SB Nation Atlanta: All Posts by Josh Masseyhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/46601/atlanta-fave.png2012-01-01T10:31:34-05:00https://atlanta.sbnation.com/authors/josh-massey/rss2012-01-01T10:31:34-05:002012-01-01T10:31:34-05:00NFL Picks, Week 17: Buccaneers-Falcons, Panthers-Saints, Giants-Cowboys And More
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<p>It's the NFL's Week 17, when gambling takes on a hint of homework. You gotta know who's trying for the playoffs, who's already there, who's playing for pride, and who's (maybe) playing or the number one draft pick. The lines - and the scenarios - are here!</p> <p><span class="datetime"></span><b><u>The picks:</u></b></p>
<p><b>Detroit (-4) @ Green Bay. </b>The game of the weekend, as far as <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons" class="sbn-auto-link">Falcons</a> fans are concerned (assuming Atlanta takes care of the Bucs, which yeah, let's just go with that). The <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Packers</a> have already clinched home-field advantage through the playoffs, so don't expect to see much of <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> and other starters. On the other hand, the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Lions</a> have something huge at stake - avoiding the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Saints</a>. Lose here, Detroit heads to New Orleans; win and they face the winner of Dallas/New York, sending Atlanta to the Superdome. I'm sure the players would never admit it, but we all know the preferable destination. The power of Lambeau should still win out, but that may be wishful thinking.<span><span> <b>PICK: Green Bay<br></b></span></span></p>
<p><b>Tennessee (-1) @ Houston.</b> Houston has already clinched the AFC South, while Tennessee is still playing for something. Well, sort of - the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Titans</a> have to win and have <i>three </i>other games go their way for the postseason to happen. I just don't think the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Texans</a> are in any place to rest starters, because, well, how many do they have left anyway? <span><b>PICK: Houston<br></b></span></p>
<p><b>Indianapolis @ Jacksonville (-3 1/2). </b>The problem with running this column on Sunday is the obvious stuff has already been said - and I deal in obvious stuff, if you haven't noticed. But let me stress, as others have: the current <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colts</a> players don't want Andrew Luck. They want Mr. Manning behind center in 2012, not some rookie they don't know. Plus, there is no tanking in the NFL - when careers last 3.5 years on average (no research done, FYI), players can't afford to slack just because the postseason isn't on the line. That doesn't mean <i>their jobs aren't</i>. The Colts will win, blow the first pick, and we'll spend the next few months wondering who will trade with the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams" class="sbn-auto-link">Rams</a> - assuming they'll stay the course with <span>Sam Bradford</span>. <b>PICK: Indianapolis<br></b></p>
<p><b>NY <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">Jets</a> @ Miami (-3). </b>Eh, the Jets are technically playing for something - but like the Titans, they need a win plus three other games to fall their way. And there aren't many teams that would be more delighted to send Rex Ryan home to his XXL loveseat than the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Dolphins</a>. <span><b>PICK: Miami<br></b></span></p>
<p><b>Chicago @ Minnesota (-1).</b> I'm guessing I'm the only one reading this who's ever started <span>Joe Webb</span> on their fantasy team. I did it last year - obviously, my team sucked - but I quickly realized the guy had actual skills, and I was perplexed when the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Vikings</a> drafted <span>Christian Ponder</span> so early. Well, the spotlight is now yours, Mr. Webb. And wait, is this Vikings team the first one to start a black quarterback and a white running back (<span>Toby Gerhart</span>) in the same game? Wow, the future sure looks wacky. (I'm writing this in 2011, future-folk.) <b>PICK: Minnesota</b><span></span></p>
<p><b>Buffalo @ New England (-12)</b><span><b>. </b>With a win, the <a href="https://www.patspulpit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Patriots</a> will clinch home-field advantage through the playoffs, and Buffalo's one-time hope has been long extinguished. Here's the rub, though: the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bills</a> can void most of <span>Ryan Fitzpatrick's</span> massive contract in the off-season if they see fit. So ol' Fitzy has a prize to earn as well, and he's smart enough to know it. <b>PICK: Buffalo </b></span></p>
<p><b>Carolina @ New Orleans (-9). </b>The Saints clinch a first-round bye with a win plus a <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">49ers</a> loss, but that doesn't look likely with San Francisco going up against St. Louis. So don't be surprised to see New Orleans starters pulled if the 49ers go up early - unless, of course, the Saints are <i>really </i>scoreboard-watching. <span>Tom Brady</span> is only 190 yards behind <span>Drew Brees</span>' NFL record passing mark. If Brady is on pace for 400 yards, does Sean Payton dare pull Brees when he's sitting at 150 at halftime? <b>PICK: Carolina </b></p>
<p><b>Washington @ Philadelphia (-9 1/2).</b> Nothing makes me happier than to report there are NO playoff implications here. No matter who wins, who loses, who ties, there are no teams involved with this game going to the postseason. Oh 2012, you pesky rapscallion, off to a rousing start! <b>PICK: Washington </b></p>
<p><b>San Francisco (-12) @ St. Louis.</b> All hands will be on the 49ers deck, as the team clinches a first-round bye with a win. San Fran waxed the Rams 26-0 early in December, and the result here should be similar. <b>PICK: San Francisco<br></b></p>
<p><b>Tampa Bay @ Atlanta (-12).</b> My best Christmas present was having this game flexed to 4:15; the New Year's Eve open bar would have made a 1 p.m. kickoff less than ideal for this season-ticket holder. However, it also gives the game a potential of worthlessness: if Detroit beats Green Bay earlier in the day, Atlanta will be headed to New Orleans win or lose. Since I'm expecting the Pack's second string to actually win, I'll go ahead and call for Atlanta to rub this in Tampa's face a little bit. But I wouldn't place my bets until about 4:10. <b>PICK: Atlanta </b></p>
<p><b>Baltimore (-1) @ Cincinnati. </b>The <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Ravens</a> earn a first-round bye with a win, and Cincinnati is officially a wild-card team if victorious. This is another one you might not want to touch until game-time, though - if the Jets lose earlier in the day, the <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bengals</a> won't be playing for anything. That said, two things: 1) The Bengals might not rest anybody anyway, and 2) I'm pretty sure the Ravens suck. <b>PICK: Cincinnati </b></p>
<p><b>Pittsburgh (-7 1/2) @ Cleveland. </b>The <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Steelers</a> have already clinched a wild-card spot, but earn the division and a first-round bye with a win plus a Ravens loss. <span>Ben Roethlisberger</span> is likely to take the field, and should play the entire game unless an injury and/or runaway Bengals win occurs. There will be blood. <b>PICK: Pittsburgh </b></p>
<p><b>Seattle @ Arizona (-1 1/2). </b>One of the few games you can safely ignore. Let's do so here. <b>PICK: Arizona<br></b></p>
<p><b>Kansas City @ Denver (-3). </b><span>Tim Tebow</span> is going to the playoffs, y'all. That's not so much a prediction as a realization of inevitability. The <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Broncos</a> clinch a wild-card berth with a win, or an Oakland loss - and they'll get it done themselves. The release of <span>Kyle Orton</span> - now KC's starter - may be the best QB-related move Denver has made in a decade. <b>PICK: Denver </b></p>
<p><b>San Diego @ Oakland (-2 1/2). </b>The <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">Chargers</a> ain't goin' anywhere, but can make sure Oakland stays home by winning here. The <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/oakland-raiders" class="sbn-auto-link">Raiders</a> need a win and a Denver loss to keep playing in 2012, but I don't see either happening. <b>PICK: San Diego<br></b></p>
