NFL WEEK EIGHT

Fri, Oct 30th 2015, 12:21 AM

Sheldon's picks

SHELDON LONGLEY

Guardian Sports Editor
slongley@nasguard.com
WEEK FIVE: 8-6
OVERALL: 51-26

NFL Week Eight
(Byes: Buffalo, Jacksonville, Philadelphia, Washington)

Thursday's game
Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots, 8:25 p.m.

As much as I would like to go with my Dolphins in this one, I'm sure Bill Belichick and those Pats will have some peculiar plan to slow down the Dan Campbell-led Dolphins. I don't doubt the Fins' ability to score in this game, but slowing down Gronk (Rob Gronkowski) and that Pats' offense might be a bit of a challenge. In the end, Tom Brady will lead the Patriots past the Dolphins in what should be a very exciting game.
Patriots 27, Dolphins 24

Sunday's games

Detroit Lions vs. Kansas City Chiefs at London, 9:30 a.m.
I don't know if I could pick the Lions to win a game anywhere anymore. The Lions fired their offensive coordinator and two offensive line coaches this past week, but their problems stem far beyond coaching. Their season is quickly headed down the drain. In fact, both of these teams appear to be out of any contention for playoffs this year. The Chiefs ended their five-game slide last week, and now with the Lions on the schedule, they should experience an actual winning streak. I like them to take this game in London.
Chiefs 30, Lions 17

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons, 1 p.m.
The Falcons are breezing right along through their soft schedule this season. The Bucs appear to be rejuvenated behind the running of Doug Martin, but going into Atlanta to face the Falcons might be too tough of a task for them. I like the Falcons and their big three, Matt Ryan, Julio Jones and Devonta Freeman, to control the tempo of this game and put points on the board for them. Jameis Winston and the Bucs will score some points, but it won't be enough to beat the Falcons in the Georgia Dome.
Falcons 34, Buccaneers 24

San Diego Chargers at Baltimore Ravens, 1 p.m.

As much as I hate to pick west coast teams in early games on the east coast, the Ravens haven't been producing wins this season, so I can't see myself going with the home team. The Ravens "pride themselves on defense", but it seems like they can't get their act together on that side of the ball without their defensive leader Terrell Suggs. Meanwhile, the Chargers have the league's best passing attack and the number one offense overall. There's no way the Ravens will be able to slow down Philip Rivers and company on Sunday.
Chargers 27, Ravens 16

Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears, 1 p.m.
Don't look now, but the Vikings are 4-2 and battling for a wildcard spot in the National Football Conference (NFC). They have a lot of young talent on offense led by one of the favorites for Offensive Rookie of the Year in Stefon Diggs, and they are very aggressive on defense. Also, I still consider Adrian "AD" Peterson as one of the league's best backs. The Bears are coming off a bye, and should be fired up for this divisional battle at home, but I like the Vikes to dictate the pace of this game with the running of Peterson, and mix in an explosive play or two with Diggs.
Vikings 31, Bears 23

Arizona Cardinals at Cleveland Browns, 1 p.m.

Again, I'll be going against my usual strategy of not favoring west coast teams on the east coast in early games - for good reason, though. I've said all season long that the Cards are a top three team in the NFC. They have all the tools to be very effective and formidable against anyone. Carson Palmer is playing at a Pro Bowl level, Chris Johnson has rejuvenated his career, and the Cards have one of the best wide receiver tandems in the league in Larry Fitzgerald and John Brown. They have combined for 1,080 receiving yards this season, most among wide receiver duos. Defensively, the Cards are ranked fourth in the entire NFL.
Cardinals 28, Browns 17

Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans, 1 p.m.
As my colleague Jammal likes to say, when two bad teams play, it's always best to go with the home team. I think I'll take that approach in this one. Besides, I believe the Texans are the better team anyway. Despite giving up six first-half touchdowns against the Dolphins last week, the Texans are still pretty much stacked on the defensive side of the ball. Names such as reigning Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt, Jadeveon Clowney, Brian Cushing, Vince Wilfork and Johnathan Joseph come to mind. These guys have too much pride in themselves to be embarrassed two weeks back-to-back, especially against a rookie quarterback.
Texans 24, Titans 12

