Been away for a couple weeks, finally back to bring the picks back. Improved over the last couple weeks, definitely still looking for that big week though. I'm going to offer up a few thoughts on last weeks games, then get to an expedited version of the picks.
Here we go..
- AJ Green is a reliable WR2 now, without question. Andy Dalton may even be worth a bench stash. It looks like Cedric Benson is only going to miss one game, so Bernard Scott isn't a must add in any league.
- Cam Newton must be started in every league. Similar to Vick, the rushing yards make it impossible to bench him. He's a top 7-8 QB from here on out. I would see if you could get rid of DeAngelo Williams, he's getting minimal carries, and even those come between the 20's, as Stewart is gobbling up the goal line carries.
- Jahvid Best is battling concussions and could be in serious jeopardy from here on out, and Pettigrew is basically becoming their running game, so he should be extra valuable in PPR leagues.
- The Rams situation, I like Brandon Lloyd, he knows the system. It's a shame for those of us that stashed Danario Alexander, he was just coming around and getting comfortable. Now, with Lloyd in and Clayton back from injury, there's no reason to have him on your roster.
- It's becoming more and more clear that Jeremy Maclin is becoming the #1 option in Philadelphia. I don't know if there is any truth to the rumor the DeSean Jackson won't go over the middle until he receives a new contract, but something is off with him. Target Maclin in a trade.
- Don't expect Carson Palmer to hit the ground running, rather expect them to keep it on the ground running. Eventually though, DHB should turn back into a decent flex play at receiver once he gets in sync with Palmer.
- Stick with Arian Foster, he'll be fine. Matt Schaub? I would maybe look at other options. A lot of guys have to be looking to move around at QB with all the craziness going on, try and steal away Newton, Stafford or Rivers. Also, pick up Tebow as insurance.
- Felix Jones has finally put his owners out of their misery, myself being one. I'm excited for DeMarco Murray, I predicted in the preseason we would see him starting by mid-season and he looks pretty good. He should put up better numbers than Jones did.
- Don't look into Freeman's performance too much, it was the Saints after all. Blount's injury sounds more and more serious with each passing week, so you need to monitor that.
- Try and trade for Daniel Thomas, he's getting a lot of carries and looks pretty good doing so. Might be able to pry him away.
On to the picks..
Atlanta Falcons @
Detroit Lions (-3)
I like the Lions to cover this even without Best. They should be good enough against the run and will get to Matt Ryan.
Chicago Bears @
Tampa Bay Bucs (PK)
Overseas game, will be a little off. Give me the Bucs, just don't think the Bears are very good. Wouldn't be surprised if either team won by 2+ touchdowns though.
Seattle Seahawks (+3.5) @ Cleveland Browns
Browns are a mess, and they will probably throw over 50 times in this game. Seahawks should cover this with ease.
Denver Broncos (+3.5) @ Miami Dolphins
Tebowmania down in the South Florida. He'll carry them to a victory, literally. Dolphins are terrible.
Houston Texans @
Tennessee Titans (-3)
Big game in this division, and I like the Titans. Schaub isn't playing well, they lack weapons without AJ, just don't like this matchup for them.
San Diego Chargers (-1) @ New York Jets
I also believe the Jets are a bad team, and a terrible offense. Give me the Chargers even if Gates doesn't go again.
Washington Redskins (+2.5) @ Carolina Panthers
John Beck, here we go. I have a hunch the Skins win this one, but wouldn't be surprised if Carolina pulled it out.
Kansas City Chiefs @
Oakland Raiders (-3.5)
RUN DMC will run all over the Chiefs, and Carson will play well enough not to lose. They should easily win by a touchdown at least.
Pittsburgh Steelers (-3.5) @ Arizona Cardinals
Rematch of a recent Super Bowl, but only one of these teams still play at that level. I admit, I was wrong about Kolb, he's not very good.
St Louis Rams @
Dallas Cowboys (-12.5)
Bradford probably won't go in this one, and the Cowboys are actually a pretty good team. Top 10 easily. They should win this by a couple touchdowns.
Green Bay Packers (-8.5) @ Minnesota Vikings
Easy.
Indianapolis Colts (+13.5) @ New Orleans Saints
They play teams close for the most part, and the Saints shouldn't be any different. They can keep it around 10-13 range.
Baltimore Ravens (-7.5) @ Jacksonville Jaguars
The Ravens are a great team, and Ray Rice is just fantastic. The Jaguars are still struggling to find anything on offense.
Good luck to everyone this weekend, let's enjoy some football.
2011:
44-46
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