<p><b>Dallas @ NY <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> (-3). </b>Here we come to the final game of the Week 17 slate, otherwise known as the NFL's wet dream: two marquee teams, big names on both sides, and it's win or go home. The <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cowboys</a> at the Giants, winner takes the NFC East, loser watches the playoffs on the couch. I don't know much, but I do know this game will destroy the psyche of one fan-base for the next eight months. And if I have to choose, I hope it's the people who root for Keith Brooking. Because, gross. <b>PICK: NY Giants</b></p>
<p><b>Follow @joshmassey1 on Twitter for playoff picks and various other nonsensical crap.</b></p>
<p><b>Last week: 9-7</b><b><br>Yearly total: 126-110-4</b></p>
https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2012/1/1/2669418/nfl-picks-week-17-buccaneers-falcons-panthers-saints-giants-cowboysJosh Massey2011-12-24T11:41:31-05:002011-12-24T11:41:31-05:00NFL Picks, Week 16: Falcons-Saints, Giants-Jets, Eagles-Cowboys And More
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<p>Give the gift of gambling this holiday season! The NFL has a full slate of Christmas Eve games, continuing to Monday's epic Falcons-Saints rematch. The picks are here!</p> <p><b><u>The picks:</u></b></p>
<p><b>Cleveland @ Baltimore (-12). </b>The <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Ravens</a> have already wrapped up a playoff berth, but are still playing for a first-round bye. Of course, this was also true last week, when the team turned in its biggest stinker of the year, a 34-14 embarrassment to the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">Chargers</a>. The <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Browns</a> are pretty bad, but they do hang around with better teams - and will do so again this week.<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"> <b>PICK: Cleveland</b></span></span></p>
<p><b>Denver (-2 1/2) @ Buffalo.</b> The beauty of the AFC West is it's conceivable the division could end up in a four-way tie at 8-8, at which point I'm sure the Commissioner would rig a tiebreaker so Mr. Tebow goes into the postseason. The Anointed One can actually seal that up today, though, with a win and an Oakland loss - so be prepared for the media onslaught if that happens. If <span>Drew Brees</span> breaks the all-time single-season yardage record this week <i>and </i>Tebow gets into the playoffs, anybody care to guess what gets more hype? (Not that I'm complaining - any attention diverted from the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Saints</a> is fine by me.) <span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"><b>PICK: Denver</b></span></p>
<p><b>Tampa Bay @ Carolina (-7 1/2). </b>There are many unanswered questions floating around this <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons" class="sbn-auto-link">Atlanta Falcons</a> season, but the one I can't get past: How in the holy hell did they lose to the freakin' Bucs? <b>PICK: Carolina</b></p>
<p><b>Arizona @ Cincinnati (-4 1/2). </b>Shockingly, both teams are still playing for the postseason, and perhaps even more shockingly, the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cardinals</a> are trying to win five straight for the first time in 34 years. One team is streaking, one team is limping - so fly with the little bird on this one.<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"> <b>PICK: Arizona</b></span></p>
<p><b>Oakland @ Kansas City (-1).</b> Ever so technically, there's a playoff storyline here - but it's not worth going into for either team. I just know I'm expecting the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chiefs</a> to follow up the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Packers</a> victory by playing their most inept game of the year. Like, I won't be surprised if a few players forget to wear pants.<b> PICK: Oakland </b></p>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"><b>Miami @ New England (-9). </b>This is always a weird one - I've probably lost more money betting Pats over <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Dolphins</a> than any other combo in my life. If there was snow in the forecast, I'd be tempted to lean the same way, but it's all sunny (albeit cold) in Foxboro. A straight upset wouldn't be that surprising. <b>PICK: Miami</b></span></p>
<p><b>NY Giants @ NY Jets (-3). </b>I couldn't give two poops about either of these teams, but the game's ripple effect will prove fairly wide. A Giants win sets up a winner-takes-division match-up with the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cowboys</a> next week, a Giants loss keeps Philadelphia's hopes alive. A Jets win keeps them at least even with the <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bengals</a> for a wildcard spot, a Jets loss possibly knocks them from contention and shuts up Rex Ryan's fat face. Ugh, go Giants. It's the only choice. <b>PICK: NY Giants</b></p>
<p><b>St. Louis @ Pittsburgh (-12).</b> No huge surprise, but <span>Ben Roethlisberger</span> will be on the sideline for this one - and his true worth was revealed in the process. Just before that news was announced, Vegas had this line at 17, and then it dropped fairly precipitously to what you see there. <b>PICK: St. Louis</b></p>
<p><b>Jacksonville @ Tennessee (-7).</b> Too many good games on today for you to waste your time with this one. And yes, that still counts even if your son plays for one of these teams. He'll understand. <b>PICK: Tennessee</b></p>
<p><b>Minnesota @ Washington (-7).</b> Again, I'm pretty sure Mrs. Grossman is wearing her Jets hoodie today. <b>PICK: Minnesota</b></p>
<p><b>San Diego @ Detroit (-2 1/2). </b>A Detroit victory means we can honestly say the words "playoff-bound <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Lions</a>" for the first time this millennium. The Chargers have knocked off three in a row to climb back to .500, but the wheels of desperation are with the home team on this one. Because if the Lions can't pick up the W here, they might have to in Week 17 - at Green Bay. <b>PICK: Detroit</b></p>
<p><b>Philadelphia @ Dallas (-1). </b>Huge playoff implications for this one - maybe. As it stands right now, the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Eagles</a> still have a slim chance at the postseason, relying on the Cowboys and Giants to falter today, the the Cowboys to falter next week. But if the Giants beat the Jets in the early afternoon, Philly's dream is dead and the rest of the NFC can breathe easier (because, really, who would have wanted that match-up?). Since I'm calling that first game for the Giants, I'm thinking the then-deflated Eagles don't hang around this one. <b>PICK: Dallas</b></p>
<p><b>San Francisco (-1) @ Seattle. </b>Just to keep things interesting, there's only one way this game can turn out. <b>PICK: Seattle</b></p>
<p><b>Chicago @ Green Bay (-12 1/2). </b>Merry Christmas! And your present from the NFL is the 2011 starting debut of <strike><span>Luke McCown</span></strike> <strike>Cade McNown</strike> <span>Josh McCown</span> in the role of <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chicago Bears</a> QB! The Caleb Hanie experiment is mercifully over, but I'm afraid it's too late - the Bears drop out of playoff contention with a loss, and Mr. <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> does still have something to play for. A win today clinches home field through the playoffs. So we'll see you next year, Mr. Cutler, Mr. Forte, Mr. Han - oh, not so fast there, Mr. Hanie. <b>PICK: Green Bay</b></p>
<p><b>Atlanta @ New Orleans (-7 1/2). </b>Every other NFL team will have played <i>twice</i> between Atlanta's 14th and 15th game - and trust me, I'll take any sliver of advantage the NFL gods are willing to bestow. Other SB Nation Atlanta writers, who tend to study and not just pull things from their nether regions, are writing amazing stuff about this game right now. Check them out. <b>PICK: Atlanta</b></p>
<p><b>For the rest of the season, the non-Sunday picks will be posted that day to Twitter: follow @joshmassey1</b></p>
<p><b>Thursday/Saturday games: <br>Last week: 6-10</b><b><br>Yearly total: 117-103-4</b></p>
https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2011/12/24/2655019/nfl-picks-week-16-falcons-saints-giants-jets-eagles-cowboys-and-moreJosh Massey2011-12-18T13:26:20-05:002011-12-18T13:26:20-05:00NFL Picks, Week 15: Saints-Vikings, Patriots-Broncos, Steelers-49ers And More
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<p>With two Week 15 games already in the books, the playoff picture becomes clearer with today's NFL action - and your chances on padding your own pockets are running out as well. The picks are here!</p> <p><b><u>The picks:</u></b></p>
<p><b>Miami (-1 1/2) @ Buffalo. </b>Remember when the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bills</a> were 5-2, and we were all thinking, "Wow, Chan Gailey has really turned this team around." We should have been smarter about that, I think.<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"> <b>PICK: Miami </b></span></span></p>
