Creative Misfortune's fantasy regular season has come to an end!
In week 12, both the Green Bay Packers and the Denver Broncos managed to win fantasy games they lost in real life.
High score of the week goes to the New England Patriots, who feasted on 117 points provided by the Detroit Lions.
Low score falls to the Tennessee Titans at 16 points, who didn't even score enough fantasy points to beat the real 20 points the Houston Texans scored against them.
The following teams have clinched Creative Misfortune playoff spots (weeks 13-16):
AFC Seeds
Division Champions ~
1. San Diego Chargers (9-2, 905 pts)
2. Indianapolis Colts (8-3, 876 pts)
3. New England Patriots (8-3, 855 pts)
4. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3, 791 pts)
Wild Cards ~
5. New York Jets (8-3, 817 pts)
6. Baltimore Ravens (8-3, 786 pts)
NFC Seeds
Division Champions ~
1. New Orleans Saints (10-1, 814 pts)
2. Green Bay Packers (8-3, 859 pts)
3. New York Giants (7-4, 879 pts)
4. San Francisco 49ers (5-6, 651 points)
Wild Cards ~
5. Atlanta Falcons (7-4, 822 pts)
6. Chicago Bears (7-4, 729 pts)
Creative Misfortune Playoff Schedule:
Week 13 - Wild Card Games; Top Seeded teams play for "bye-week" advantage*
Week 14 - Divisional Games
Week 15 - Championship Games
Week 16 - Creative Misfortune Fantasy Bowl I
Wild Card Game Matchups - Week 13
AFC #6 Baltimore Ravens (playing vs Pittsburgh) at
AFC #3 New England Patriots (playing vs New York Jets)
AFC #5 New York Jets (playing at New England) at
AFC #4 Pittsburgh Steelers (playing at Baltimore)
NFC #6 Chicago Bears (playing at Detroit) at
NFC #3 New York Giants (playing vs Washington)
NFC #5 Atlanta Falcons (playing at Tampa Bay) at
NFC #4 San Francisco 49ers (playing at Green Bay)
Top Seeds Playing for Bye-Week Advantage*
AFC #1 - San Diego Chargers (playing vs Oakland)
AFC #2 - Indianapolis Colts (playing vs Dallas)
NFC #1 - New Orleans Saints (playing at Cincinnati)
NFC #2 - Green Bay Packers (playing vs San Francisco)
*Bye-week Advantage - To reflect the benefit gained by the top 2 seeds in each conference getting a bye week before they host Divisional Playoff games, the four teams who earn these bye weeks in the fantasy standings will play Week 13 to gain bonus points that will be added to their score in the Divisional Playoff round. For every 4 points they score in their Week 13 game, they will receive 1 bonus point in their Divisional round matchup.
For example, if Indianapolis scores 80 fantasy points in Week 13 against Dallas, they would receive 20 bonus points (80/4) for their Divisional matchup. Conversely, if they had an off week and scored 22 fantasy points, they would only receive 5 bonus points (22/4, any fractional points rounded down).
Since there are no bye weeks between the Divisional games and the Championship Games, bonus points will only be a factor in the Divisional playoff games.
Final Week 12 fantasy results shown below.
Thursday Game Results:
New England Patriots at Detroit Lions
Fantasy Score: New England 117, Detroit 64
New England's Key Performers: Tom Brady (29), Deion Branch (23), Wes Welker (21)
Detroit's Key Performers: Maurice Morris (19), Calvin Johnson (15), Shaun Hill (11)
New Orleans Saints at Dallas Cowboys
Fantasy Score: New Orleans 89, Dallas 75
New Orleans' Key Performers: Chris Ivory (15), Drew Brees (14), Marques Colston (10)
Dallas' Key Performers: Miles Austin (14), John Kitna (10), Jason Witten (9)
Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets
Fantasy Score: New York 74, Cincinnati 35
Cincinnati's Key Performers: Jordan Shipley (9), Carson Palmer (5), Cedric Benson (4)
New York's Key Performers: Defense (19), Brad Smith (13), Santonio Holmes (10)
Sunday Game Results:
Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons
Fantasy Score: Green Bay 68, Atlanta 61
Green Bay's Key Performers: Aaron Rodgers (29), Jordy Nelson (12), Greg Jennnings (11)
Atlanta's Key Performers: Michael Turner (17), Tony Gonzalez (11), Matt Ryan (11)
Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills
Fantasy Score: Pittsbrugh 70, Buffalo 62
Pittsburgh's Key Performers: Rashard Mendehall (20), Hines ward (10), Ben Reothlisberger (9)
Buffalo's Key Performers: Fred Jackson (21), Ryan Fitzpatrick (12), Defense (8)
Carolina Panthers at Cleveland Browns
Fantasy Score: Cleveland 71, Carolina 68
Carolina's Key Performers: Mike Goodson (19), Defense (14), Jonathan Stewart (9)
Cleveland's Key Performers: Peyton Hillis (37), Phil Dawson (6), Defense (6)
Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans
Fantasy Score: Houston 85, Tennessee 16
Tennessee's Key Performers: Justin Gage (5), Jared Cook (4), Defense (3)
Houston's Key Performers: Arian Foster (21), Defense (17), Matt Schaub (15)
Jacksonville Jaguars at New York Giants
Fantasy Score: New York 80, Jacksonville 54
Jacksonville's Key Performers: David Garrard (12), Maurice Jones-Drew (11), Rashad Jennings (11)
New York's Key Performers: Eli Manning (17), Kevin Boss (13), Mario Manningham (12)
Minnesota Vikings at Washington Redskins
Fantasy Score: Minnesota 58, Washington 37
Minnesota's Key Performers: Toby Gerhart (13), Adrian Peterson (12), Defense (10)
Washington's Key Performers: Donovan McNabb (10), Anthony Armstrong (5), Chris Cooley (4)
Miami Dolphins at Oakland Raiders
Fantasy Score: Miami 105, Oakland 49
Miami's Key Performers: Chad Henne (18), Ricky Williams (15), Defense (11)
Oakland's Key Performers: Jacoby Ford (17), Bruce Gradkowski (10), Louis Murphy (7)
Kansas City Chiefs at Seattle Seahawks
Fantasy Score: Kansas City 114, Seattle 61
Kansas City's Key Performers: Dwayne Bowe (35), Matt Cassel (27), Jamaal Charles (23)
Seattle's Key Performers: Ben Obomanu (21), Matt Hasselbek (13), Brandon Stokley (5)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Baltimore Ravens
Fantasy Score: Baltimore 71, Tampa Bay 49
Tampa Bay's Key Performers: Josh Freeman (12), Kellen Winslow (10), Defense (7)
Baltimore's Key Performers: Joe Flacco (17), Derrick Mason (14), Todd Heap (13)
Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears
Fantasy Score: Chicago 95, Philadelphia 82
Philadelphia's Key Performers: Michael Vick (23), David Akers (14), LeSean McCoy (11)
Chicago's Key Performers: Jay Cutler (26), Earl Bennett (17), Johnnie Knox (12)
St. Louis Rams at Denver Broncos
Fantasy Score: Denver 91, St. Louis 86
St. Louis' Key Performers: Sam Bradford (24), Danario Alexander (9), Michael Hoomanawanui (9)
Denver's Key Performers: Kyle Orten (25), Brandon Lloyd (19), Knowshon Moreno (15)
San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts
Fantasy Score: San Diego 82, Indianapolis 53
San Diego's Key Performers: Defense (24), Nate Kaeding (20), Mike Tolbert (17)
Indianapolis' Key Performers: Jacob Tamme (12), Peyton Manning (11), Pierre Garcon (7)
Monday Game Result:
San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals
Fantasy Score: San Francisco 75, Arizona 30
San Francisco's Key Performers: Brian Westbrook (19), Defense (12), Anthony Dixon (11)
Arizona's Key Performers: Early Doucet (6), Beanie Wells (5), Larry Fitzgerald (3)
Tomorrow, The Art of Creative Misfortune Power Rankings. Will Week 12's Creative Elite change after the top teams all won over the weekend?
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Week 12 - Roundup of Creative Misfortune - Monday Game
Monday Night Result:
San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals (Actual ~ San Francisco, 27-6)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Arizona, 17-14. Neither team is very good, but since they both play in the NFC West, they each still have dreams of winning the division title.
Scottie V's Pick: San Francisco, 23-17. Not exactly a prime matchup for Monday night, but what are you going to do?
Vegas Lines Pick: San Francisco, 21-19. San Francisco by 1, Over/Under 40.
Accuscore Pick: Arizona, 14-13. Both teams tied with 50% win confidence, advantage home
What If Sports Pick: Arizona, 21-17. Arizona won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Arizona, 20-17. Both teams at 3-7, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Arizona, 20-17
The San Francisco 49ers dominated the Cardinals from start to finish and looked about as good as a 3-7 team can look... when beating up another 3-7 team. At 4-7, San Francisco is only one game out of the division lead with 5 games to play (with 3 against division opponents). Arizona still has slight playoff aspirations, but is on serious life support and would have already been put out of commission if they played in a different division. Most prediction systems backed the home team. Only the masterminds in Vegas and Scottie V had the vision to pick San Francisco to win this game on the road.
No system managed to get to the 70% mark this week, but the Vegas Picks, Accuscore and Best Record systems all came extremely close. Whereas blindly picking the team with the Best Record produced near 70% accuracy, blindly picking the Home Team finished below 50%, only getting 7 out of 16 possible games correct. Although, one of those 7 picks ended up being perfect.
Week 12 Final Prediction Scoreboard...
Vegas Picks: 11-5 (season overall: 113-63) *2 Perfect Picks
Accuscore: 11-5 (season overall: 110-66)
Best Record Wins Pick: 11-5 (season overall: 104-72) *3 Perfect Picks
Creative Misfortune: 10-6 (season overall: 100-76) *1 Perfect Pick
Scottie V's: 9-7 (season overall: 107-69)
What If Sports: 9-7 (season overall: 93-83)
Home Team Wins Pick: 7-9 (season overall: 100-76) *3 Perfect Picks
Check back later today for the Week 12 results of the Creative Misfortune feature "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring...". The regular season has come to an end. Who punched tickets to the fantasy playoffs?
San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals (Actual ~ San Francisco, 27-6)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Arizona, 17-14. Neither team is very good, but since they both play in the NFC West, they each still have dreams of winning the division title.
Scottie V's Pick: San Francisco, 23-17. Not exactly a prime matchup for Monday night, but what are you going to do?
