Despite our decidedly poor form in the playoffs, we all (as did many others) that it would go this way. We have two weeks of Peyton Manning adverts and preparation now as the build up. Oh yeah, and the Pro-Bowl, if you’re into that sort of thing I suppose.

We’ll be back next week with our thoughts for the big game. There’s a lot to think on.

Come the off-season and we’ll be looking to finish off our Favourite Four series (looking back, some of these guys didn’t have good seasons!) as well as keeping an eye on the wheelings and dealings of Free Agency and of course the draft… plenty happening.

Image Credit: Stellybot

Oh dear god… that was terrible.

Join us on Wednesday when we hope to redeem ourselves with the divisional match predictions.

Image Credit: tool92ogt

So that’s it, it’s all in the books. 20 teams are heading home, and the eleven best and the Jets are on their way to the post-season.

But never mind that, who won the season’s predictions and how did we do overall?

What We Got Right

Indianapolis Colts @ Buffalo Bills

A – The Colts are sure to rest players as they literally have nothing to play for.
C – Bills are at home too, and will be looking to finish strong so i’m going for a home win.
G – The Bills will be looking for a win here as Fewell looks for a good ending for his impressive stint as head coach.

As expected, the Colts fielded a good second side but the Bills were good enough to take advantage.

New Orleans Saints @ Carolina Panthers

A – The Panthers have been showing us all what a good team they can be, and I think I fancy them to continue that here.
C – I’m going for a Panthers win this week.
G – I think the Saints will look to steady the ship with a win here.

The Saints go into the post-season on the back of three losses. Hopefully they’ll be able to turn it on when they need to.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Cleveland Browns

A – I expect the Browns to finish the stronger of the two teams.
C – Browns all the way. They’ve looked good the last few weeks so i can’t vote against them.
G – I think the Browns should just edge it.

The Browns can play, and they showed us again this week.

Chicago Bears @ Detroit Lions

A – The Lions have also shown us a lot this year; they’ve played well, battled for every game and kept their morale and unity. But I think the Bears will see them off here.
C – I’m going for a Chicago win. Last weeks win against the Vikings would have done wonders for them
G – This game will mean as much to the Lions as any other this year and I think that will make them the hungrier of the two teams. Lions win.

The Bears, though expecting a lot of off-season churn, remain a team to watch next year. The Lions end with the #2 pick to look to build on what was a good 2009 all things considered.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Miami Dolphins

A – It’s all over for the Dolphins though, and I expect the Steelers to finish strongly here.
C – I think the Steelers will edge this one. They want to and need to finish strong.
G – For the reasons above it should end up being a good even game. Dolphins win.

The Champion Steelers fall short again.

San Francisco 49ers @ St. Louis Rams

A – There are worse ways to end the season that by visiting St. Louis…49ers to win.
C – I reckon they’ll [49ers] finish strong and destroy the Rams.
G – Yes, I had high hopes for the 49ers this year and to be fair they have improved. I kind of hope we get to see them at Wembley in 2010! In fact that is my tip Oh, and a win this week too.

The Rams are that bad that a really average 49ers team can come to town and take the win. The Rams end up with the #1 pick.

Green Bay Packers @ Arizona Cardinals

A – A very hard game to predict, but I like the Packers more so will pick them here.
C – This week (as most weeks) i’m going for a Packers win.
G – The Cardinals at home are always tough to beat and for that reason alone I am backing them.

Green Bay takes the early advantage agains the Cards. We’ll see how important that momentum is the repeat fixture!

Baltimore Ravens @ Oakland Raiders

A – I have to think the Ravens will be motivated – and ultimately too good – for the Raiders.
C – Ravens all the way baby
G – I am backing Baltimore here.

The Ravens win, and head to New England next week.

Washington Redskins @ San Diego Chargers

A – But who cares! I’m not going to catch Graham and this is my team. So Redskins to win.
C – The Skins have indeed been battling hard but it won’t be enough.
G – I can’t really see the Skins upsetting the Chargers here. Chargers win.

So close…

Tennessee Titans @ Seattle Seahawks

A – Hard to say which team will be more up for this, but maybe Chris Johnson only 128 yards from 2000 will be enough to fire the Titans past the ‘Hawks.
C – Titans win and CJ to get the 2000 yards to top his fantastic second year.
G – Titans should have more than enough here.

Go CJ, go. Getting 2000 yards can be a bit of curse, so let’s keep our eye on him next year. But it’s been a great one for Chris Johnson, if not for the Titans.

Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Jets

A – I think it’s more likely they’ll look to finish strongly against a team that could well be visiting them next week. Bengals to win.
C – Jets win. The Bengals have been dire lately where-as the Jets have played hard and looked pretty good.
G – The Jets will be riding a high after last week. I can see them picking up a win here. Jets win.