N.Y. Giants at New Orleans Saints, 1 p.m.
All of a sudden the Saints are back in playoff contention in the NFC, and can really put themselves in the mix with a home win against the G-men this Sunday. I'm not buying what the Saints are selling just yet though. It seems like they're relying more and more on their running game each week. Drew Brees is still one of the top quarterbacks in the league in my view, but he's a bit banged up, and his receiving core is a bit depleted. Jason Pierre-Paul has reached an agreement with the Giants for the rest of the season, and his presence alone, should help that 29th ranked defense. I think the G-men will march into Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, and leave with a big win.
Giants 24, Saints 20

Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers, 1 p.m.

The Bengals are legit. Whether "Big" Ben Roethlisberger returns or not, the Steelers won't be able to match the intensity of their divisional rival in this one. The Steelers can be very explosive offensively, but the Bengals are well-balanced on both sides of the ball. Cincy just might be the best team in the American Football Conference (AFC) right now. Plus, they're coming off their bye week, so they'll be well-rested. The Steelers' only hope would be to outscore the Bengals. They're capable of doing that, but then there's still the chance that "Big" Ben could be shaky in his first game back. All things considered, I have to go with the Bengals.
Bengals 31, Steelers 28

San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams, 1 p.m.
The Niners had a pretty good two-game stretch before running into the frustrated Seattle Seahawks last Thursday. Overall, they have been less than impressive under Jim Tomsula though. The Rams, on the other hand, could be the sleeper team in the NFC. They have a very fast and aggressive defense, and offensively, Tavon Austin and Todd Gurley are very explosive. I expect the Rams to ride their young guns in this one, and remain undefeated in the division with a big victory at home.
Rams 34, 49ers 17

N.Y. Jets at Oakland Raiders, 4:05 p.m.
The Raiders have certainly turned heads this season and are looking to build off an impressive road win in San Diego, but I'm certain the Jets will be determined to get back to their winning ways after blowing a game they felt they should have won last week. The Raiders have one of the league's best young quarterbacks in Derek Carr, and an explosive wideout in Amari Cooper, but I have no doubt that the Jets' number two defense will be up to the task. Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie will have their hands full with the Raiders young receivers this week, but I like the veteran pair in this match-up. The Jets will win with defense.
Jets 23, Raiders 20

Seattle Seahawks at Dallas Cowboys, 4:25 p.m.

The Seahawks really can't afford another loss to another NFC opponent right now, especially if they have any hopes of returning to the NFC Championship game, or even the playoffs this year. Early in the season, this would have been a heavyweight battle, but the Cowboys are depleted, and the 'Hawks are rejuvenated. A hobbling Dez Bryant won't be able to help the Cowboys much in this one. The "Legion of Boom" will be all over the Cowboys' receivers, making it difficult for them to experience any success in the passing game. Offensively, the Seahawks found their way with the return of Marshawn Lynch. They'll ground and pound their way to a big win in Dallas.
Seahawks 30, Cowboys 17

Green Bay Packers at Denver Broncos, 8:30 p.m.
Game of the Week! The Broncos have been winning with their defense all season, but the offense has to step up this one, because I highly doubt they'll be able to limit Aaron Rodgers and the Packers to less than 20 points. Both of these teams are coming off bye weeks, given both squads time to heal up for what some consider a Super Bowl preview. As aggressive and effective as the Broncos' defense has been this season, I can't see them experiencing much success against the league's best pure passer. Rodgers will dissect that secondary and connect with his receivers for a score or two. Helped by a strong defensive showing, that should be enough for the Packers to beat Peyton Manning and the Broncos in the Mile High City.
Packers 27, Broncos 23

Monday's game
Indianapolis Colts at Carolina Panthers, 8:30 p.m.