<p><b>Seattle @ Chicago (-3 1/2).</b> For a game with legitimate playoff ties, could this one seem any more boring? <span>Tarvaris Jackson</span> vs. <span>Caleb Hanie</span>, 6-7 at 7-6; even the weather is playing along with a sunny day expected in Chicago. Could we get a blizzard, at least? <span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"><b>PICK: Seattle<br></b></span></p>
<p><b>Carolina @ Houston (-5 1/2). </b>Much like our early season Chan Gailey love, this "wow, <span>T.J. Yates</span> is really good!" talk will bite us before season's end. Just try to say it out loud. Don't you feel a little bit silly? <b>PICK: Carolina<br></b></p>
<p><b>Tennessee (-8) @ Indianapolis. </b>You're giving <span>Dan Orlovsky</span> eight points at home?! Christmas has come early this year, baby! ... No, kidding, bet the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Titans</a> with all of your lifeforce.<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"> <b>PICK: Tennessee<br></b></span></p>
<p><b>Green Bay (-15) @ Kansas City.</b> If the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Packers</a> had given any indication they were even tapping the brakes, I'd try to talk you into taking the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chiefs</a> at home. Thing is, Green Bay tends to beat bad teams like they were bad teams - Oakland by 30, Minnesota by 38, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams" class="sbn-auto-link">Rams</a> by 21. They'll roll in Arrowhead. <b>PICK: Green Bay </b></p>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"><b>New Orleans (-7 1/2) @ Minnesota. </b>There's a strange hint of upset emanating from this game, and as a <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons" class="sbn-auto-link">Falcons</a> fan, I'm going to go with it. Unlike the Packers, the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Saints</a> do lose to bad teams (Bucs, Rams) and it seems they're overdue for a heartbreaker. It actually doesn't do a whole lot for Atlanta's postseason, so I'm thinking this isn't just Homer-talk. <b>PICK: Minnesota<br></b></span></p>
<p><b>Washington @ NY Giants (-7 1/2). </b>Calling a <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins" class="sbn-auto-link">Redskins</a> victory right here <i>would </i>be homer-talk, because that would assist Atlanta more than any Saints win. Sadly, Homer has left the building. I'm not anticipating this Eli-playing-like-Peyton stuff to last all the way into the playoffs, but it will against a Redskins team that's given up 68 points in its last two games. <b>PICK: NY Giants </b></p>
<p><b>Cincinnati (-7 1/2) @ St. Louis.</b> Move along. Nothing to see here. (Unless you have <span>A.J. Green</span> or Steven Jackson on your fantasy team, of course.) <b>PICK: Cincinnati<br></b></p>
<p><b>Detroit @ Oakland (PICK).</b> The <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/oakland-raiders" class="sbn-auto-link">Raiders</a> are short one Mr. <span>Darren McFadden</span>, which makes this line one of the more curious of the day. Still, it's probably the best non-Tebow game on today's schedule, and could get nasty by the time fans start filing out. <b>PICK: Detroit </b></p>
<p><b>Cleveland @ Arizona (-7 1/2).</b> I'm writing something for this game for one reason: the only guy who claims to be a regular reader is a <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Browns</a> fan, and I don't want to disappoint him (any more than his team already has). Unfortunately, I don't have good news to impart, as the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cardinals</a> are gelling right now and get to .500 with a win here. <b>PICK: Arizona </b></p>
<p><b>New England (-9) @ Denver. </b>Earlier this week, I heard 90% of gambling action was going toward New England. The nation largely remains outside of the Tebow Believer camp. But I don't, y'all. This is the biggest regular season game of the year, and I have a feeling it will play out that way too. Timmy will not only cover, Timmy will win. Praise be to Allah. <b>PICK: Denver </b></p>
<p><b>NY Jets @ Philadelphia (-1 1/2). </b><b>PICK: Philadelphia </b></p>
<p><b>Baltimore (-2) @ San Diego. </b>It's "The Battle of Star QBs Who Are Stars Largely Because The Media Tells Us They Are!" The <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">Chargers</a> have won a couple games of late, but it's still a bad football team that will finish under-.500 The <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Ravens</a> shouldn't have a problem here. <b>PICK: Baltimore<br></b></p>
<p><b>Pittsburgh @ San Francisco (-2 1/2). </b>Way to go, Monday Night Football. After presenting us with last week's Rams-<a href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Seahawks</a> barn-burner, ESPN gets one right with this bound-to-be-bloody clash. That said, I still feel both of these teams are destined for early playoff exits, so waking up Tuesday morning with no significant injuries could be considered a win in itself. They'll need all the help they can get in January. <b>PICK: Pittsburgh </b></p>
<p><b>For the rest of the season, the non-Sunday picks will be posted that day to Twitter: follow @joshmassey1</b></p>
<p><b>Thursday/Saturday games: 1-1<br>Last week: 8-8-0</b><b><br>Yearly total: 112-94-4</b></p>
https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2011/12/18/2633039/nfl-picks-week-15-saints-vikings-patriots-broncos-steelers-49ers-andJosh Massey2011-12-11T09:30:17-05:002011-12-11T09:30:17-05:00NFL Picks, Week 14: Falcons-Panthers, Bears-Broncos, Giants-Cowboys And More
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<p>It's the last month of the season, and all becomes clear: your team's postseason chances, your fantasy squad's possible run at a championship, and how much you're going to have to wager to end this year in the black. Week 14 lines are here!</p> <p><b><u>The picks:</u></b></p>
<p><b>Atlanta (-2 1/2) @ Carolina. </b>For the second year in a row, I'm in Charlotte to see the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Falcons</a> play in the land of that awful neon blue. But while last year was a rainy, $5 scalped ticket-affair starring <span>Jimmy Clausen</span>, this might garner a little more interest from the Carolina semi-faithful. Cam Newton hosts the Falcons for the first time, but he won't be looking at his defense with kindness. And no, that's definitely not a hosanna for Atlanta's offense - it's just that Carolina's D is <i>that </i>bad. <b>PICK: Atlanta</b></p>
<p><b>Indianapolis @ Baltimore (-18). </b>Last week, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> proved they can really step up in the fourth quarter of a game they have no chance of winning, so why can't they spin that magic again? <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Ravens</a> go up big, Colts score late for a back-door cover. 21-6, or some such garbage. <b>PICK: Indianapolis</b></p>
<p><b>Houston @ Cincinnati (-1 1/2). </b>TJ Yates looked like a fully-functioning quarterback last week against the Falcons, so Atlanta fans are hoping that was for real and not just a Dunta Robinson-induced fever dream. Nevertheless, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Bengals</a> will probably limit the amount of soul-m<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);">urdering blunders that allowed Houston to grab it's most recent win. At the very least, AJ Green catches a last-second bomb that hits his numbers, if it comes to that. Dammit.<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"> <b>PICK: Cincinnati</b></span></span></p>
<p><b>Minnesota @ Detroit (-12).</b> Something about this just reeks of low-scoring, so a double digit spread makes me nervous. One Stafford-to-Johnson touchdown will be the difference, not two or three<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);">. <b>PICK: Minnesota</b></span></p>
<p><b>Tampa Bay (-1) @ Jacksonville. </b>Two rabid NFL fanbases clash in north Florida to see who can snore the loudest while watching their team play. It's trickier than you think, because the winner usually knows to use the empty seats as an opportunity for loud echoes. Will these fans be that savvy? <b>PICK: Jacksonville</b></p>
<p><b>Philadelphia @ Miami (-2 1/2). </b>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Dolphins</a> have spent the last few surprising weeks beating the likes of Buffalo, Kansas City and Oakland, but they may find their easiest win today against "the dream team." The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Eagles</a> seemed to throw up their shoulders in last week's 17-point loss at Seattle, and you won't find a group of guys who'd rather be farther away from an NFL stadium today. And that counts the paying fans of Tampa Bay @ Jacksonville, which is saying a lot<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);">. <b>PICK: Miami</b></span></p>