Vegas Lines Pick: San Francisco, 21-19. San Francisco by 1, Over/Under 40.
Accuscore Pick: Arizona, 14-13. Both teams tied with 50% win confidence, advantage home
What If Sports Pick: Arizona, 21-17. Arizona won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Arizona, 20-17. Both teams at 3-7, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Arizona, 20-17
The San Francisco 49ers dominated the Cardinals from start to finish and looked about as good as a 3-7 team can look... when beating up another 3-7 team. At 4-7, San Francisco is only one game out of the division lead with 5 games to play (with 3 against division opponents). Arizona still has slight playoff aspirations, but is on serious life support and would have already been put out of commission if they played in a different division. Most prediction systems backed the home team. Only the masterminds in Vegas and Scottie V had the vision to pick San Francisco to win this game on the road.
No system managed to get to the 70% mark this week, but the Vegas Picks, Accuscore and Best Record systems all came extremely close. Whereas blindly picking the team with the Best Record produced near 70% accuracy, blindly picking the Home Team finished below 50%, only getting 7 out of 16 possible games correct. Although, one of those 7 picks ended up being perfect.
Week 12 Final Prediction Scoreboard...
Vegas Picks: 11-5 (season overall: 113-63) *2 Perfect Picks
Accuscore: 11-5 (season overall: 110-66)
Best Record Wins Pick: 11-5 (season overall: 104-72) *3 Perfect Picks
Creative Misfortune: 10-6 (season overall: 100-76) *1 Perfect Pick
Scottie V's: 9-7 (season overall: 107-69)
What If Sports: 9-7 (season overall: 93-83)
Home Team Wins Pick: 7-9 (season overall: 100-76) *3 Perfect Picks
Check back later today for the Week 12 results of the Creative Misfortune feature "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring...". The regular season has come to an end. Who punched tickets to the fantasy playoffs?
Monday, November 29, 2010
Week 12 - Roundup of Creative Misfortune - Sunday Games
For the second straight week, blindly picking the team with the best record leads the way with a strong showing and another perfect pick. How did all other systems compare to this pick system's sudden surge in accuracy? See the results below...
Thanksgiving Game Results:
New England Patriots at Detroit Lions (Actual ~ New England, 45-24)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England, 27-21. The Patriots efficiency on offense will make up for their defense allowing multiple Touchdowns to Calvin Johnson.
Scottie V's Pick: New England, 27-17. The Lions get their annual Thanksgiving-Day helping of defeat at the hands of the red-hot Patriots.
Vegas Lines Pick: New England, 30-21. New England by 7, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New England, 28-9. New England 78% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New England, 28-17. New England won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England, 20-17. New England better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Detroit, 20-17
The Turkey Day woes continue for the Detroit Lions as they get blown out again at home. Tom Brady lights up the scoreboard with 4 touchdowns, 2 to the shifty Wes Welker, and New England improves to an NFL best 9-2 record on the season. All systems, except blindly picking the home team, get this game correct, though no system expected a combined score of 69 points.
New Orleans Saints at Dallas Cowboys (Actual ~ New Orleans, 30-27)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans, 27-17. Dallas won last year in a game they had to have against a Saints team that didn't need the figure. The roles are reversed this week and if the Cowboys had enough pride to win this game, they wouldn't be sitting at 3-7 now.
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans, 31-21. Jason Garrett gets his first loss as the Saints roll into town.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans, 28-24. New Orleans by 3.5, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New Orleans, 24-13. New Orleans 66% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New Orleans, 23-21. New Orleans won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans, 20-17. New Orleans better at 7-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Dallas, 20-17
New Orleans jumped out to an early 17 point lead and the rout was on, but Dallas fought back and made the game by far the most entertaining of the Thanksgiving Day offerings. After the Saints offense ground to a halt and Reggie Bush and Jimmy Graham each made key mistakes, Dallas took the lead late and had a chance to put the game. Then Roy Williams made the mistake of the game when he had the ball stripped away from him after a near game-clinching 47-yard reception. All systems, except picking the home team, barely walk away with a victory.
Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets (Actual ~ New York, 26-10)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York, 35-21. The Jets should be able to put this game away long before the fourth quarter starts, but the Bengals' vaunted gaarbage time offense will make the final score closer than it should be.
Scottie V's Pick: New York, 23-13. Stupid Jets. It pained me to see them sneak away with wins the last two weeks... This one should come easier for them.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York, 27-17. New York by 8.5, Over/Under 43.5.
Accuscore Pick: NY Jets, 27-10. NY Jets 74% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: NY Jets, 20-9. NY Jets won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York, 20-17. New York better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York, 20-17
The second half woes for Cincinnati continue as they turn a solid 7-3 halftime lead into a terrible 26-10 loss after the break. The Jets roar back with two scintillating touchdowns by Brad Smith - one on an end around, the other on a kickoff return - to keep pace with the New England Patriots in the standings. All systems get this game correctly, with Accuscore receiving honorable mention for having Cincinnati's final total picked perfectly.
Sunday Game Results:
Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons (Actual ~ Atlanta, 20-17)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Atlanta, 24-21. In a battle of two Creative Elite teams, I think the team with the best record will win at home this week.
Scottie V's Pick: Green Bay, 27-24. Could be an exciting game, but I think Green Bay has too many weapons.
Vegas Lines Pick: Atlanta, 26-23. Atlanta by 2, Over/Under 47.5.
Accuscore Pick: Green Bay, 21-17. Green Bay 56% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Green Bay, 20-17. Green Bay won 2 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Atlanta, 20-17. Atlanta better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Atlanta, 20-17
In a battle of Creative Elite teams, the Atlanta Falcons emerge victorious with a late field goal to improve to an NFC-best 9-2 record. Green Bay fights valiantly, coming from behind late to try and force overtime, but ultimately falls short. In a possible playoff preview, Atlanta all but guarantees any rematch this season between these two teams will be played in the warm comforts of the Georgia Dome instead of the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field. Both the blind pick systems picked this final score perfectly. Most other systems failed to get the correct result.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills (Actual ~ Pittsburgh, 19-16 OT)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Pittsburgh, 28-17. The Bills are flying high, but it's easy to fly high against the Lions and Bengals. The Steelers are a different animal altogether.
Scottie V's Pick: Pittsburgh, 27-17. Just my luck that the Steelers draw the Bills at their high point in the season... That being said, I think the Steelers' D will overwhelm.
Vegas Lines Pick: Pittsburgh, 27-20. Pittsburgh by 6.5, Over/Under 43.5.
Accuscore Pick: Pittsburgh, 28-10. Pittsburgh 76% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Pittsburgh, 23-14. Pittsburgh won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Pittsburgh, 20-17. Pittsburgh better at 7-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Buffalo, 20-17
Buffalo rallies once again, this time against the high-powered Pittsburgh defense. Though the Bills end up losing in overtime, their ability to storm back from 13 points down to take the AFC North powerhouse team into extra time shows they still have a lot of fight left him. The Steelers show their resiliency and come away with a tough victory on the road to maintain their share of the division lead. All systems, except blindly picking the home team, get this one correct.
Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears (Actual ~ Chicago, 31-26)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Philadelphia, 21-17. The Eagles are more real than the Bears, but Chicago has a stout enough defense to be able to contain Vick enough to keep the score close.
Scottie V's Pick: Philadelphia, 24-17. Vick will cool off sooner rather than later, but not this week... Cutler assures an Eagle victory by throwing 3 interceptions.
Vegas Lines Pick: Philadelphia, 24-20. Philadelphia by 3.5, Over/Under 42.5.
Accuscore Pick: Philadelphia, 24-10. Philadelphia 68% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Philadelphia, 16-10. Philadelphia won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Chicago, 20-17. Both teams at 7-3, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Chicago, 20-17
Da Bears! Chicago lays to rest any doubts about their record when they defeated the NFC's supposed best team, the high-flying Eagles. The Bears jumped out to a commanding lead early and then held on for dear life as Philadelphia mounted a come back. The victory moves Chicago into sole possession of first place in the NFC North following Green Bay's loss in Atlanta. Philadelphia falls back into a tie with the New York Giants. Only the blind pick systems get this game correct as all human and computer systems miss big by backing the Eagles.
Carolina Panthers at Cleveland Browns (Actual ~ Cleveland, 24-23)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Cleveland, 31-10. The Browns almost won most of their recent games. They break through with another win against a Carolina team with no hope for the rest of the season.
Scottie V's Pick: Cleveland, 27-10. The Panthers are a mess.
Vegas Lines Pick: Cleveland, 24-14. Cleveland 9, Over/Under 38.
Accuscore Pick: Cleveland, 24-10. Cleveland 68% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Cleveland, 21-20. Cleveland won 2 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Cleveland, 20-17. Cleveland better at 3-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Cleveland, 20-17
Pyeton Hillis scores all three of Cleveland's touchdowns as the Browns survive a scare from the worst team in the league. Carolina shows some spirit by rolling up over 150 yards with their running game and turns an expected blowout into a tightly contested affair. Despite the close game, all systems picked the correct winner, with both Vegas Lines and Accuscore getting Cleveland's total perfect.
Minnesota Vikings at Washington Redskins (Actual ~ Minnesota, 17-13)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Washington, 20-14. The Vikings haven't played well on the road, on grass, recently. Firing Childress won't change that.
Scottie V's Pick: Washington, 23-20. New coach in Minny, but the same results... Oh, how Brett Favre wishes he would have ditched Coach Chilly at the airport in August!
Vegas Lines Pick: Washington, 23-21. Washington by 1.5, Over/Under 43.
Accuscore Pick: Minnesota, 21-17. Minnesota 56% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Minnesota, 28-23. Minnesota won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Washington, 20-17. Washington better at 5-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Washington, 20-17
The Leslie Frazier era in Minnesota begins the same way the Brad Childress era began - with a win on the road against the Washington Redskins. Adrian Peterson left the game in the first half with a lower leg injury and did not return to action, but Toby Gerhart and even the aging wonder, Brett Favre, got in on the rushing action to move the chains against a tough Redskin defense. Most systems mistakenly put their faith in Washington winning at home, but both Accuscore and What If Sports managed to foresee a Vikings victory.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Baltimore Ravens (Actual ~ Baltimore, 17-10)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Baltimore, 24-20. Both teams are playoff contenders, but Baltimore is not playing with house money like Tampa Bay.
Scottie V's Pick: Tampa Bay, 23-21. Please Tampa Bay! Get this done!!!
Vegas Lines Pick: Baltimore, 26-16. Baltimore by 7.5, Over/Under 41.
