NFL WEEK TWO

Fri, Sep 12th 2014, 12:12 PM

Sheldon's picks
WEEK TWO
Thursday's game
Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens, 8:25 p.m.
Given all of the turmoil surrounding the Ray Rice incident, the Ravens couldn't possibly be focused ahead of their Thursday night encounter with the Pittsburgh Steelers. This divisional battle is always physical and intense, but I think the Steelers will take advantage of a subdued Ravens' squad and leave M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore with a huge win. The departure of Ray Rice has left Baltimore without much of a running game. The onus now falls on Joe Flacco and the receiving core to produce some sort of offensive attack. Whereas they should be able to score some points, they'll be too one-dimensional to experience much success against the Steelers.
Steelers 27, Ravens 17

Sunday's games
Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills, 1 p.m.
The Dolphins are for real! Don't get me wrong... I'm not saying they're Super Bowl bound or anything like that, but they certainly appear ready to make a serious run at the playoffs, and could easily be one of the top three teams in the AFC. With the addition of Knowshon Moreno, the Fins have a legitimate running game, and the revamped offensive line is already paying dividends. Moreno led the league in rushing last week, punishing the Pats for 134 yards on the ground, and for the first time in a long time, the Dolphins averaged more than five yards per carry as a team. The defense was impressive as well. A divisional battle on the road is always challenging, but I think the Fins will be up to the task and take care of business in Buffalo on Sunday.
Dolphins 24, Bills 16

Detroit Lions at Carolina Panthers, 1 p.m.
The Lions is another one of those teams that appears ready to turn the corner and make a serious push for the playoffs this year. Calvin "Megatron" Johnson is already burning up defensive backs. Cam Newton will be back for the Panthers, but I don't think he has the weapons to match the Lions score for score. The Lions will certainly be able to put up the points, and the Panthers will be overwhelmed despite playing in their home opener. I think Cam will be elusive as always and make some plays, but it won't be enough to keep up with the high-scoring Lions.
Lions 33, Panthers 20

Atlanta Falcons at Cincinnati Bengals, 1 p.m.
With Julio Jones back in the mix, the Falcons look to have a resurgent year, possibly challenging the Saints for divisional supremacy. The Bengals, on the other hand, are the clear cut favorites to take the AFC North again. The Bengals have one of the more balanced offensive attacks in the league, and defensively they know how to bring the pressure. As long as Andy Dalton stays away from crucial interceptions in this game, the Bengals should come out on top. I think A.J. Green will have a big day catching the ball against that secondary of the Falcons, and on defense, they'll do a good enough job on Jones and the rest of the Falcons to come out on top.
Bengals 24, Falcons 20

New Orleans Saints at Cleveland Browns, 1 p.m.
The Browns showed a lot of heart in their comeback against the Steelers last week and are primed to make a strong showing in their home opener, but the Saints is just on a different level right now. The Saints high-powered offense will be too much for the Browns to handle. I look for Drew Brees to hook up with Jimmy Graham a couple of times, and for their offense to dictate the pace of the game. On top of that, their defense should rebound from a horrific showing last week. They'll easily take care of the Browns.
Saints 34, Browns 17

New England Patriots at Minnesota Vikings, 1 p.m.
The Vikings will be fired up with a top AFC opponent coming in for their home opener, but somehow, I just can't see Tom Brady and the Patriots starting their season with two straight losses. The Dolphins exposed the Pats and their woeful offensive line last week, but I'm pretty sure Bill Belichick will have his team ready to play on Sunday. Brady will get the ball out of his hands much quicker, and the Pats won't have any problems moving the ball downfield.
Patriots 28, Vikings 17

Arizona Cardinals at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.
Eli Manning and the G-men appear to be in for a rough season. On offense, they're turnover prone, and on defense, they're struggling. I don't normally go for west coast teams playing early games on the east coast, but I just can't see the Giants being able to contain the Cardinals this week. The Cards is one of the more underrated teams in football. Carson Palmer knows how to spread the ball around on offense, and defensively, they're legit. I look for them to walk into MetLife Stadium on Sunday and leave with a big win.
Cardinals 20, Giants 17

