Brandon’s Week 5 NFL Picks

Overall, I have not had a very good read on the NFL so far this year, but there are few games I like this weekend.

1. Tennessee @ Baltimore (+3): There is no arguing that Tennessee has been great so far this year. Their defense has been strong allowing less than a 100 yards rushing per game and less than 300 overall. Kerry Collins has looked like the leader he once was when playing for Penn State. However, they are not going to win them all. This weekend they take on arguably the best defense in football. The Raven’s D is allowing less than 70 yards rushing per game and only 117 yards passing, that is simply sick. Flacco is doing the one thing he is suppose to be doing, not losing the game. If he continues to make good decisions, play within his ability, and not hold onto the ball for too long in the pocket, then the Ravens will be in a great position to win this game. (Rating +4) Baltimore was in control for most of the game, but the 4th quarter belonged to the Titans. The Titans scored 10 points in the 4th quarter for the win, however we had to settle for the push. Titans 13 Bal. 10.

2. Minnesota at New Orleans (-3): I am playing this game based primarily on Minnesota’s inability to put things together so far this year, especially on the road. They are 0-2 ats and 0-2 su on the road so far this year. The Saints haven’t been great, but are 2-0 ats and 2-0 su at home so far this year. The Saints seem to play inspired ball when playing at home. I think this game comes down to turnovers. Minnesota is averaging two turnovers per game on the road, while the Saints are averaging less then 1 at home. In the end I think the Saints take care of business and win a close game. (Rating +2) A combination of turnovers, poor 4th quarter defense, and some poor calls all led to a Saints loss. Min. 30 NO 27.

3. Pittsburgh (+4) at Jacksonville: I don’t know if it is Pittsburgh or Ben, but they just don’t seem to give up in any game they play. Somehow they seem to do one thing well and that is simply win. They are 3-1 su this year even though their offense is hardly manging to average 250 yards per game. After a strong come from behind win against the Ravens tough D I believe Pittsburgh comes out with a more focused offensive attack and score a few more points this week. Pitt’s D remains strong, allowing less than 250 yards of total offense per game. I think this will be another close game, however I will put my faith in the Steelers to continue their winning ways and steal a victory at Jacksonville. (Rating +4). Sunday nights game was probably the best game of the weekend. Like I said, Steelers came out with a focused offensive attack even when using their third string running back. Everytime the Jags looked they were going to take over, the Steelers responded with a score of their own and came home with a win. Pit. 26 Jags 21.

4. Buffalo (+1) at Arizona: Arizona has looked great and terrible at different points throughout this young season. They are extremly inconsistent and I am just waiting for Warner to have one of his 5 interceptions game, we all know it is coming. The Bills D, while not the best in the league, has been very strong so far this year allowing less then 300 yards of total offense. The Bills are simply on a roll so far this year. I think a win at Arizona after a 4-0 start would be a big statement for this team and their franchise. The Bills have taken care of the ball and somehow have found a way to win. This is their second week on the road so I wouldn’t be shocked to see Arizona win, but if the Bills D can cause a few turnovers and give the offense good field position then the Bills will have a great chance to win. (Rating +3) While the injury to Trent Edwards sure didn’t help the Bills’ cause, they were clearly dominated by Arizona’s passing game virtually scoring at will. Arizona’s D put the clamp down in the second half as well. Arizona 41 Bills 17.

Week Totals:

Record: 1-2

Profit/Loss: -1 unit