Accuscore Pick: Baltimore, 28-10. Baltimore 76% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Tampa Bay, 17-16. Tampa Bay won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Baltimore, 20-17. Both teams at 7-3, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Baltimore, 20-17
In a dull, defensive game - the kind Baltimore thrives on - the Ravens drop the Buccaneers to maintain their share of the division lead with the Pittsburgh Steelers. No real surprises here as Tampa Bay has been playing over their head all season long. Most systems pick up another prediction victory, with only What If Sports and Scottie V taking a hit.
Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans (Actual ~ Houston, 20-0)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Houston, 28-20. Both franchises are spinning out of control, but Houston has the offensive firepower to be able to outlast a Titans team embroiled in petty, locker-room politics.
Scottie V's Pick: Houston, 30-17. Heartbreak Houston gets some good fortune and wins this one handily... Vince Young is an idiot.
Vegas Lines Pick: Houston, 27-20. Houston by 6.5, Over/Under 45.5.
Accuscore Pick: Houston, 24-13. Houston 67% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Tennessee, 30-23. Tennessee won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tennessee, 20-17. Tennessee better at 5-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Houston, 20-17
Tennessee continues their slide right out of the playoffs as drama continues to swirl around the locker room and the recent dismissal of would-be franchise savio, Vince Young. The Texans make the most of their division rival's distractions and easily shut down the Titans offensive attack as they roll to a 20-0 victory. Most systems get the pick correctly, with only What If Sports and blindly picking the team with the best record coming up short.
Jacksonville Jaguars at New York Giants (Actual ~ New York, 24-20)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York, 28-24. Back in New York, the Giants defeat the Jaguars, but not until after they survive some fourth quarter drama.
Scottie V's Pick: New York, 27-23. Eli rights the ship and gets a much-needed victory.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York, 28-17. New York by 7.5, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: New York, 26-10. NY Giants 72% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New York, 24-12. NY Giants won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York, 20-17. Both teams at 6-4, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York, 20-17
The Giants, down early and seeing their season start to pass before their eyes, fought back from a 17-6 deficit to pull out a close victory at home and move into a first-place tie with the Eagles in the NFC East. Eli Manning's touchdown pass to Kevin Boss with three minutes to play put the Giants up for good and the Jaguars could not find another bit of last gasp magic to save a victory. All systems get the pick correct, with What If Sports hitting New York's score perfectly.
Kansas City Chiefs at Seattle Seahawks (Actual ~ Kansas City, 42-24)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Kansas City, 24-13. The Chiefs remembered how to win and Seattle will provide little more challange than Arizona did last week.
Scottie V's Pick: Kansas City, 24-20. Aided by two raucous Chiefs' fans who made the trip from Vancouver, KC gets a big road win to keep its edge in the AFC West.
Vegas Lines Pick: Kansas City, 24-21. Kansas City by 1.5, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: Kansas City, 21-16. Kansas City 60% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Kansas City, 21-10. Kansas City won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Kansas City, 20-17. Kansas City better at 6-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Seattle, 20-17
Scottie V, live and in Seattle, helped Kansas City blow out the home team with the good karma from his pick this week. Matt Cassell lights up the team of his former college coach for 4 touchdowns and 300+ yards while Jamaal Charles rushes for 173 yards. The Chiefs roll to an easy victory over the up-and-down Seahawks. All systems, save blindly picking the home team, come away with an easy victory.
Miami Dolphins at Oakland Raiders (Actual ~ Miami, 33-17)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Oakland, 16-10. The Raiders were humbled in Pittsburgh last week. They get back on track against the Dolphins.
Scottie V's Pick: Oakland, 27-14. The Dolphins will be hankering to bring their talents back to South Beach after a whoopin' in the Bay.
Vegas Lines Pick: Oakland, 21-17. Oakland by 3, Over/Under 38.5.
Accuscore Pick: Oakland, 14-13. Both teams tied with 50% win confidence, advantage home
What If Sports Pick: Oakland, 21-16. Oakland won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Oakland, 20-17. Both teams at 5-5, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Oakland, 20-17
Chad Henne triumphantly returns to the Dolphins lineup and tosses the pigskin for 300 yards and 2 touchdowns as Miami nearly doubles up the Raiders on the road. Oakland, still reeling from the 35-3 beat down Pittsburgh put on them last week, struggled to get anything going offensively and has now fallen a step back in the AFC West. All systems were upset by the game, with no system believing the Dolphins could win one on the road against a suddenly cold Raiders team.
St. Louis Rams at Denver Broncos (Actual ~ St. Louis, 36-33)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Denver, 30-20. I hope Denver still isn't shell-shocked by that fake punt San Diego pulled off against them. If they are, this game could get away from them in a hurry.
Scottie V's Pick: Denver, 20-17. Ummm... I don't know what to expect in this one...
Vegas Lines Pick: Denver, 26-20. Denver by 4, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: Denver, 23-14. Denver 62% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Denver, 23-20. Denver won 1 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: St. Louis, 20-17. St. Louis better at 4-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: Denver, 20-17
Rookie quarterback Sam Bradford gets his first 300 yard, 3 touchdown game as St. Louis embarrasses the Broncos in Denver for their first road win of the season. The Rams, now a solid 5-6 on the season, move into a tie for first place in the NFC's pathetic West division with the Seattle Seahawks. Chants of "Fire McDaniels" echoed throughout the stadium when St. Louis extended their lead to 33-13, but Kyle Orten and Brandon Lloyd led a furious rally that fell just short and made the final score close. All systems missed except for blindly picking the team with the best record. Can you imagine? The Rams (THE RAMS!) came into this game with a better record... and won.
San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts (Actual ~ San Diego, 36-14)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Indianapolis, 27-24. Manning won't be responsible for the Colts' demise two weeks in a row. In a shoot-out with Philip Rivers, Manning's no-name receivers will be better.
Scottie V's Pick: Indianapolis, 27-24. The Colts hold off a feisty Chargers team at home.
Vegas Lines Pick: Indianapolis, 28-24. Indianapolis by 3, Over/Under 51.5.
Accuscore Pick: San Diego, 17-14. San Diego 52% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: San Diego, 28-14. San Diego won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Indianapolis, 20-17. Indianapolis better at 6-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Indianapolis, 20-17
Peyton Manning throws 4 touchdown passes - 2 to the Colts receivers and 2 to the Chargers secondary - and for the second straight week makes the critical errors that cost his team dearly. Dropped passes and injuries do little to help as the Colts fall to a disppointing 6-5 record. The Chargers, on the strength of their defense and Nate Kaeding's leg, hand the Colts their worst loss at home since 2002 and continue their impressive roll through the late months of the season. Most systems had the Colts winning at home, but both computer systems, Accuscore and What If Sports, get the pick correctly by taking the Chargers the win.
Come back tomorrow to view the final prediction standings following the Monday Night Game and the complete week 12 "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..." results.
Thanksgiving Game Results:
New England Patriots at Detroit Lions (Actual ~ New England, 45-24)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England, 27-21. The Patriots efficiency on offense will make up for their defense allowing multiple Touchdowns to Calvin Johnson.
Scottie V's Pick: New England, 27-17. The Lions get their annual Thanksgiving-Day helping of defeat at the hands of the red-hot Patriots.
Vegas Lines Pick: New England, 30-21. New England by 7, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New England, 28-9. New England 78% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New England, 28-17. New England won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England, 20-17. New England better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Detroit, 20-17
The Turkey Day woes continue for the Detroit Lions as they get blown out again at home. Tom Brady lights up the scoreboard with 4 touchdowns, 2 to the shifty Wes Welker, and New England improves to an NFL best 9-2 record on the season. All systems, except blindly picking the home team, get this game correct, though no system expected a combined score of 69 points.
New Orleans Saints at Dallas Cowboys (Actual ~ New Orleans, 30-27)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans, 27-17. Dallas won last year in a game they had to have against a Saints team that didn't need the figure. The roles are reversed this week and if the Cowboys had enough pride to win this game, they wouldn't be sitting at 3-7 now.
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans, 31-21. Jason Garrett gets his first loss as the Saints roll into town.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans, 28-24. New Orleans by 3.5, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New Orleans, 24-13. New Orleans 66% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New Orleans, 23-21. New Orleans won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans, 20-17. New Orleans better at 7-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Dallas, 20-17
New Orleans jumped out to an early 17 point lead and the rout was on, but Dallas fought back and made the game by far the most entertaining of the Thanksgiving Day offerings. After the Saints offense ground to a halt and Reggie Bush and Jimmy Graham each made key mistakes, Dallas took the lead late and had a chance to put the game. Then Roy Williams made the mistake of the game when he had the ball stripped away from him after a near game-clinching 47-yard reception. All systems, except picking the home team, barely walk away with a victory.
Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets (Actual ~ New York, 26-10)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York, 35-21. The Jets should be able to put this game away long before the fourth quarter starts, but the Bengals' vaunted gaarbage time offense will make the final score closer than it should be.
Scottie V's Pick: New York, 23-13. Stupid Jets. It pained me to see them sneak away with wins the last two weeks... This one should come easier for them.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York, 27-17. New York by 8.5, Over/Under 43.5.
Accuscore Pick: NY Jets, 27-10. NY Jets 74% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: NY Jets, 20-9. NY Jets won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York, 20-17. New York better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York, 20-17
The second half woes for Cincinnati continue as they turn a solid 7-3 halftime lead into a terrible 26-10 loss after the break. The Jets roar back with two scintillating touchdowns by Brad Smith - one on an end around, the other on a kickoff return - to keep pace with the New England Patriots in the standings. All systems get this game correctly, with Accuscore receiving honorable mention for having Cincinnati's final total picked perfectly.
Sunday Game Results:
Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons (Actual ~ Atlanta, 20-17)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Atlanta, 24-21. In a battle of two Creative Elite teams, I think the team with the best record will win at home this week.
Scottie V's Pick: Green Bay, 27-24. Could be an exciting game, but I think Green Bay has too many weapons.
Vegas Lines Pick: Atlanta, 26-23. Atlanta by 2, Over/Under 47.5.
