The last of the unbeatens... fallen. The defeated have risen from the ashes of a potential 0-16 season. What a wild, unpredictable week. Let's finish it off right with a Monday Night matchup between two playoff-bound teams.
Monday Night Game Prediction:
Pittsburgh Steelers at San Francisco 49ers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 3. The 49ers are a solid NFC West team, but that might not mean much against the other elites of the league.
Scottie V's Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 4. The Steelers grab sole possession of the AFC North.
Vegas Lines Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 3. 49ers by 3, Over/Under 36.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 3. Both teams at 10-3, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 3.
Week 15 "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..." Championship Game results will be posted on Wednesday.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Friday, December 16, 2011
Predictions of Creative Misfortune - Week 15 (2011)
Thursday Night Football on Saturday? What will they think of next? Week 15 is well under way and every victory from here on out is critical for teams still in the playoff hunt.
Saturday Game Prediction:
Dallas Cowboys at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 13. The Cowboys can’t screw up three weeks in a row, can they?
Scottie V's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 6. Romo and Co. need to salvage this season.
Vegas Lines Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 7. Cowboys by 7, Over/Under 47.
Best Record Wins Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3. Cowboys better at 7-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3.
Sunday Game Predictions:
Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Buffalo Bills by 2. Buffalo should be more focused for this game than the Dolphins.
Scottie V's Pick: Buffalo Bills by 8. The Fins got knocked back to earth last week and a cold Buffalo is a far cry from South Beach.
Vegas Lines Pick: Buffalo Bills by 1. Bills by 1, Over/Under 42.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Buffalo Bills by 3. Bills better at 5-8.
Home Team Wins Pick: Buffalo Bills by 3.
Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Chicago Bears by 4. Chicago will recover from that inexplicable loss to Denver last week.
Scottie V's Pick: Chicago Bears by 4. The 'Hawks streak comes to an end in Chi-town.
Vegas Lines Pick: Chicago Bears by 4. Bears by 3.5, Over/Under 36.
Best Record Wins Pick: Chicago Bears by 3. Bears better at 7-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: Chicago Bears by 3.
Carolina Panthers at Houston Texans
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Houston Texans by 13. Yates is quickly proving he can lead the Texans into the playoffs.
Scottie V's Pick: Houston Texans by 7. Yates outshines Newton in front of his home crowd.
Vegas Lines Pick: Houston Texans by 6. Texans by 6, Over/Under 45.
Best Record Wins Pick: Houston Texans by 3. Texans better at 10-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Houston Texans by 3.
Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Tennessee Titans by 16. Tennessee still has a wild card to play for. The Colts are just trying to get out of the season without any major injuries.
Scottie V's Pick: Tennessee Titans by 8. The Colts are bad.
Vegas Lines Pick: Tennessee Titans by 7. Titans by 7, Over/Under 41.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tennessee Titans by 3. Titans better at 7-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: Indianapolis Colts by 3.
Green Bay Packers at Kansas City Chiefs
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 24. Do you really think the Chiefs, one week after firing their coach, will be able to stop Green Bay?
Scottie V's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 17. Interim Coach has his hands full with the Pack.
Vegas Lines Pick: Green Bay Packers by 14. Packers by 13.5, Over/Under 46.
Best Record Wins Pick: Green Bay Packers by 3. Packers better at 13-0.
Home Team Wins Pick: Kansas City Chiefs by 3.
New Orleans Saints at Minnesota Vikings
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 17. The Vikings do not have the secondary to match even the worst of the Saints receivers.
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 10. The Vikes QB situation is a mess.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans Saints by 7. Saints by 6.5, Over/Under 51.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans Saints by 3. Saints better at 10-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Minnesota Vikings by 3.
Washington Redskins at New York Giants
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York Giants by 3. I really, really, really want the Redskins to win this game.
Scottie V's Pick: New York Giants by 6. No confidence in the 'Skins.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York Giants by 7. Giants by 6.5, Over/Under 46.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York Giants by 3. Giants better at 7-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York Giants by 3.
Cincinnati Bengals at St. Louis Rams
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 15. After getting picked on by the bigger kids lately, Cincinnati will take their frustration out on the lowly Rams.
Scottie V's Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 4. Slipping Bengals get a road win.
Vegas Lines Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 7. Bengals by 6.5, Over/Under 40.
Best Record Wins Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 3. Bengals better at 7-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: St. Louis Rams by 3.
Detroit Lions at Oakland Raiders
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Oakland Raiders by 3. What's the over/under on penalty flags that will be thrown in this game? 20?
Scottie V's Pick: Oakland Raiders by 3. Tough teams to predict here… Giving the Raiders the nod at home.
Vegas Lines Pick: Detroit Lions by 1. Lions by 1, Over/Under 48.
Best Record Wins Pick: Detroit Lions by 3. Lions better at 8-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Oakland Raiders by 3.
Cleveland Browns at Arizona Cardinals
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 4. If the Cardinals can beat the 49ers, they can surely beat the Browns.
Scottie V's Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 6. The Cards are a tough out at home and McCoy is still banged up.
Vegas Lines Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 7. Cardinals by 6.5, Over/Under 36.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 3. Cardinals better at 6-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 3.
New England Patriots at Denver Broncos
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England Patriots by 10. The Tebow magic will finally come to an end this week, but not without some drama.
Scottie V's Pick: Denver Broncos by 3. Maybe picking more with my heart than my head, but who am I to pick against Tebow?
Vegas Lines Pick: New England Patriots by 7. Patriots by 6.5, Over/Under 46.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England Patriots by 3. Patriots better at 10-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Denver Broncos by 3.
New York Jets at Philadelphia Eagles
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York Jets by 4. The Jets are making their late season run.
Scottie V's Pick: Philadelphia Eagles by 6. Andy Reid is trying to score some late-season points with management.
Vegas Lines Pick: Philadelphia Eagles by 3. Eagles by 3, Over/Under 44.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York Jets by 3. Jets better at 8-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Philadelphia Eagles by 3.
Baltimore Ravens at San Diego Chargers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 7. San Diego's December magic won't save them against Baltimore.
Scottie V's Pick: San Diego Chargers by 4. SD is starting their late season "charge"… Knocking off the Ravens at home would be huge.
Vegas Lines Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 3. Ravens by 2.5, Over/Under 44.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 3. Ravens better at 10-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: San Diego Chargers by 3.
Check back next week for Monday Night's prediction.
Saturday Game Prediction:
Dallas Cowboys at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 13. The Cowboys can’t screw up three weeks in a row, can they?
Scottie V's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 6. Romo and Co. need to salvage this season.
Vegas Lines Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 7. Cowboys by 7, Over/Under 47.
Best Record Wins Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3. Cowboys better at 7-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3.
Sunday Game Predictions:
Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Buffalo Bills by 2. Buffalo should be more focused for this game than the Dolphins.
Scottie V's Pick: Buffalo Bills by 8. The Fins got knocked back to earth last week and a cold Buffalo is a far cry from South Beach.
Vegas Lines Pick: Buffalo Bills by 1. Bills by 1, Over/Under 42.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Buffalo Bills by 3. Bills better at 5-8.
Home Team Wins Pick: Buffalo Bills by 3.
Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Chicago Bears by 4. Chicago will recover from that inexplicable loss to Denver last week.
Scottie V's Pick: Chicago Bears by 4. The 'Hawks streak comes to an end in Chi-town.
Vegas Lines Pick: Chicago Bears by 4. Bears by 3.5, Over/Under 36.
Best Record Wins Pick: Chicago Bears by 3. Bears better at 7-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: Chicago Bears by 3.
Carolina Panthers at Houston Texans
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Houston Texans by 13. Yates is quickly proving he can lead the Texans into the playoffs.
Scottie V's Pick: Houston Texans by 7. Yates outshines Newton in front of his home crowd.
Vegas Lines Pick: Houston Texans by 6. Texans by 6, Over/Under 45.
Best Record Wins Pick: Houston Texans by 3. Texans better at 10-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Houston Texans by 3.
Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Tennessee Titans by 16. Tennessee still has a wild card to play for. The Colts are just trying to get out of the season without any major injuries.
Scottie V's Pick: Tennessee Titans by 8. The Colts are bad.
Vegas Lines Pick: Tennessee Titans by 7. Titans by 7, Over/Under 41.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tennessee Titans by 3. Titans better at 7-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: Indianapolis Colts by 3.
Green Bay Packers at Kansas City Chiefs
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 24. Do you really think the Chiefs, one week after firing their coach, will be able to stop Green Bay?
Scottie V's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 17. Interim Coach has his hands full with the Pack.
Vegas Lines Pick: Green Bay Packers by 14. Packers by 13.5, Over/Under 46.
Best Record Wins Pick: Green Bay Packers by 3. Packers better at 13-0.
Home Team Wins Pick: Kansas City Chiefs by 3.
New Orleans Saints at Minnesota Vikings
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 17. The Vikings do not have the secondary to match even the worst of the Saints receivers.
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 10. The Vikes QB situation is a mess.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans Saints by 7. Saints by 6.5, Over/Under 51.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans Saints by 3. Saints better at 10-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Minnesota Vikings by 3.
Washington Redskins at New York Giants
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York Giants by 3. I really, really, really want the Redskins to win this game.
Scottie V's Pick: New York Giants by 6. No confidence in the 'Skins.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York Giants by 7. Giants by 6.5, Over/Under 46.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York Giants by 3. Giants better at 7-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York Giants by 3.
Cincinnati Bengals at St. Louis Rams
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 15. After getting picked on by the bigger kids lately, Cincinnati will take their frustration out on the lowly Rams.
Scottie V's Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 4. Slipping Bengals get a road win.
Vegas Lines Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 7. Bengals by 6.5, Over/Under 40.
Best Record Wins Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 3. Bengals better at 7-6.
Home Team Wins Pick: St. Louis Rams by 3.
Detroit Lions at Oakland Raiders
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Oakland Raiders by 3. What's the over/under on penalty flags that will be thrown in this game? 20?
Scottie V's Pick: Oakland Raiders by 3. Tough teams to predict here… Giving the Raiders the nod at home.
Vegas Lines Pick: Detroit Lions by 1. Lions by 1, Over/Under 48.
Best Record Wins Pick: Detroit Lions by 3. Lions better at 8-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Oakland Raiders by 3.
Cleveland Browns at Arizona Cardinals
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 4. If the Cardinals can beat the 49ers, they can surely beat the Browns.
Scottie V's Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 6. The Cards are a tough out at home and McCoy is still banged up.
Vegas Lines Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 7. Cardinals by 6.5, Over/Under 36.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 3. Cardinals better at 6-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 3.
New England Patriots at Denver Broncos
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England Patriots by 10. The Tebow magic will finally come to an end this week, but not without some drama.
Scottie V's Pick: Denver Broncos by 3. Maybe picking more with my heart than my head, but who am I to pick against Tebow?
Vegas Lines Pick: New England Patriots by 7. Patriots by 6.5, Over/Under 46.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England Patriots by 3. Patriots better at 10-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Denver Broncos by 3.
New York Jets at Philadelphia Eagles
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York Jets by 4. The Jets are making their late season run.
Scottie V's Pick: Philadelphia Eagles by 6. Andy Reid is trying to score some late-season points with management.
Vegas Lines Pick: Philadelphia Eagles by 3. Eagles by 3, Over/Under 44.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York Jets by 3. Jets better at 8-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Philadelphia Eagles by 3.