Dallas Cowboys at Tennessee Titans, 1 p.m.
The Cowboys can't stop anyone, anywhere... period! After this performance on Sunday, the label of "America's Team" should be taken away from them. Defensively, they're atrocious! Meanwhile, Titans' quarterback Jake Locker seems rejuvenated this season, and he has some new weapons to throw the ball to. They were truly impressive in that beatdown of the Chiefs last week. I believe the Titans will have another impressive showing, in their home opener, this week. They'll easily have their way on Sunday, even though it really doesn't take much to beat the Cowboys these days.
Titans 31, Cowboys 20

Jacksonville Jaguars at Washington Redskins, 1 p.m.
The Texans' pass rush certainly did a number on RG3 and the Redskins last week, but I don't see that happening again this week. As long as the Redskins hold on to the ball, they shouldn't have any problem with the Jags. I look for RG3 to bounce back and have a strong game. He has two capable receivers in Pierre Garcon and DeSean Jackson, and running back Alfred Morris could take some of the pressure off the passing game by being productive on the ground. I expect for RG3 to run more effectively as well.
Redskins 24, Jaguars 13

Seattle Seahawks at San Diego Chargers, 4:05 p.m.
After that season-opening performance, there should be no doubt that the Super Bowl Champions Seattle Seahawks is the top team in the NFC. They're well balanced on both sides of the ball. Defensively, they're top notch, and on offense they're much improved. Percy Harvin certainly adds a different dimension to that team. His speed and elusiveness creates havoc for opposing defensive backs, and on special teams as well. The Chargers is a playoff team from a year ago, but they'll be overwhelmed by the 'Hawks on Sunday.
Seahawks 30, Chargers 20

St. Louis Rams at Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 4:05 p.m.
The Rams don't have a quarterback... at least no one who could move the ball effectively and put points on the scoreboard consistently. As it looks now, Austin Davis will get the start on Sunday. I expect for the Gerald McCoy and the Bucs to bring the pressure on Sunday and force the Rams' third string quarterback into a few mistakes. On offense, Josh McCown will utilize the size of starting receivers Vincent Jackson and rookie Mike Evans, and Doug Martin will bounce back with a strong effort on the ground.
Buccaneers 27, Rams 13

Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos, 4:25 p.m.
This AFC battle could very well turn out to be lopsided in favor of the Broncos. After that horrific showing last week, it certainly doesn't look too promising for the Chiefs. The Broncos appear to be the top team in the AFC once again. I don't think complacency will be an issue. Peyton Manning will make sure that his troops don't come out too relaxed against the Chiefs. The Broncos should handle business easily on Sunday in the Mile High City.
Broncos 37, Chiefs 17

N.Y. Jets at Green Bay Packers, 4:25 p.m.
Aaron Rodgers and the Packers' passing game were pathetic in the season opener against the Seahawks. They didn't even try to challenge Richard Sherman, choosing to stay away from that side of the field. I think they'll make amends for that on Sunday. Quite frankly, the Jets' secondary isn't as potent as that of the 'Hawks anyway. Rodgers will spread the ball around to his receivers this time, and Eddie Lacy and James Starks should be effective in the running game.
Packers 33, Jets 17

Houston Texans at Oakland Raiders, 4:25 p.m.
It's just Week Two, and the Texans could already match their entire win total from all of last season with a win on Sunday. I think they'll go to Oakland and get the job done. They certainly have the pass rush to rattle the Raiders' rookie quarterback. Overall top pick Jadeveon Clowney is out for about four to six weeks, but the Texans still have new 100 million dollar man J.J. Watt and Brooks Reed to bring the pressure. Brian Cushing will direct that Texans' defense from his middle linebacker spot, and they will create havoc for Raiders' rookie quarterback Derek Carr. Texans' quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick is capable of getting the job done on offense.
Texans 23, Raiders 16

Chicago Bears at San Francisco 49ers, 8:30 p.m.
The Niners' offense helped out their defense by putting points on the scoreboard early last week, but overall, I think they'll be in for a tough time this Sunday night, even in their home opener. The Bears are certainly capable of knocking off the Niners at home. I look for them to rebound from that tough loss to the Bills last week and get a big win against a top notch NFC opponent this week. At the receiver position, the Bears have arguably the best 1-2 tandem in the league in Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery. It's just up to the offensive line to protect Jay Cutler long enough for him to get the ball to those two. In Aldon Smith and NaVorro Bowman, the Niners are missing a huge part of their defense. Their pass rush won't be the same, and the Bears will take advantage of that and get a big win on Sunday night.
Bears 23, 49ers 20