Accuscore Pick: Green Bay, 21-17. Green Bay 56% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Green Bay, 20-17. Green Bay won 2 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Atlanta, 20-17. Atlanta better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Atlanta, 20-17
In a battle of Creative Elite teams, the Atlanta Falcons emerge victorious with a late field goal to improve to an NFC-best 9-2 record. Green Bay fights valiantly, coming from behind late to try and force overtime, but ultimately falls short. In a possible playoff preview, Atlanta all but guarantees any rematch this season between these two teams will be played in the warm comforts of the Georgia Dome instead of the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field. Both the blind pick systems picked this final score perfectly. Most other systems failed to get the correct result.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills (Actual ~ Pittsburgh, 19-16 OT)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Pittsburgh, 28-17. The Bills are flying high, but it's easy to fly high against the Lions and Bengals. The Steelers are a different animal altogether.
Scottie V's Pick: Pittsburgh, 27-17. Just my luck that the Steelers draw the Bills at their high point in the season... That being said, I think the Steelers' D will overwhelm.
Vegas Lines Pick: Pittsburgh, 27-20. Pittsburgh by 6.5, Over/Under 43.5.
Accuscore Pick: Pittsburgh, 28-10. Pittsburgh 76% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Pittsburgh, 23-14. Pittsburgh won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Pittsburgh, 20-17. Pittsburgh better at 7-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Buffalo, 20-17
Buffalo rallies once again, this time against the high-powered Pittsburgh defense. Though the Bills end up losing in overtime, their ability to storm back from 13 points down to take the AFC North powerhouse team into extra time shows they still have a lot of fight left him. The Steelers show their resiliency and come away with a tough victory on the road to maintain their share of the division lead. All systems, except blindly picking the home team, get this one correct.
Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears (Actual ~ Chicago, 31-26)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Philadelphia, 21-17. The Eagles are more real than the Bears, but Chicago has a stout enough defense to be able to contain Vick enough to keep the score close.
Scottie V's Pick: Philadelphia, 24-17. Vick will cool off sooner rather than later, but not this week... Cutler assures an Eagle victory by throwing 3 interceptions.
Vegas Lines Pick: Philadelphia, 24-20. Philadelphia by 3.5, Over/Under 42.5.
Accuscore Pick: Philadelphia, 24-10. Philadelphia 68% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Philadelphia, 16-10. Philadelphia won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Chicago, 20-17. Both teams at 7-3, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Chicago, 20-17
Da Bears! Chicago lays to rest any doubts about their record when they defeated the NFC's supposed best team, the high-flying Eagles. The Bears jumped out to a commanding lead early and then held on for dear life as Philadelphia mounted a come back. The victory moves Chicago into sole possession of first place in the NFC North following Green Bay's loss in Atlanta. Philadelphia falls back into a tie with the New York Giants. Only the blind pick systems get this game correct as all human and computer systems miss big by backing the Eagles.
Carolina Panthers at Cleveland Browns (Actual ~ Cleveland, 24-23)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Cleveland, 31-10. The Browns almost won most of their recent games. They break through with another win against a Carolina team with no hope for the rest of the season.
Scottie V's Pick: Cleveland, 27-10. The Panthers are a mess.
Vegas Lines Pick: Cleveland, 24-14. Cleveland 9, Over/Under 38.
Accuscore Pick: Cleveland, 24-10. Cleveland 68% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Cleveland, 21-20. Cleveland won 2 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Cleveland, 20-17. Cleveland better at 3-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Cleveland, 20-17
Pyeton Hillis scores all three of Cleveland's touchdowns as the Browns survive a scare from the worst team in the league. Carolina shows some spirit by rolling up over 150 yards with their running game and turns an expected blowout into a tightly contested affair. Despite the close game, all systems picked the correct winner, with both Vegas Lines and Accuscore getting Cleveland's total perfect.
Minnesota Vikings at Washington Redskins (Actual ~ Minnesota, 17-13)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Washington, 20-14. The Vikings haven't played well on the road, on grass, recently. Firing Childress won't change that.
Scottie V's Pick: Washington, 23-20. New coach in Minny, but the same results... Oh, how Brett Favre wishes he would have ditched Coach Chilly at the airport in August!
Vegas Lines Pick: Washington, 23-21. Washington by 1.5, Over/Under 43.
Accuscore Pick: Minnesota, 21-17. Minnesota 56% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Minnesota, 28-23. Minnesota won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Washington, 20-17. Washington better at 5-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Washington, 20-17
The Leslie Frazier era in Minnesota begins the same way the Brad Childress era began - with a win on the road against the Washington Redskins. Adrian Peterson left the game in the first half with a lower leg injury and did not return to action, but Toby Gerhart and even the aging wonder, Brett Favre, got in on the rushing action to move the chains against a tough Redskin defense. Most systems mistakenly put their faith in Washington winning at home, but both Accuscore and What If Sports managed to foresee a Vikings victory.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Baltimore Ravens (Actual ~ Baltimore, 17-10)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Baltimore, 24-20. Both teams are playoff contenders, but Baltimore is not playing with house money like Tampa Bay.
Scottie V's Pick: Tampa Bay, 23-21. Please Tampa Bay! Get this done!!!
Vegas Lines Pick: Baltimore, 26-16. Baltimore by 7.5, Over/Under 41.
Accuscore Pick: Baltimore, 28-10. Baltimore 76% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Tampa Bay, 17-16. Tampa Bay won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Baltimore, 20-17. Both teams at 7-3, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Baltimore, 20-17
In a dull, defensive game - the kind Baltimore thrives on - the Ravens drop the Buccaneers to maintain their share of the division lead with the Pittsburgh Steelers. No real surprises here as Tampa Bay has been playing over their head all season long. Most systems pick up another prediction victory, with only What If Sports and Scottie V taking a hit.
Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans (Actual ~ Houston, 20-0)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Houston, 28-20. Both franchises are spinning out of control, but Houston has the offensive firepower to be able to outlast a Titans team embroiled in petty, locker-room politics.
Scottie V's Pick: Houston, 30-17. Heartbreak Houston gets some good fortune and wins this one handily... Vince Young is an idiot.
Vegas Lines Pick: Houston, 27-20. Houston by 6.5, Over/Under 45.5.
Accuscore Pick: Houston, 24-13. Houston 67% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Tennessee, 30-23. Tennessee won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tennessee, 20-17. Tennessee better at 5-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Houston, 20-17
Tennessee continues their slide right out of the playoffs as drama continues to swirl around the locker room and the recent dismissal of would-be franchise savio, Vince Young. The Texans make the most of their division rival's distractions and easily shut down the Titans offensive attack as they roll to a 20-0 victory. Most systems get the pick correctly, with only What If Sports and blindly picking the team with the best record coming up short.
Jacksonville Jaguars at New York Giants (Actual ~ New York, 24-20)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York, 28-24. Back in New York, the Giants defeat the Jaguars, but not until after they survive some fourth quarter drama.
Scottie V's Pick: New York, 27-23. Eli rights the ship and gets a much-needed victory.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York, 28-17. New York by 7.5, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: New York, 26-10. NY Giants 72% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New York, 24-12. NY Giants won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York, 20-17. Both teams at 6-4, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York, 20-17
The Giants, down early and seeing their season start to pass before their eyes, fought back from a 17-6 deficit to pull out a close victory at home and move into a first-place tie with the Eagles in the NFC East. Eli Manning's touchdown pass to Kevin Boss with three minutes to play put the Giants up for good and the Jaguars could not find another bit of last gasp magic to save a victory. All systems get the pick correct, with What If Sports hitting New York's score perfectly.
Kansas City Chiefs at Seattle Seahawks (Actual ~ Kansas City, 42-24)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Kansas City, 24-13. The Chiefs remembered how to win and Seattle will provide little more challange than Arizona did last week.
Scottie V's Pick: Kansas City, 24-20. Aided by two raucous Chiefs' fans who made the trip from Vancouver, KC gets a big road win to keep its edge in the AFC West.
Vegas Lines Pick: Kansas City, 24-21. Kansas City by 1.5, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: Kansas City, 21-16. Kansas City 60% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Kansas City, 21-10. Kansas City won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Kansas City, 20-17. Kansas City better at 6-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Seattle, 20-17
Scottie V, live and in Seattle, helped Kansas City blow out the home team with the good karma from his pick this week. Matt Cassell lights up the team of his former college coach for 4 touchdowns and 300+ yards while Jamaal Charles rushes for 173 yards. The Chiefs roll to an easy victory over the up-and-down Seahawks. All systems, save blindly picking the home team, come away with an easy victory.
Miami Dolphins at Oakland Raiders (Actual ~ Miami, 33-17)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Oakland, 16-10. The Raiders were humbled in Pittsburgh last week. They get back on track against the Dolphins.
Scottie V's Pick: Oakland, 27-14. The Dolphins will be hankering to bring their talents back to South Beach after a whoopin' in the Bay.
Vegas Lines Pick: Oakland, 21-17. Oakland by 3, Over/Under 38.5.
Accuscore Pick: Oakland, 14-13. Both teams tied with 50% win confidence, advantage home
What If Sports Pick: Oakland, 21-16. Oakland won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Oakland, 20-17. Both teams at 5-5, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Oakland, 20-17
Chad Henne triumphantly returns to the Dolphins lineup and tosses the pigskin for 300 yards and 2 touchdowns as Miami nearly doubles up the Raiders on the road. Oakland, still reeling from the 35-3 beat down Pittsburgh put on them last week, struggled to get anything going offensively and has now fallen a step back in the AFC West. All systems were upset by the game, with no system believing the Dolphins could win one on the road against a suddenly cold Raiders team.
St. Louis Rams at Denver Broncos (Actual ~ St. Louis, 36-33)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Denver, 30-20. I hope Denver still isn't shell-shocked by that fake punt San Diego pulled off against them. If they are, this game could get away from them in a hurry.
Scottie V's Pick: Denver, 20-17. Ummm... I don't know what to expect in this one...
Vegas Lines Pick: Denver, 26-20. Denver by 4, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: Denver, 23-14. Denver 62% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Denver, 23-20. Denver won 1 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: St. Louis, 20-17. St. Louis better at 4-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: Denver, 20-17
Rookie quarterback Sam Bradford gets his first 300 yard, 3 touchdown game as St. Louis embarrasses the Broncos in Denver for their first road win of the season. The Rams, now a solid 5-6 on the season, move into a tie for first place in the NFC's pathetic West division with the Seattle Seahawks. Chants of "Fire McDaniels" echoed throughout the stadium when St. Louis extended their lead to 33-13, but Kyle Orten and Brandon Lloyd led a furious rally that fell just short and made the final score close. All systems missed except for blindly picking the team with the best record. Can you imagine? The Rams (THE RAMS!) came into this game with a better record... and won.