Baltimore Ravens at San Diego Chargers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 7. San Diego's December magic won't save them against Baltimore.
Scottie V's Pick: San Diego Chargers by 4. SD is starting their late season "charge"… Knocking off the Ravens at home would be huge.
Vegas Lines Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 3. Ravens by 2.5, Over/Under 44.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 3. Ravens better at 10-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: San Diego Chargers by 3.
Check back next week for Monday Night's prediction.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Predictions of Creative Misfortune - TNF - Week 15 (2011)
The Falcons look to continue their playoff run while the Jaguars try and make the most of their spoiler role...
Thursday Night Game Prediction:
Jacksonville Jaguars at Atlanta Falcons
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 7. Despite Jacksonville's offensive explosion last week, they will find tougher sledding against the Falcons than the Buccaneers.
Scottie V's Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 4. Atlanta needs this game.
Vegas Lines Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 12. Falcons by 12, Over/Under 42.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3. Falcons better at 8-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3.
Check back tomorrow for the rest of Week 15's picks
Thursday Night Game Prediction:
Jacksonville Jaguars at Atlanta Falcons
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 7. Despite Jacksonville's offensive explosion last week, they will find tougher sledding against the Falcons than the Buccaneers.
Scottie V's Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 4. Atlanta needs this game.
Vegas Lines Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 12. Falcons by 12, Over/Under 42.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3. Falcons better at 8-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3.
Check back tomorrow for the rest of Week 15's picks
Creative Misfortune Power Rankings - Week 14 (2011)
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.
When it comes to Creative Misfortune Power Rankings, production is combined with potential to determine a team's true strength compared to the rest of the league. Winning isn't the only factor, but it is one of the most important components 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 - Indianapolis Colts (previous: 32)
About the best thing that can be said about the Colts is that their season will be over in three weeks.
# 31 - St. Louis Rams (previous: 31)
The Rams have showed just enough promise to avoid earning the #1 overall pick next year, but that's about it.
# 30 - Minnesota Vikings (previous: 30)
The Vikings continue to implode.
# 29 - Tampa Bay Buccaneers (previous: 28)
Seven straight losses by the Bucs makes you wonder if last year was more of a fluke than the beginning chapters of some coming of age story.
# 28 - Kansas City Chiefs (previous: 27)
Haley, gone. Now what?
The Creatively Challenged~
Folly remains ever their mistress
# 27 - Cleveland Browns (previous: 26)
Nobody expected the Browns to win last week. It's nice they didn’t disappoint anybody.
# 26 - Washington Redskins (previous: 25)
4-12 remains a distinct possibility, but the Redskins could at least beat the Giants this week, couldn’t they?
# 25 - Jacksonville Jaguars (previous: 29)
41 points! Sure, it came against the Buccaneers, but still… 41 points!
# 24 - Carolina Panthers (previous: 24)
Carolina was so close to ruining Atlanta's playoff chances. The Panthers need to learn how to close out games. It's not enough to lead them. You have to win them.
# 23 - Buffalo Bills (previous: 21)
Buffalo exhibited some signs of life in the third quarter against the Chargers, but beyond that, they failed quite miserably.
# 22 - Miami Dolphins (previous: 18)
The writing has been on the wall for quite some time now, so it was inevitable that Sparano would be fired, but at this point, why didn't the Dolphins just let him close out the season?
# 21 - Arizona Cardinals (previous: 22)
Just when you think the Cardinals are done, they turn spoiler.
The Remarkably Average~
Dancing the fine line between misfortune and glory
# 20 - Philadelphia Eagles (previous: 23)
The playoffs aren’t an option anymore, but a miserable season could be salvaged if the Eagles can run the table to finish an even 8-8.
# 19 - Seattle Seahawks (previous: 20)
Seattle is still mathematically alive for a playoff spot, but even a perfect run to 9-7 won’t be enough to get them to the second season.
# 18 - Oakland Raiders (previous: 15)
The season that once looked so promising is starting to slip away from the Raiders.
# 17 - Cincinnati Bengals (previous: 13)
The Bengals have dropped a couple and are now fading in the AFC.
# 16 - Tennessee Titans (previous: 9)
Tennessee is still in the thick of things, but after Houston clinched the division last week, the Titans can only hope to secure a Wild Card spot.
# 15 - Chicago Bears (previous: 14)
without a quarterback and a running back the Bears are pretty much dead.
# 14 - Dallas Cowboys (previous: 10)
The Cowboys should be 9-4, but terrible mental mistakes have taken the wind out of their sails. A Saturday night tilt against the Buccaneers will either get them back on track or kill any fading playoffs hopes they still have left.
# 13 - San Diego Chargers (previous: 19)
The Chargers traditionally have shined in December, but their early season troubles will make it difficult for them to snag a playoff spot in the tough AFC.
The Fortunate Seven~
The best of those not yet elite
# 12 - New York Giants (previous: 17)
Gritty play by Eli and the defensive line has the Giants back in control of their own destiny. More's the pity, I say.
# 11 - Denver Broncos (previous: 16)
Miracles or otherwise, Tebow keeps finding that fourth quarter magic and the rest of the Broncos believe they can win any game now. When was the last time you saw a game won by two 50+ yard field goals in the closing seconds? Even in Denver, this was an outstanding achievement by Matt Prater.
# 10 - Detroit Lions (previous: 8)
Stupid penalties again kept the Lions from a blowout win over the Vikings - but the missed face mask call at the end of the game may have saved their undisciplined season.
# 9 - New York Jets (previous: 12)
The Jets are making their late season run. Watch out.
# 8 - Atlanta Falcons (previous: 11)
The Falcons control their own destiny now. A Wild Card spot is theirs to lose.
# 7 - San Francisco 49ers (previous: 2)
Two losses in the last three weeks have hurt the 49ers. A trip to Pittsburgh should do little to help them recover their early-season form.
# 6 - Pittsburgh Steelers (previous: 7)
Another solid, if not glamorous, division victory has kept Pittsburgh in the playoff chase. However, with Baltimore playing so well, the Steelers could just as easily finish the #1 overall seed or the #6 Wild Card.
The Creative Elite~
Wielding misfortune at its finest
# 5 - New England Patriots (previous: 6)
The Patriots are a win away from clinching the division, but Brady better keep on throwing the ball if New England hopes to gain a bye-week advantage.
# 4 - New Orleans Saints (previous: 5)
The 49ers have stumbled and with games remaining against Minnesota, Atlanta and Carolina, New Orleans is primed to steal the NFC's remaining first-round bye.
# 3 - Houston Texans (previous: 3)
Yates picked up the Texans when the defense and running game failed to deliver. If the Texans continue to gain confidence from tough, close wins, they could be a surprising force once the second season starts.
# 2 - Baltimore Ravens (previous: 4)
At this point, Baltimore is the best team in the AFC.
# 1 - Green Bay Packers (previous: 1)
The Packers are playing at a level other teams can only dream about.
Week 14 Power Ranking Awards:
The Free Fallers - Tennessee Titans (-6), San Francisco 49ers (-5), Dallas Cowboys (-3), Cincinnati Bengals (-3), Miami Dolphins (-3)
The Biggest Movers - San Diego Chargers (+7), Denver Broncos (+6), New York Giants (+6), Jacksonville Jaguars (+5), Atlanta Falcons (+4)
Maintaining The Status Quo - Green Bay Packers (1), Houston Texans (3), Chicago Bears (14), Washington Redskins (25), Cleveland Browns (26), Kansas City Chiefs (27), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (28)
Creative Misfortune Super Bowl XLVI Favorite ~ After Week 14
Green Bay Packers
Check back later tonight for picks of the Jaguars-Falcons game.
When it comes to Creative Misfortune Power Rankings, production is combined with potential to determine a team's true strength compared to the rest of the league. Winning isn't the only factor, but it is one of the most important components 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 - Indianapolis Colts (previous: 32)
About the best thing that can be said about the Colts is that their season will be over in three weeks.
# 31 - St. Louis Rams (previous: 31)
The Rams have showed just enough promise to avoid earning the #1 overall pick next year, but that's about it.
# 30 - Minnesota Vikings (previous: 30)
The Vikings continue to implode.
# 29 - Tampa Bay Buccaneers (previous: 28)
Seven straight losses by the Bucs makes you wonder if last year was more of a fluke than the beginning chapters of some coming of age story.
# 28 - Kansas City Chiefs (previous: 27)
Haley, gone. Now what?
The Creatively Challenged~
Folly remains ever their mistress
# 27 - Cleveland Browns (previous: 26)
Nobody expected the Browns to win last week. It's nice they didn’t disappoint anybody.
# 26 - Washington Redskins (previous: 25)
4-12 remains a distinct possibility, but the Redskins could at least beat the Giants this week, couldn’t they?
# 25 - Jacksonville Jaguars (previous: 29)
41 points! Sure, it came against the Buccaneers, but still… 41 points!
# 24 - Carolina Panthers (previous: 24)
Carolina was so close to ruining Atlanta's playoff chances. The Panthers need to learn how to close out games. It's not enough to lead them. You have to win them.
# 23 - Buffalo Bills (previous: 21)
Buffalo exhibited some signs of life in the third quarter against the Chargers, but beyond that, they failed quite miserably.
# 22 - Miami Dolphins (previous: 18)
The writing has been on the wall for quite some time now, so it was inevitable that Sparano would be fired, but at this point, why didn't the Dolphins just let him close out the season?
# 21 - Arizona Cardinals (previous: 22)
Just when you think the Cardinals are done, they turn spoiler.
The Remarkably Average~
Dancing the fine line between misfortune and glory
# 20 - Philadelphia Eagles (previous: 23)
The playoffs aren’t an option anymore, but a miserable season could be salvaged if the Eagles can run the table to finish an even 8-8.
# 19 - Seattle Seahawks (previous: 20)
Seattle is still mathematically alive for a playoff spot, but even a perfect run to 9-7 won’t be enough to get them to the second season.
# 18 - Oakland Raiders (previous: 15)
The season that once looked so promising is starting to slip away from the Raiders.
# 17 - Cincinnati Bengals (previous: 13)
The Bengals have dropped a couple and are now fading in the AFC.
# 16 - Tennessee Titans (previous: 9)
Tennessee is still in the thick of things, but after Houston clinched the division last week, the Titans can only hope to secure a Wild Card spot.
# 15 - Chicago Bears (previous: 14)
without a quarterback and a running back the Bears are pretty much dead.
# 14 - Dallas Cowboys (previous: 10)
The Cowboys should be 9-4, but terrible mental mistakes have taken the wind out of their sails. A Saturday night tilt against the Buccaneers will either get them back on track or kill any fading playoffs hopes they still have left.
# 13 - San Diego Chargers (previous: 19)
The Chargers traditionally have shined in December, but their early season troubles will make it difficult for them to snag a playoff spot in the tough AFC.
The Fortunate Seven~
The best of those not yet elite
# 12 - New York Giants (previous: 17)
Gritty play by Eli and the defensive line has the Giants back in control of their own destiny. More's the pity, I say.
# 11 - Denver Broncos (previous: 16)
Miracles or otherwise, Tebow keeps finding that fourth quarter magic and the rest of the Broncos believe they can win any game now. When was the last time you saw a game won by two 50+ yard field goals in the closing seconds? Even in Denver, this was an outstanding achievement by Matt Prater.