The only thing keeping the Colts alive in the race for a playoff spot, is that they're 3-0 in their division. They have been atrocious against everyone else. Meanwhile, the Panthers have rode the legs of Cam Newton and Johnathan Stewart to an unblemished record so far this season, and I can't see them slowing down just yet. Defensively, they're stout. At some point this season, you would expect Andrew Luck and that Colts' offense to start clicking, but it won't be this Monday night against the Panthers. The Panthers should win easily.
Panthers 28, Colts 14

Tony's picks


TONY GRANT JR.
Guardian Football Analyst
grant.g83@gmail.com
WEEK FIVE: 8-6
OVERALL: 48-29

NFL Week Eight

(Byes: Buffalo, Jacksonville, Philadelphia, Washington)

Thursday's game

Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots, 8:25 p.m.

Since Dan Campbell took over the Dolphins, they have been horrific for opponents. Their offense has been incredible, averaging 41 points per game and their defense has been intimidating. The issue is that Tom Brady is never intimidated by good defenses. The Dolphins beat two mediocre teams, but what will they do playing the champs? I am eager to see. I am going with the new-look Dolphins for an upset in Foxborough. Just get Jarvis "Juice" Landry the ball.
Dolphins 31, Patriots 28

Detroit Lions vs. Kansas City Chiefs at London, 9:30 a.m.
The Lions just can't figure it out and the Chiefs have it figured out, but they are playing without running back Jamaal Charles. Detroit has no running game, and that puts all of the pressure on Matthew Stafford to make things happen with his arm. Even without Charles, the Chiefs have more balance and I have to go with the better balanced team.
Chiefs 23, Lions 17

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons, 1 p.m.
The Falcons should have no problem handling the Buccaneers. After Sunday's collapse against the Redskins, I can't imagine the 2-4 Buccaneers being good against the 6-1 Falcons.
Falcons 24, Buccaneers 16

San Diego Chargers at Baltimore Ravens, 1 p.m.
The Ravens need a win desperately. If you want to see a desperate team playing with a sense of urgency, watch this game. As for the Chargers, I never know which team will show up. Will it be the good Chargers or the horrible Chargers? The desperate team wins in this one.
Ravens 27, Chargers 20

Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears, 1 p.m.

You have to love the way Teddy Bridgewater is leading the Vikings. On the other end, you can't say the same about Jay Cutler. Let's hope Teddy Bridgewater's Halloween costume isn't a Jay Cutler lookalike. If not, the Vikings will win.
Vikings 27, Bears 16

Arizona Cardinals at Cleveland Browns, 1 p.m.
Who named this team the Browns? They need a change of name. I used to like the color brown, but as I watch the Browns more and more I find myself disliking that color. The Cardinals will continue to fly high above the National Football Conference's (NFC) West Division, especially if they are playing teams that wear orange helmets and call themselves Browns.
Cardinals 35, Browns 15

Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans, 1 p.m.
This is a game I would stay away from. I wouldn't want to watch it. Without Arian Foster in the backfield, the Texans will have to rely on DeAndre Hopkins to make plays, and I think they will do just enough to beat the 1-5 Titans.
Texans 24, Titans 23

N.Y. Giants at New Orleans Saints, 1 p.m.

The Giants are a bit banged up and the Saints have had moments of greatness over the last two games. I have to go with the team that looks healthier and more promising.
Saints 30, Giants 22

Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers, 1 p.m.
With "Big" Ben Roethlisberger back, expect for the Steelers' offense to open up on Sunday. Le'Veon Bell will have over 100 yards on the ground, and Antonio Brown will have over 100 yards receiving, resulting in the Bengals suffering their first loss of the season.
Steelers 38, Bengals 34

San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams, 1 p.m.
The 49ers just look horrendous on offense. If you can't put up points, you can't win games. The Rams should take control of this game early and win this one.
Rams 24, 49ers 20

N.Y. Jets at Oakland Raiders, 4:05 p.m.
Derek Carr is a sharp young quarterback with a high football IQ. It shows week after week. Even though the Jets have been looking good and lost a tough one to the Patriots, I think they will fall short in a low-scoring game in the Bay Area.
Raiders 17, Jets 16

Seattle Seahawks at Dallas Cowboys, 4:25 p.m.
The Cowboys are in trouble and having Dez Bryant back won't fix their problems. They need their leader back. They need Tony Romo under center. Without that, they will continue to slide.
Seahawks 27, Cowboys 20

Green Bay Packers at Denver Broncos, 8:30 p.m.

