LA Rams -110
I always hear from so many friends/bettors how "I just can't bet against my team". I believe it was Uncle Dave Essler whom I first heard say several years back how ridiculous that is, and a waste of advanced knowledge compared to the widespread market. Of course he was and is correct.
Using that logic makes fading my Pack one of my favorite plays of the football season so far. Many intangibles at play here.
1) I can't remember the last time the Pack had such a late bye. I'll admit I think it has something to do with being a league darling, but in my 29 years of not missing a game, not often has the bye week not come at the comfortable spots somewhere between weeks 6-10. Boy oh boy do they need one too. The injuries continue to pile up to important players. This last week it was Elgton Jenkins, gone for the year now in what was surely a Pro Bowl if not all Pro season so far. This correlates with the news that Dave Bahktiari has had a setback in his long awaited return at LT and will be out until after the bye, at the earliest. Not good. Nijman has played ok but now it's time for the fricken Rams front...not good! Newman and EDS have been not exactly stellar inside as well. Immune1 is going to have to watch out.
Alexander, Meyers (starting Center), D. Smith, Aaron Jones will still also be out. All key starters. WR Lazard unknown status at this time.
Rashan Gary will probably play...but how effective can he be yet? Mercilus his backup was playing good but is also gone for the year. Backup#2 Garvin doesn't do much at all. It wouldn't surprise me at all if they tried to hold Gary out, or pull him if this one starts getting ugly.
2) Holiday/Bye situations. Packers have 2 Home oriented distractions this week. Thanksgiving plans...not saying the Rams won't too but more on that in a sec. Then, it's making plans for the long awaited bye week where everyone will be returning to their home states or going on a vacation. Or physical therapy for 1/4 of the team. Rams are coming off 2 losses and then their bye. Chances are Thanksgiving will either be in order already or many guys had theirs last weekend. In short, they will be fresh and on fire. Can't afford the loss in the standings right now.
The fatigue level, mental and physical, has gotta be high on the Packers right now given the mentioned circumstances. Add onto that how they left everything on the field in an emotional game (loss) @ Minny last Sunday. What can be left in the tank?
*Quick hits*
- In addition to Rams d-lineman, Von Miller has now had ample time with the team to be fresh and up to speed.
- Same goes for OBJ...teaming up with Kupp. Kevin King....oh boy
- Immune1 is claiming to have a painful turf toe situation
- If you like "Revenge angles"....for Rams: last year's playoff loss at Lambeau. For Stafford: 10+ years playing for the Lions vs the Packers.
- 33 degrees, around 10 mph winds for the clear headcase that is kicker Mason Crosby right now
Add it all up and I hate to say it but I see nothing but a butt whipping incoming to GB! I only hope Immune1 doesn't get smashed up so bad that it costs him time or the season. I'm guessing they'll try to fight back but just won't have it in em.
34-15 Rams if not worse