# 10 - Detroit Lions (previous: 8)
Stupid penalties again kept the Lions from a blowout win over the Vikings - but the missed face mask call at the end of the game may have saved their undisciplined season.
# 9 - New York Jets (previous: 12)
The Jets are making their late season run. Watch out.
# 8 - Atlanta Falcons (previous: 11)
The Falcons control their own destiny now. A Wild Card spot is theirs to lose.
# 7 - San Francisco 49ers (previous: 2)
Two losses in the last three weeks have hurt the 49ers. A trip to Pittsburgh should do little to help them recover their early-season form.
# 6 - Pittsburgh Steelers (previous: 7)
Another solid, if not glamorous, division victory has kept Pittsburgh in the playoff chase. However, with Baltimore playing so well, the Steelers could just as easily finish the #1 overall seed or the #6 Wild Card.
The Creative Elite~
Wielding misfortune at its finest
# 5 - New England Patriots (previous: 6)
The Patriots are a win away from clinching the division, but Brady better keep on throwing the ball if New England hopes to gain a bye-week advantage.
# 4 - New Orleans Saints (previous: 5)
The 49ers have stumbled and with games remaining against Minnesota, Atlanta and Carolina, New Orleans is primed to steal the NFC's remaining first-round bye.
# 3 - Houston Texans (previous: 3)
Yates picked up the Texans when the defense and running game failed to deliver. If the Texans continue to gain confidence from tough, close wins, they could be a surprising force once the second season starts.
# 2 - Baltimore Ravens (previous: 4)
At this point, Baltimore is the best team in the AFC.
# 1 - Green Bay Packers (previous: 1)
The Packers are playing at a level other teams can only dream about.
Week 14 Power Ranking Awards:
The Free Fallers - Tennessee Titans (-6), San Francisco 49ers (-5), Dallas Cowboys (-3), Cincinnati Bengals (-3), Miami Dolphins (-3)
The Biggest Movers - San Diego Chargers (+7), Denver Broncos (+6), New York Giants (+6), Jacksonville Jaguars (+5), Atlanta Falcons (+4)
Maintaining The Status Quo - Green Bay Packers (1), Houston Texans (3), Chicago Bears (14), Washington Redskins (25), Cleveland Browns (26), Kansas City Chiefs (27), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (28)
Creative Misfortune Super Bowl XLVI Favorite ~ After Week 14
Green Bay Packers
Check back later tonight for picks of the Jaguars-Falcons game.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Week 14 - Divisional Round Results (2011) ~ "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..."
Only four teams remain in Creative Misfortune's fantasy playoffs!
How much of an impact did gaining a first round bye and the Bye-Week Advantage give Houston, Baltimore, Green Bay and New Orleans? See the divisional matchup results below to find out.
Creative Misfortune Playoff Schedule:
Week 15 - Championship Games
Week 16 - Creative Misfortune Fantasy Bowl II
High score of Divisional weekend goes to the Green Bay Packers, who scored 127 fantasy points. Even without their impressive 25-point bye-week advantage they still would have been the highest scoring team of the week.
Low score falls to the San Francisco 49ers at 58 fantasy points. The 49ers real-life loss to the Arizona Cardinals proved to be devastating. Not only did it damage their hopes of gaining a bye in the real NFL playoffs, it cost them a chance to advance to the championship round in fantasy football's second season.
Closest Game of the Week: Houston Texans 85, Pittsburgh Steelers 82. The AFC's highest seeded team needed every last bit of their bye-week advantage to get past the tough Pittsburgh Steelers. The Texans will be hard pressed to advance to Fantasy Bowl II without a bye-week advantage when they face the San Diego Chargers in the championship round. The Chargers were the only team to advance to the Championship round without the benefit of a bye-week advantage.
Fantasy Star of the Week: Marques Colston and Eli Manning, 22 points. While Marques Colston's 22 points propelled the Saints on to the next round, Eli Manning's 22 did little to help the Giants overcome Green Bay's bye-week advantage.
Divisional Game Results - Week 14
AFC #6 Pittsburgh Steelers (playing vs Cleveland Browns) at
AFC #1 Houston Texans (BWA*: +15) (playing at Cincinnati Bengals)
Fantasy Score: Houston Texans 85, Pittsburgh Steelers 82
Pittsburgh's Key Performers: Antonio Brown (21), Ben Roethlisberger (17), Defense (14)
Houston's Key Performers: T.J. Yates (19), Bye-Week Advantage (15), Kevin Walter (13), Owen Daniels (10)
AFC #4 San Diego Chargers (playing vs Buffalo Bills) at
AFC #2 Baltimore Ravens (BWA*: +18) (playing vs Indianapolis Colts)
Fantasy Score: San Diego Chargers 100, Baltimore Ravens 93
San Diego's Key Performers: Philip Rivers (19), Antonio Gates (18), Defense (17)
Baltimore's Key Performers: Ray Rice (18), Bye-Week Advantage (18), Joe Flacco (15), Torrey Smith (11)
NFC #6 New York Giants (playing at Dallas cowboys) at
NFC #1 Green Bay Packers (BWA*: +25) (playing vs oakland Raiders)
Fantasy Score: Green Bay Packers 127, New York Giants 95
New York's Key Performers: Eli Manning (22), Brandon Jacobs (22), Hakeem Nicks (16)
Green Bay's Key Performers: Bye-Week Advantage (25), Ryan Grant (21), Defense (18), Aaron Rodgers (17)
NFC #4 San Francisco 49ers (playing at Arizona Cardinals) at
NFC #2 New Orleans Saints (BWA*: +25) (playing at Tennessee Titans)
Fantasy Score: New Orleans Saints 101, San Francisco 49ers 58
San Francisco's Key Performers: David Akers (13), Frank Gore (13), Defense (8)
New Orleans' Key Performers: Bye-Week Advantage (25), Marques Colston (22), Drew Brees (21), John Kasay (10)
Championship Game Matchups - Week 15
AFC #4 San Diego Chargers (playing vs Baltimore Ravens) at
AFC #1 Houston Texans (playing vs Carolina Panthers)
NFC #2 New Orleans Saints (playing at Minnesota Vikings) at
NFC #1 Green Bay Packers (playing at Kansas City Chiefs)
Creative Misfortune Fantasy Playoff Seeds
AFC Seeds
Division Champions ~
1. Houston Texans (9-2, 845 pts)
2. Baltimore Ravens (8-3, 821 pts)
3. New England Patriots (7-4, 968 pts)
4. San Diego Chargers (6-5, 803 pts)
Wild Cards ~
5. Cincinnati Bengals (8-3, 765 pts)
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3, 760 pts)
NFC Seeds
Division Champions ~
1. Green Bay Packers (9-2, 997 pts)
2. New Orleans Saints (9-2, 975 pts)
3. Dallas Cowboys (8-3, 905 pts)
4. San Francisco 49ers (6-5, 740 points)
Wild Cards ~
5. Detroit Lions (7-4, 914 pts)
6. New York Giants (7-4, 851 pts)
Wild Card Game Results - Week 13
AFC #6 Pittsburgh Steelers (playing vs Cincinnati Bengals) at
AFC #3 New England Patriots (playing vs Indianapolis Colts)
Fantasy Score: Pittsburgh Steelers 92, New England Patriots 60
Pittsburgh's Key Performers: Defense (19), Rashard Mendenhall (18), Ben Roethlisberger (15)
New England's Key Performers: Tom Brady (19), Wes Welker (11), Stephen Gostkowski (7)
AFC #5 Cincinnati Bengals (playing at Pittsburgh Steelers) at
AFC #4 San Diego Chargers (playing at Jacksonville Jaguars)
Fantasy Score: San Diego Chargers 105, Cincinnati Bengals 31
Cincinnati's Key Performers: A.J. Green (15), Andy Dalton (9), Cedric Benson (5)
San Diego's Key Performers: Philip Rivers (23), Ryan Mathews (17), Malcolm Floyd (16)
NFC #6 New York Giants (playing vs Green Bay Packers) at
NFC #3 Dallas Cowboys (playing at Arizona Cardinals)
Fantasy Score: New York Giants 78, Dallas Cowboys 60
New York's Key Performers: Eli Manning (21), Hakeem Nicks (20), Lawrence Tynes (11)
Dallas' Key Performers: Tony Romo (15), Dez Bryant (14), Laurent Robinson (7)
NFC #5 Detroit Lions (playing at New Orleans Saints) at
NFC #4 San Francisco 49ers (playing vs St. Louis Rams)
Fantasy Score: San Francisco 49ers 98, Detroit Lions 67
Detroit's Key Performers: Mathew Stafford (18), Kevin Smith (13), Maurice Morris (12)
San Francisco's Key Performers: Alex Smith (19), Defense (18), Michael Crabtree (15)
Top Seeds Playing for Bye-Week Advantage*
AFC #1 - Houston Texans (playing vs Atlanta Falcons)
Fantasy Score: Houston Texans 61
Houston's Key Performers: Arian Foster (21), T.J. Yates (10), Andre Johnson (9)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 61/4 = 15.25 = +15 points
AFC #2 - Baltimore Ravens (playing at Cleveland Browns)
Fantasy Score: Baltimore Ravens 73
Baltimore's Key Performers: Ray Rice (27), Defense (15), Ricky Williams (13)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 73/4 = 18.25 = +18 points
NFC #1 - Green Bay Packers (playing at New York Giants)
Fantasy Score: Green Bay Packers 101
Green Bay's Key Performers: Aaron Rodgers (31), Donald Driver (15), Greg Jennings (15)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 101/4 = 25.25 = +25 points
NFC #2 - New Orleans Saints (playing vs Detroit Lions)
Fantasy Score: New Orleans 101
New Orleans' Key Performers: Drew Brees (25), Robert Meachem (17), Darren Sproles (12)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 101/4 = 25.25 = +25 points
*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 the Houston Texans score 80 fantasy points in Week 13 against Atlanta, 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.
Tomorrow, The Art of Creative Misfortune Power Rankings.
How much of an impact did gaining a first round bye and the Bye-Week Advantage give Houston, Baltimore, Green Bay and New Orleans? See the divisional matchup results below to find out.
Creative Misfortune Playoff Schedule:
Week 15 - Championship Games
Week 16 - Creative Misfortune Fantasy Bowl II
High score of Divisional weekend goes to the Green Bay Packers, who scored 127 fantasy points. Even without their impressive 25-point bye-week advantage they still would have been the highest scoring team of the week.
Low score falls to the San Francisco 49ers at 58 fantasy points. The 49ers real-life loss to the Arizona Cardinals proved to be devastating. Not only did it damage their hopes of gaining a bye in the real NFL playoffs, it cost them a chance to advance to the championship round in fantasy football's second season.
Closest Game of the Week: Houston Texans 85, Pittsburgh Steelers 82. The AFC's highest seeded team needed every last bit of their bye-week advantage to get past the tough Pittsburgh Steelers. The Texans will be hard pressed to advance to Fantasy Bowl II without a bye-week advantage when they face the San Diego Chargers in the championship round. The Chargers were the only team to advance to the Championship round without the benefit of a bye-week advantage.
Fantasy Star of the Week: Marques Colston and Eli Manning, 22 points. While Marques Colston's 22 points propelled the Saints on to the next round, Eli Manning's 22 did little to help the Giants overcome Green Bay's bye-week advantage.