Only one of these teams will be undefeated after Sunday. Let's look at the facts - Peyton Manning isn't the quarterback he used to be. He isn't as sharp, strong or quick. Aaron Rodgers, on the other hand, seems to keep getting better and better. I have to go with the Packers, even in the thin, brisk air in the Mile High City.
Packers 37, Broncos 24

Monday's game
Indianapolis Colts at Carolina Panthers, 8:30 p.m.

Cam Newton has looked like how we thought Andrew Luck would look this season, if that makes any sense. He has been efficient, smart, and confident. These teams are going in different directions, and after Monday night, the Panthers will remain undefeated.
Panthers 27, Colts 23

Jammal's picks

JAMMAL SMITH
Guardian Football Analyst
njsmith242@gmail.com
WEEK SEVEN: 10-4
OVERALL: 64-41

NFL Week Eight
(Byes: Buffalo, Jacksonville, Philadelphia, Washington)

Thursday's game
Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots, 8:25 p.m.

The Dolphins are slowly starting to salvage their season, and are doing it in an impressive fashion, averaging 41 points per game since Dan Campbell was named the interim head coach. As good as they've been, they still are miles behind the Patriots as a football team at this point of the season. If this were an October game in Miami, I may be inclined to pick Miami to pull off the upset, but since the Pats are playing in Foxborough, I don't see the road team extending its winning streak. Expect a huge game from Tom "Teflon" Brady.
Patriots 27, Dolphins 17
Sunday's games

Detroit Lions vs. Kansas City Chiefs at London, 9:30 a.m.
In the third installment of the NFL's European football tour, this game will once again showcase two bad teams that really shouldn't be traveling across the waters to play a game. However, I can see a team like Detroit having a big day against a Chiefs team that has been wildly inconsistent. This game won't be the most exciting game to watch, so readers shouldn't have an excuse to miss church on Sunday morning.
Lions 20, Chiefs 16

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons, 1 p.m.
My Falcons were able to pull off a win in a less thrilling fashion, as they were able to win a low-scoring affair against the Titans last week. This game won't be of the same variety, as Jameis Winston's first trip to the Georgia Dome will turn into a shootout very quickly. The real question is if the Bucs will have enough firepower to keep up with an electric Atlanta offense that has been stellar at home. I don't believe they can keep pace and the "Dirty Birds" will remain undefeated at home.
Falcons 31, Buccaneers 21

San Diego Chargers at Baltimore Ravens, 1 p.m.

This game will be a huge toss up because both of these teams are playing so badly that it's hard to pick a clear-cut winner. However, I believe that Phillip Rivers' lackluster performance last week is something we won't see again in Baltimore. San Diego should be able to move the chains against the Ravens, and Rivers will have a field day throwing the ball versus the 28th ranked passing defense. The Bolts get back on track in Baltimore.
Chargers 28, Ravens 16

Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears, 1 p.m.
Minnesota has been very good on defense this year, boasting a top 10 defense that has recorded 17 sacks thus far. They will have to fix their offense, if they want to be a postseason team. Their offense is currently ranked 30th. This could be a big day or a rough day for Jay Cutler if the Vikings front seven can get to the quarterback consistently, and I believe that they will apply enough pressure on Cutler and force him into some bad throws. Take into account that Adrian Peterson has historically dominated the Bears, there's not enough reasons for me to favor Chicago in this one.
Vikings 23, Bears 17

Arizona Cardinals at Cleveland Browns, 1 p.m.
Arizona will have to be sharp in this game because the Browns are capable of pulling off an upset if they hang around in a game long enough. However, with the National Football Conference's (NFC) West shaping up to be one of those divisions that will be decided by a win come December, they can ill-afford to have a mental lapse against a team that they are clearly better than. I expect Carson Palmer to have a strong game and the Cards' defense to be disruptive all day. A road victory looms.
Cardinals 27, Browns 10

Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans, 1 p.m.
The Texans are struggling to find consistency on the field and if there was ever a time to add another win to their record, it will be on Sunday against a Marcus Mariota-less Titans team. Another reason why this game is important is because they can move to 2-1 in the division if they win, and the American Football Conference's (AFC) South can be a toss-up if the Colts can't get their act together. Playing at home will give Houston a much-needed edge that they need to win this game.
Texans 24, Titans 10

N.Y. Giants at New Orleans Saints, 1 p.m.
The Saints have been playing much better football and their defense plays much better when they are able to play with a lead. As for the Giants, they are similar to New Orleans but struggle to close games out in the fourth quarter. This could turn out to be a shootout very quickly, and as much as I believe Eli Manning can win in a hostile environment, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome will be a raucous scene that the team will feed off tremendously. The Saints will extend their win streak.
Saints 28, Giants 20

Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers, 1 p.m.
Ben Roethlisberger will return to the Steelers line-up on Sunday, which will give the team a much needed boost to their morale after shuffling quarterbacks in his absence. He will have a tall task facing an undefeated Bengals team, and I believe Cincy won't make his return pleasurable at all. As much as I like what the Bengals have accomplished thus far, Pittsburgh will rise to the occasion and play a complete game in all three phases of the game. The Bengals will fight, but they will suffer their first loss.
Steelers 24, Bengals 19

San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams, 1 p.m.
I don't have much confidence at this point in the 49ers, and it will be lowered after they face a Rams team that is only second to Denver in sacking opposing quarterbacks. I expect them to rack up a lot of sacks on Sunday, and dominate a San Francisco team that can't get out of their own way this season.
Rams 31, 49ers 7

N.Y. Jets at Oakland Raiders, 4:05 p.m.

The Raiders have made some great strides as a team and are playing some exceptional football compared to what we've been used to for the past 10 years. However, this Jets team means business and Oakland will find out first-hand what the second best defense in the league looks like. A dominant defensive outing will be the difference for New York.
Jets 23, Raiders 9

Seattle Seahawks at Dallas Cowboys, 4:25 p.m.
If Tony Romo was healthy, then I could believe Dallas could have a reasonable chance wining this game, but since Matt Cassell is the quarterback, this win has Seattle written all over it. It could get ugly very quickly.
Seahawks 30, Cowboys 6

Green Bay Packers at Denver Broncos, 8:30 p.m.
This match-up will be a great one for many reasons, but I want to see what adjustments Peyton Manning will make after the bye week to tweak one of the worst offenses in the league. While I believe Denver will be better on that side of the ball, Aaron Rodgers is surgical under center and the Broncos top-ranked defense will struggle in trying to stop him. This may be the last time these two Hall of Fame bound quarterbacks face each other, and if it is, Manning will have a vintage performance and silence the critics who believe that he's done.
Broncos 28, Packers 24

Monday's game
Indianapolis Colts at Carolina Panthers, 8:30 p.m.

The Panthers are quickly emerging as a contender in this league, and if they are able to extend their undefeated campaign, it's hard to place more than two teams above them as Super Bowl favorites. The Colts are in a different situation, as they are desperate to re-discover their identity as a football team. I believe the Monday Night Football stage will bring out the best in Andrew Luck and the Colts and he will find a way to will his team to victory against a very tough Carolina team. Indy's defense will have to do its part in order to secure a victory, and I'm banking on them to do just that.
Colts 24, Panthers 16

Simba's picks

SIMBA FRENCH
Guardian Football Analyst
simba_fre@yahoo.com
WEEK FIVE: 10-4
OVERALL: 66-39

NFL Week Eight
(Byes: Buffalo, Jacksonville, Philadelphia, Washington)

Thursday's game
Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots, 8:25 p.m.