Mmm… The Jets are perhaps the least deserving playoff bound team in a while. As the Jets visit Cincinnati next week, let’s hope the Bengals haven’t given up an early advantage here.

What We Got Wrong

New England Patriots @ Houston Texans

A – The pundit in me – such as it is – says the Patriots will win this one.
C – …I’m going for a Pats win.
G – Both teams have actually been hard to call this year. I expected one thing and they both delivered something else. I am backing the Texans.

The Texans had enough to get a winning record, but not enough to make it into the post-season. None of us begrudge them this win, and they remain a favourite team of ours to watch.

New York Giants @ Minnesota Vikings

A – Giants to win this one as the Vikings coast into the playoffs.
C – I’m expecting a battle. I think the Giants will come out on top.
G – Vikings win for me.

Well, there was a team that quit early.

Atlanta Falcons @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

A – Coming off two wins, it’s easy to fancy them [Bucs] for this game but I think Atlanta will have enough to see them off.
C – I fancy Tampa to win this week too.
G – Tampa have really been turning it on. I fancy them at home this week.

Atlanta close out an anti-climatic season with a business-like win against the Bucs, who’ve continued to struggle despite making strides across the board.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas Cowboys

A – I think they’re [The Eagles] a better team than the Cowboys, so will pick them but this one could really go either way.
C – Definitely a hard game to call. However, my gut is telling me an Eagles win so that’s what i’m going for.
G – Hard game to call, but I am going with the Cowboys.

Ouch. In a complete turnaround from last year, the Cowboys took this one with ease. Like with two other games, these two teams meet again next week in what look like some interesting match-ups.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Denver Broncos

A – I think they’ll have enough to get past the Chiefs.
C – I can’t look past the Broncos here. Everything to play for so expect a full assault on the Chiefs.
G – Broncos for me too.

Oh dear. Another team that quit. Let’s hope McDaniels hasn’t lost the team for good.

Final Standings

Graham and I disagreed on 10 matches and split them down the middle for 10-6 each. Craig did slightly better with 11-5 and that’s the season.

Our final records are respectable, if unspectacular. None of us managed a perfect week, but Craig’s 15-1 in week 14 is the best single performance. Like-for-like, he posted the best record overall.

Graham has the dubious honour of having the only losing week (6-7 in week 8), but only just! My two 7-7s in weeks 5 and 6 hurt my end numbers.

We’ll be back later in the week with out thoughts on the wildcard games, and also seeing how the season played out based on what we thought before it started.

Image Credit: Skaines

All in all a pretty good week for all of us!

What We Got Right

(Based on Official Mac Predictions)
New Orleans Saints @ Atlanta Falcons

C – “They [The Saints] are beatable for sure, but it’s just finding the right team to do it on the right day. For that reason, i’m backing New Orleans to take the win here and remain undefeated”
A – “But the lucky wins they’ve had, combined with when they’ve been playing well, is starting to make me think that the Saints could go unbeaten this season.”
G – “While they are still unbeaten, we know they can be beaten. That said I don’t think they will drop their record in this game. Saints Win.”

The Saints are hanging about in close games and getting it done. That’s the sign of a quality unit that no-one is going to want to face in the post-season. With their schedule, 16-0 is a real possibility this year.

Detroit Lions @ Baltimore Ravens

C – “I’m looking to see Flacco improve as his last few games have been quite disappointing. Hopefully we won’t see quite as many penalties in this game though! Ravens win.”
A – “A game against the Lions is probably just what the doctor ordered and I see them picking up a win.”
G – “Craig should take some joy from this game just as he has from the Steelers downfall. Ravens win.”

This was a blowout in the end. With the Bengals and Steelers both losing, the Ravens are thereabouts.

Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears

C – “I’ve got to go for them against the Bears this Sunday. I don’t see any other outcome.”
A – “I think this will be a close game, but fancy Green Bay to be hungrier here.”
G – “Green Bay dropped off for a while, but it seems they are back and have been playing some nice football. I have to pick them to overcome the Bears.”

The Pack are on a five game streak, and firmly in place for the post-season. The Bears… well, there’s next year. They played some good ball, but there’s a real sense of unity and purpose coming out of Green Bay.

Denver Broncos @ Indianapolis Colts

C – “I’m sticking my neck out and going for a Broncos win”
A – “That said, I don’t think anyone would pick against the Colts this week. And I’m not going to either.”
G – “I still think the Broncos are class, but the Colts are in a league of their own at the moment. I pick the Colts.”

Craig… what?
That’s homefield advantage wrapped up with 3 games to go. The Colts have a short week before taking on the Jaguars on Thursday, but 16-0 has just got a bit closer.

Buffalo Bills @ Kansas City Chiefs
C – “With not much to pick between them i’m going for a Bills win.”
A – ” I think the Bills will get past the Chiefs.”
G – “That said I think things will come together for the Bills and I am picking then here.”