<p><b>Kansas City @ NY <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">Jets</a> (-12).</b> If you feel comfortable trusting <span>Mark Sanchez</span> with double digits, well then, God speed. Yes, it has happened before. And yes, it's KC on the road. I'd just like to give you this piece of ad - oh, ok, I can see your mind is already made up. Mark Sanchez (-12). Give me a hug first, though. Ok, good luck. <b>PICK: Kansas City</b></p>
<p><b></b><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469);"><b>New Orleans (-3 1/2) @ Tennessee. </b>As a Falcons fan, it will again feel good to unapologetically root against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/">Saints</a>, unlike last week's NO victory that went Atlanta's way on a playoff technicality. Not sure how long we'll actually be cheering, though. <b>PICK: New Orleans</b></span></p>
<p><b>New England (-9) @ Washington. </b>Fantasy football playoffs have started, and I have to imagine that's the rooting interest of most of this game's viewers. There's Tom Brady, <span>Wes Welker</span>, <span>Rob Gronkowski</span>, <span>Aaron Hernandez</span>, Ben Jarvus Green-Ellis, and, um, I'm, really searching for a Redskin here. <span>Roy Helu</span>? Ick. <b>PICK: New England</b></p>
<p><b>San Francisco (-3 1/2) @ Arizona.</b> <b>PICK: Arizona</b></p>
<p><b>Chicago @ Denver (-3 1/2).</b> When I realized how much I was disappointed to miss this game, I finally admitted to my full Tebow conversion. I'll be spending the majority of it driving home from Charlotte, and I just can't stomach missing out on the 40 best QB sneaks of the week. I wonder if ESPN will show any highlights. <b>PICK: Denver</b></p>
<p><b>Oakland @ Green Bay (-12 1/2).</b> <b>PICK: Green Bay</b></p>
<p><b>Buffalo @ San Diego (-9). </b>Modern technology is amazing. I'm actually writing this paragraph about a San Diego game, for an Atlanta audience, from a Charlotte bathroom. No surprise, I guess - "Buffalo-San Diego" was just the game that popped into my head when I sat down here. <b>PICK: San Diego</b></p>
<p><b>NY <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> @ Dallas (-4). </b>As down as I am on my Falcons right now, I'd get VERY excited if we went to New York or Dallas in the first round of the playoffs. <b>PICK: Dallas</b></p>
<p><b>St. Louis @ Seattle (-?). </b>This Monday night game is still "off the board" as of Sunday morning - not because of injury or late-breaking news, but because Vegas probably just forgot about it. For the pick, check me out on Twitter on Monday (@joshmassey1). <b>PICK: ?</b></p>
<p><b>For the rest of the season, the Thursday game pick will be posted that day to Twitter: follow @joshmassey1</b></p>
<p><b>Last week: 4-12-0 (give me a break - my <i>first</i> sub-.500 week all season)</b><b><br>Yearly total: 103-85-4</b></p>
https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2011/12/11/2618832/nfl-picks-week-14-falcons-panthers-bears-broncos-giants-cowboys-andJosh Massey2011-12-04T10:55:21-05:002011-12-04T10:55:21-05:00NFL Picks, Week 13: Falcons-Texans, Packers-Giants, Lions-Saints And More
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<img alt="GREEN BAY WI - DECEMBER 26: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers is chased out of the pocket against the New York Giants at Lambeau Field on December 26 2010 in Green Bay Wisconsin. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/XnrWeVZKl5WcyXdi1gYqYsGeRXc=/0x0:600x400/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/1600782/GYI0062898490.jpg" />
<figcaption>GREEN BAY WI - DECEMBER 26: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers is chased out of the pocket against the New York Giants at Lambeau Field on December 26 2010 in Green Bay Wisconsin. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) | Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The oddsmakers anoint Tim Tebow as a road favorite, think the Falcons are evenly matched with the Texans, and figure the Packers just might be human after all. Week 13 picks are here!</p> <p><b><u>The picks:</u></b></p>
<p><b>Atlanta @ Houston (PICK). </b>This line has shifted from Atlanta (-2 1/2) to a pick 'em in 24 hours time - which means the nation's gamblers aren't behind a potentially Michael Turner-less <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons" class="sbn-auto-link">Falcons</a> offense. And there's definitely something there - <span>Jason Snelling</span> doesn't have Turner's power, and <span>Jacquizz Rodgers</span> isn't built to push past first contact. But betting on the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Texans</a> means betting on rookie quarterback <span>T.J. Yates</span>, and I have enough faith in Atlanta's pass attack to not resort to that. <b>PICK: Atlanta</b></p>
<p><b>Tennessee @ Buffalo (-1 1/2). </b>The <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bills</a> are finally home after a wretched three week road trip (0-3, combined score 107-39). In that time, they've gone from a hopeful 5-3 to an out-of-it 5-6, and I have to think the team's psyche is a bit shattered. The <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Titans</a> are just good enough to take advantage of that.<b> PICK: Tennessee<br></b></p>
<p><b>Kansas City @ Chicago (-7). </b>Or, in other words, <span>Tyler Palko</span> @ Caleb Hanie. And I just refuse to lay this many points at the feet of an unproven quarterback. Hell, most of the game's points will probably be defensive. <b>PICK: Kansas City </b></p>
<p><b>Oakland @ Miami (-3 1/2). </b>The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Dolphins</a> have become late season darlings, after reeling off three big wins and a close Thanksgiving day loss to Dallas. However, the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/oakland-raiders" class="sbn-auto-link">Raiders</a> have looked fairly impressive lately as well, and there's one crucial difference: those men in black are still playing for something. <b>PICK: Oakland</b></p>
<p><b>Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh (-8 1/2).</b> Didn't we <i>just</i> watch this game? Yeah, turns out we did just three weeks ago, when the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Steelers</a> won by a touchdown in Cin-City. See, though, that's the most points Cincinnati has lost by this year - they haven't dropped a single one by more than seven. They'll keep that streak alive today. <b>PICK: Cincinnati<br></b></p>
<p><b>Carolina @ Tampa Bay (PICK). </b><span>Josh Freeman</span> is out, and <span>Josh Johnson</span> will be under center. Sorry, I'm not picking against a team that relies so heavily on people named Josh, you guys. They might need me. (Yep, that's the depth of rationale behind many of these picks. Embarrassed you've read this far?). <b>PICK: Tampa Bay<br></b></p>
<p><b>NY Jets (-2 1/2) @ Washington. </b>Shame we can't bet on things like "how many times the average viewer will cut themselves, just to feel something." Some awful, ugly football on deck in the nation's capital today. <b>PICK: Washington </b></p>
<p><b>Denver (-1) @ Minnesota.</b> Go ahead, bet Minnesota. Put your money against Him. I dare you. <b>PICK: Denver</b></p>
<p><b>Indianapolis @ New England (-20 1/2). </b>Much talk about this game getting one of the NFL's largest spreads in history, and yes, you'd be historically correct in betting the underdog of any 20-point-plus match-up. Those games, though, didn't feature a remorseless cyborg coach wanting to exact bloodlust on his biggest rival. We'd have to hit 30 before I'd start thinking <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colts</a> here. <b>PICK: New England</b></p>
<p><b>Baltimore (-7) @ Cleveland. </b>The <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Ravens</a> have enjoyed an extended break (having last played on Thanksgiving day), and have won four-of-five, most against very good teams. The <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Browns</a> are 2-8 in their last 10, including a recent loss to the hapless <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams" class="sbn-auto-link">Rams</a>. So naturally, I'm pushing in my chips with Cleveland. Just feels right. <b>PICK: Cleveland</b></p>
<p><b>Dallas (-4 1/2) @ Arizona. </b>Both teams are doing some rather unceremonious winning of late (Dallas with four straight, Arizona with three-out-of-four), but Dallas puts its first nail in the NFC East coffin with a victory. Motive equals a road win. <b>PICK: Dallas</b></p>
<p><b>Green Bay (-6 1/2) @ NY Giants.</b> The marquee match-up of Week 13, at least until the game actually begins. The Giants made <span>Drew Brees</span> look like, well, <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> last week, so I'm thinking the real Rodgers will look even better. <b>PICK: Green Bay</b></p>