Division rivalry sizzles in this one. I love to see these two teams go at it. The rivalry runs all the way here between their fans. Both teams are playing at a high level right now. The Patriots haven't lost a game and the Dolphins are 2-0 under interim coach Dan Campbell. It's a game between the unbeaten coaches this season. They split last season's match-up with the Patriots winning the last one. It's a tough pick. There's Patriots' quarterback Tom Brady and tight end Rob Gronkowski who undeniably have the best chemistry in the league. On the other hand, there are the Dolphins who got injected with fresh blood by interim coach Campbell. The Patriots are not a rushing team, ranking 31st, but they sure throw the ball around a lot, ranking second in the league. The Dolphins finally woke up from a lull and are playing football, jumping out to a 41-0 lead by the half on Sunday, and resting key players in the second half for the Patriots game. When the fat lady sings, the Patriots will blow out the Dolphins, bringing them down off cloud nine, and I don't have to hear these Dolphins' fans talk about the Super Bowl.
Patriots 41, Dolphins 21

Sunday's games
Detroit Lions vs. Kansas City Chiefs at London, 9:30 a.m.

The Chiefs surprised me last week when they beat the Steelers. The Steelers' roster was practically depleted, having to use their third string quarterback to start the game. The Chiefs looked like a different team last Sunday. The Lions aren't the same 2014 defensive-minded team. The Vikings ran them down Sunday. They Lions were shut down in the second half. Both of these teams are terrible on defense and offense. It will be a battle to see who is not the worst.
Chiefs 20, Lions 10

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons, 1 p.m.

Like I said before, the Buccaneers will only be using this year as a development year for rookie quarterback Jameis Winston. Their defense allowed Washington to get 75 yards and a touchdown in the last two minutes of the game last week. The Falcons barely scraped a win over the lowly Titans. Their offense looks tired or maybe they are just losing focus. The good news is that they are utilizing their running game more. Their quarterback Matt Ryan needs to put that Titans game behind him and play better.
Falcons 21, Buccaneers 10

San Diego Chargers at Baltimore Ravens, 1 p.m.
The Ravens are atrocious. Their defense is softer than marshmallow and their offensive players are playing like their feet are stuck in the mud. Their defense should have capitalized more on Carson Palmer's inability to effectively play inside the 20-yard line last week. The Ravens could have won that game if they played with more urgency. Their last play mirrored their season's play thus far when quarterback Joe Flacco was picked off by safety Troy Johnson in the end zone.

The Chargers are coming off a tough loss to the Raiders. Like the Ravens, they are off to a disappointing start to the season. Chargers' quarterback Philip Rivers is doing his job but their 2-5 record shows otherwise. One of their problems is their rush defense. They rank 31st in the league in run defense, allowing 132 rushing yards per game. Unless the Ravens run at the Chargers' defense, they will lose.
Chargers 35, Ravens 28

Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears, 1 p.m.

The Vikings are showing they have a little fight in them. They have one of the best running backs in the game in the form of Adrian Peterson. They needed a decent passing game to balance their offense. They found that balance in the form of wide receiver Stefon Diggs who is giving fans something else to cheer about. I forgot to mention he is a rookie wide receiver. I can't wait to see what the future holds for him. The Bears' cornerbacks should have Diggs' name on their scouting report to figure out how to stop him.

Bears' quarterback Jay Cutler has a little hamstring injury, but he would not want to miss this game so he should be suited up and ready to go for Sunday. He will not run as much, looking to pass more. The Vikings' defense is anchored by the likes of defensive linemen Linval Joseph and Everson Griffen, and linebackers Eric Kendricks and Anthony Barr. They are allowing just 17 points per game.
Vikings 23, Bears 10

Arizona Cardinals at Cleveland Browns, 1 p.m.
The Cardinals are coming off a win against the Ravens and are now headed to Cleveland to face the Browns. Running back Chris Johnson will probably follow up his stellar performance with another one against the Browns whose rush defense is not one to brag about. The Browns are allowing 150 rush yards per game and is last in rush defense. The Cardinals are coming off a late comeback win over the Ravens, and will look to put the Browns away early.
Cardinals 31, Browns 20

Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans, 1 p.m.
The Texans were humiliated against the Dolphins, digging themselves into a 0-41 hole, and managed to end the game 26-44. They now have a shortage of quarterbacks after letting go Ryan Mallet. The Titans' defense is better than the Texans' defense. The Titans have a quarterback problem though. It's likely that rookie quarterback Marcus Mariota won't play. Mariota participated in individual drills on Wednesday, but he probably won't play. This is a tough pick. I may have to flip a coin in this one. I'll go with the Texans.
Texans 28, Titans 15