Monday's game
Philadelphia Eagles at Indianapolis Colts, 8:30 p.m.
This game will feature two of the top young quarterbacks in the league. Both of these teams can move the ball on offense and put up points on the scoreboard. The difference maker in this game might be on defense. The Colts will be without a key piece of their defensive unit in the person of Robert Mathis, but I think the rest of their squad will be up to the task. This Monday night affair might also come down to a late field goal, and playing at home, I have to give the Colts the edge.
Colts 33, Eagles 30

Naughty's picks
WEEK TWO
Last week was a surprise to many for some of the games. I certainly didn't see some of those results coming. I got to see one blowout in person, on the wrong end of course. Yes, Tony Romo is worse in person than on TV! Much thanks to my good friend Dwayne Harris (#17) who laid out the red carpet for us in "Big D" and made some nice plays in the game, one of only a few bright spots for Cowboys' fans on a long afternoon. There's 16 weeks left though, so there's a ton of football and scenarios to play out. Let's jump into Week Two and see who I like and why.

Thursday's game
Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens, 8:25 p.m.
Big AFC North match-up in this one, complete with all the trimmings of a nasty rivalry. The Steelers put up big numbers early but barely held on against the Browns, escaping with a narrow three-point win. The Steelers' offense is potent with "Big Ben", Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell putting up big numbers, which I expect them to do this week as well. However, the Browns exposed some weaknesses in the Steelers "D". The Ravens will attempt to exploit the Steelers "D" with the speed of Justin Forsett, the next man up for the Ravens' backfield after the whole Ray Rice fallout. Along with Steve Smith, Torrey Smith and Dennis Pitta, they should create problems for the Steelers. Playing inspired football at home, I like the Ravens in a squeaker.
Ravens 23 Steelers 20

Sunday's games
Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills, 1 p.m.
After stunning the Patriots in Miami to open the season, the Super Bowl talks will continue in Miami after Week Two. I like the Dolphins on the road this time of year, especially in Buffalo. The Bills played big in the opening week, but I think that was more of a mirage than anything else. The Bears were flat and allowed the Bills to steal one. That changes this week. The formidable Dolphins 'D', despite the loss of Dannell Ellerbe, will step up big against the Bills and the Dolphins' offense behind Ryan Tannehill, Mike Wallace and Knowshon Moreno will make enough plays against a tough Bills' defense to pull out a tough win on the road. Dolphins' fans, save the Super Bowl banter. You're only going to be 2-0.
Dolphins 23, Bills 17

Detroit Lions at Carolina Panthers, 1 p.m.
There will be a lot of offense vs. a lot of defense in this one. Cam Newton returning for the Panthers coupled with them playing at home will get them the 'W' in this one. It should be close right to the final whistle.
Panthers 24, Lions 21

Atlanta Falcons at Cincinnati Bengals, 1 p.m.
Both teams won in shootouts in Week One. The jury is still out on both of these squads in regards to their legitimacy as playoff contenders. I'm known to call an upset now and again, so why not now again? Here's my upset bird of the week. The Falcons on the road behind Matt Ryan, Julio Jones and Roddy White, will win in a shootout over Andy Dalton, A.J. Green and the Bengals.
Falcons 30, Bengals 27

New Orleans Saints at Cleveland Browns, 1 p.m.
We might have a "Jonny Football" sighting in this one. Despite staging a huge comeback against the Steelers and just coming up short, I think the Browns will put up a good effort early at home and eventually fade late against the Saints. Speaking of the Saints, they came up short against the Falcons after throwing the game away late with costly turnovers. Even though it's an outdoor game, Sean Payton will have the Saints ready, so points will go up in bunches and the Saints will pull away in the second half. If the game does turn into a route, look for Johnny Manziel to get some playing time.
Saints 34, Browns 20

New England Patriots at Minnesota Vikings, 1 p.m.
Don't get it twisted here. The Vikings aren't that good and the Patriots aren't that bad. There will be fireworks from the young Vikings and Adrian Peterson will be a factor, but in the end the Patriots get it done behind the arm of Tom Brady and the legs of Shane Vereen in a shootout.
Patriots 34, Vikings 31

Arizona Cardinals at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.
The Giants were awful last week, while the Cardinals overcame injuries to win a nail-biter in "the desert" against the Chargers. Despite not traveling well to the east coast for 1 p.m. games, the Cardinals will come out with a win behind their solid defense and some key plays from Carson Palmer. The Giants will be improved but not enough to protect their house.
Cardinals 24, Giants 17