<p><b>St. Louis @ San Francisco (-14). </b>Will there be a more inexplicable NFL victory in 2011 than the Rams over the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Saints</a>? The Colts would have to win today to even think of matching that. <b>PICK: San Francisco </b></p>
<p><b>Detroit @ New Orleans (-8 1/2). </b>I'm not really understanding the size of this spread, which means a gambler should be sprinting New Orleans' way. But as an Atlanta native and life-long Falcons fan, that kind of action just ain't in the blood. <b>PICK: Detroit<br></b></p>
<p><b>San Diego (-3) @ Jacksonville. </b>Fdafdafda. No, that's not a misprint - that's actually what I type as a placeholder each week before figuring out what I'm going to write. In this case, though, I feel it's the most insightful analysis I can provide about this horrible Monday night game. (And remember, the Jags are back on prime time in only two weeks!). <b>PICK: Jacksonville </b></p>
<p><b>For the rest of the season, the Thursday game pick will be posted that day to Twitter: follow @joshmassey1</b></p>
<p><b>Last week: 11-5-0<br>Thursday's game: </b><b>0-1<br>Yearly total: 99-74-4</b></p>
https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2011/12/4/2592834/nfl-picks-week-13-falcons-texans-packers-giants-lions-saints-and-moreJosh Massey2011-11-27T10:26:12-05:002011-11-27T10:26:12-05:00NFL Picks, Week 12: Vikings-Falcons, Patriots-Eagles, Giants-Saints And More
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/NHBDtdjAFID0rZljazhRD8ocFFg=/0x135:643x564/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/4790753/133622129.jpg" />
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<p>With three games already out of the way, the NFL's week 12 slate appears a little sparse. The opportunity for financial gain is as strong as ever, though, especially with names like Matt Leinart, Toby Gerhart and Vince Young heavily in the mix. The lines are here!</p> <p><b><u>The picks:</u></b></p>
<p><b>Minnesota @ Atlanta (-9 1/2). </b>When the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons" class="sbn-auto-link">Falcons</a> 2011 schedule was announced last spring, this game was highlighted for one reason: my first opportunity to see Adrian Peterson play in person. Well, thanks to his high ankle sprain last week, <span>Toby Gerhart</span> will instead run the ball for Minnesota. That, combined with QB <span>Christian Ponder's</span> erratic play of late, should assist the Falcons with a pretty easy victory. <b>PICK: Atlanta<br></b></p>
<p><b>Cleveland @ Cincinnati (-7). </b>Interesting only as a battle of former UGA receivers: <span>Mohamed Massaquoi</span> vs. AJ Green. (In other words, not very interesting at all.) <b>PICK: Cleveland<br></b></p>
<p><b>Carolina (-2 1/2) @ Indianapolis. </b>Who will break first - Carolina's all-time crappy defense or Indianapolis's all-time crappy offense? Considering the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Panthers</a> operate fairly soundly on the other side of the ball, I have to think they'll emerge victorious here. But if you have kids wanting to pick up the game some day, keep them away from this one. No lessons to be learned in Indy today.<b> PICK: Carolina<br></b></p>
<p><b>Houston (-6) @ Jacksonville. </b>And the <span>Matt Leinart</span> era begins in Houston. The <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Texans</a> are actually getting some respect from Vegas, likely thanks to <span>Arian Foster</span> and the return of <span>Andre Johnson</span>. But will Leinart's limited machinations (job description: Hand Off Machine) allow the Texans to cover? Eh, probably. <b>PICK: Houston<br></b></p>
<p><b>Buffalo @ NY Jets<a href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link"></a> (-9 1/2). </b>The <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bills</a> were 4-1 to start, 1-4 since - and a glance at their schedule suggests they might not win another one. That said, laying this many points at <span>Mark Sanchez's</span> feet is pure madness. He could be playing the <i>University of</i> Buffalo and I still wouldn't feel comfortable with that. <b>PICK: Buffalo<br></b></p>
<p><b>Arizona @ St. Louis (-2 1/2).</b> Watching this game is like opening the Ark of the Covenant. I promise your face will melt off. And not in a good way. <b>PICK: St. Louis </b></p>
<p><b>Tampa Bay @ Tennessee (-3). </b>Couldn't either of these teams reel off a 6-0 to end the season without it being too shocking? Couldn't either of these teams reel of an 0-6 to end the season without it being too shocking? <b>PICK: Tennessee </b></p>
<p><b>Chicago @ Oakland (-3). </b>Houston will be able to survive without <span>Matt Schaub</span>, and Chicago thinks it can do the same without <span>Jay Cutler</span>. Newsflash to <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bears</a> Fan #1, though: Cutler meant so much more to his team than Schaub did to his. The Bears' running game, the wide outs - that offense hinged on Cutler's underrated precision, and it will be sorely missed. Even the defense will look off today. <b>PICK: Oakland </b></p>
<p><b>Washington @ Seattle (-3).</b> Do 20 push-ups for even reading this sentence. <b>PICK: Seattle </b></p>
<p><b>New England (-3) @ Philadelphia. </b><span>Michael Vick</span> will miss his second straight game for the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Eagles</a>, which has provided us with the NFL's funniest Tebow-less sideshow: Philly fans attempting to convince themselves <span>Vince Young</span> is good. The comedy gift that keeps on giving. <b>PICK: New England<br></b></p>
<p><b>Denver @ San Diego (-5 1/2). </b>Denver's 2011 season should win an Emmy for Best Comedy Series, and I don't even mean that as a slight. Watching <span>Tim Tebow</span> dash through the Jets defense on his way to the winning touchdown <i>was hilarious </i>- especially coming against this vaunted D that knew exactly what was coming. My U. of Georgia diploma aside, I'm ready to hop on this Tebow bandwagon as long as he keeps frustrating the "experts" and making Rex Ryan's head explode. <b>PICK: Denver<br></b></p>
<p><b>Pittsburgh (-10) @ Kansas City. </b>One reason I'm picking the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chiefs</a>: this line has violently swung toward the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Steelers</a> this week, meaning everybody is taking Mr. Roethlisberger and Co. When everybody bets one way, practice your healthy gambling discipline and sprint the other. <b>PICK: Kansas City<br></b></p>
<p><b>NY Giants @ New Orleans (-8 1/2).</b> This seems to be an overreaction to recent Giants losses which, let's remember, came against the not-so-bad <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">49ers</a> and Eagles. Pump the brakes a little bit. And how's this for a little prognostication: not only do the Giants cover, they win. (Shhhh.) <b>PICK: NY Giants </b></p>
<p><b>For the rest of the season, the Thursday game pick will be posted that day to Twitter: follow @joshmassey1</b></p>
<p><b>Last week: 7-6-1<br>Thursday's games: </b><b>1-2<br>Yearly total: 89-70-4</b></p>
https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2011/11/27/2578560/nfl-picks-week-12-vikings-falcons-patriots-eagles-giants-saints-andJosh Massey2011-11-20T09:53:08-05:002011-11-20T09:53:08-05:00NFL Picks, Week 11: Titans-Falcons, Buccaneers-Packers, Eagles-Giants And More
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ubtDnr9CNr48rmmnIJm0Y9_2y-Q=/0x26:400x293/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47828099/large_atlanta.sbnation.com.minimal.0.png" />
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<p>There are spreads big and small in the NFL's Week Eleven, and money to be made with all of them. Walk the minefield with care, though, and pay attention to the starting quarterbacks - don't get blown up by a Skelton, Palko or Young.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/odds"><b><u><font color="#002c66">NFL odds found here.</font></u></b></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/odds"><font color="#002c66"></font></a></p>
<p><b><u>The picks:</u></b></p>
<p><b>Cincinnati @ Baltimore (-7). </b>AJ Green is out, which hurts the casual fan just as much as the <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bengals</a>. Is there another player on Cincinnati's roster you'd tune in to see? There's always the allure of a ginger quarterback, sure, but that freakshow carnival sideshow vibe aside, this game should be dreadful. Please tell me you're not banking on <span>Joe Flacco</span> for fireworks. <b>PICK: Cincinnati</b></p>