N.Y. Giants at New Orleans Saints, 1 p.m.
These Saints are marching into the Superdome with two huge wins. They held both the Atlanta Falcons and the Indianapolis Colts to 21 points each. Luckily for them, they are playing at home and will need help from the fans to give them the extra energy to beat the Giants. The Giants, on the other hand, beat their division rival, the Dallas Cowboys, last Sunday in Dallas. To be honest, it puzzles me as to how the Giants have a 4-3 record when both their offense and defense are suspect. Saints' quarterback Drew Brees will look to find a way to beat the Giants and take his team to a .500 record this season.
Saints 30, Giants 24

Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers, 1 p.m.
The Steelers are playing at home and will have first string quarterback Ben Roethlisberger at the helm of the offense. This changes things up for the Steelers. However, the Bengals are 6-0 and are well-rested from their bye week last week. Quarterback Andy Dalton is playing like a gem, with 14 passing touchdowns. The Bengals' defense will have a lot of work to do stopping Steelers' running back Le'Veon Bell and wide receivers Antonio Brown and Martavis Bryant. I feel the Bengals will find a way to expose "Big" Ben and slow down Bell.
Bengals 34, Steelers 21

San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams, 1 p.m.
The 49ers are horrific on both offense and defense. The Rams are also horrific on offense, but have a few bright spots, and their defense is average. One of the Rams' bright spots on offense is rookie running back Todd Gurley who is getting better and gaining confidence. He is now the Rams' workhorse. He will have his way with the 49ers' defense.
Rams 24, 49ers 9

N.Y. Jets at Oakland Raiders, 4:05 p.m.
This will be a good game to watch. The Jets are coming off a loss against the 6-0 Patriots, where mental mistakes cost them the game. There is no doubt that wide receiver Brandon Marshall needs to be more focussed. He owned up to his mistakes, but he needs to stop making costly mistakes. The Raiders' rush defense is third in the league, and will give Jets' running back Chris Ivory a run for his money. The Raiders' offense will have a tough time against Todd Bowles' defense.
Jets 28, Raiders 13

Seattle Seahawks at Dallas Cowboys, 4:25 p.m.
The Cowboys haven't won a game since Tony Romo got injured in week two. For some reason, their offense has not been able to play good in the second half. The Seahawks are similar to how the Cowboys play in terms of scoring. The second half will not be worth watching, but whoever wins the first half will win this game. The Seahawks' defense is good but it's their offense that I do not trust. Quarterback Russell Wilson's decision-making leaves me shaking my head at times, and Marshawn Lynch has not awaken as yet.
Cowboys 20, Seahawks 14

Green Bay Packers at Denver Broncos, 8:30 p.m.
My Broncos are playing at home. We have the best defense in the league. We had a bye week last week. We have one of the best quarterbacks of all-time. Hence, the Broncos should win this game quite easily. I have a feeling that Peyton Manning will shake off that rusty armor of his and don't throw an interception in this one. He is well-rested as well. It is the match-up of the "unbeatens" as well. The Broncos have the best pass defense in the league and will be prepared for Packers' quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Our offensive line needs some tweaking, and hopefully it starts with this game. I have plenty faith in our quarterback.
Broncos 27, Packers 20

Monday's game
Indianapolis Colts at Carolina Panthers, 8:30 p.m.

I am tired of picking the Colts to win games. I look at the score and shake my head when the game is finished. Quarterback Andrew Luck has lost his football mojo and I doubt he will find it against the Panthers on Monday night. The Panthers are rolling and it looks like they can't be stopped anytime soon. Cam Newton is having a good season, and his team's defense is in the top 10 in points allowed, total yards allowed and passing yards allowed. Panthers' cornerback Josh Norman hardly sees balls thrown his way, and still has four interceptions this season. I honestly do not see the Panthers losing this game.
Panthers 44, Colts 13

Overall Standings

Devin Francis
WEEK SEVEN: 10-4
OVERALL: 71-34
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings,
Cardinals, Titans, Saints, Bengals, Rams, Jets, Seahawks, Broncos and Panthers.