Divisional Game Results - Week 14
AFC #6 Pittsburgh Steelers (playing vs Cleveland Browns) at
AFC #1 Houston Texans (BWA*: +15) (playing at Cincinnati Bengals)
Fantasy Score: Houston Texans 85, Pittsburgh Steelers 82
Pittsburgh's Key Performers: Antonio Brown (21), Ben Roethlisberger (17), Defense (14)
Houston's Key Performers: T.J. Yates (19), Bye-Week Advantage (15), Kevin Walter (13), Owen Daniels (10)
AFC #4 San Diego Chargers (playing vs Buffalo Bills) at
AFC #2 Baltimore Ravens (BWA*: +18) (playing vs Indianapolis Colts)
Fantasy Score: San Diego Chargers 100, Baltimore Ravens 93
San Diego's Key Performers: Philip Rivers (19), Antonio Gates (18), Defense (17)
Baltimore's Key Performers: Ray Rice (18), Bye-Week Advantage (18), Joe Flacco (15), Torrey Smith (11)
NFC #6 New York Giants (playing at Dallas cowboys) at
NFC #1 Green Bay Packers (BWA*: +25) (playing vs oakland Raiders)
Fantasy Score: Green Bay Packers 127, New York Giants 95
New York's Key Performers: Eli Manning (22), Brandon Jacobs (22), Hakeem Nicks (16)
Green Bay's Key Performers: Bye-Week Advantage (25), Ryan Grant (21), Defense (18), Aaron Rodgers (17)
NFC #4 San Francisco 49ers (playing at Arizona Cardinals) at
NFC #2 New Orleans Saints (BWA*: +25) (playing at Tennessee Titans)
Fantasy Score: New Orleans Saints 101, San Francisco 49ers 58
San Francisco's Key Performers: David Akers (13), Frank Gore (13), Defense (8)
New Orleans' Key Performers: Bye-Week Advantage (25), Marques Colston (22), Drew Brees (21), John Kasay (10)
Championship Game Matchups - Week 15
AFC #4 San Diego Chargers (playing vs Baltimore Ravens) at
AFC #1 Houston Texans (playing vs Carolina Panthers)
NFC #2 New Orleans Saints (playing at Minnesota Vikings) at
NFC #1 Green Bay Packers (playing at Kansas City Chiefs)
Creative Misfortune Fantasy Playoff Seeds
AFC Seeds
Division Champions ~
1. Houston Texans (9-2, 845 pts)
2. Baltimore Ravens (8-3, 821 pts)
3. New England Patriots (7-4, 968 pts)
4. San Diego Chargers (6-5, 803 pts)
Wild Cards ~
5. Cincinnati Bengals (8-3, 765 pts)
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3, 760 pts)
NFC Seeds
Division Champions ~
1. Green Bay Packers (9-2, 997 pts)
2. New Orleans Saints (9-2, 975 pts)
3. Dallas Cowboys (8-3, 905 pts)
4. San Francisco 49ers (6-5, 740 points)
Wild Cards ~
5. Detroit Lions (7-4, 914 pts)
6. New York Giants (7-4, 851 pts)
Wild Card Game Results - Week 13
AFC #6 Pittsburgh Steelers (playing vs Cincinnati Bengals) at
AFC #3 New England Patriots (playing vs Indianapolis Colts)
Fantasy Score: Pittsburgh Steelers 92, New England Patriots 60
Pittsburgh's Key Performers: Defense (19), Rashard Mendenhall (18), Ben Roethlisberger (15)
New England's Key Performers: Tom Brady (19), Wes Welker (11), Stephen Gostkowski (7)
AFC #5 Cincinnati Bengals (playing at Pittsburgh Steelers) at
AFC #4 San Diego Chargers (playing at Jacksonville Jaguars)
Fantasy Score: San Diego Chargers 105, Cincinnati Bengals 31
Cincinnati's Key Performers: A.J. Green (15), Andy Dalton (9), Cedric Benson (5)
San Diego's Key Performers: Philip Rivers (23), Ryan Mathews (17), Malcolm Floyd (16)
NFC #6 New York Giants (playing vs Green Bay Packers) at
NFC #3 Dallas Cowboys (playing at Arizona Cardinals)
Fantasy Score: New York Giants 78, Dallas Cowboys 60
New York's Key Performers: Eli Manning (21), Hakeem Nicks (20), Lawrence Tynes (11)
Dallas' Key Performers: Tony Romo (15), Dez Bryant (14), Laurent Robinson (7)
NFC #5 Detroit Lions (playing at New Orleans Saints) at
NFC #4 San Francisco 49ers (playing vs St. Louis Rams)
Fantasy Score: San Francisco 49ers 98, Detroit Lions 67
Detroit's Key Performers: Mathew Stafford (18), Kevin Smith (13), Maurice Morris (12)
San Francisco's Key Performers: Alex Smith (19), Defense (18), Michael Crabtree (15)
Top Seeds Playing for Bye-Week Advantage*
AFC #1 - Houston Texans (playing vs Atlanta Falcons)
Fantasy Score: Houston Texans 61
Houston's Key Performers: Arian Foster (21), T.J. Yates (10), Andre Johnson (9)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 61/4 = 15.25 = +15 points
AFC #2 - Baltimore Ravens (playing at Cleveland Browns)
Fantasy Score: Baltimore Ravens 73
Baltimore's Key Performers: Ray Rice (27), Defense (15), Ricky Williams (13)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 73/4 = 18.25 = +18 points
NFC #1 - Green Bay Packers (playing at New York Giants)
Fantasy Score: Green Bay Packers 101
Green Bay's Key Performers: Aaron Rodgers (31), Donald Driver (15), Greg Jennings (15)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 101/4 = 25.25 = +25 points
NFC #2 - New Orleans Saints (playing vs Detroit Lions)
Fantasy Score: New Orleans 101
New Orleans' Key Performers: Drew Brees (25), Robert Meachem (17), Darren Sproles (12)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 101/4 = 25.25 = +25 points
*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 the Houston Texans score 80 fantasy points in Week 13 against Atlanta, 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.
Tomorrow, The Art of Creative Misfortune Power Rankings.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Predictions of Creative Misfortune - MNF - Week 14 (2011)
Tonight's game has little playoff significance, but football is football. Enjoy!
Monday Night Game Prediction:
St. Louis Rams at Seattle Seahawks
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Seattle Seahawks by 11. Seattle is finally showing signs of life, but this is yet another dog of a Monday night game.
Scottie V's Pick: Seattle Seahawks by 13. Riding high after their emotional win last Thursday, the 'Hawks continue their momentum on Monday night.
Vegas Lines Pick: Seattle Seahawks by 7. Seahawks by 6.5, Over/Under 39.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Seattle Seahawks by 3. Seahawks better at 5-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Seattle Seahawks by 3.
The "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..." divisional playoff games took place this weekend! How many of the top seeded teams made the most of their bye-week advantages?
Monday Night Game Prediction:
St. Louis Rams at Seattle Seahawks
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Seattle Seahawks by 11. Seattle is finally showing signs of life, but this is yet another dog of a Monday night game.
Scottie V's Pick: Seattle Seahawks by 13. Riding high after their emotional win last Thursday, the 'Hawks continue their momentum on Monday night.
Vegas Lines Pick: Seattle Seahawks by 7. Seahawks by 6.5, Over/Under 39.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Seattle Seahawks by 3. Seahawks better at 5-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Seattle Seahawks by 3.
The "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..." divisional playoff games took place this weekend! How many of the top seeded teams made the most of their bye-week advantages?
Friday, December 9, 2011
Predictions of Creative Misfortune - Week 14 (2011)
Almost all of the NFC playoff hopefuls took a step back last week. With only four divisional matchups remaining on the slate, how much clearer will the playoff picture be come Tuesday?
Sunday Game Predictions:
Indianapolis Colts at Baltimore Ravens
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 24. The Colts can’t stop anybody these days.
Scottie V's Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 13. Yikes game of the week… I'm assuming that Ray Lewis will get another week of rest.
Vegas Lines Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 17. Ravens by 16.5, Over/Under 41.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 3. Ravens better at 9-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 3.
Atlanta Falcons at Carolina Panthers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 5. Turnovers killed the Falcons at Houston. That won’t be the case this week against Carolina.
Scottie V's Pick: Carolina Panthers by 4. Cam Newton continues to prove me wrong and I think he will want to stick it to their divisional foes at home.
Vegas Lines Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3. Falcons by 3, Over/Under 47.
Best Record Wins Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3. Falcons better at 7-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Carolina Panthers by 3.
Houston Texans at Cincinnati Bengals
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Houston Texans by 9. If Houston can beat Atlanta, they can beat Cincinnati.
Scottie V's Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 3. This game is a toss-up, but I look for the Bengals to bounce back at home.
Vegas Lines Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 3. Bengals by 3, Over/Under 38.
Best Record Wins Pick: Houston Texans by 3. Houston better at 9-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 3.
Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Detroit Lions by 12. Despite the personal fouls, the Lions will dominate Minnesota.
Scottie V's Pick: Detroit Lions by 6. Ponder is making Brett Favre look like a champion of ball security.
Vegas Lines Pick: Detroit Lions by 8. Lions by 8, Over/Under 48.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Detroit Lions by 3. Lions better at 7-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Detroit Lions by 3.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Jacksonville Jaguars
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars by 1. I don’t know what is going on with Tampa Bay, but it would seem the Bucs have checked out on their season already.
Scottie V's Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars by 6. These teams are hard to predict, but I think the Jags will recover from their unexpected beat-down by the Chargers.
Vegas Lines Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 1. Buccaneers by 1, Over/Under 37.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3. Buccaneers better at 4-8.
Home Team Wins Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars by 3.
Philadelphia Eagles at Miami Dolphins
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3. The Eagles will finally be eliminated from the playoff chase.
Scottie V's Pick: Miami Dolphins by 10. Who would have predicted this a couple months back? The Fins look like the greatest team ever and the Eagles are garbage.
Vegas Lines Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3. Dolphins by 3, Over/Under 45.
Best Record Wins Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3. Both teams at 4-8, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3.
Kansas City Chiefs at New York Jets
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York Jets by 12. New York is taking off on their annual December playoff run. The Chiefs won't be able to slow them down.
Scottie V's Pick: New York Jets by 8. The Chiefs are hurtin' and the Jets seem to be hitting their stride.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York Jets by 10. Jets by 10, Over/Under 36.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York Jets by 3. Jets better at 7-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York Jets by 3.
New Orleans Saints at Tennessee Titans
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 8. The Saints have to catch the 49ers…
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 10. The seemingly reborn Chris Johnson will give the Titans a chance, but this Saints team is bringing back visions of 2009-2010.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans Saints by 4. Saints by 3.5, Over/Under 48.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans Saints by 3. Saints better at 9-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Tennessee Titans by 3.
New England Patriots at Washington Redskins
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England Patriots by 14. The Patriots will exploit Washington's defense on the road.
Scottie V's Pick: New England Patriots by 13. The Pats are looking playoff-ready and focused.
Vegas Lines Pick: New England Patriots by 8. Patriots by 8, Over/Under 48.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England Patriots by 3. Patriots better at 9-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Washington Redskins by 3.
San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals
Creative Misfortune's Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 14. The 49ers have clinched, but with New Orleans driving hard behind them, they cannot afford to drop any games.