San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts (Actual ~ San Diego, 36-14)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Indianapolis, 27-24. Manning won't be responsible for the Colts' demise two weeks in a row. In a shoot-out with Philip Rivers, Manning's no-name receivers will be better.
Scottie V's Pick: Indianapolis, 27-24. The Colts hold off a feisty Chargers team at home.
Vegas Lines Pick: Indianapolis, 28-24. Indianapolis by 3, Over/Under 51.5.
Accuscore Pick: San Diego, 17-14. San Diego 52% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: San Diego, 28-14. San Diego won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Indianapolis, 20-17. Indianapolis better at 6-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Indianapolis, 20-17
Peyton Manning throws 4 touchdown passes - 2 to the Colts receivers and 2 to the Chargers secondary - and for the second straight week makes the critical errors that cost his team dearly. Dropped passes and injuries do little to help as the Colts fall to a disppointing 6-5 record. The Chargers, on the strength of their defense and Nate Kaeding's leg, hand the Colts their worst loss at home since 2002 and continue their impressive roll through the late months of the season. Most systems had the Colts winning at home, but both computer systems, Accuscore and What If Sports, get the pick correctly by taking the Chargers the win.
Come back tomorrow to view the final prediction standings following the Monday Night Game and the complete week 12 "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..." results.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Predictions of Creative Misfortune - Week 12
Three games are in the books and only picking the home team failed to get all Thanksgiving Day games correctly. Hopefully all other systems will continue their perfect runs as our focus turns to the remaining week 12 games.
Thanksgiving Game Results:
New England Patriots at Detroit Lions (Actual ~ New England, 45-24)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England, 27-21. The Patriots efficiency on offense will make up for their defense allowing multiple Touchdowns to Calvin Johnson.
Scottie V's Pick: New England, 27-17. The Lions get their annual Thanksgiving-Day helping of defeat at the hands of the red-hot Patriots.
Vegas Lines Pick: New England, 30-21. New England by 7, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New England, 28-9. New England 78% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New England, 28-17. New England won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England, 20-17. New England better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Detroit, 20-17
The Turkey Day woes continue for the Detroit Lions as they get blown out again at home. Tom Brady lights up the scoreboard with 4 touchdowns, 2 to the shifty Wes Welker, and New England improves to an NFL best 9-2 record on the season. All systems, except blindly picking the home team, get this game correct, though no system expected a combined score of 69 points.
New Orleans Saints at Dallas Cowboys (Actual ~ New Orleans, 30-27)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans, 27-17. Dallas won last year in a game they had to have against a Saints team that didn't need the figure. The roles are reversed this week and if the Cowboys had enough pride to win this game, they wouldn't be sitting at 3-7 now.
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans, 31-21. Jason Garrett gets his first loss as the Saints roll into town.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans, 28-24. New Orleans by 3.5, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New Orleans, 24-13. New Orleans 66% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New Orleans, 23-21. New Orleans won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans, 20-17. New Orleans better at 7-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Dallas, 20-17
New Orleans jumped out to an early 17 point lead and the rout was on, but Dallas fought back and made the game by far the most entertaining of the Thanksgiving Day offerings. After the Saints offense ground to a halt and Reggie Bush and Jimmy Graham each made key mistakes, Dallas took the lead late and had a chance to put the game. Then Roy Williams made the mistake of the game when he had the ball stripped away from him after a near game-clinching 47-yard reception. All systems, except picking the home team, barely walk away with a victory.
Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets (Actual ~ New York, 26-10)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York, 35-21. The Jets should be able to put this game away long before the fourth quarter starts, but the Bengals' vaunted gaarbage time offense will make the final score closer than it should be.
Scottie V's Pick: New York, 23-13. Stupid Jets. It pained me to see them sneak away with wins the last two weeks... This one should come easier for them.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York, 27-17. New York by 8.5, Over/Under 43.5.
Accuscore Pick: NY Jets, 27-10. NY Jets 74% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: NY Jets, 20-9. NY Jets won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York, 20-17. New York better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York, 20-17
The second half woes for Cincinnati continue as they turn a solid 7-3 halftime lead into a terrible 26-10 loss after the break. The Jets roar back with two scintillating touchdowns by Brad Smith - one on an end around, the other on a kickoff return - to keep pace with the New England Patriots in the standings. All systems get this game correctly, with Accuscore receiving honorable mention for having Cincinnati's final total picked perfectly.
Sunday Game Score Predictions:
Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Atlanta, 24-21. In a battle of two Creative Elite teams, I think the team with the best record will win at home this week.
Scottie V's Pick: Green Bay, 27-24. Could be an exciting game, but I think Green Bay has too many weapons.
Vegas Lines Pick: Atlanta, 26-23. Atlanta by 2, Over/Under 47.5.
Accuscore Pick: Green Bay, 21-17. Green Bay 56% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Green Bay, 20-17. Green Bay won 2 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Atlanta, 20-17. Atlanta better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Atlanta, 20-17
Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Pittsburgh, 28-17. The Bills are flying high, but it's easy to fly high against the Lions and Bengals. The Steelers are a different animal altogether.
Scottie V's Pick: Pittsburgh, 27-17. Just my luck that the Steelers draw the Bills at their high point in the season... That being said, I think the Steelers' D will overwhelm.
Vegas Lines Pick: Pittsburgh, 27-20. Pittsburgh by 6.5, Over/Under 43.5.
Accuscore Pick: Pittsburgh, 28-10. Pittsburgh 76% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Pittsburgh, 23-14. Pittsburgh won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Pittsburgh, 20-17. Pittsburgh better at 7-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Buffalo, 20-17
Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Philadelphia, 21-17. The Eagles are more real than the Bears, but Chicago has a stout enough defense to be able to contain Vick enough to keep the score close.
Scottie V's Pick: Philadelphia, 24-17. Vick will cool off sooner rather than later, but not this week... Cutler assures an Eagle victory by throwing 3 interceptions.
Vegas Lines Pick: Philadelphia, 24-20. Philadelphia by 3.5, Over/Under 42.5.
Accuscore Pick: Philadelphia, 24-10. Philadelphia 68% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Philadelphia, 16-10. Philadelphia won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Chicago, 20-17. Both teams at 7-3, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Chicago, 20-17
Carolina Panthers at Cleveland Browns
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Cleveland, 31-10. The Browns almost won most of their recent games. They break through with another win against a Carolina team with no hope for the rest of the season.
Scottie V's Pick: Cleveland, 27-10. The Panthers are a mess.
Vegas Lines Pick: Cleveland, 24-14. Cleveland 9, Over/Under 38.
Accuscore Pick: Cleveland, 24-10. Cleveland 68% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Cleveland, 21-20. Cleveland won 2 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Cleveland, 20-17. Cleveland better at 3-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Cleveland, 20-17
Minnesota Vikings at Washington Redskins
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Washington, 20-14. The Vikings haven't played well on the road, on grass, recently. Firing Childress won't change that.
Scottie V's Pick: Washington, 23-20. New coach in Minny, but the same results... Oh, how Brett Favre wishes he would have ditched Coach Chilly at the airport in August!
Vegas Lines Pick: Washington, 23-21. Washington by 1.5, Over/Under 43.
Accuscore Pick: Minnesota, 21-17. Minnesota 56% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Minnesota, 28-23. Minnesota won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Washington, 20-17. Washington better at 5-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Washington, 20-17
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Baltimore Ravens
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Baltimore, 24-20. Both teams are playoff contenders, but Baltimore is not playing with house money like Tampa Bay.
Scottie V's Pick: Tampa Bay, 23-21. Please Tampa Bay! Get this done!!!
Vegas Lines Pick: Baltimore, 26-16. Baltimore by 7.5, Over/Under 41.
Accuscore Pick: Baltimore, 28-10. Baltimore 76% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Tampa Bay, 17-16. Tampa Bay won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Baltimore, 20-17. Both teams at 7-3, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Baltimore, 20-17
Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Houston, 28-20. Both franchises are spinning out of control, but Houston has the offensive firepower to be able to outlast a Titans team embroiled in petty, locker-room politics.
Scottie V's Pick: Houston, 30-17. Heartbreak Houston gets some good fortune and wins this one handily... Vince Young is an idiot.
Vegas Lines Pick: Houston, 27-20. Houston by 6.5, Over/Under 45.5.
Accuscore Pick: Houston, 24-13. Houston 67% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Tennessee, 30-23. Tennessee won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tennessee, 20-17. Tennessee better at 5-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Houston, 20-17
Jacksonville Jaguars at New York Giants
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York, 28-24. Back in New York, the Giants defeat the Jaguars, but not until after they survive some fourth quarter drama.
Scottie V's Pick: New York, 27-23. Eli rights the ship and gets a much-needed victory.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York, 28-17. New York by 7.5, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: NY Giants, 26-10. NY Giants 72% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: NY Giants, 24-12. NY Giants won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York, 20-17. Both teams at 6-4, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York, 20-17
Kansas City Chiefs at Seattle Seahawks
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Kansas City, 24-13. The Chiefs remembered how to win and Seattle will provide little more challange than Arizona did last week.
Scottie V's Pick: Kansas City, 24-20. Aided by two raucous Chiefs' fans who made the trip from Vancouver, KC gets a big road win to keep its edge in the AFC West.
Vegas Lines Pick: Kansas City, 24-21. Kansas City by 1.5, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: Kansas City, 21-16. Kansas City 60% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Kansas City, 21-10. Kansas City won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Kansas City, 20-17. Kansas City better at 6-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Seattle, 20-17
Miami Dolphins at Oakland Raiders
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Oakland, 16-10. The Raiders were humbled in Pittsburgh last week. They get back on track against the Dolphins.
Scottie V's Pick: Oakland, 27-14. The Dolphins will be hankering to bring their talents back to South Beach after a whoopin' in the Bay.
Vegas Lines Pick: Oakland, 21-17. Oakland by 3, Over/Under 38.5.
Accuscore Pick: Oakland, 14-13. Both teams tied with 50% win confidence, advantage home
What If Sports Pick: Oakland, 21-16. Oakland won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Oakland, 20-17. Both teams at 5-5, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Oakland, 20-17
St. Louis Rams at Denver Broncos
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Denver, 30-20. I hope Denver still isn't shell-shocked by that fake punt San Diego pulled off against them. If they are, this game could get away from them in a hurry.
Scottie V's Pick: Denver, 20-17. Ummm... I don't know what to expect in this one...