Antoinne Robinson
WEEK SEVEN: 11-3
OVERALL: 70-35
Week Eight Picks: Dolphins, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Saints, Steelers, Rams, Raiders, Seahawks, Packers and Panthers.

Kyle Walkine
WEEK SEVEN: 11-3
OVERALL: 70-35
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings,
Cardinals, Titans, Giants, Bengals, Rams, Raiders, Seahawks, Broncos and Panthers.

Kermit Rahming
WEEK SEVEN: 9-5
OVERALL: 69-36
Week Eight Picks: Dolphins, Lions, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Saints, Bengals, Rams, Jets, Cowboys, Packers and Panthers.

Brent Dean
WEEK SEVEN: 8-6
OVERALL: 69-36
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Bears, Cardinals, Titans, Saints, Bengals, Rams, Raiders, Seahawks, Packers and
Panthers.

Ayhisha Small
WEEK SEVEN: 10-4
OVERALL: 68-37
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Saints, Bengals, Rams, Jets, Seahawks, Broncos and Panthers.

Tito Butler
WEEK SEVEN: 9-5
OVERALL: 67-38
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Lions, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings, Cardinals, Titans, Saints, Bengals, Rams, Jets, Seahawks, Broncos and Panthers.

Sheldon Longley
WEEK SEVEN: 8-6
OVERALL: 67-38
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Chargers, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Giants, Bengals, Rams, Jets, Seahawks, Packers and Panthers.

Simba French
WEEK SEVEN: 10-4
OVERALL: 66-39
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Chargers, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Saints, Bengals, Rams, Jets, Cowboys, Broncos and Panthers.

Richard Rudon
WEEK SEVEN: 8-6
OVERALL: 66-39
Week Eight Picks: Dolphins, Chiefs, Falcons, Chargers, Vikings,
Cardinals, Titans, Saints, Bengals, 49ers, Jets, Seahawks, Packers and Colts.

Reggie Ocean
WEEK SEVEN: 8-6
OVERALL: 65-40
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Bears, Cardinals, Texans, Saints, Steelers, Rams, Raiders, Cowboys, Packers and Panthers.

Jammal Smith
WEEK SEVEN: 10-4
OVERALL: 64-41
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Lions, Falcons, Chargers, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Saints, Steelers, Rams, Jets, Seahawks, Broncos and Colts.

Juan McCartney
WEEK SEVEN: 9-5
OVERALL: 64-41
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings,
Cardinals, Titans, Saints, Steelers, 49ers, Jets, Seahawks, Broncos and Colts.

Brad Hanna
WEEK SEVEN: 10-4
OVERALL: 63-42
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Chargers, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Saints, Steelers, Rams, Jets, Seahawks, Packers and Panthers.

Wally Ferguson
WEEK SEVEN: 9-5
OVERALL: 63-42
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Chargers, Bears,
Cardinals, Titans, Saints, Steelers, Rams, Jets, Seahawks, Broncos and Panthers.

Royston Jones Jr.
WEEK SEVEN: 8-6
OVERALL: 62-43
Week Eight Picks: Dolphins, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Saints, Steelers, Rams, Jets, Seahawks, Packers and Panthers.

Tony "Teej" Grant Jr.
WEEK SEVEN: 9-5
OVERALL: 61-44
Week Eight Picks: Dolphins, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Saints, Steelers, Rams, Raiders, Seahawks, Packers and Panthers.

Stephen "Steebie J" Johnson
WEEK SEVEN: 10-4
OVERALL: 60-45
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Lions, Falcons, Chargers, Bears, Cardinals, Titans, Giants, Steelers, Rams, Jets, Seahawks, Broncos and Panthers.

Randy Smith
WEEK SEVEN: 8-6
OVERALL: 59-46
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Giants, Bengals, 49ers, Raiders, Seahawks, Broncos and Colts.

Leo B.
WEEK SEVEN: 6-8
OVERALL: 59-46
Week Eight Picks: Patriots, Chiefs, Falcons, Ravens, Vikings,
Cardinals, Texans, Saints, Steelers, Rams, Raiders, Seahawks, Packers and Panthers.

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