Scottie V's Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 10. The Cards are playing some inspired ball, but Captain Comeback has his guys playing out of their minds.
Vegas Lines Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 4. 49ers by 3.5, Over/Under 40.
Best Record Wins Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 3. 49ers better at 10-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 3.
Chicago Bears at Denver Broncos
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Denver Broncos by 3. Until they lose again, how can you bet against the Broncos?
Scottie V's Pick: Denver Broncos by 6. I've got a serious case of Tebow Fever and I don't want the cure!
Vegas Lines Pick: Denver Broncos by 4. Broncos by 3.5, Over/Under 35.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Denver Broncos by 3. Both teams at 7-5, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Denver Broncos by 3.
Oakland Raiders at Green Bay Packers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 16. Oakland just isn’t healthy enough to keep pace with the Packers.
Scottie V's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 10. As the Pack continue their pursuit of perfection, the Raiders put up a fight in the first half, then falter.
Vegas Lines Pick: Green Bay Packers by 11. Packers by 11, Over/Under 51.
Best Record Wins Pick: Green Bay Packers by 3. Packers better at 12-0.
Home Team Wins Pick: Green Bay Packers by 3.
Buffalo Bills at San Diego Chargers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: San Diego Chargers by 2. The Chargers finally have a bit of confidence after last week's win. The Bills… not so much.
Scottie V's Pick: San Diego Chargers by 8. Was Monday night a sign of a late-season surge or just a flash in the pan? Either way, it looks like the Bills are starting to fade.
Vegas Lines Pick: San Diego Chargers by 7. Chargers by 7, Over/Under 48.
Best Record Wins Pick: San Diego Chargers by 3. Both teams at 5-7, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: San Diego Chargers by 3.
New York Giants at Dallas Cowboys
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 6. Dallas will avoid the mental mistakes and distance themselves a bit from the Giants.
Scottie V's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3. Hmmm… Too tough teams to figure out… I'll give the nod to the home team.
Vegas Lines Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3. Cowboys by 3, Over/Under 48.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3. Cowboys better at 7-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3.
Check back next week for Monday Night's prediction.
Sunday Game Predictions:
Indianapolis Colts at Baltimore Ravens
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 24. The Colts can’t stop anybody these days.
Scottie V's Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 13. Yikes game of the week… I'm assuming that Ray Lewis will get another week of rest.
Vegas Lines Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 17. Ravens by 16.5, Over/Under 41.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 3. Ravens better at 9-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 3.
Atlanta Falcons at Carolina Panthers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 5. Turnovers killed the Falcons at Houston. That won’t be the case this week against Carolina.
Scottie V's Pick: Carolina Panthers by 4. Cam Newton continues to prove me wrong and I think he will want to stick it to their divisional foes at home.
Vegas Lines Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3. Falcons by 3, Over/Under 47.
Best Record Wins Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3. Falcons better at 7-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Carolina Panthers by 3.
Houston Texans at Cincinnati Bengals
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Houston Texans by 9. If Houston can beat Atlanta, they can beat Cincinnati.
Scottie V's Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 3. This game is a toss-up, but I look for the Bengals to bounce back at home.
Vegas Lines Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 3. Bengals by 3, Over/Under 38.
Best Record Wins Pick: Houston Texans by 3. Houston better at 9-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Cincinnati Bengals by 3.
Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Detroit Lions by 12. Despite the personal fouls, the Lions will dominate Minnesota.
Scottie V's Pick: Detroit Lions by 6. Ponder is making Brett Favre look like a champion of ball security.
Vegas Lines Pick: Detroit Lions by 8. Lions by 8, Over/Under 48.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Detroit Lions by 3. Lions better at 7-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Detroit Lions by 3.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Jacksonville Jaguars
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars by 1. I don’t know what is going on with Tampa Bay, but it would seem the Bucs have checked out on their season already.
Scottie V's Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars by 6. These teams are hard to predict, but I think the Jags will recover from their unexpected beat-down by the Chargers.
Vegas Lines Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 1. Buccaneers by 1, Over/Under 37.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3. Buccaneers better at 4-8.
Home Team Wins Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars by 3.
Philadelphia Eagles at Miami Dolphins
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3. The Eagles will finally be eliminated from the playoff chase.
Scottie V's Pick: Miami Dolphins by 10. Who would have predicted this a couple months back? The Fins look like the greatest team ever and the Eagles are garbage.
Vegas Lines Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3. Dolphins by 3, Over/Under 45.
Best Record Wins Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3. Both teams at 4-8, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3.
Kansas City Chiefs at New York Jets
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York Jets by 12. New York is taking off on their annual December playoff run. The Chiefs won't be able to slow them down.
Scottie V's Pick: New York Jets by 8. The Chiefs are hurtin' and the Jets seem to be hitting their stride.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York Jets by 10. Jets by 10, Over/Under 36.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York Jets by 3. Jets better at 7-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York Jets by 3.
New Orleans Saints at Tennessee Titans
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 8. The Saints have to catch the 49ers…
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 10. The seemingly reborn Chris Johnson will give the Titans a chance, but this Saints team is bringing back visions of 2009-2010.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans Saints by 4. Saints by 3.5, Over/Under 48.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans Saints by 3. Saints better at 9-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Tennessee Titans by 3.
New England Patriots at Washington Redskins
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England Patriots by 14. The Patriots will exploit Washington's defense on the road.
Scottie V's Pick: New England Patriots by 13. The Pats are looking playoff-ready and focused.
Vegas Lines Pick: New England Patriots by 8. Patriots by 8, Over/Under 48.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England Patriots by 3. Patriots better at 9-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Washington Redskins by 3.
San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals
Creative Misfortune's Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 14. The 49ers have clinched, but with New Orleans driving hard behind them, they cannot afford to drop any games.
Scottie V's Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 10. The Cards are playing some inspired ball, but Captain Comeback has his guys playing out of their minds.
Vegas Lines Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 4. 49ers by 3.5, Over/Under 40.
Best Record Wins Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 3. 49ers better at 10-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 3.
Chicago Bears at Denver Broncos
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Denver Broncos by 3. Until they lose again, how can you bet against the Broncos?
Scottie V's Pick: Denver Broncos by 6. I've got a serious case of Tebow Fever and I don't want the cure!
Vegas Lines Pick: Denver Broncos by 4. Broncos by 3.5, Over/Under 35.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Denver Broncos by 3. Both teams at 7-5, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: Denver Broncos by 3.
Oakland Raiders at Green Bay Packers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 16. Oakland just isn’t healthy enough to keep pace with the Packers.
Scottie V's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 10. As the Pack continue their pursuit of perfection, the Raiders put up a fight in the first half, then falter.
Vegas Lines Pick: Green Bay Packers by 11. Packers by 11, Over/Under 51.
Best Record Wins Pick: Green Bay Packers by 3. Packers better at 12-0.
Home Team Wins Pick: Green Bay Packers by 3.
Buffalo Bills at San Diego Chargers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: San Diego Chargers by 2. The Chargers finally have a bit of confidence after last week's win. The Bills… not so much.
Scottie V's Pick: San Diego Chargers by 8. Was Monday night a sign of a late-season surge or just a flash in the pan? Either way, it looks like the Bills are starting to fade.
Vegas Lines Pick: San Diego Chargers by 7. Chargers by 7, Over/Under 48.
Best Record Wins Pick: San Diego Chargers by 3. Both teams at 5-7, advantage home.
Home Team Wins Pick: San Diego Chargers by 3.
New York Giants at Dallas Cowboys
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 6. Dallas will avoid the mental mistakes and distance themselves a bit from the Giants.
Scottie V's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3. Hmmm… Too tough teams to figure out… I'll give the nod to the home team.
Vegas Lines Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3. Cowboys by 3, Over/Under 48.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3. Cowboys better at 7-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3.
Check back next week for Monday Night's prediction.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Predictions of Creative Misfortune - TNF - Week 14 (2011)
Thursday Night Football tonight - no surprises here. All systems expect Pittsburgh to clean up and hand the Browns yet another loss.
Thursday Night Game Prediction:
Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 11. I don’t see how Pittsburgh loses this game.
Scottie V's Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 13. The Steelers running attack looked solid for the first time in a while last weekend… If that continues, they could be a real contender in the playoffs.
Vegas Lines Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 14. Steelers by 14, Over/Under 40.
Best Record Wins Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 3. Steelers better at 9-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 3.
Check back tomorrow for the remainder of the Week 14 picks.
Thursday Night Game Prediction:
Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 11. I don’t see how Pittsburgh loses this game.
Scottie V's Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 13. The Steelers running attack looked solid for the first time in a while last weekend… If that continues, they could be a real contender in the playoffs.
Vegas Lines Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 14. Steelers by 14, Over/Under 40.
Best Record Wins Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 3. Steelers better at 9-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 3.
Check back tomorrow for the remainder of the Week 14 picks.
Creative Misfortune Power Rankings - Week 13 (2011)
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.
When it comes to Creative Misfortune Power Rankings, production is combined with potential to determine a team's true strength compared to the rest of the league. Winning isn't the only factor, but it is one of the most important components 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 - Indianapolis Colts (previous: 32)
The misery of the Colts season continues.
# 31 - St. Louis Rams (previous: 31)
Nothing says "we haven't given up" like scoring 0 points against your division rival.
# 30 - Minnesota Vikings (previous: 30)
If the Vikings could just win half of the games they were leading at some point, just think how good their record could be.
# 29 - Jacksonville Jaguars (previous: 28)
A fired coach. The team up for sale. Despite all that, Jones-Drew continues to put up nice fantasy numbers.
# 28 - Tampa Bay Buccaneers (previous: 27)
If the Buccaneers can't find some positivity by season's end, they will have to make some significant changes if they want to have any chance in a tough division next year.
The Creatively Challenged~
Folly remains ever their mistress
# 27 - Kansas City Chiefs (previous: 29)
Hail Mary passes don't generally win games at the end of the first half. Maybe Kansas City's luck is about to change for the better.
# 26 - Cleveland Browns (previous: 25)
Three games out of four against the Ravens and the Steelers should put the exclamation point on Cleveland's forgettable 2011 campaign.
# 25 - Washington Redskins (previous: 24)
A few suspensions should help the Redskins finish on a 1-12 run after starting 3-0.
# 24 - Carolina Panthers (previous: 26)
A few more wins - and Cincinnati's struggles - should make Cam Newton a lock for Rookie of the Year.
# 23 - Philadelphia Eagles (previous: 19)
The Eagles are on absolute life support, but with the recent struggles in Dallas and New York, who knows what will happen the next four weeks.
# 22 - Arizona Cardinals (previous: 23)
Sometimes the only thing better than calling a timeout is not calling a timeout. It's worked for Andy Reid all these years, it certainly worked for Ken Whisenhunt last Sunday.
# 21 - Buffalo Bills (previous: 18)
The luster is certainly gone from Buffalo's scintillating 4-1 start.
The Remarkably Average~
Dancing the fine line between misfortune and glory
# 20 - Seattle Seahawks (previous: 22)
Marshawn Lynch is finally adding some much needed life to the Seahawks, though it is too little, too late for Seattle.
# 19 - San Diego Chargers (previous: 21)
San Diego made the most of catching Jacksonville at the right time. They'll have to be near perfect in order to catch Oakland and Denver.
# 18 - Miami Dolphins (previous: 20)
The talk of firing Coach Sparano has died down since Miami's success of late.