<p><b>Jacksonville @ Cleveland (-1). </b>A <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Browns</a> fan recently scolded me, saying I never pick his team to cover. Sorry, my friend, the trend continues. Both teams are 3-6, but Cleveland's wins come against teams that are a collective 5-23. The Jags, a far more respectable 11-17 (ok, the 0-10 <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colts</a> are skewing both numbers). Take the road team, or better yet, ignore this game's existence. <b>PICK: Jacksonville</b></p>
<p><b>Carolina @ Detroit (-6 1/2). </b>The <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Lions</a> need a big win here to quiet the whispers of implosion, and build up steam headed into Thursday's Green Bay game. The <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Panthers</a> need to score. A lot. Oddly enough, probably the most exciting of the early games. <b>PICK: Detroit<br></b></p>
<p><b>Tampa Bay @ Green Bay (-14). </b>A lot to a little. <b>PICK: Green Bay</b></p>
<p><b>Dallas (-7) @ Washington. </b>A lotter to a littler. This is the one game I'm betting real money on this week. Washington is really, really horrible, you guys. The fact they started 3-1 is up there with John Mayer's popularity as one of life's great mysteries. <b>PICK: Dallas</b></p>
<p><b>Buffalo @ Miami (-3).</b> Three reasons you would watch this game: 1) Gambling. 2) Fantasy football. 3) Sadomasochistic tendencies. Can barely help you with the first one, absolutely can't help you with the last one, and your fantasy season is over if you're relying on anybody from these teams. Get some fresh air, go play with your kids. <b>PICK: Miami</b></p>
<p><b>Oakland @ Minnesota (PICK). </b>Ugh, and stop typing that "No, dude, I have <span>Fred Jackson</span> on my fantasy team and he's awesome!" No, he's not - hasn't scored a touchdown in over a month. Your team sucks, and your children miss their daddy. <b>PICK: Oakland<br></b></p>
<p><b>Tennessee @ Atlanta (-6 1/2) </b>I have yet to go back and watch a replay of last week's New Orleans loss. Haven't even seen a clip. From my seat in the Dome, I couldn't really tell how far the 4th down play - you know what, can't have this conversation again. I hate the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Saints</a>. Ugh. Let this game act as some much-needed Listerine. <b>PICK: Atlanta</b></p>
<p><b>Seattle @ St. Louis (-3).</b> At the end of each Sunday's late games, the NFL RedZone Channel does a cool montage of every touchdown, in order. Don't be surprised if this game fails to appear a single time. <b>PICK: St. Louis<br></b></p>
<p><b>Arizona @ San Francisco (-10). </b><b>PICK: San Francisco<br></b></p>
<p><b>San Diego @ Chicago (-3 1/2) </b>Vegas' season-long infatuation with San Diego is perplexing. The <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">Chargers</a> have lost four straight, haven't beat a team with a winning record, but they're slight underdogs on the road against a far superior <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bears</a> team? Don't get it. Bet away, Merrill. Merrill, bet away. <b>PICK: Chicago<br></b></p>
<p><b>Philadelphia @ NY <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> (-5 1/2). </b>On Thursday, this line sat at Giants (-3 1/2). A day later, it was a touchdown. Now it seems to have settled somewhere in the middle - and that means no one knows how "<span>Vince Young</span>, NFL starter" will translate in 2011. I have my doubts. <b>PICK: NY Giants<br></b></p>
<p><b>Kansas City @ New England (-16 1/2).</b> I was hedging on this pick, reading <span>Tyler Palko's</span> Wikipedia page for clues. And then I realized <i>I was reading one of this game's starting quarterback's Wikipedia pages to learn something about him</i>. Yeah, never mind. It's an easy one. <b>PICK: New England<br></b></p>
<p><b>For the rest of the season, the Thursday game pick will be posted that day to Twitter: follow @joshmassey1</b></p>
<p><b>Last week: 8-8-0<br>Thursday's game: 1-0</b><b><br>Yearly total: 82-62-3</b></p>
https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2011/11/20/2560916/nfl-picks-week-11-titans-falcons-buccaneers-packers-eagles-giants-andJosh Massey2011-11-13T10:02:47-05:002011-11-13T10:02:47-05:00NFL Picks, Week 10: Saints-Falcons, Lions-Bears, Patriots-Jets And More
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GE6TWETJp2O9GOX4burvKgZoxGY=/0x29:600x429/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/1603182/GYI0062902427.jpg" />
<figcaption>Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>It's an amazing NFL week, with nine match-ups seeing a point spread of four or less, and five that could legitimately claim "Game of the Week" status. Tread wisely, young gambler.</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/odds"><b><u><font color="#002c66">NFL odds found here.</font></u></b></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/odds"><font color="#002c66"></font></a></p>
<p><b><u>The picks:</u></b></p>
<p><b>New Orleans @ Atlanta (-1). </b>Yeah, it's a big one - no getting around that. Win, and the road to a playoff bye becomes less bumpy, lose and the wild card seems a heckuva lot more realistic. I'm hoping for a little more manifestation of what I've been saying this season, that the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Saints</a> are coasting on the good-will of the last few years and aren't a top 10 NFL team. Atlanta should take care of the home field, and I wouldn't be shocked if it gets a little out-of-hand. In fact, locking down the double-digit victory prediction NOW. <b>PICK: Atlanta</b></p>
<p><b>Tennessee @ Carolina (-3 1/2). </b>Aww, aren't they cute? Widdle baby blue warriors? (I'm taking every opportunity to condescend to the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Panthers</a> now, because I don't think there will be many chances in the next few years). <b>PICK: Carolina</b></p>
<p><b>Pittsburgh (-4) @ Cincinnati. </b>It's the 6-3 <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Steelers</a> at the 6-2 <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bengals</a> - a real contender for game of the week, huh? Just don't look at the numbers too closely. Sure, each team has half-a-dozen W's on its ledger, but Pittsburgh's victories came against teams with a combined 15-34 record. Cincinnati is only slightly better than that at 16-32. These might be a couple of default playoff teams, but there isn't really a lot to like. <b>PICK: Cincinnati</b></p>
<p><b>St. Louis @ Cleveland (-2 1/2).</b> I can only assume fans at this game will watch <i>Jack & Jill</i> on the jumbotron, listen to the new Nickelback album at halftime, eat peppermint and squash pork rinds, shave their legs with dead squirrels, read the Penn State grand jury report in a German accent - anything to distract from the unending misery of what they'd otherwise see on the field. <b>PICK: St. Louis</b></p>
<p><b>Buffalo @ Dallas (-5 1/2). </b>Props to Buffalo, y'all - they've been a cute story and have selflessly entertained us all. And players, as a thank you, please accept four out of your next five games on the road, culminating in a sub-.500 record and another playoff miss. But it's been fun, you guys. <b>PICK: Dallas</b></p>
<p><b>Jacksonville (-3) @ Indianapolis. </b>The <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colts</a> have lost their last three games 120-24. The Jags have gone 1-2 in their last three, by a combined total of 39-48 - and all three teams are likely playoff-bound. It just shows while the Colts have accepted their Andrew Luck future, the Jags are still fighting. Not a hard call. <b>PICK: Jacksonville</b></p>
<p><b>Denver @ Kansas City (-3).</b> TebowTebowTebowTebowTebow. <b>PICK: Kansas City</b></p>
<p><b>Washington @ Miami (-4).</b> Through some bizarre fart-stain in the universe, I've ended up friends with several <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins" class="sbn-auto-link">Redskins</a> fans over the years. I made sure to speak to most of them this week, starting the conversation under some false pretense, asking about their kids, their wife, their happiness, a lot of other things I could care less about. Of course, it was just as a long, drawn-out preamble to breaking off mid-sentence and yelling, "UNDERDOG TO A 1-7 TEAM! JOHN BECK! JOHN BECK! UNDERDOG TO MATT MOORE!" I'm telling you, in the right circumstance, a phone getting vomited into can sound like a harp on Sunday, man. <b>PICK: Miami</b></p>
<p><b>Arizona @ Philadelphia (-13 1/2). </b>The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Eagles</a> were my pick in this week's "suicide pool" (where you have to pick one winner per week, not against the spread). Most any other time I see a spread that big, I'm fairly confident in the result - but does anybody really have a reading on this Philly team? Win by 30, lose by 30 - anything is possible. <b>PICK: Philadelphia<br></b></p>
<p><b>Houston (-3 1/2) @ Tampa Bay.</b> <b>PICK: Tampa Bay</b></p>
