Week 16 NFL Picks

Ok, so last weekend didn’t go exactly as planned. Then again, nothing really does. This weekend, the games are ripe for the picking and yours truly is here to help those in need during the holiday season. [Don’t try to tell me that that credit card bill doesn’t scare you a little in light of all the shopping that needed to be done.]

I now stand at 23-14 on the season in the NFL and I plan on increasing my win percentage greatly this weekend. I vow to right the ship I wronged last weekend, and lead it straight back to the Port of Victory [not a real place, don’t Google it]. The only question I have is, are you brave enough to follow?


Game One: Baltimore Ravens (11-3) at Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7)

As bad as the Steelers were at the start of this season, they have won enough recently to keep themselves alive in the playoff hunt. By winning 5 of their last 6 games, Pittsburgh has fought its way back from 2-6, and can go above .500 with a win at home on Sunday. And what a win it will be. The Steelers are looking to pay back the Ravens for the 27-0 beating they took in Baltimore just a month ago. I look for Willie Parker and the rest of the Steelers to show their heart in this game, and take a win from their division rivals. Take the Steelers (-3) and have a wonderful Christmas.

Game Two: New England Patriots (10-4) at Jacksonville Jaguars (8-6)

The Patriots can clinch the AFC East this weekend with a win, but they can also clinch with a loss by the Jets. In other words, the absolute need is not there. The Jaguars on the other hand, need this win to help keep their playoff hopes alive. A team at home in need is always worth more than a team on the road who doesn’t really feel that desperation yet. Also, the Jaguars have been a terrific home team this season. I’ll take the Jags (-3) on Sunday in what should be a great game for the holidays.

Game Three: Tennessee Titans (7-7) at Buffalo Bills (7-7)

With all the talk about the Titans and quarterback Vince Young lately, this game would appear to be an easy pick. Who wouldn’t like a hot team (winners of 5 straight) getting five points against a team with the same record? The answer is me, that’s who. What people aren’t paying attention to is the play of the other quarterback in this game, J.P. Losman. His play of late (101.5 QB rating over the last 5 games) has really gotten this team playing like a winner. Also, the Titans line looks a little fishy to me. It is about time Vince Young learned what it’s really like to be a rookie QB in the NFL, and Buffalo has the defense that can teach him that lesson. I’m taking the Bills (-5) and suggesting you do the same.

Game Four: Washington Redskins (5-9) at St. Louis Rams (6-8)

The Redskins won me a nice chunk of change last weekend, beating a tough Saints team on the road. With Washington on the road again this week, I expect the same result. Jason Campbell is a nice quarterback who can manage a game when his running game is working. The Rams cannot stop the run, so I look for Betts to have a big day. Most importantly though, the Skin’s defense will dominate from start to finish and give Washington a nice holiday gift. Take the Skins (+2) and give yourself that same gift.