# 17 - New York Giants (previous: 17)
Despite four straight losses, the Giants still control their own destiny with two games still remaining against division-leading Dallas.
# 16 - Denver Broncos (previous: 16)
The Broncos are winning because they believe they can. Plain and simple.
# 15 - Oakland Raiders (previous: 15)
Oakland's misstep in Miami has shifted control of the division to Denver, but if they can get healthy quick, it is their division to lose.
# 14 - Chicago Bears (previous: 8)
For a while Martz had figured out how to make the Bears offense successful… but the losses of Forte and Cutler have brought back out his pass-wacky style.
# 13 - Cincinnati Bengals (previous: 11)
Tough losses of late have slowed Cincinnati's surprising run at the playoffs.
The Fortunate Seven~
The best of those not yet elite
# 12 - New York Jets (previous: 14)
New York is on the outside looking in at the playoffs after 12 weeks, but if any team has the ability to make a late season run deep into the playoffs, the Jets do.
# 11 - Atlanta Falcons (previous: 12)
A loss to the Texans hurts, but doesn't end Atlanta's playoffs hopes after most other NFC hopefuls stumbled last week.
# 10 - Dallas Cowboys (previous: 10)
What a unique way to lose – icing your own kicker? Awesome. That has to be some kind of record!
# 9 - Tennessee Titans (previous: 13)
Chris Johnson is suddenly playing like Chris Johnson and the Titans are all the better for it.
# 8 - Detroit Lions (previous: 9)
The most undisciplined team in the NFL continues to self-destruct.
# 7 - Pittsburgh Steelers (previous: 7)
Pittsburgh is quietly starting to dominate teams as they solidify their spot in the playoffs.
# 6 - New England Patriots (previous: 3)
Did Belichick call off the dogs against Indianapolis last week after building an early lead or did the Colts actually shut this high-powered offense down in the second half?
The Creative Elite~
Wielding misfortune at its finest
# 5 - New Orleans Saints (previous: 5)
Until the Saints catch up with the 49ers, Drew Brees has no reason not to keep chasing Dan Marino's passing records.
# 4 - Baltimore Ravens (previous: 4)
A power running game and strong defensive play often mean the difference between winning and losing in the playoffs. Baltimore has both.
# 3 - Houston Texans (previous: 2)
When the Texans can defeat a playoff caliber team with a third-string quarterback, you know something is going right in Texas.
# 2 - San Francisco 49ers (previous: 6)
San Francisco probably won't be able to catch Green Bay for the best overall record in the NFC, but they should keep hold of their bye-week positioning.
# 1 - Green Bay Packers (previous: 1)
We will know Green Bay is unstoppable if they ever win a game 10-7. Despite being undefeated, are the Packers capable of winning a close, defensive struggle?
Week 13 Power Ranking Awards:
The Free Fallers - Chicago Bears (-6), Philadelphia Eagles (-4), New England Patriots (-3), Buffalo Bills (-3), Cincinnati Bengals (-2)
The Biggest Movers - San Francisco 49ers (+4), Tennessee Titans (+4), New York Jets (+2), Miami Dolphins (+2), San Diego Chargers (+2)
Maintaining The Status Quo - Green Bay Packers (1), Baltimore Ravens (4), New Orleans Saints (5), Pittsburgh Steelers (7), Dallas Cowboys (10), Oakland Raiders (15), Denver Broncos (16), New York Giants (17), Minnesota Vikings (30), St. Louis Rams (31), Indianapolis Colts (32)
Creative Misfortune Super Bowl XLVI Favorite ~ After Week 13
Green Bay Packers
Check back later tonight for Pittsburgh vs Cleveland picks. I don't expect there to be any surprises...
When it comes to Creative Misfortune Power Rankings, production is combined with potential to determine a team's true strength compared to the rest of the league. Winning isn't the only factor, but it is one of the most important components 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 - Indianapolis Colts (previous: 32)
The misery of the Colts season continues.
# 31 - St. Louis Rams (previous: 31)
Nothing says "we haven't given up" like scoring 0 points against your division rival.
# 30 - Minnesota Vikings (previous: 30)
If the Vikings could just win half of the games they were leading at some point, just think how good their record could be.
# 29 - Jacksonville Jaguars (previous: 28)
A fired coach. The team up for sale. Despite all that, Jones-Drew continues to put up nice fantasy numbers.
# 28 - Tampa Bay Buccaneers (previous: 27)
If the Buccaneers can't find some positivity by season's end, they will have to make some significant changes if they want to have any chance in a tough division next year.
The Creatively Challenged~
Folly remains ever their mistress
# 27 - Kansas City Chiefs (previous: 29)
Hail Mary passes don't generally win games at the end of the first half. Maybe Kansas City's luck is about to change for the better.
# 26 - Cleveland Browns (previous: 25)
Three games out of four against the Ravens and the Steelers should put the exclamation point on Cleveland's forgettable 2011 campaign.
# 25 - Washington Redskins (previous: 24)
A few suspensions should help the Redskins finish on a 1-12 run after starting 3-0.
# 24 - Carolina Panthers (previous: 26)
A few more wins - and Cincinnati's struggles - should make Cam Newton a lock for Rookie of the Year.
# 23 - Philadelphia Eagles (previous: 19)
The Eagles are on absolute life support, but with the recent struggles in Dallas and New York, who knows what will happen the next four weeks.
# 22 - Arizona Cardinals (previous: 23)
Sometimes the only thing better than calling a timeout is not calling a timeout. It's worked for Andy Reid all these years, it certainly worked for Ken Whisenhunt last Sunday.
# 21 - Buffalo Bills (previous: 18)
The luster is certainly gone from Buffalo's scintillating 4-1 start.
The Remarkably Average~
Dancing the fine line between misfortune and glory
# 20 - Seattle Seahawks (previous: 22)
Marshawn Lynch is finally adding some much needed life to the Seahawks, though it is too little, too late for Seattle.
# 19 - San Diego Chargers (previous: 21)
San Diego made the most of catching Jacksonville at the right time. They'll have to be near perfect in order to catch Oakland and Denver.
# 18 - Miami Dolphins (previous: 20)
The talk of firing Coach Sparano has died down since Miami's success of late.
# 17 - New York Giants (previous: 17)
Despite four straight losses, the Giants still control their own destiny with two games still remaining against division-leading Dallas.
# 16 - Denver Broncos (previous: 16)
The Broncos are winning because they believe they can. Plain and simple.
# 15 - Oakland Raiders (previous: 15)
Oakland's misstep in Miami has shifted control of the division to Denver, but if they can get healthy quick, it is their division to lose.
# 14 - Chicago Bears (previous: 8)
For a while Martz had figured out how to make the Bears offense successful… but the losses of Forte and Cutler have brought back out his pass-wacky style.
# 13 - Cincinnati Bengals (previous: 11)
Tough losses of late have slowed Cincinnati's surprising run at the playoffs.
The Fortunate Seven~
The best of those not yet elite
# 12 - New York Jets (previous: 14)
New York is on the outside looking in at the playoffs after 12 weeks, but if any team has the ability to make a late season run deep into the playoffs, the Jets do.
# 11 - Atlanta Falcons (previous: 12)
A loss to the Texans hurts, but doesn't end Atlanta's playoffs hopes after most other NFC hopefuls stumbled last week.
# 10 - Dallas Cowboys (previous: 10)
What a unique way to lose – icing your own kicker? Awesome. That has to be some kind of record!
# 9 - Tennessee Titans (previous: 13)
Chris Johnson is suddenly playing like Chris Johnson and the Titans are all the better for it.
# 8 - Detroit Lions (previous: 9)
The most undisciplined team in the NFL continues to self-destruct.
# 7 - Pittsburgh Steelers (previous: 7)
Pittsburgh is quietly starting to dominate teams as they solidify their spot in the playoffs.
# 6 - New England Patriots (previous: 3)
Did Belichick call off the dogs against Indianapolis last week after building an early lead or did the Colts actually shut this high-powered offense down in the second half?
The Creative Elite~
Wielding misfortune at its finest
# 5 - New Orleans Saints (previous: 5)
Until the Saints catch up with the 49ers, Drew Brees has no reason not to keep chasing Dan Marino's passing records.
# 4 - Baltimore Ravens (previous: 4)
A power running game and strong defensive play often mean the difference between winning and losing in the playoffs. Baltimore has both.
# 3 - Houston Texans (previous: 2)
When the Texans can defeat a playoff caliber team with a third-string quarterback, you know something is going right in Texas.
# 2 - San Francisco 49ers (previous: 6)
San Francisco probably won't be able to catch Green Bay for the best overall record in the NFC, but they should keep hold of their bye-week positioning.
# 1 - Green Bay Packers (previous: 1)
We will know Green Bay is unstoppable if they ever win a game 10-7. Despite being undefeated, are the Packers capable of winning a close, defensive struggle?
Week 13 Power Ranking Awards:
The Free Fallers - Chicago Bears (-6), Philadelphia Eagles (-4), New England Patriots (-3), Buffalo Bills (-3), Cincinnati Bengals (-2)
The Biggest Movers - San Francisco 49ers (+4), Tennessee Titans (+4), New York Jets (+2), Miami Dolphins (+2), San Diego Chargers (+2)
Maintaining The Status Quo - Green Bay Packers (1), Baltimore Ravens (4), New Orleans Saints (5), Pittsburgh Steelers (7), Dallas Cowboys (10), Oakland Raiders (15), Denver Broncos (16), New York Giants (17), Minnesota Vikings (30), St. Louis Rams (31), Indianapolis Colts (32)
Creative Misfortune Super Bowl XLVI Favorite ~ After Week 13
Green Bay Packers
Check back later tonight for Pittsburgh vs Cleveland picks. I don't expect there to be any surprises...
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Week 13 - Wild Card Results (2011) ~ "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..."
Creative Misfortune's fantasy playoffs are in full swing! Wild Card matchup results are shown below.
Creative Misfortune Upcoming Playoff Schedule:
Week 14 - Divisional Games
Week 15 - Championship Games
Week 16 - Creative Misfortune Fantasy Bowl II
High score of Wild Card weekend goes to the San Diego Chargers, who scored 105 fantasy points in their Monday night game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The impressive display helped them crush the Cincinnati Bengals in their Wild Card matchup.
Low score falls to the Cincinnati Bengals at 31 fantasy points. The Bengals scored the fewest points out of all the fantasy playoff teams as their real-life struggles against the Pittsburgh Steelers continued.
Closest Game of the Week: New York Giants 78, Dallas Cowboys 60. The Giants moved one step closer to defending their 2010 "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..." title by defeating their division rivals in a close game. Could a real-life victory against the Cowboys on Sunday night propel the Giants into the NFC Fantasy Championship game? Let's hope not...
Fantasy Star of the Week: Aaron Rodgers, 31 points. Rodgers led the Packers to over 100 points as they gain an impressive 25-point bye week advantage for their divisional matchup next week against the New York Giants - a rematch of a divisional contest in 2010's fantasy season that the Giants won 77-57, despite the Packers having a 23-point bye week advantage bonus. Could a similar result be in the works for this rematch?
