Vegas Vic
FALCONS (+5) over Eagles
Took the bundle with the Redskins last week and got the cover, and while 5 ain't quite as big a bundle, Vic is buying the home team. However, we're expecting a similar scenario, where the Birds win, but just by a fingernail. So you're questioning my mental capability picking the Falcons without their fabulous young QB, Matt Ryan? Understood. Chris Redman, the backup, who had a superb career at Louisville, stepped in for Ryan in the first quarter of Sunday's game against Tampa Bay, and hit on 23 of 41 for 243 yards and two touchdowns. Not too shabby for a No. 2. Then there's Atlanta's record at home the last 2 years, which is sitting at a very healthy 12-1. Kinda tough to buck that number. But because of the questionable status of RB Michael Turner, we'll keep this selection on the light side.
Titans (+7) over COLTS
What do you do when you're 11-0 and have clinched the AFC South and a spot in the playoffs? We'll find out Sunday. Don't think that Indy will start resting players just yet, but they can't possibly bring the same intensity Sunday as they did for the last three games (New England, Baltimore and Houston). Now the Horseshoes have to deal with a Tennessee team that has absolutely no resemblance to the team they beat in Nashville in October, 31-9. Since the bye, the Titans have rocked with a perfect 5-0 straight-up mark, and 4-1 against the spread. Vince Young has been a revelation, while all Chris Johnson has done is lead the entire NFL in rushing, with 1,396 yards. Since Jeff Fisher's kids have covered five of the last seven against the Colts and have a boatload of confidence, they should be able to get another spread W inside the Lucas Oil barn.
STEELERS (-14) over Raiders
Big Ben is back, and boy does Pittsburgh need him now. The Steelers have dropped three in a row, which happens about as often as Tiger Woods ... oh, never mind. They have not dropped four in a row since the 2003 season, and it ain't gonna happen here. The Steelers are 10-1 in their last 11 at home, while Oakland has covered only three of its last nine. Feeling a big, fat bagel for the Silver & Black, with Pitt dropping a 24 spot on the visitors.
REDSKINS (+10) over Saints
If Sean Payton can get his players back at a fever pitch only 6 days after smothering the Patriots in a game that everyone acknowledged was a huge statement, then he is the best coach in the NFL. And I'll never doubt New Orleans again. But we feel that double digits is worth a shot. Washington is on a 3-0 spread roll, and has won 10 of the last 13 against the Saints, including an impressive 19-14 victory in D.C. last season.
PACKERS (-3) over Ravens.
Really like what Aaron Rodgers and Green Bay have done since the bye week, winning five of seven, straight up and against the spread. And if we're talking defense, most people would think Baltimore, but under defensive coordinator Dom Capers, Green Bay has allowed a league-low 281.5 yards per game. Don't forget that Ravens QB Joe Flacco is still fighting a sprained ankle, which is why Baltimore has averaged only 14.5 points the last four games.
GIANTS (+2) over Cowboys
Despite the recent tumble (losing five of the last six), the New Yorkers always are ready for the hated invaders from the Big D, covering four of the last five games at home against the 'Boys.
BROWNS (+13) over Chargers
San Diego is coming off two big division wins (32-3 over Denver and 43-14 over KC) and is flying to Dallas next week. How could the Lightning Bolts possibly be interested in this game? They can't, but will still win by 10.
CHIEFS (+5) over Broncos
KC has won five of the last six at home against Denver, so we like the 'dog.
Texans (Pick) over JAGUARS
Houston has covered 11 of the last 15 against Jax, so we'll open the wallet, but just a hair.
BENGALS (-13) over Lions
Since Detroit has won only two of its last 25, Cincy looks pretty solid, but the number is huge, so stay light.
Buccaneers (+6) over PANTHERS
If Carolina is gonna roll with Matt Moore in his first NFL start, we gotta tickle Tampa.
BEARS (-9) over Rams
Chicago is desperate for a win, and St. Louis just happens to be coming to town.
SEAHAWKS (Pick) over 49ers
Seattle has covered five of the last seven at home, while SF has won only four of the last 15 on the road.
CARDINALS (+4) over Vikings
Looks as if Kurt Warner is a go after the concussion, and that will make all the difference.
Patriots (-3) over DOLPHINS