are back for another week of NFL picks. So far, my cousin Jeff leads the pack at 22-10, while I, Joseph Arthur Smeltzer, am 19-13. Will I catch up to him and retake the lead? Probably. I tend to win a lot, after all. But enough about my family. Let's talk some football.

Will the Bills screw me again?
Buffalo (2-1) at Atlanta (3-0)
Line: ATL -8.0

Photo creds to Sports Illustrated

Two weeks ago, I picked the Bills to upset the Carolina Panthers. That did not work out. Last week, I picked the Denver Broncos to do what they were supposed to do and hand Buffalo its second straight loss. That did not work out. So it seems as if the Bills like to do the opposite of what I expect them to do. This week, however, I expect Buffalo to run into a buzzsaw.

Atlanta may well be the best team in the NFC and has shown why thus far. Buffalo, on the other hand, is an up-and-coming franchise with a lot of question marks, and as well as Tyrod Taylor has played, we still don't know how far the Bills field general can take this team. If Matt Ryan and the Falcons offense can take care of the football better than it did last week at Detroit, where Atlanta turned the ball over three times, this might not even be close.

Falcons 33, Bills 14

We care because of geography
Cincinatti (0-3) at Cleveland (0-3)
Line: Cin -3.0

The only reason that this isn't my "who the hell cares?" game of the week is because both teams are in the AFC North.

Both the Clowns and the Bungles stink, but because the Bengals played tough at Lambeau Field last week and because, well, they aren't the Browns, I'll cautiously take Cincy in this one. Don't expect to see either of these teams playing meaningful games in December, however.

Bungles 24, Clowns 18

Possible upset
LA Rams (2-1) at Dallas (2-1)
Line: Dal -6.5

The matchup to watch in this game will be the Rams offensive line vs. the Cowboys defensive line.

Although Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliot and the Cowboys offense get most of the attention, the Cowboys front seven, led by defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, is extremely talented, and for Jared Goff to have any success, the Rams have to win the battle up front.

Although Dallas doesn't have a good secondary, which could allow for Goff to make some big plays, I think that the Cowboys front will get enough pressure on Goff to not let him have a big day. If Goff and Todd Gurley aren't at their best, the Rams will not win. Because of the Dallas defensive line, I don't think that will happen.

These cities never won a Super Bowl
Detroit (2-1) at Minnesota (2-1)
Line: Min -2.5

Photo creds to National Geographic

The Vikings are growing on me.

Last week, Minnesota's 34-17 win over Tampa Bay caught me off guard. This has the potential to be a solid football team. Detroit, on the other hand, has a lot of problems. I have faith in Case Keenum to exploit a suspect Lions secondary, and in Dalvin Cook to continue to be among the NFL's top rookies.

Vikings 33, Lions 15

Will the Patroits lose?
No.

Jacksonville (2-1) at NYJ (1-2)
Yes, the Jags are 2-1. But does anybody expect them to make a big splash this season? I sure don't. The Jets, on the other hand, are the Jets. Yeah, I am not hyped about this game



Bring back the Oilers
Tennesse (2-1) at Houston (1-2) 
Line: Ten -2.0

Photo creds to the gruling truth

Last week, Minnesota's 34-17 win over Tampa Bay caught me off guard. This has the potential to be a solid football team. Detroit, on the other hand, has a lot of problems. I have faith in Case Keenum to exploit a suspect Lions secondary, and in Dalvin Cook to continue to be among the NFL's top rookies.

I am the only one of our group that's giving the Texans love. Yes, Tennesse is a good football team. But because Houston is at home, and because of how good it looked in Foxborough last Sunday, I have more faith in them than I initially thought. I think DeShaun Watson's breakout is coming soon,  and that day just might be today.
Texans 27, Titans 17

Closer than you think
Philadelphia (2-1) at LA Chargers (0-3)
Line: LAC -2.5

Photo creds to FillmCow.com

Yes, Fletcher Cox is out, and Jordan Hicks is banged up as well. But the Chargers are a team that loves to break their fans hearts. They will do that once again Sunday. The Eagles have a shot to get to the postseason, and I have a gut feeling that they will march towards that goal with a close win on the West Coast, with another Jake Elliot field goal.

Eagles 23, Chargers 20


Game of the Week
Oakland (2-1) at Denver (2-1)
Line: Den -3.0

Although I picked Oakland to win this game, I am a little surprised that four of the five people on our panel did the same. The Raiders are going into a tough environment, playing a good team and coming off an embarrassing performance last week. I think that Oakland has a shot to win the AFC, while the Broncos still have questions to be answered, particularly at quarterback. I think that Trevor Siemian will struggle and this Raiders defense will force a key turnover late in the game to seal the deal. As for the Raiders offense, well, they are pretty good, and Derek Carr will show off.

Oakland 30, Denver 20


Sunday Night
Colts (1-2) at Seahawks (1-2)
Seattle is favored by 13.5 points. That is because the Colts aren't very good. The Seahawks are good, and they are playing at home. Boom.

Seahawks 34, Colts 17

Monday Night
Redskins (2-1) at Chiefs (3-0)
Line: KC -7.0
Yes Washington has looked good this season. But come on now. The Redskins getting a win in a night game at Arrowhead stadium? Not a chance.

Chiefs 35, Redskins 21


Other Games
Saints 33, Dolphins 10
Arizona 34, San Fran 24
New York 20, Tampa Bay 13