Vegas Lines Pick: Denver, 26-20. Denver by 4, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: Denver, 23-14. Denver 62% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Denver, 23-20. Denver won 1 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: St. Louis, 20-17. St. Louis better at 4-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: Denver, 20-17
San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Indianapolis, 27-24. Manning won;t be responsible for the Colts' demise two weeks in a row. In a shoot-out with Philip Rivers, Manning's no-name receivers will be better.
Scottie V's Pick: Indianapolis, 27-24. The Colts hold off a feisty Chargers team at home.
Vegas Lines Pick: Indianapolis, 28-24. Indianapolis by 3, Over/Under 51.5.
Accuscore Pick: San Diego, 17-14. San Diego 52% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: San Diego, 28-14. San Diego won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Indianapolis, 20-17. Indianapolis better at 6-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Indianapolis, 20-17
Monday Night Score Prediction:
San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Arizona, 17-14. Neither team is very good, but since they both play in the NFC West, they each still have dreams of winning the division title.
Scottie V's Pick: San Francisco, 23-17. Not exactly a prime matchup for Monday night, but what are you going to do?
Vegas Lines Pick: San Francisco, 21-19. San Francisco by 1, Over/Under 40.
Accuscore Pick: Arizona, 14-13. Both teams tied with 50% win confidence, advantage home
What If Sports Pick: Arizona, 21-17. Arizona won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Arizona, 20-17. Both teams at 3-7, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Arizona, 20-17
Come back on Monday to view the prediction roundup and game recaps for all week 12 Sunday games.
Thanksgiving Game Results:
New England Patriots at Detroit Lions (Actual ~ New England, 45-24)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England, 27-21. The Patriots efficiency on offense will make up for their defense allowing multiple Touchdowns to Calvin Johnson.
Scottie V's Pick: New England, 27-17. The Lions get their annual Thanksgiving-Day helping of defeat at the hands of the red-hot Patriots.
Vegas Lines Pick: New England, 30-21. New England by 7, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New England, 28-9. New England 78% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New England, 28-17. New England won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England, 20-17. New England better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Detroit, 20-17
The Turkey Day woes continue for the Detroit Lions as they get blown out again at home. Tom Brady lights up the scoreboard with 4 touchdowns, 2 to the shifty Wes Welker, and New England improves to an NFL best 9-2 record on the season. All systems, except blindly picking the home team, get this game correct, though no system expected a combined score of 69 points.
New Orleans Saints at Dallas Cowboys (Actual ~ New Orleans, 30-27)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans, 27-17. Dallas won last year in a game they had to have against a Saints team that didn't need the figure. The roles are reversed this week and if the Cowboys had enough pride to win this game, they wouldn't be sitting at 3-7 now.
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans, 31-21. Jason Garrett gets his first loss as the Saints roll into town.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans, 28-24. New Orleans by 3.5, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New Orleans, 24-13. New Orleans 66% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New Orleans, 23-21. New Orleans won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans, 20-17. New Orleans better at 7-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Dallas, 20-17
New Orleans jumped out to an early 17 point lead and the rout was on, but Dallas fought back and made the game by far the most entertaining of the Thanksgiving Day offerings. After the Saints offense ground to a halt and Reggie Bush and Jimmy Graham each made key mistakes, Dallas took the lead late and had a chance to put the game. Then Roy Williams made the mistake of the game when he had the ball stripped away from him after a near game-clinching 47-yard reception. All systems, except picking the home team, barely walk away with a victory.
Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets (Actual ~ New York, 26-10)
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York, 35-21. The Jets should be able to put this game away long before the fourth quarter starts, but the Bengals' vaunted gaarbage time offense will make the final score closer than it should be.
Scottie V's Pick: New York, 23-13. Stupid Jets. It pained me to see them sneak away with wins the last two weeks... This one should come easier for them.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York, 27-17. New York by 8.5, Over/Under 43.5.
Accuscore Pick: NY Jets, 27-10. NY Jets 74% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: NY Jets, 20-9. NY Jets won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York, 20-17. New York better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York, 20-17
The second half woes for Cincinnati continue as they turn a solid 7-3 halftime lead into a terrible 26-10 loss after the break. The Jets roar back with two scintillating touchdowns by Brad Smith - one on an end around, the other on a kickoff return - to keep pace with the New England Patriots in the standings. All systems get this game correctly, with Accuscore receiving honorable mention for having Cincinnati's final total picked perfectly.
Sunday Game Score Predictions:
Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Atlanta, 24-21. In a battle of two Creative Elite teams, I think the team with the best record will win at home this week.
Scottie V's Pick: Green Bay, 27-24. Could be an exciting game, but I think Green Bay has too many weapons.
Vegas Lines Pick: Atlanta, 26-23. Atlanta by 2, Over/Under 47.5.
Accuscore Pick: Green Bay, 21-17. Green Bay 56% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Green Bay, 20-17. Green Bay won 2 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Atlanta, 20-17. Atlanta better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Atlanta, 20-17
Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Pittsburgh, 28-17. The Bills are flying high, but it's easy to fly high against the Lions and Bengals. The Steelers are a different animal altogether.
Scottie V's Pick: Pittsburgh, 27-17. Just my luck that the Steelers draw the Bills at their high point in the season... That being said, I think the Steelers' D will overwhelm.
Vegas Lines Pick: Pittsburgh, 27-20. Pittsburgh by 6.5, Over/Under 43.5.
Accuscore Pick: Pittsburgh, 28-10. Pittsburgh 76% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Pittsburgh, 23-14. Pittsburgh won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Pittsburgh, 20-17. Pittsburgh better at 7-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Buffalo, 20-17
Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Philadelphia, 21-17. The Eagles are more real than the Bears, but Chicago has a stout enough defense to be able to contain Vick enough to keep the score close.
Scottie V's Pick: Philadelphia, 24-17. Vick will cool off sooner rather than later, but not this week... Cutler assures an Eagle victory by throwing 3 interceptions.
Vegas Lines Pick: Philadelphia, 24-20. Philadelphia by 3.5, Over/Under 42.5.
Accuscore Pick: Philadelphia, 24-10. Philadelphia 68% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Philadelphia, 16-10. Philadelphia won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Chicago, 20-17. Both teams at 7-3, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Chicago, 20-17
Carolina Panthers at Cleveland Browns
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Cleveland, 31-10. The Browns almost won most of their recent games. They break through with another win against a Carolina team with no hope for the rest of the season.
Scottie V's Pick: Cleveland, 27-10. The Panthers are a mess.
Vegas Lines Pick: Cleveland, 24-14. Cleveland 9, Over/Under 38.
Accuscore Pick: Cleveland, 24-10. Cleveland 68% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Cleveland, 21-20. Cleveland won 2 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Cleveland, 20-17. Cleveland better at 3-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Cleveland, 20-17
Minnesota Vikings at Washington Redskins
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Washington, 20-14. The Vikings haven't played well on the road, on grass, recently. Firing Childress won't change that.
Scottie V's Pick: Washington, 23-20. New coach in Minny, but the same results... Oh, how Brett Favre wishes he would have ditched Coach Chilly at the airport in August!
Vegas Lines Pick: Washington, 23-21. Washington by 1.5, Over/Under 43.
Accuscore Pick: Minnesota, 21-17. Minnesota 56% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Minnesota, 28-23. Minnesota won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Washington, 20-17. Washington better at 5-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Washington, 20-17
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Baltimore Ravens
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Baltimore, 24-20. Both teams are playoff contenders, but Baltimore is not playing with house money like Tampa Bay.
Scottie V's Pick: Tampa Bay, 23-21. Please Tampa Bay! Get this done!!!
Vegas Lines Pick: Baltimore, 26-16. Baltimore by 7.5, Over/Under 41.
Accuscore Pick: Baltimore, 28-10. Baltimore 76% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Tampa Bay, 17-16. Tampa Bay won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Baltimore, 20-17. Both teams at 7-3, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Baltimore, 20-17
Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Houston, 28-20. Both franchises are spinning out of control, but Houston has the offensive firepower to be able to outlast a Titans team embroiled in petty, locker-room politics.
Scottie V's Pick: Houston, 30-17. Heartbreak Houston gets some good fortune and wins this one handily... Vince Young is an idiot.
Vegas Lines Pick: Houston, 27-20. Houston by 6.5, Over/Under 45.5.
Accuscore Pick: Houston, 24-13. Houston 67% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Tennessee, 30-23. Tennessee won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tennessee, 20-17. Tennessee better at 5-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Houston, 20-17
Jacksonville Jaguars at New York Giants
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York, 28-24. Back in New York, the Giants defeat the Jaguars, but not until after they survive some fourth quarter drama.
Scottie V's Pick: New York, 27-23. Eli rights the ship and gets a much-needed victory.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York, 28-17. New York by 7.5, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: NY Giants, 26-10. NY Giants 72% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: NY Giants, 24-12. NY Giants won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York, 20-17. Both teams at 6-4, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York, 20-17
Kansas City Chiefs at Seattle Seahawks
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Kansas City, 24-13. The Chiefs remembered how to win and Seattle will provide little more challange than Arizona did last week.
Scottie V's Pick: Kansas City, 24-20. Aided by two raucous Chiefs' fans who made the trip from Vancouver, KC gets a big road win to keep its edge in the AFC West.
Vegas Lines Pick: Kansas City, 24-21. Kansas City by 1.5, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: Kansas City, 21-16. Kansas City 60% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Kansas City, 21-10. Kansas City won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Kansas City, 20-17. Kansas City better at 6-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Seattle, 20-17
Miami Dolphins at Oakland Raiders
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Oakland, 16-10. The Raiders were humbled in Pittsburgh last week. They get back on track against the Dolphins.
Scottie V's Pick: Oakland, 27-14. The Dolphins will be hankering to bring their talents back to South Beach after a whoopin' in the Bay.
Vegas Lines Pick: Oakland, 21-17. Oakland by 3, Over/Under 38.5.
Accuscore Pick: Oakland, 14-13. Both teams tied with 50% win confidence, advantage home
What If Sports Pick: Oakland, 21-16. Oakland won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Oakland, 20-17. Both teams at 5-5, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Oakland, 20-17
St. Louis Rams at Denver Broncos
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Denver, 30-20. I hope Denver still isn't shell-shocked by that fake punt San Diego pulled off against them. If they are, this game could get away from them in a hurry.
Scottie V's Pick: Denver, 20-17. Ummm... I don't know what to expect in this one...
Vegas Lines Pick: Denver, 26-20. Denver by 4, Over/Under 44.5.