<p><b>Baltimore (-7) @ Seattle. </b>The <a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Ravens</a> have won back-to-back close games, and have both Cincinnati and San Fran (13-3 combined) coming up in the next eleven days. A west coast trip is a prime candidate for a stumbling sleepwalk effort, isn't it? This will be closer than it should be. <b>PICK: Seattle</b></p>
<p><b>Detroit @ Chicago (-2 1/2). </b>Detroit's "go down by three touchdowns and stage a miracle comeback" strategy from earlier in the season seems to have dissipated. And no wonder, because while Luck may be the name of Indianapolis's game next year, the lower case-version can only go for so long in the NFL. There may be one more piece of good fortune to befall them, though: the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Lions</a> are coming off a bye week, while Chicago just played a tough game on Monday. It could be enough to swing victory to the visitors. <b>PICK: Detroit<br></b></p>
<p><b>NY <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> @ San Francisco (-3 1/2). </b>After a couple weeks of facing off against scrubs, the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">49ers</a> finally arrive to the game they've been circling for a month. Eli's comin' - but he won't feel welcome for very long. <b>PICK: San Francisco</b></p>
<p><b>New England @ NY <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">Jets</a> (PICK). </b><b>PICK: New England</b></p>
<p><b>Minnesota @ Green Bay (-14 1/2).</b> I have an odd feeling something odd happens here - maybe not odd in the sense of <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Vikings</a>-megaupset, but odd nonetheless. Bad huju to bet on this one, methinks. <b>PICK: Minnesota</b></p>
<p><b>For the rest of the season, the Thursday game pick will be posted that day to Twitter: follow @joshmassey1</b></p>
<p><b>Last week: 7-7-0<br>Thursday's game: 1-0</b><b><br>Yearly total: 74-54-3</b></p>
https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2011/11/13/2545265/nfl-picks-week-10-saints-falcons-lions-bears-patriots-jets-and-moreJosh Massey2011-11-06T09:44:27-05:002011-11-06T09:44:27-05:00NFL Picks, Week 9: Falcons-Colts, Buccaneers-Saints, Ravens-Steelers And More
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<img alt="ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 16: Michael Turner #33 of the Atlanta Falcons prepares to enter the field to face the Carolina Panthers at Georgia Dome on October 16, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ecJzenBHIOA9RcKCIxe0_-65X8Y=/0x0:1000x667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/4444531/129383232.jpg" />
<figcaption>ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 16: Michael Turner #33 of the Atlanta Falcons prepares to enter the field to face the Carolina Panthers at Georgia Dome on October 16, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A lucky 13 games await fans in Week 9, including Atlanta back from its bye week (allegedly), a Bucs-Saints rematch in The Big Easy, and Jay Cutler getting sacked in cold weather. The picks are here!</p> <p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/odds"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/odds"><b><u>NFL odds found here.</u></b></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/odds"></a></p>
<p>So last Saturday, I agreed to have 50 people at my house for a Halloween party. I spent all day cleaning, thinking I'd soon be done and have plenty of time to write this column. Then somebody tapped the keg early and presented me with my favorite vodka (grape, of course), and the girls dressed as cheerleaders showed up. So right, priorities and stuff. I ended up posting the picks to Twitter (@joshmassey1) early Sunday morning, and had my first .500 week as payment for my sins.</p>
<p>(Yes, that was really just a long-winded way of saying I've only had one .500 week, and zero sub-.500 ones. A roll is on, as they say. Saying this, of course, guarantees I'll be crashing and burning today.)</p>
<p><b><u>The picks:</u></b></p>
<p><b>Atlanta (-6 1/2) @ Indianapolis. </b>If the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons" class="sbn-auto-link">Falcons</a> want to be taken seriously as a championship contender, this needs to be something like 38-7. The <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bengals</a> beat Indy by 10. The <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Titans</a> beat them by 17, the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Texans</a> by 27, the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Saints</a> by freakin' 55. No excuse for there not to be a three-touchdown separation in the final score. <b>PICK: Atlanta</b></p>
<p><b>NY <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">Jets</a> @ Buffalo (-1). </b>The <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bills</a> stand at 4-3, coming off a shutout of Washington, having lost no game by more than three points - and they're just a single-point home favorite to a thoroughly underwhelming Jets squad? Recent home wins against San Diego and Miami are supposed to be inspiring for New York, which is 0-3 on the road by the way? Easy pickins<b>. PICK: Buffalo</b></p>
<p><b>Seattle @ Dallas (-11 1/2). </b>Scratch the one-win <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams" class="sbn-auto-link">Rams</a>, and Dallas hasn't won a game by more than four points. That will probably change here, but are you really willing to lay double digits with <span>Tony Romo</span>? <b>PICK: Seattle</b></p>
<p><b>Cleveland @ Houston (-10 1/2).</b> <span>Chris Ogbonnaya</span>, signed last month off Houston's practice squad, faces his old team as the starting running back for your 2011 <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cleveland Browns</a>. With <span>Peyton Hillis</span> and <span>Montario Hardesty</span> already declared out, it's up to the little-known, little-producing Texas native to shoulder the running load. Even my horrible waste of a fantasy football team isn't this desperate for a starter. <b>PICK: Houston</b></p>
<p><b>Miami @ Kansas City (-4). </b>The turnaround in Kansas City has gone fairly unheralded. After losing the first two games by a combined score of 89-10, the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chiefs</a> have gone 4-1 with wins over some allegedly decent teams (<a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Vikings</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/oakland-raiders" class="sbn-auto-link">Raiders</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">Chargers</a>). Miami is not going 0-16, but the first win won't come here. <b>PICK: Kansas City</b></p>
<p><b>Tampa Bay @ New Orleans (-8). </b>The Saints go up against the Bucs for the second time in four weeks, having fallen 26-20 in Week Six. I'm not buying the whole "New Orleans is embarrassed by the St. Louis loss" angle that portends a blow-out. A decent Tampa team and an honestly just-pretty-decent Saints team will hang together. <b>PICK: Tampa Bay</b></p>
<p><b>San Francisco (-4) @ Washington.</b> Alex Smith vs. <span>John Beck</span>! It's only half the punchline it would have been a few months ago. <b>PICK: San Francisco</b></p>
<p><b>Denver @ Oakland (-7).</b> For his first 2011 start, <span>Carson Palmer</span> couldn't have asked for a better opponent. And yes, you've just read the only write-up of this game mentioning Oakland's quarterback before Denver's. <b>PICK: Oakland</b></p>
<p><b>Cincinnati @ Tennessee (-2 1/2). </b>Both the Bengals and Titans could conceivably tie for their respective division leads at the halfway point. And that's why they play the games, folks. <b>PICK: Tennessee</b></p>
<p><b>St. Louis @ Arizona (-2 1/2).</b> The "Jack & Jill" of NFL football games. The entertainment value will be non-existent, paychecks will nevertheless be delivered, and everybody involved will feel dirty. Ok, I'm not sure Adam Sandler has the capability to feel dirty anymore, but then again neither does Todd Heap. Arizona starting QB John Skelton will no doubt add to the wacky shenanigans. <b>PICK: St. Louis</b></p>
<p><b>NY <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> @ New England (-9). </b>It's a bit surprising, but <span>Eli Manning</span> is quietly putting together a pretty decent year. He's seventh in the league in passing yards, seventh in touchdowns, and has only five picks in seven games. Even with <span>Hakeem Nicks</span> out, Eli won't be rattled by a Foxboro crowd, at least keeping it close. <b>PICK: NY Giants</b></p>
<p><b>Green Bay (-5 1/2) @ San Diego. </b>The Chargers are awful. Awful. Recipients of their usual pre-season hype, combined with wins over awful teams, and apparently Vegas hasn't even figured them out yet. Assuming Aaron Rodgers is awake for the game - literally awake, he doesn't even have to really pay attention - Green Bay covers easily. <b>PICK: Green Bay</b></p>