Wild Card Game Results - Week 13
AFC #6 Pittsburgh Steelers (playing vs Cincinnati Bengals) at
AFC #3 New England Patriots (playing vs Indianapolis Colts)
Fantasy Score: Pittsburgh Steelers 92, New England Patriots 60
Pittsburgh's Key Performers: Defense (19), Rashard Mendenhall (18), Ben Roethlisberger (15)
New England's Key Performers: Tom Brady (19), Wes Welker (11), Stephen Gostkowski (7)
AFC #5 Cincinnati Bengals (playing at Pittsburgh Steelers) at
AFC #4 San Diego Chargers (playing at Jacksonville Jaguars)
Fantasy Score: San Diego Chargers 105, Cincinnati Bengals 31
Cincinnati's Key Performers: A.J. Green (15), Andy Dalton (9), Cedric Benson (5)
San Diego's Key Performers: Philip Rivers (23), Ryan Mathews (17), Malcolm Floyd (16)
NFC #6 New York Giants (playing vs Green Bay Packers) at
NFC #3 Dallas Cowboys (playing at Arizona Cardinals)
Fantasy Score: New York Giants 78, Dallas Cowboys 60
New York's Key Performers: Eli Manning (21), Hakeem Nicks (20), Lawrence Tynes (11)
Dallas' Key Performers: Tony Romo (15), Dez Bryant (14), Laurent Robinson (7)
NFC #5 Detroit Lions (playing at New Orleans Saints) at
NFC #4 San Francisco 49ers (playing vs St. Louis Rams)
Fantasy Score: San Francisco 49ers 98, Detroit Lions 67
Detroit's Key Performers: Mathew Stafford (18), Kevin Smith (13), Maurice Morris (12)
San Francisco's Key Performers: Alex Smith (19), Defense (18), Michael Crabtree (15)
Top Seeds Playing for Bye-Week Advantage*
AFC #1 - Houston Texans (playing vs Atlanta Falcons)
Fantasy Score: Houston Texans 61
Houston's Key Performers: Arian Foster (21), T.J. Yates (10), Andre Johnson (9)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 61/4 = 15.25 = +15 points
AFC #2 - Baltimore Ravens (playing at Cleveland Browns)
Fantasy Score: Baltimore Ravens 73
Baltimore's Key Performers: Ray Rice (27), Defense (15), Ricky Williams (13)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 73/4 = 18.25 = +18 points
NFC #1 - Green Bay Packers (playing at New York Giants)
Fantasy Score: Green Bay Packers 101
Green Bay's Key Performers: Aaron Rodgers (31), Donald Driver (15), Greg Jennings (15)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 101/4 = 25.25 = +25 points
NFC #2 - New Orleans Saints (playing vs Detroit Lions)
Fantasy Score: New Orleans 101
New Orleans' Key Performers: Drew Brees (25), Robert Meachem (17), Darren Sproles (12)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 101/4 = 25.25 = +25 points
*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 the Houston Texans score 80 fantasy points in Week 13 against Atlanta, 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.
Divisional Game Matchups - Week 14
AFC #6 Pittsburgh Steelers (playing vs Cleveland Browns) at
AFC #1 Houston Texans (BWA*: +15) (playing at Cincinnati Bengals)
AFC #4 San Diego Chargers (playing vs Buffalo Bills) at
AFC #2 Baltimore Ravens (BWA*: +18) (playing vs Indianapolis Colts)
NFC #6 New York Giants (playing at Dallas cowboys) at
NFC #1 Green Bay Packers (BWA*: +25) (playing vs oakland Raiders)
NFC #4 San Francisco 49ers (playing at Arizona Cardinals) at
NFC #2 New Orleans Saints (BWA*: +25) (playing at Tennessee Titans)
Creative Misfortune Fantasy Playoff Seeds
AFC Seeds
Division Champions ~
1. Houston Texans (9-2, 845 pts)
2. Baltimore Ravens (8-3, 821 pts)
3. New England Patriots (7-4, 968 pts)
4. San Diego Chargers (6-5, 803 pts)
Wild Cards ~
5. Cincinnati Bengals (8-3, 765 pts)
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3, 760 pts)
NFC Seeds
Division Champions ~
1. Green Bay Packers (9-2, 997 pts)
2. New Orleans Saints (9-2, 975 pts)
3. Dallas Cowboys (8-3, 905 pts)
4. San Francisco 49ers (6-5, 740 points)
Wild Cards ~
5. Detroit Lions (7-4, 914 pts)
6. New York Giants (7-4, 851 pts)
Tomorrow, The Art of Creative Misfortune Power Rankings.
Creative Misfortune Upcoming Playoff Schedule:
Week 14 - Divisional Games
Week 15 - Championship Games
Week 16 - Creative Misfortune Fantasy Bowl II
High score of Wild Card weekend goes to the San Diego Chargers, who scored 105 fantasy points in their Monday night game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The impressive display helped them crush the Cincinnati Bengals in their Wild Card matchup.
Low score falls to the Cincinnati Bengals at 31 fantasy points. The Bengals scored the fewest points out of all the fantasy playoff teams as their real-life struggles against the Pittsburgh Steelers continued.
Closest Game of the Week: New York Giants 78, Dallas Cowboys 60. The Giants moved one step closer to defending their 2010 "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..." title by defeating their division rivals in a close game. Could a real-life victory against the Cowboys on Sunday night propel the Giants into the NFC Fantasy Championship game? Let's hope not...
Fantasy Star of the Week: Aaron Rodgers, 31 points. Rodgers led the Packers to over 100 points as they gain an impressive 25-point bye week advantage for their divisional matchup next week against the New York Giants - a rematch of a divisional contest in 2010's fantasy season that the Giants won 77-57, despite the Packers having a 23-point bye week advantage bonus. Could a similar result be in the works for this rematch?
Wild Card Game Results - Week 13
AFC #6 Pittsburgh Steelers (playing vs Cincinnati Bengals) at
AFC #3 New England Patriots (playing vs Indianapolis Colts)
Fantasy Score: Pittsburgh Steelers 92, New England Patriots 60
Pittsburgh's Key Performers: Defense (19), Rashard Mendenhall (18), Ben Roethlisberger (15)
New England's Key Performers: Tom Brady (19), Wes Welker (11), Stephen Gostkowski (7)
AFC #5 Cincinnati Bengals (playing at Pittsburgh Steelers) at
AFC #4 San Diego Chargers (playing at Jacksonville Jaguars)
Fantasy Score: San Diego Chargers 105, Cincinnati Bengals 31
Cincinnati's Key Performers: A.J. Green (15), Andy Dalton (9), Cedric Benson (5)
San Diego's Key Performers: Philip Rivers (23), Ryan Mathews (17), Malcolm Floyd (16)
NFC #6 New York Giants (playing vs Green Bay Packers) at
NFC #3 Dallas Cowboys (playing at Arizona Cardinals)
Fantasy Score: New York Giants 78, Dallas Cowboys 60
New York's Key Performers: Eli Manning (21), Hakeem Nicks (20), Lawrence Tynes (11)
Dallas' Key Performers: Tony Romo (15), Dez Bryant (14), Laurent Robinson (7)
NFC #5 Detroit Lions (playing at New Orleans Saints) at
NFC #4 San Francisco 49ers (playing vs St. Louis Rams)
Fantasy Score: San Francisco 49ers 98, Detroit Lions 67
Detroit's Key Performers: Mathew Stafford (18), Kevin Smith (13), Maurice Morris (12)
San Francisco's Key Performers: Alex Smith (19), Defense (18), Michael Crabtree (15)
Top Seeds Playing for Bye-Week Advantage*
AFC #1 - Houston Texans (playing vs Atlanta Falcons)
Fantasy Score: Houston Texans 61
Houston's Key Performers: Arian Foster (21), T.J. Yates (10), Andre Johnson (9)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 61/4 = 15.25 = +15 points
AFC #2 - Baltimore Ravens (playing at Cleveland Browns)
Fantasy Score: Baltimore Ravens 73
Baltimore's Key Performers: Ray Rice (27), Defense (15), Ricky Williams (13)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 73/4 = 18.25 = +18 points
NFC #1 - Green Bay Packers (playing at New York Giants)
Fantasy Score: Green Bay Packers 101
Green Bay's Key Performers: Aaron Rodgers (31), Donald Driver (15), Greg Jennings (15)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 101/4 = 25.25 = +25 points
NFC #2 - New Orleans Saints (playing vs Detroit Lions)
Fantasy Score: New Orleans 101
New Orleans' Key Performers: Drew Brees (25), Robert Meachem (17), Darren Sproles (12)
Divisional Matchup Bye-Week Advantage: 101/4 = 25.25 = +25 points
*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 the Houston Texans score 80 fantasy points in Week 13 against Atlanta, 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.
Divisional Game Matchups - Week 14
AFC #6 Pittsburgh Steelers (playing vs Cleveland Browns) at
AFC #1 Houston Texans (BWA*: +15) (playing at Cincinnati Bengals)
AFC #4 San Diego Chargers (playing vs Buffalo Bills) at
AFC #2 Baltimore Ravens (BWA*: +18) (playing vs Indianapolis Colts)
NFC #6 New York Giants (playing at Dallas cowboys) at
NFC #1 Green Bay Packers (BWA*: +25) (playing vs oakland Raiders)
NFC #4 San Francisco 49ers (playing at Arizona Cardinals) at
NFC #2 New Orleans Saints (BWA*: +25) (playing at Tennessee Titans)
Creative Misfortune Fantasy Playoff Seeds
AFC Seeds
Division Champions ~
1. Houston Texans (9-2, 845 pts)
2. Baltimore Ravens (8-3, 821 pts)
3. New England Patriots (7-4, 968 pts)
4. San Diego Chargers (6-5, 803 pts)
Wild Cards ~
5. Cincinnati Bengals (8-3, 765 pts)
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3, 760 pts)
NFC Seeds
Division Champions ~
1. Green Bay Packers (9-2, 997 pts)
2. New Orleans Saints (9-2, 975 pts)
3. Dallas Cowboys (8-3, 905 pts)
4. San Francisco 49ers (6-5, 740 points)
Wild Cards ~
5. Detroit Lions (7-4, 914 pts)
6. New York Giants (7-4, 851 pts)
Tomorrow, The Art of Creative Misfortune Power Rankings.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Predictions of Creative Misfortune - MNF - Week 13 (2011)
The playoff picture gained some clarity over the weekend. Now can San Diego remain part of the conversation by snapping their losing streak against Jacksonville tonight?
Monday Night Game Prediction:
San Diego Chargers at Jacksonville Jaguars
Creative Misfortune's Pick: San Diego Chargers by 5. Be careful, Coach Turner. You could be next…
Scottie V's Pick: San Diego Chargers by 4. The Chargers have got to start winning some time, right???
Vegas Lines Pick: San Diego Chargers by 3. Chargers by 2.5, Over/Under 39.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: San Diego Chargers by 3. Chargers better at 4-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars by 3.
The "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..." playoffs have started! Wild Card results will be posted on Wednesday. Which four teams will move on to face the top-seeded teams who earned a bye-week advantage?
Monday Night Game Prediction:
San Diego Chargers at Jacksonville Jaguars
Creative Misfortune's Pick: San Diego Chargers by 5. Be careful, Coach Turner. You could be next…
Scottie V's Pick: San Diego Chargers by 4. The Chargers have got to start winning some time, right???
Vegas Lines Pick: San Diego Chargers by 3. Chargers by 2.5, Over/Under 39.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: San Diego Chargers by 3. Chargers better at 4-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars by 3.