Dallas Cowboys at Tennessee Titans, 1 p.m.
This is an important week for Dallas. They must win! My wife Jamie is a huge Titans' fan so several domestic wagers are on the line in this one. I'm not sleeping on the sofa or doing dishes, etc. after this one, so the Cowboys have to win. Ken Whisenhunt has the Titans on the upswing, Jake Locker looked good last week and the defense was solid. The Titans had an impressive victory over the Chiefs in Week One, while the Cowboys shot themselves in the foot early and couldn't recover late against the 49ers. The silver lining for the Cowboys in this one is, the defense showed some life, DeMarco Murray and Dez Bryant are beasts, and Tony Romo plays well on the road after home debacles. I like my Cowboys to rebound on the road against a young and scrappy Titans' squad! DeMarco early, Dez late, Cowboys win!
Cowboys 27, Titans 20

Jacksonville Jaguars at Washington Redskins, 1 p.m.
The Jags blew an early 17-point lead against the Eagles last week, and the Redskins were being humbled by the Texans. Playing at home, I like the Redskins to defend their home field and pull out a win against a young fiery Jags team.
Redskins 31, Jaguars 20

Seattle Seahawks at San Diego Chargers, 4:05 p.m.
Philip Rivers and the Chargers will keep it close early, but it's not going to be enough. Russell Wilson, Marshawn Lynch and the "legion of Boom" will get a tough road win late.
Seahawks 27, Chargers 20

St. Louis Rams at Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 4:05 p.m.
The Rams are in disarray offensively, and soft in the secondary. The Buccaneers get back on track in this one with a home win. Look for Vincent Jackson and Mike Evans to be huge in this one.
Buccaneers 34, Rams 17

Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos, 4:25 p.m.
This historic AFC West rivalry sees another chapter unfold in a massive shootout on Sunday. Points will be put up in bunches, but playing at home with a better defense I like Peyton Manning and the Broncos to get this one in the end. Boy, this should be fun to watch if you like high-scoring games.
Broncos 38, Chiefs 34

N.Y. Jets at Green Bay Packers, 4:25 p.m.
The Jets will make some plays but not enough against what I think will be a much improved Packers' effort. Eddie Lacy may be out with a concussion but that won't hamper anything. Look for Aaron Rodgers to be pass-happy and put up some points.
Packers 30, Jets 20

Houston Texans at Oakland Raiders, 4:25 p.m.
Coin flip in this one! I will roll the dice here, and take the "Silver and Black" at home. They can be tough at home and rookie quarterback Derek Carr will continue his progress with a 'W' in an ugly one.
Raiders 20, Texans 17

Chicago Bears at San Francisco 49ers, 8:30 p.m.
Chicago will make it interesting but I think injuries to wide receivers Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery will hamper the Bears' offense against a very tough 49ers' defense, despite their injuries. Throw in some big plays from Colin Kaepernick and the offense at home, and the 49ers emerge 2-0 from this contest.
49ers 26, Bears 20

Monday's game
Philadelphia Eagles at Indianapolis Colts, 8:30 p.m.
I see another high-scoring affair in the making here. The Eagles avoided stumbling out of the gate last week with a second half comeback, and like last week they will get their points, but I just think it won't be enough. The Colts are coming of, almost pulling off a huge comeback of their own against the Broncos. Despite coming up short in that one, I think the Colts will be ready to go in this one at home. The Colts will step up at home as points fly in this one.
Colts 36, Eagles 34

Jammal's picks
WEEK TWO

Thursday's game
Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens, 8:25 p.m.
The hatred between these two AFC North rivals will certainly be on display on Thursday night as another chapter between the Steelers and Ravens will be written. Baltimore's offense struggled last week against the Bengals but its defense held strong to keep the game within reach. Pittsburgh was solid in their season opener last week, led by Ben Roethlisberger and Le'Veon Bell providing a balanced attack on offense. Given all of the controversy surrounding the Ravens related to its former running back Ray Rice, I believe they will play inspired football and get back on track on Thursday night. Joe Flacco will be sharp and the defense will do its part in securing a victory at home.
Ravens 23, Steelers 17