Accuscore Pick: Denver, 23-14. Denver 62% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: Denver, 23-20. Denver won 1 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: St. Louis, 20-17. St. Louis better at 4-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: Denver, 20-17
San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Indianapolis, 27-24. Manning won;t be responsible for the Colts' demise two weeks in a row. In a shoot-out with Philip Rivers, Manning's no-name receivers will be better.
Scottie V's Pick: Indianapolis, 27-24. The Colts hold off a feisty Chargers team at home.
Vegas Lines Pick: Indianapolis, 28-24. Indianapolis by 3, Over/Under 51.5.
Accuscore Pick: San Diego, 17-14. San Diego 52% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: San Diego, 28-14. San Diego won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Indianapolis, 20-17. Indianapolis better at 6-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Indianapolis, 20-17
Monday Night Score Prediction:
San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Arizona, 17-14. Neither team is very good, but since they both play in the NFC West, they each still have dreams of winning the division title.
Scottie V's Pick: San Francisco, 23-17. Not exactly a prime matchup for Monday night, but what are you going to do?
Vegas Lines Pick: San Francisco, 21-19. San Francisco by 1, Over/Under 40.
Accuscore Pick: Arizona, 14-13. Both teams tied with 50% win confidence, advantage home
What If Sports Pick: Arizona, 21-17. Arizona won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: Arizona, 20-17. Both teams at 3-7, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Arizona, 20-17
Come back on Monday to view the prediction roundup and game recaps for all week 12 Sunday games.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Predictions of Creative Misfortune - Week 12 - Thanksgiving Games
Turkey Day is here! Feasts and football! What more could you want?
Thanksgiving Game Score Predictions:
New England Patriots at Detroit Lions
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England, 27-21. The Patriots efficiency on offense will make up for their defense allowing multiple Touchdowns to Calvin Johnson.
Scottie V's Pick: New England, 27-17. The Lions get their annual Thanksgiving-Day helping of defeat at the hands of the red-hot Patriots.
Vegas Lines Pick: New England, 30-21. New England by 7, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New England, 28-9. New England 78% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New England, 28-17. New England won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England, 20-17. New England better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Detroit, 20-17
New Orleans Saints at Dallas Cowboys
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans, 27-17. Dallas won last year in a game they had to have against a Saints team that didn't need the figure. The roles are reversed this week and if the Cowboys had enough pride to win this game, they wouldn't be sitting at 3-7 now.
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans, 31-21. Jason Garrett gets his first loss as the Saints roll into town.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans, 28-24. New Orleans by 3.5, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New Orleans, 24-13. New Orleans 66% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New Orleans, 23-21. New Orleans won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans, 20-17. New Orleans better at 7-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Dallas, 20-17
Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York, 35-21. The Jets should be able to put this game away long before the fourth quarter starts, but the Bengals' vaunted gaarbage time offense will make the final score closer than it should be.
Scottie V's Pick: New York, 23-13. Stupid Jets. It pained me to see them sneak away with wins the last two weeks... This one should come easier for them.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York, 27-17. New York by 8.5, Over/Under 43.5.
Accuscore Pick: NY Jets, 27-10. NY Jets 74% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: NY Jets, 20-9. NY Jets won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York, 20-17. New York better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York, 20-17
Check back tomorrow for Turkey Day recaps and predictions for all remaining week 12 games. Happy Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving Game Score Predictions:
New England Patriots at Detroit Lions
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England, 27-21. The Patriots efficiency on offense will make up for their defense allowing multiple Touchdowns to Calvin Johnson.
Scottie V's Pick: New England, 27-17. The Lions get their annual Thanksgiving-Day helping of defeat at the hands of the red-hot Patriots.
Vegas Lines Pick: New England, 30-21. New England by 7, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New England, 28-9. New England 78% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New England, 28-17. New England won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England, 20-17. New England better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Detroit, 20-17
New Orleans Saints at Dallas Cowboys
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans, 27-17. Dallas won last year in a game they had to have against a Saints team that didn't need the figure. The roles are reversed this week and if the Cowboys had enough pride to win this game, they wouldn't be sitting at 3-7 now.
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans, 31-21. Jason Garrett gets his first loss as the Saints roll into town.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans, 28-24. New Orleans by 3.5, Over/Under 50.5.
Accuscore Pick: New Orleans, 24-13. New Orleans 66% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: New Orleans, 23-21. New Orleans won 3 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans, 20-17. New Orleans better at 7-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Dallas, 20-17
Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York, 35-21. The Jets should be able to put this game away long before the fourth quarter starts, but the Bengals' vaunted gaarbage time offense will make the final score closer than it should be.
Scottie V's Pick: New York, 23-13. Stupid Jets. It pained me to see them sneak away with wins the last two weeks... This one should come easier for them.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York, 27-17. New York by 8.5, Over/Under 43.5.
Accuscore Pick: NY Jets, 27-10. NY Jets 74% win confidence
What If Sports Pick: NY Jets, 20-9. NY Jets won 4 of 5 simulations.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York, 20-17. New York better at 8-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York, 20-17
Check back tomorrow for Turkey Day recaps and predictions for all remaining week 12 games. Happy Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Creative Misfortune Power Rankings - Week 11
Creative Misfortune Power Rankings are based on a complicated formula that takes into account, among other things, a team's projected ability to score an Offensive Fumble Recovery TD. All power rankings guaranteed to be less accurate than real NFL team abilities on any given Sunday and are subject to change on a weekly basis. If your team’s ranking remains unchanged for 4 hours or more, please consult with your doctor, as serious side effects may occur.
When it comes to Creative Misfortune Power Rankings, winning isn't the only thing, but it is the most important component of the rating. I don't believe teams can be powerful if they consistently lose, even to other great teams.
The Forked Few~
Abandon hope and fortune all ye who rank here
# 32 - Carolina Panthers (previous: 32)
Not much can be said about a team just running out the clock on the season.
# 31 - Cincinnati Bengals (previous: 29)
An absolutely horrendous performance at home against the Buffalo Bills. When people think of offensive explosions, the Bills don't often come to mind, but Cincinnati made the perennial chumps of the AFC East look like champions.
# 30 - Arizona Cardinals (previous: 27)
Larry Fitzgerald isn't happy and wants to feast on caviar instead of the garbage Arizona has been serving. That doesn't bode well for next season.
# 29 - Detroit Lions (previous: 31)
One of these weeks Detroit will put it all together and actually win a game on the road. Even at 2-8 this is a much improved team.
# 28 - Buffalo Bills (previous: 30)
Offensive juggernauts! Even scoring all those points against Cincinnati can't tarnish the outcome. Just think, only three weeks ago the Bills hadn't even won a game. Now look at them. They're all growed up.
The Creatively Challenged~
Folly remains ever their mistress
# 27 - San Francisco 49ers (previous: 23)
Seriously? The 49ers couldn't even manage a field goal at home against the Buccaneers. That's quite pathetic. Are we looking at in-season coaching change #3? Singletary better start winning soon. His team at least still has a decent shot to win the division.
# 26 - Minnesota Vikings (previous: 26)
Great news! The Vikings are still undefeated in the interim Leslie Frazier era. Bad news. The Vikings have difficulty playing out of doors on the road and their next game is back east in Washington. Good news. The Redskins aren't that great. Bad news. They aren't bad, either.
# 25 - Denver Broncos (previous: 24)
I have never seen a team so devastated by a first quarter fake punt that burned them. It took the Broncos three quarters to recover and by then their season had already been lost.
# 24 - St. Louis Rams (previous: 20)
There's no shame in losing to one of the best teams in the league, but the dream of finishing the season with a winning record keeps getting further and further away.
# 23 - Houston Texans (previous: 22)
Rally back from a deficit just to lose in the final seconds once, shame on the other team. Rally back from a deficit just to lose in the final seconds twice, shame on you.
# 22 - Cleveland Browns (previous: 21)
Oh, those pesky Jaguars, like the Jets before them. If NFL games were only 58 minutes long instead of 60, Cleveland might be on a three-game winning streak.
# 21 - Dallas Cowboys (previous: 28)
Finally. A victory in the billion dollar pleasure dome. Now all the Cowboys have to do is win out, get a lot of help and slide into the playoffs as a wild card. Or they can win just enough to screw up their 2011 draft picks.
The Remarkably Average ~
Dancing the fine line between misfortune and glory
# 20 - Seattle Seahawks (previous: 18)
They're the best in the West, which frankly, isn't saying very much.
# 19 - Miami Dolphins (previous: 16)
Any hopes for a late season playoff push were all but crushed by the Bears last Thursday Night. It's never good to be shut out at home.
# 18 - Oakland Raiders (previous: 13)
Footloose and fancy-free teams don't lose their cool and get rocked 35-3.
# 17 - Tennessee Titans (previous: 17)
The Vince Young era looks to have ended in Tennessee. I remember all those great moments, like when Vince Young upset the Reggie Bush-led New Orleans Saints in the Rose Bowl to lead Texas- I mean - the Titans to a national championship. Ah, good times.
# 16 - Washington Redskins (previous: 25)
I have no idea if this team is really good and underachieving or really bad and overachieving, so I'll just rank them here at 16 and let them decide. Shanahan will clear things up for us once we've completed our wind sprints and are back in shape enough to successfully run a two-minute drill without incident.
# 15 - Jacksonville Jaguars (previous: 19)
The Jaguars- best team in the AFC South by virtue of early tie-breakers. If Tampa Bay wasn't playing so well, they'd be the surprise team of the NFL, but as it is, they aren't even the surprise team in Florida... especially when you consider the Heat's pathetic 8-6 start. Shouldn't they be 14-0?
# 14 - San Diego Chargers (previous: 15)
The Chargers are back to .500. I already have them penciled in for a disappointing home playoff loss in January.
# 13 - New York Giants (previous: 10)
Two weeks ago the Giants were the toast of the league, but an embarrassing loss to the Cowboys and another sloppy loss against the Eagles has New York caught in a dead spin heading out to sea. They still have a chance to escape disaster, but suddenly the playoffs are no longer a sure thing and at least one wild card, if not two, will come out of the NFC South.
The Fortunate Seven ~
The best of those not yet elite
# 12 - Tampa Bay Buccaneers (previous: 12)
Doubts still plague the Bucs' 7-3 record, but the next two weeks (at Baltimore, vs Atlanta) will go a long way to proving whether or not Tampa Bay is for real.
# 11 - Kansas City Chiefs (previous: 14)
Warning: Chargers in the mirror are closer than they appear.
# 10 - Chicago Bears (previous: 11)
Week 17. Chicago at Green Bay. It might just be for all the marbles in the NFC North.