<p><b>Baltimore @ Pittsburgh (-3). </b>The battle of "We've been good in recent years, but are exceedingly average now, but nobody seems to notice us squeezing out wins over the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colts</a>, <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Jaguars</a> and <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cardinals</a>, and our records looks ok but I'm afraid we're destined for early playoff blowouts" AFC North teams! <b>PICK: Pittsburgh</b></p>
<p><b>Chicago @ Philadelphia (-9). </b>If you've read about the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Eagles</a> this week, you've seen they're "back" and have "figured it out." One dominating win over the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cowboys</a> goes a long way, long enough to become a pretty big front-runner to a <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bears</a> team with a winning streak, off a bye. Philadelphia is surely capable of a sizable win over damn near any team in the league, but we're talking probability here. <b>PICK: Chicago</b></p>
<p><b>For the rest of the season, the Thursday game pick will be posted that day to Twitter: follow @joshmassey1</b></p>
<p><b>Last week: 6-6-1<br>Yearly total: 66-47-3</b></p>
https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2011/11/6/2516049/nfl-picks-week-9-falcons-colts-buccaneers-saints-ravens-steelersJosh Massey2011-10-23T08:31:38-04:002011-10-23T08:31:38-04:00NFL Picks, Week 7: Falcons-Lions, Bears-Buccaneers, Colts-Saints And More
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<figcaption>Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Week Seven is highlighted by Tebow-mania in Miami, the possible return of Carson Palmer, and two prime-time matchups the networks would like to rethink. With a dearth of super-exciting matchups out there, it might be necessary to make games more interesting the old-fashioned way. The NFL lines are here!</p> <p><b><u>The picks:</u></b></p>
<p><b>Atlanta @ Detroit (-4). </b>An Atlanta fan shouldn't be approaching this game with confidence - <span>Julio Jones</span> is questionable along with what seems to be the entire offensive line - but dammit, I'm doin' it anyway. It's this rumble in my gut (which, ok, might be the McRib I just ate) that tells me <span>Roddy White</span> is going to step up, the defense will keep <span>Calvin Johnson</span> from raining hellfire, the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Lions</a> will really miss <span>Jahvid Best</span>, and the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons" class="sbn-auto-link">Falcons</a> will come home with a winning record. It's pretty non-sensical (the O-line might be more important against the Lions than any other team, Best isn't that good), but I had the same feeling about "Fast Five" and look how that turned out. (Awesome. It turned out awesome.) <b>PICK: Atlanta</b></p>
<p><b>Washington @ Carolina (-1). </b>But anyway, back to the McRib. Is there a more masterful piece of marketing out there? McDonald's puts the sandwich on its menu about once a year, just long enough for one to forget how thoroughly grotesque it is - a pasty roll, onions and pickles, and a barbeque-slathered slab of "meat" (quotations used very much on purpose). Nothing appetizing about it at all, but dammit all, every time I see that "McRib Is Back!" sign, my car turns into a drive-thru magnet. And guess what? It's disgusting again this year. I won't have more than six or seven. (Two words of actual game advice: <span>John Beck</span>.)<b> PICK: Carolina</b></p>
<p><b>Seattle @ Cleveland (-2 1/2). </b>One of only three games between teams with losing records, this somehow seems like the most sickening of the bunch. At least Denver-Miami gives us the Tebowtastic sideshow, and St. Louis-Dallas features one team that's actually pretty good. But what's here to enjoy? Fireworks from <span>Charlie Whitehurst</span>? The emerging receiving skills of some guy named <span>Doug Baldwin</span>? Hell, <span>Peyton Hillis</span>, the one guy who you might possibly, somehow have on your fantasy team, is hurt. For masochists only.<b> PICK: Cleveland</b></p>
<p><b>Denver @ Miami (PICK).</b> With a peppering of short-sightedness and a dash of not-at-all-coincidence, the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Dolphins</a> are celebrating the 2008 national-champion Florida Gators on the day <span>Tim Tebow</span> comes to town. Yes, the Dolphins - who play about 350 miles south of Gainesville, on the same field as the Miami Hurricanes (the Georgia Dome is literally closer to Gainesville than Sun Life Stadium). Hurricanes fans are understandably pissed, but anything to sell a few extra tickets to this depressing team, I guess. <b>PICK: Denver</b></p>
<p><b>San Diego (-1) @ NY <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">Jets</a>. </b>With wins over the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Vikings</a>, <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chiefs</a>, Dolphins and <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Broncos</a>, the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">Chargers</a> might be owners of the least impressive 4-1 record ever. Still, they go into the Meadowlands as a road favorite against a 3-3 teams whose losses were at Oakland, at Baltimore and at New England. I wasn't a math whiz, but somethin' don't be addin' up. (I wasn't an English whiz either.) <b>PICK: NY Jets</b></p>
<p><b>Chicago (-1) vs. Tampa Bay (in London). </b>Chicago just <i>needs</i> this. The team's schedule, already brutal so far, becomes even more so in the next few weeks: at Tampa Bay, at Philadelphia, Detroit, San Diego, at Oakland. Ick. Any real shot of playoff contention could hinge on this one. <b>PICK: Chicago</b></p>
<p><b>Houston @ Tennessee (-2 1/2).</b> This game is for first place in the AFC South. The AFC South sucks. <b>PICK: Tennessee</b></p>
<p><b>Pittsburgh (-4) @ Arizona.</b> The talk about Andrew Luck's eventual NFL destination seems to revolve around Miami, St. Louis and Indianapolis, but let's not count out Arizona. The team has dropped four in a row, have a killer remaining schedule, and probably aren't all too thrilled with Kevin Kolb's performance thus far (one touchdown and five picks in his last three games, all for only $65 million!). The <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Steelers</a> will kick the Cards' losing streak to five. <b>PICK: Pittsburgh</b></p>
<p><b>Kansas City @ Oakland (-3 1/2). </b>As everyone no doubt heard, Oakland sent its 2012 first-round pick - and potentially its 2013 one - to Cincinnati for quarterback <span>Carson Palmer</span>, who may start this week. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/oakland-raiders" class="sbn-auto-link">Raiders</a> coach Hue Jackson was in charge of the Bengal's receivers from 2004 to 2006, when Palmer was the team's quarterback. Which begs the question: has Jackson not watched Palmer play since then? The guy didn't have much last year, throwing 20 interceptions on the way to a 4-12 record. And he's suddenly supposed to give the Raiders hope five days out of retirement? <b>PICK: Kansas City</b></p>
<p><b>St. Louis @ Dallas (-15).</b> Let's all say it together: "NFL starter <span>A.J. Feeley</span>." Due to Sam Bradford's high ankle sprain, those words will be uttered this weekend for the first time since 2007. Even the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cowboys</a> can't screw this game up, right? <b>PICK: Dallas </b></p>
<p><b>Green Bay (-10 1/2) @ Minnesota. </b>Instead of focusing on this laugher, let's think positive and look to Thanksgiving Day. After years of bitching about Detroit's strangehold on the holiday, I must credit the NFL for its 12:30 T-Day matchup: Green Bay at Detroit. That game might be worth all those years of misery, when Detroit was the equivalent of tryptophan laced with Ambien. I'm excited. <b>PICK: Green Bay</b></p>
<p><b>Indianapolis @ New Orleans (-15). </b>Oh, the poor bastards at NBC. Imagine the spring meeting when the Sunday Night Football match-ups were chosen. This seemed like such a no-brainer at the time, but now we're being punished with a Curtis Painter-led <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colts</a> team against a pretty boring version of the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Saints</a>. Agony. <b>PICK: Indianapolis</b></p>
<p><b>Baltimore (-10 1/2) @ Jacksonville. </b>Now this game, on the other hand - when did this <i>ever</i> look interesting enough for a prime-time match-up? Even worse, this is one of THREE remaining night games for the Jags. Unreal.<b> PICK: Baltimore</b></p>
<p><b>Last week: 7-6-0<br>Yearly total: 51-37-2</b></p>
https://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-falcons/2011/10/23/2497869/nfl-picks-week-7-falcons-lions-bears-buccaneers-colts-saints-and-moreJosh Massey