Sunday's games
Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills, 1 p.m.
One of the biggest surprises last week was the sheer dominance of Miami against the Patriots in the second half on both sides of the ball. Let's just crown them the AFC East Champions now! Buffalo was impressive on the road and showed signs of being a formidable team this year. The Bills tend to play out of their minds at home, especially early in the season, but I'm sure the Dolphins want some revenge from last year's match-up that cost them a playoff berth. A balanced attack will be key for Miami, and if the defense can be disruptive again then I believe they can get a key division win on the road.
Dolphins 24, Bills 20

Detroit Lions at Carolina Panthers, 1 p.m.
Detroit looked like a different and more disciplined group than last year, and it's clear the presence of new Head Coach Jim Caldwell is being felt. As for Carolina, they didn't miss a beat without Cam Newton last week, capturing a road victory. The Panthers' defense is still as vicious as last year, but its secondary will have a hard time containing Calvin Johnson the entire game. This battle will be won in the trenches and Detroit's front seven will cause more havoc than Newton and his offensive line will be able to handle. Detroit is in a great spot to get an early statement win on the road and I believe Carolina won't be able to match the points that Matthew Stafford's offense will put up.
Lions 26, Panthers 16

Atlanta Falcons at
Cincinnati Bengals, 1 p.m.
Both of these teams are coming off close wins last week and this match-up is a perfect case of an explosive offense versus a stout defense. This game will feature two of the best receivers in the game in Julio Jones and A.J. Green, so expect several big plays that will greatly affect the outcome of this game. Atlanta is capable of putting up points against any team in the NFL, and the luxury of playing against Cincinnati's offense is that they won't beat you by scoring a lot of points. If the Falcons can get off to a hot start and prevent Cincy from playing with a lead then they can leave Ohio with a victory.
Falcons 21, Bengals 17

New Orleans Saints at
Cleveland Browns, 1 p.m.
The Saints were on the wrong end of an Atlanta comeback victory last week, and I believe the Browns will be in for a long day. Cleveland showed some fight against the Steelers last week, but the way New Orleans will move the ball offensively with pose too many problems for the defense its facing. New Orleans will also be crisp on defense and take Brian Hoyer out of his game, so all signs point to a Saints win.
Saints 30, Browns 13

New England Patriots at Minnesota Vikings, 1 p.m.
For the first time in as far back I can remember, the Patriots will be the last team in the AFC East to get a win. It may be a good thing that a wake-up call came this early in the season, and unfortunately the Vikings will be the victims of New England's wrath. The Pats' run defense will have to drastically improve by Sunday in order to contain Adrian Peterson on the ground, and if they can't do that then this game will be a lot tougher than it needs to be.
Patriots 27, Vikings 14

Arizona Cardinals at N.Y.
Giants, 1 p.m.
While it may not be time to hit the panic button in New York yet, this game will certainly let the football world know what type of team they will be this year. Arizona's defense looks like it hasn't missed a step from last year and I believe that unit will impose its will on Eli Manning on Sunday. However, I believe some home cooking will work in the G-men's favor and they will squeeze out a victory at home.
Giants 21, Cardinals 20

Dallas Cowboys at
Tennessee Titans, 1 p.m.
The Titans caught most of the NFL by surprise by thumping the Chiefs on the road last week. A meeting with Dallas probably has Tennessee very eager to hit the field against what appears to be another disappointing Cowboys team, and I believe the same formula that worked last week will translate into a win on Sunday. It should be competitive at first, but the Titans will comfortably cruise to victory.
Titans 26, Cowboys 16

Jacksonville Jaguars at Washington Redskins, 1 p.m.
The Redskins have an opportunity to get back on track with a meeting against Jacksonville, and "RG3" will need to have a big game to silence the whispers about Kirk Cousins being the better option at quarterback. I believe Washington's running game will be key in this game and getting DeSean Jackson involved early will be part of the game plan. The Jags will once again be competitive, but they will fall short on the road.
Redskins 24, Jaguars 16

Seattle Seahawks at San Diego Chargers, 4:05 p.m.
This game has an upset written all over it, but as tempting as it is to take the bait and roll with San Diego, Seattle is still in a class by itself until proven otherwise. I expect the Seahawks to be really sharp coming off an extended rest, and control the game throughout, but the Chargers will put up a good fight behind a strong game from Philip Rivers. Betting against the champs isn't a safe bet right now, so I'm rolling with Seattle.
Seahawks 24, Chargers 17

St. Louis Rams at Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 4:05 p.m.
The mistakes that plagued Tampa Bay last week should be corrected. I don't see them getting beat by two back-up quarterbacks in consecutive weeks at home. This will be another defensive-minded game, but I believe the Bucs will prevail behind a strong ground game and a stellar defensive effort.
Buccaneers 17, Rams 13

Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos, 4:25 p.m.
Denver looked very sharp in its home opener last Sunday, and I believe that will carry over into this week against division rival Kansas City. With a date in Seattle the following week, I expect the Broncos to be firing on all cylinders and pound the Chiefs.
Broncos 38, Chiefs 16

N.Y. Jets at Green Bay
Packers, 4:25 p.m.
Aaron Rodgers has taken a lot of heat for avoiding throwing to the side of Richard Sherman during last week's loss against Seattle, but he doesn't have to worry about that type of problem this week against the Jets. I expect a strong performance from Rodgers and Green Bay in front of the home crowd en route to an impressive victory.
Packers 34, Jets 13

Houston Texans at Oakland Raiders, 4:25 p.m.
If Houston can play defense like they did last week against Washington, I like their chances every week. They should feast against rookie quarterback Derek Carr and once they avoid careless turnovers, the Texans will match its win total from last year.
Texans 23, Raiders 10

Chicago Bears at San
Francisco 49ers, 8:30 p.m.
On paper this game appears to be an intriguing match-up, but the reality is San Francisco will pick up where they left off against Dallas last week. The Bears have to fix that defense immediately and playing a smash mouth 49ers' offense will add more things to the list to be corrected. Expect a huge day from the ground game, and while Chicago will put up some points, the home team will wear them out in the end.
49ers 31, Bears 20

Monday's game
Philadelphia Eagles at Indianapolis Colts, 8:30 p.m.
My pick for game of the week will feature two of the league's best young quarterbacks and this game certainly won't disappoint from an entertainment standpoint. Philly has the more explosive offense, but Andrew Luck is capable of putting his team on his back and willing them to victories. They key to this game will be time of possession because the team that can control that aspect of the game will have more opportunities to create a cushion on the scoreboard and prevent their respective defenses from being exploited. I believe Indy will be more disruptive in the pass rush and force Nick Foles into a shorter, quicker passing game, and Luck will feed off the home crowd and finally get some help in the ground game. This should be a tightly contested game, but Luck will do what it takes to ensure his team doesn't fall to 0-2.
Colts 31, Eagles 28

Teej's picks
WEEK TWO
Thursday's game
Pittsburgh Steelers at
Baltimore Ravens, 8:25 p.m.
The Steelers take their black and yellow uniforms into Baltimore to kick the Ravens while they are down. I think the Ravens have had the week from hell. While the buzz around the whole league is about Ray Rice being released by the Ravens and indefinitely suspended by the NFL, the Ravens have a huge divisional game they only had three days to prepare for, after losing a divisional game against the Bengals. I think the Steelers are tough, and they are on a mission this year to reclaim the AFC North. The Steelers will take this one on the road.
Steelers 17, Ravens 12

Sunday's games
Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills, 1 p.m.
The Dolphins looked great on Sunday, convincingly "bullying" the apparently weaker Patriots. The fish swim north before the cold weather hits to face the Bills, and hope that their dominance carries over to this game. Now, I am sure everybody is hating on Dolphins fans and they toss the same old boring "Dolphins think winning one game is winning the Super Bowl". Those hateful people (especially those who are fans of 0-1 teams) will be just fine in their denial. We can't ignore that the Bills did look good against the Bears defensively. The Bills will have their hands full with the Dolphins however. Between Cameron Wake on defense and Knowshon Moreno on offense, it's hard for me to see the Bills taking this one, even at home.
Dolphins 31, Bills 20

Detroit Lions at Carolina Panthers, 1 p.m.
Cam Newton is expected to start in their home opener against the Lions. Now I must admit, Derek Anderson played like a boss in his start against the Bucs last week and if Cam needs to heal, I would sit him out for one more game and trust my back-up quarterback to get the job done. However, this is the reason why I am not a NFL coach. The Lions looked like an "All Madden" team against the Giants, but we all know the Giants is now a mediocre team. This will be a tough battle for the Lions coming out of the dome. Cam is fired up and ready to go.
Panthers 23, Lions 20

Atlanta Falcons at
Cincinnati Bengals, 1 p.m.
Outkast, Gladys Knight, Ludacris and T.I. are all amazing entertainers coming out of Atlanta. The only entertainment you can expect coming from anything based in Atlanta lies with them and the up-and-coming "Trapstars" of the "A". Week One was a fluke in the Georgia Dome, with the Falcons stunning the Saints. Does that show continue on the road? I highly doubt it!
Bengals 24, Falcons 16