# 9 - Indianapolis Colts (previous: 7)
MANNING, NO! Sure, it's one thing for one of your practice-squad wide receivers to make a bad read and cut left when they should cut right, but the superstar quarterback can't make a big mistake like that... in the final minutes of a game... against Tom Brady... and Bill Belichick... and, and.. you just can't do that Manning.
# 8 - Baltimore Ravens (previous: 9)
Now that the Ravens have finished their second bye week of the season, the division will be won or lost two weeks from now when the Steelers come to town. If they can survive a scare from those upstart Buccaneers this week, Baltimore will be in business.
# 7 - New Orleans Saints (previous: 5)
The offense is clicking, the defense is wrecking havoc and now a short week gives the Saints an interesting Turkey Day challenge in Dallas as they make their attack run for the playoffs.
# 6 - Philadelphia Eagles (previous: 6)
Vick may be the answer at quarterback, but Kolb better be ready to play if Vick keeps scrambling and getting hit.
The Creative Elite ~
Wielding misfortune at its finest
# 5 - Pittsburgh Steelers (previous: 8)
Open-handed cheap shots aside, the Steelers recovered nicely from the embarrassing loss to the Patriots. A tune-up game against Buffalo will set the stage for Pittsburgh's week 13 tilt against the Baltimore Ravens.
# 4 - Green Bay Packers (previous: 4)
Two straight games, two blow-out victories and two fired coaches. That trend ends this week when the Pack travel to Atlanta.
# 3 - New England Patriots (previous: 3)
It's always good to beat Indianapolis. It's even better to get to play Detroit on Thanksgiving. Fantasy players, start all your Patriots.
# 2 - New York Jets (previous: 2)
Eventually the Jets will have to figure out a way to beat a team before the waning moments of the fourth quarter.
# 1 - Atlanta Falcons (previous: 1)
The Falcons have a great opportunity to prove, without question, they deserve Creative Misfortune's #1 overall ranking when Green Bay comes to town this weekend. In a possible preview of the NFC Championship game, Atlanta needs to win, because it is far warmer in the Georgia Dome on Sundays in January than at Lambeau Field.
Week 11 Power Ranking Awards:
The Free Fallers - Oakland Raiders (-5), St. Louis Rams (-4) and the San Francisco 49ers (-4)
The Biggest Movers - Washington Redskins (+9), Dallas Cowboys (+7) and the Jacksonville Jaguars (+4)
Maintaining The Status Quo - Atlanta Falcons (1), New York Jets (2), New England Patriots (3), Green Bay Packers (4), Philadelphia Eagles (6), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (12), Tennessee Titans (17), Minnesota Vikings (26) and the Carolina Panthers (32)
Creative Misfortune Super Bowl XLV Favorite ~ After Week 11
Green Bay Packers
When it comes to Creative Misfortune Power Rankings, winning isn't the only thing, but it is the most important component of the rating. I don't believe teams can be powerful if they consistently lose, even to other great teams.
The Forked Few~
Abandon hope and fortune all ye who rank here
# 32 - Carolina Panthers (previous: 32)
Not much can be said about a team just running out the clock on the season.
# 31 - Cincinnati Bengals (previous: 29)
An absolutely horrendous performance at home against the Buffalo Bills. When people think of offensive explosions, the Bills don't often come to mind, but Cincinnati made the perennial chumps of the AFC East look like champions.
# 30 - Arizona Cardinals (previous: 27)
Larry Fitzgerald isn't happy and wants to feast on caviar instead of the garbage Arizona has been serving. That doesn't bode well for next season.
# 29 - Detroit Lions (previous: 31)
One of these weeks Detroit will put it all together and actually win a game on the road. Even at 2-8 this is a much improved team.
# 28 - Buffalo Bills (previous: 30)
Offensive juggernauts! Even scoring all those points against Cincinnati can't tarnish the outcome. Just think, only three weeks ago the Bills hadn't even won a game. Now look at them. They're all growed up.
The Creatively Challenged~
Folly remains ever their mistress
# 27 - San Francisco 49ers (previous: 23)
Seriously? The 49ers couldn't even manage a field goal at home against the Buccaneers. That's quite pathetic. Are we looking at in-season coaching change #3? Singletary better start winning soon. His team at least still has a decent shot to win the division.
# 26 - Minnesota Vikings (previous: 26)
Great news! The Vikings are still undefeated in the interim Leslie Frazier era. Bad news. The Vikings have difficulty playing out of doors on the road and their next game is back east in Washington. Good news. The Redskins aren't that great. Bad news. They aren't bad, either.
# 25 - Denver Broncos (previous: 24)
I have never seen a team so devastated by a first quarter fake punt that burned them. It took the Broncos three quarters to recover and by then their season had already been lost.
# 24 - St. Louis Rams (previous: 20)
There's no shame in losing to one of the best teams in the league, but the dream of finishing the season with a winning record keeps getting further and further away.
# 23 - Houston Texans (previous: 22)
Rally back from a deficit just to lose in the final seconds once, shame on the other team. Rally back from a deficit just to lose in the final seconds twice, shame on you.
# 22 - Cleveland Browns (previous: 21)
Oh, those pesky Jaguars, like the Jets before them. If NFL games were only 58 minutes long instead of 60, Cleveland might be on a three-game winning streak.
# 21 - Dallas Cowboys (previous: 28)
Finally. A victory in the billion dollar pleasure dome. Now all the Cowboys have to do is win out, get a lot of help and slide into the playoffs as a wild card. Or they can win just enough to screw up their 2011 draft picks.
The Remarkably Average ~
Dancing the fine line between misfortune and glory
# 20 - Seattle Seahawks (previous: 18)
They're the best in the West, which frankly, isn't saying very much.
# 19 - Miami Dolphins (previous: 16)
Any hopes for a late season playoff push were all but crushed by the Bears last Thursday Night. It's never good to be shut out at home.
# 18 - Oakland Raiders (previous: 13)
Footloose and fancy-free teams don't lose their cool and get rocked 35-3.
# 17 - Tennessee Titans (previous: 17)
The Vince Young era looks to have ended in Tennessee. I remember all those great moments, like when Vince Young upset the Reggie Bush-led New Orleans Saints in the Rose Bowl to lead Texas- I mean - the Titans to a national championship. Ah, good times.
# 16 - Washington Redskins (previous: 25)
I have no idea if this team is really good and underachieving or really bad and overachieving, so I'll just rank them here at 16 and let them decide. Shanahan will clear things up for us once we've completed our wind sprints and are back in shape enough to successfully run a two-minute drill without incident.
# 15 - Jacksonville Jaguars (previous: 19)
The Jaguars- best team in the AFC South by virtue of early tie-breakers. If Tampa Bay wasn't playing so well, they'd be the surprise team of the NFL, but as it is, they aren't even the surprise team in Florida... especially when you consider the Heat's pathetic 8-6 start. Shouldn't they be 14-0?
# 14 - San Diego Chargers (previous: 15)
The Chargers are back to .500. I already have them penciled in for a disappointing home playoff loss in January.
# 13 - New York Giants (previous: 10)
Two weeks ago the Giants were the toast of the league, but an embarrassing loss to the Cowboys and another sloppy loss against the Eagles has New York caught in a dead spin heading out to sea. They still have a chance to escape disaster, but suddenly the playoffs are no longer a sure thing and at least one wild card, if not two, will come out of the NFC South.
The Fortunate Seven ~
The best of those not yet elite
# 12 - Tampa Bay Buccaneers (previous: 12)
Doubts still plague the Bucs' 7-3 record, but the next two weeks (at Baltimore, vs Atlanta) will go a long way to proving whether or not Tampa Bay is for real.
# 11 - Kansas City Chiefs (previous: 14)
Warning: Chargers in the mirror are closer than they appear.
# 10 - Chicago Bears (previous: 11)
Week 17. Chicago at Green Bay. It might just be for all the marbles in the NFC North.
# 9 - Indianapolis Colts (previous: 7)
MANNING, NO! Sure, it's one thing for one of your practice-squad wide receivers to make a bad read and cut left when they should cut right, but the superstar quarterback can't make a big mistake like that... in the final minutes of a game... against Tom Brady... and Bill Belichick... and, and.. you just can't do that Manning.
# 8 - Baltimore Ravens (previous: 9)
Now that the Ravens have finished their second bye week of the season, the division will be won or lost two weeks from now when the Steelers come to town. If they can survive a scare from those upstart Buccaneers this week, Baltimore will be in business.
# 7 - New Orleans Saints (previous: 5)
The offense is clicking, the defense is wrecking havoc and now a short week gives the Saints an interesting Turkey Day challenge in Dallas as they make their attack run for the playoffs.
# 6 - Philadelphia Eagles (previous: 6)
Vick may be the answer at quarterback, but Kolb better be ready to play if Vick keeps scrambling and getting hit.
The Creative Elite ~
Wielding misfortune at its finest
# 5 - Pittsburgh Steelers (previous: 8)
Open-handed cheap shots aside, the Steelers recovered nicely from the embarrassing loss to the Patriots. A tune-up game against Buffalo will set the stage for Pittsburgh's week 13 tilt against the Baltimore Ravens.
# 4 - Green Bay Packers (previous: 4)
Two straight games, two blow-out victories and two fired coaches. That trend ends this week when the Pack travel to Atlanta.
# 3 - New England Patriots (previous: 3)
It's always good to beat Indianapolis. It's even better to get to play Detroit on Thanksgiving. Fantasy players, start all your Patriots.
# 2 - New York Jets (previous: 2)
Eventually the Jets will have to figure out a way to beat a team before the waning moments of the fourth quarter.
# 1 - Atlanta Falcons (previous: 1)
The Falcons have a great opportunity to prove, without question, they deserve Creative Misfortune's #1 overall ranking when Green Bay comes to town this weekend. In a possible preview of the NFC Championship game, Atlanta needs to win, because it is far warmer in the Georgia Dome on Sundays in January than at Lambeau Field.
Week 11 Power Ranking Awards:
The Free Fallers - Oakland Raiders (-5), St. Louis Rams (-4) and the San Francisco 49ers (-4)
The Biggest Movers - Washington Redskins (+9), Dallas Cowboys (+7) and the Jacksonville Jaguars (+4)
Maintaining The Status Quo - Atlanta Falcons (1), New York Jets (2), New England Patriots (3), Green Bay Packers (4), Philadelphia Eagles (6), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (12), Tennessee Titans (17), Minnesota Vikings (26) and the Carolina Panthers (32)
Creative Misfortune Super Bowl XLV Favorite ~ After Week 11
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