The "If Real Football Used Fantasy Scoring..." playoffs have started! Wild Card results will be posted on Wednesday. Which four teams will move on to face the top-seeded teams who earned a bye-week advantage?
Friday, December 2, 2011
Predictions of Creative Misfortune - Week 13 (2011)
Playoff hopes will start to crash on the rocks for many teams this week. Will your team find misfortune?
Sunday Game Predictions:
Tennessee Titans at Buffalo Bills
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Tennessee Titans by 3. I just can’t trust the Bills.
Scottie V's Pick: Buffalo Bills by 6. Fitzpatrick's play seems to be picking up again just in time for the home stretch.
Vegas Lines Pick: Buffalo Bills by 3. Bills by 2.5, Over/Under 42.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tennessee Titans by 3. Titans better at 6-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Buffalo Bills by 3.
Kansas City Chiefs at Chicago Bears
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Chicago Bears by 16. Caleb Haine won’t have to be perfect for the Bears to beat the Chiefs.
Scottie V's Pick: Chicago Bears by 9. Thanks to their home crowd and the hapless Chiefs, the Bears survive their own quarterback woes.
Vegas Lines Pick: Chicago Bears by 7. Bears by 7, Over/Under 37.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Chicago Bears by 3. Bears better at 7-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Chicago Bears by 3.
Atlanta Falcons at Houston Texans
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3. The Texans have to figure things out before they make their final playoff run. The Falcons know what they have to do the rest of the season.
Scottie V's Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 13. The Texans have lost two quarterbacks in two weeks… This may be too much for them to survive.
Vegas Lines Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3. Falcons by 3, Over/Under 38.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Houston Texans by 3. Texans better at 8-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Houston Texans by 3.
Oakland Raiders at Miami Dolphins
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Miami Dolphins by 2. My head tells me Oakland… but Miami will make this quite the game.
Scottie V's Pick: Miami Dolphins by 4. The Fins seem to have some new fight with Matt Moore (ex-Beav!!!)
Vegas Lines Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3. Dolphins by 3, Over/Under 43.
Best Record Wins Pick: Oakland Raiders by 3. Raiders better at 7-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3.
Denver Broncos at Minnesota Vikings
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Denver Broncos by 4. How can you bet against Tim Tebow against a team that has nothing to play for?
Scottie V's Pick: Denver Broncos by 10. Who am I to pick against Tebow, even in a dome?
Vegas Lines Pick: Minnesota Vikings by 2. Vikings by 1.5, Over/Under 37.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Denver Broncos by 3. Broncos better at 6-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Minnesota Vikings by 3.
Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England Patriots by 26. This is not the Patriots-Colts matchup of the previous 10 years.
Scottie V's Pick: New England Patriots by 21. The "Yikes!" Game of the Week.
Vegas Lines Pick: New England Patriots by 20. Patriots by 20, Over/Under 47.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England Patriots by 3. Patriots better at 8-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: New England Patriots by 3.
Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 1. It won’t be pretty, but I give the Steelers the nod at home.
Scottie V's Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 14. The Steelers escaped from Arrowhead on Sunday night… They'll need a much better performance this weekend.
Vegas Lines Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 7. Steelers by 6.5, Over/Under 42.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 3. Steelers better at 8-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 3.
Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3. I don’t know if Carolina is good enough to win on the road… or if Tampa Bay is good enough to win at home.
Scottie V's Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3. Freeman leads the Bucs to a late field goal for the tie-breaker.
Vegas Lines Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3. Buccaneers by 3, Over/Under 47.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3. Buccaneers better at 4-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3.
New York Jets at Washington Redskins
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York Jets by 5. The Jets seem to be able to rally when push comes to shove.
Scottie V's Pick: New York Jets by 10. Mark Sanchez tries to follow up on his stellar performance last weekend.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York Jets by 3. Jets by 3, Over/Under 38.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York Jets by 3. Jets better at 6-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Washington Redskins by 3.
Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 13. The Ravens have owned the Browns lately.
Scottie V's Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 10. The Ravens carry over their Turkey Day momentum and take advantage of a long prep week.
Vegas Lines Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 7. Ravens by 6.5, Over/Under 38.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 3. Ravens better at 8-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Cleveland Browns by 3.
Dallas Cowboys at Arizona Cardinals
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 8. There is no better time than now for Dallas to gain a two-game advantage in the standings over the Giants.
Scottie V's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 8. The Cards don't have the firepower to keep up with this sporadic Cowboy team.
Vegas Lines Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 5. Cowboys by 4.5, Over/Under 45.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3. Cowboys better at 7-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 3.
Green Bay Packers at New York Giants
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 16. Green Bay will look more like the Saints and less like the Patriots when they face off against the Giants.
Scottie V's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 14. The Pack move closer to their perfect season… The Giants are reeling.
Vegas Lines Pick: Green Bay Packers by 7. Packers by 7, Over/Under 52.
Best Record Wins Pick: Green Bay Packers by 3. Packers better at 11-0.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York Giants by 3.
St. Louis Rams at San Francisco 49ers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 21. The Rams are not the Ravens.
Scottie V's Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 13. Alex Smith and the gang bounce back from their Turkey Day defeat.
Vegas Lines Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 13. 49ers by 13, Over/Under 37.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 3. 49ers better at 9-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 3.
Detroit Lions at New Orleans Saints
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 4. The Lions aren't playing with cool enough heads to be a match for the Saints.
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 17. The Suh-less Lions seem to be self-destructing the Saints are hitting their stride.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans Saints by 9. Saints by 9, Over/Under 53.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans Saints by 3. Saints better at 8-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: New Orleans Saints by 3.
Check back next week for Monday Night's prediction.
Sunday Game Predictions:
Tennessee Titans at Buffalo Bills
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Tennessee Titans by 3. I just can’t trust the Bills.
Scottie V's Pick: Buffalo Bills by 6. Fitzpatrick's play seems to be picking up again just in time for the home stretch.
Vegas Lines Pick: Buffalo Bills by 3. Bills by 2.5, Over/Under 42.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tennessee Titans by 3. Titans better at 6-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Buffalo Bills by 3.
Kansas City Chiefs at Chicago Bears
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Chicago Bears by 16. Caleb Haine won’t have to be perfect for the Bears to beat the Chiefs.
Scottie V's Pick: Chicago Bears by 9. Thanks to their home crowd and the hapless Chiefs, the Bears survive their own quarterback woes.
Vegas Lines Pick: Chicago Bears by 7. Bears by 7, Over/Under 37.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Chicago Bears by 3. Bears better at 7-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Chicago Bears by 3.
Atlanta Falcons at Houston Texans
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3. The Texans have to figure things out before they make their final playoff run. The Falcons know what they have to do the rest of the season.
Scottie V's Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 13. The Texans have lost two quarterbacks in two weeks… This may be too much for them to survive.
Vegas Lines Pick: Atlanta Falcons by 3. Falcons by 3, Over/Under 38.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Houston Texans by 3. Texans better at 8-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Houston Texans by 3.
Oakland Raiders at Miami Dolphins
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Miami Dolphins by 2. My head tells me Oakland… but Miami will make this quite the game.
Scottie V's Pick: Miami Dolphins by 4. The Fins seem to have some new fight with Matt Moore (ex-Beav!!!)
Vegas Lines Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3. Dolphins by 3, Over/Under 43.
Best Record Wins Pick: Oakland Raiders by 3. Raiders better at 7-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Miami Dolphins by 3.
Denver Broncos at Minnesota Vikings
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Denver Broncos by 4. How can you bet against Tim Tebow against a team that has nothing to play for?
Scottie V's Pick: Denver Broncos by 10. Who am I to pick against Tebow, even in a dome?
Vegas Lines Pick: Minnesota Vikings by 2. Vikings by 1.5, Over/Under 37.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Denver Broncos by 3. Broncos better at 6-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Minnesota Vikings by 3.
Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New England Patriots by 26. This is not the Patriots-Colts matchup of the previous 10 years.
Scottie V's Pick: New England Patriots by 21. The "Yikes!" Game of the Week.
Vegas Lines Pick: New England Patriots by 20. Patriots by 20, Over/Under 47.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New England Patriots by 3. Patriots better at 8-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: New England Patriots by 3.
Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 1. It won’t be pretty, but I give the Steelers the nod at home.
Scottie V's Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 14. The Steelers escaped from Arrowhead on Sunday night… They'll need a much better performance this weekend.
Vegas Lines Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 7. Steelers by 6.5, Over/Under 42.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 3. Steelers better at 8-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers by 3.
Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3. I don’t know if Carolina is good enough to win on the road… or if Tampa Bay is good enough to win at home.
Scottie V's Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3. Freeman leads the Bucs to a late field goal for the tie-breaker.
Vegas Lines Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3. Buccaneers by 3, Over/Under 47.
Best Record Wins Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3. Buccaneers better at 4-7.
Home Team Wins Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 3.
New York Jets at Washington Redskins
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New York Jets by 5. The Jets seem to be able to rally when push comes to shove.
Scottie V's Pick: New York Jets by 10. Mark Sanchez tries to follow up on his stellar performance last weekend.
Vegas Lines Pick: New York Jets by 3. Jets by 3, Over/Under 38.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New York Jets by 3. Jets better at 6-5.
Home Team Wins Pick: Washington Redskins by 3.
Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 13. The Ravens have owned the Browns lately.
Scottie V's Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 10. The Ravens carry over their Turkey Day momentum and take advantage of a long prep week.
Vegas Lines Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 7. Ravens by 6.5, Over/Under 38.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Baltimore Ravens by 3. Ravens better at 8-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: Cleveland Browns by 3.
Dallas Cowboys at Arizona Cardinals
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 8. There is no better time than now for Dallas to gain a two-game advantage in the standings over the Giants.
Scottie V's Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 8. The Cards don't have the firepower to keep up with this sporadic Cowboy team.
Vegas Lines Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 5. Cowboys by 4.5, Over/Under 45.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: Dallas Cowboys by 3. Cowboys better at 7-4.
Home Team Wins Pick: Arizona Cardinals by 3.
Green Bay Packers at New York Giants
Creative Misfortune's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 16. Green Bay will look more like the Saints and less like the Patriots when they face off against the Giants.
Scottie V's Pick: Green Bay Packers by 14. The Pack move closer to their perfect season… The Giants are reeling.
Vegas Lines Pick: Green Bay Packers by 7. Packers by 7, Over/Under 52.
Best Record Wins Pick: Green Bay Packers by 3. Packers better at 11-0.
Home Team Wins Pick: New York Giants by 3.
St. Louis Rams at San Francisco 49ers
Creative Misfortune's Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 21. The Rams are not the Ravens.
Scottie V's Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 13. Alex Smith and the gang bounce back from their Turkey Day defeat.
Vegas Lines Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 13. 49ers by 13, Over/Under 37.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 3. 49ers better at 9-2.
Home Team Wins Pick: San Francisco 49ers by 3.
Detroit Lions at New Orleans Saints
Creative Misfortune's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 4. The Lions aren't playing with cool enough heads to be a match for the Saints.
Scottie V's Pick: New Orleans Saints by 17. The Suh-less Lions seem to be self-destructing the Saints are hitting their stride.
Vegas Lines Pick: New Orleans Saints by 9. Saints by 9, Over/Under 53.5.
Best Record Wins Pick: New Orleans Saints by 3. Saints better at 8-3.
Home Team Wins Pick: New Orleans Saints by 3.
Check back next week for Monday Night's prediction.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)