New Orleans Saints at
Cleveland Browns, 1 p.m.
The Cleveland "doo-doo" Browns better get their back-up quarterback in the game to scramble against Rob Ryan's defense. Brian Hoyer put up a great second half performance against the Steelers last week, but he completely stunk up the field in the first half of that game. Johnny Manziel would make this game more interesting, but it still wouldn't result in a win for the "Dog Pound".
Saints 35, Browns 12

New England Patriots at Minnesota Vikings, 1 p.m.
The Patriots got the smackdown put on them in Miami in Week One, so much so that it appeared that Justin Bieber look-a-like Tom Brady appeared to be wiping away tears after Cam Wake put him on his back late in the fourth quarter. No worries to the most sensitive fans in the world. The Patriots will redeem themselves this week IF they can contain Vikings' wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson who ran the ball three times for 102 yards in Week One against the Rams. Even though I would shave my eyebrows if it meant the Patriots would lose against Matt Cassel and the Vikings in Week Two, I have to pick this game like I have a little bit of sense.
Patriots 27, Vikings 20

Arizona Cardinals at N.Y.
Giants, 1 p.m.
Who believes in the Giants anymore? Maybe the comeback of David Tyree should be made possible for the sake of a miracle or two. New York fans are having a hard time. With Derek Jeter hanging it up after this season, it's painful to watch fans of New York sport teams support their squads. The Cardinals' defense is what impressed me most about them from Week One. With that energy in New York, Eli Manning is destined for a two-pick performance.
Cardinals 23, Giants 13

Dallas Cowboys at
Tennessee Titans, 1 p.m.
Aren't we tired of hearing about the Cowboys? Who loses a game in the first quarter? The Cowboys do, and they did against the 49ers in Week One. They may be a little more productive this week, but I don't expect a win from them.
Titans 28, Cowboys 20

Jacksonville Jaguars at Washington Redskins, 1 p.m.
I am trying to wrap my mind around this - a quarterback throws 29-for-37 for 267 yards, and the running backs pour in over 130 yards, but only six points were scored. Yes, the Redskins with Jay Gruden as Head Coach, Robert Griffin III as quarterback, Alfred Morris at running back, and DeSean Jackson at wide receiver did exactly that! If the Redskins lose this game, all hope is gone for them.
Redskins 20, Jaguars 12

Seattle Seahawks at San Diego Chargers, 4:05 p.m.
Who can pick against the Seahawks after a dominating performance against the Packers last week and 10 days of rest?
Seahawks 23, Chargers 13

St. Louis Rams at Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 4:05 p.m.
The Rams head to Tampa to "stink up" the field in Central Florida. If Kurt Warner, Marshall Faulk and Torry Holt could come back well into their 40's, they could stand a George Foreman fighting chance. That won't happen, so I have to go with the better team.
Buccaneers 24, Rams 17

Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos, 4:25 p.m.
"Omaha"! That's all that needs to be said here.
Broncos 31, Chiefs 20

N.Y. Jets at Green Bay
Packers, 4:25 p.m.
The Packers seemed a bit rusty in Week One, especially after having some guys back this year, who were injured the latter part of last year. Geno Smith says he is top five in quarterbacks in the league, but this week, he goes against a proven top five quarterback in the league. Geno should take advice from his Bahamian ancestors when they say, "if ya mout' hard, make sure ya teet' strong!" Aaron Rodgers will show him how it's done.
Packers 28, Jets 10

Houston Texans at Oakland Raiders, 4:25 p.m.
So Darren McFadden and Maurice Jones-Drew combined for a grand total of 26 yards on the ground on 13 carries. That kind of performance from two potential Hall of Famers makes you ask, "what the....". Well, you get it! The Raiders' ground game is going to have to be better to give young quarterback Derek Carr some help. Even though the Texans looked pretty good in Week One, Jadeveon Clowney will be out for at least a month, and because of that, I think the Raiders get it together and steal this one in their home opener.
Raiders 22, Texans 20

Chicago Bears at San
Francisco 49ers, 8:30 p.m.
How could the Bears let the last game go? I personally think the Bears is a far better team than what we saw in Week One. They missed tackles, the offensive line missed assignments and the running game wasn't where it should be. This week I think they fix that going into San Francisco. I have no faith in the 49ers offense or play calling, so I believe they get their bells rung on primetime television.
Bears 27, 49ers 23

Monday's Game
Philadelphia Eagles at Indianapolis Colts, 8:30 p.m.
The Eagles were fortunate to get a win in Week One. They almost blew it to an inferior Jaguars team. I smell trouble for the Eagles. Going into Indianapolis, they will need to be on par in execution. That means, they will have to minimize turnovers and give Andrew Luck no opportunity to burn them in a short field. That won't happen. Nick Foles had a good year last year. This year will be a different story.
Colts 28, Eagles 23
Overall standings
Sheldon Longley (Defending Champion)
WEEK ONE: 11-5
Week Two Picks: Steelers, Dolphins, Lions, Bengals, Saints, Patriots, Cardinals, Titans, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, Bears and Colts.

Kermit Rahming
WEEK ONE: 11-5
Week Two Picks: Steelers, Dolphins, Lions, Falcons, Saints, Patriots, Giants, Titans, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Raiders, 49ers and Colts.

Tito Butler
WEEK ONE: 11-5
Week Two Picks: Ravens, Bills, Lions, Falcons, Saints, Patriots, Cardinals, Titans, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Colts.

Randy Smith
WEEK ONE: 11-5
Week Two Picks: Ravens, Dolphins, Lions, Bengals, Browns, Patriots, Cardinals, Titans, Jaguars, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Colts.

Devin Francis
WEEK ONE: 10-6
Week Two Picks: Steelers, Dolphins, Panthers, Bengals, Saints, Patriots, Cardinals, Titans, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Colts.

Reggie Ocean
WEEK ONE: 10-6
Week Two Picks: Steelers, Bills, Lions, Bengals, Saints, Patriots, Giants, Cowboys, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Colts.

Brent Dean
WEEK ONE: 10-6
Week Two Picks: Ravens, Bills, Panthers, Bengals, Browns, Vikings, Cardinals, Titans, Jaguars, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Raiders, 49ers and Colts.

Simba French
WEEK ONE: 10-6
Week Two Picks: Steelers, Dolphins, Lions, Bengals, Saints, Patriots, Cardinals, Titans, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Colts.

Wally Ferguson
WEEK ONE: 9-7
Week Two Picks: Ravens, Dolphins, Lions, Bengals, Saints, Patriots, Cardinals, Titans, Redskins, Chargers, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Raiders, 49ers and Colts.

Tony 'Teej' Grant Jr.
WEEK ONE: 9-7
Week Two Picks: Steelers, Dolphins, Panthers, Bengals, Saints, Patriots, Cardinals, Titans, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Raiders, Bears and Colts.

Brad Hanna
WEEK ONE: 9-7
Week Two Picks: Steelers, Bills, Lions, Falcons, Saints, Patriots, Giants, Titans, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Eagles.

Royston Jones Jr.
WEEK ONE: 9-7
Week Two Picks: Steelers, Bills, Lions, Bengals, Saints, Patriots, Cardinals, Titans, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Colts.

Antoinne Robinson
WEEK ONE: 8-8
Week Two Picks: Ravens, Dolphins, Lions, Bengals, Saints, Patriots, Giants, Titans, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Colts.

Naughty (Hot 91.7FM)
WEEK ONE: 8-8
Week Two Picks: Ravens, Dolphins, Panthers, Falcons, Saints, Patriots, Cardinals, Cowboys, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Raiders, 49ers and Colts.

Jammal Smith
WEEK ONE: 8-8
Week Two Picks: Ravens, Dolphins, Lions, Falcons, Saints, Patriots, Giants, Titans, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Colts.

Juan McCartney
WEEK ONE: 8-8
Week Two Picks: Steelers, Dolphins, Lions, Bengals, Saints, Patriots, Giants, Cowboys, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Colts.

Richard Rudon
WEEK ONE: 8-8
Week Two Picks: Steelers, Dolphins, Lions, Falcons, Saints, Patriots, Cardinals, Titans, Jaguars, Chargers, Rams, Broncos, Packers, Texans, 49ers and Eagles.

Stephen 'Steebie J' Johnson
WEEK ONE: 7-9
Week Two Picks: Ravens, Bills, Lions, Falcons, Saints, Patriots, Cardinals, Cowboys, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Broncos, Packers, Raiders, 49ers and Eagles.

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