Carolina Panthers @ New England Patriots

C – “They [Patriots] are a strong team who have blipped. I see them getting back on track this Sunday. Pats win.”
A – “This isn’t the best way to predict games, but I can’t see the Pats losing 3 in a row so I have to pick them.”
G – “I am sure the Pats will want to put last week behind them and this is a great game to do it”

New York Jets @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

C – “I’m going with a Jets win.”
A – “Surely the Jets here. They have their problems, but are a better team than the Bucs.”
G – “I am going to pick the Bucs here.”

Graham… what?

Cincinnati Bengals @ Minnesota Vikings

C – “However i would say the Vikings should win this. Can find myself to go against this team”
A – “In the Dome though, I think I fancy the Vikes.”
G – “As Andrew says this should be a good one to watch, but the Vikings should pull this one off.”

The Vikes were businesslike again, climbing to 11-2 and booking their post-season place. They can’t be complacent for the division though, with Green Bay in storming form.

Miami Dolphins @ Jacksonville Jaguars

C – “I’m going for the Dolphins here.”
A – “You never know with the Jags, but I see the Dolphins gaining in confidence. That alone should get them past their state rivals.”
G – “Miami win for me.”

Seattle Seahawks @ Houston Texans

C – “We’ll see. I still think they’ll [The Texans] get it done over the Seahawks, who have been largely disappointing.”
A – “I’ve practically given up predicting the Texans. Who knows what they’ll do on any given sunday? Still, I’m going to stick with them as the ‘Hawks are at least as erratic!”
G – “What Texans team will turn up? I am not sure, but there is more chance of their ‘good’ team turning up than Seattle’s good team, so on that weak basis I pick the Texans.”

Well, it was that Texans team who turned up! Ouch.

St. Louis Rams @ Tennessee Titans

C – “the Titans will get this done. The Titans can shut down Jackson and not have to worry about threats from elsewhere.”
A – “It’s hard to fancy the Rams in Nashville.”
G – “Tennessee win for me.”

Ouch again.

Washington Redskins @ Oakland Raiders

C – “Whilst the Raiders have provided a few shock victories this season, i still think the Skins will see them off comfortably.”
A – “This isn’t even a fan-blind pick: Redskins to win.”
G – “The Skins are getting better and you just never know what to expect from the Raiders at the moment. I am going to back the Skins”

A great game to watch, some dodgy calls, loads of penalties and a Redskins win! Perfect.

San Diego Chargers @ Dallas Cowboys

C – “Overall, i think the Chargers are the ones in form and i see the Cowboys losing this one.”
A – “December, the Cowboys”
G – “The Chargers go into this one as the underdog according to the bookies. I can’t see it myself, the Chargers are the better team in my eyes and are my pick here.”

And so it was…

Philadelphia Eagles @ New York Giants

C – “I see the Eagles getting one over on them.”
A – “I think the Giants will have enough about them here, it what I expect to be a close game.”
G – “Another very close game. I fancy the Eagles to win it by a beak”

Andrew… what?
A stunning game, exactly what the schedulers have in mind when they chose the primetime games.

Arizona Cardinals @ San Francisco 49ers
C – “I think the 49ers will edge it.”
A – “Ooh, a tough game to call… But I can’t see past the Cardinals here”
G – “On paper an Arizona win. But, I am taking the 49ers for a home win.”

The turnover monster was back for the Cardinals, and it was as ugly as ever. The 49ers are within two games of them now.

What We Got Wrong

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cleveland Browns

C – “So… going off this information i have, and wanting the Steelers to lose to keep the Ravens in the hunt for the Wildcard spot… i’m going for a Browns win!”
A – “Tempted as I am to put him down for the Browns, I did just make out that he said the Steelers”
G – “It is hard to rate the Browns here in what should be a business like win for the Steelers.”

Craig shows us that sometimes you just have to trust your gut.

So a good showing from all of us, with even me at 13-3 beating the Yahoo! guys. Craig (and the offficial Mac predictions) 15-1 is stunning and we’re starting to regret letting him come to play with us.

Image Credit: TuttleTree

Another week is in the books! Let’s see how we got on…

What We Got Right (Based on official Mac predictions)

New York Jets @ Buffalo Bills
C – “I’m still gonna go for the Jets win.”
A – “I have to fancy the Bills to fall to 0-2 in Toronto.”
G – “I am expecting a close game, but see the Jets coming out on top.”

The Bills will be thinking these Canadian games weren’t such a good idea…

Philadelphia Eagles @ Atlanta Falcons
C – “I’d say a comfortable Eagles win.”
A – “I’m picking an Eagles win.”
G – “I am going with the Eagles on this one”

Bird related puns aside, this was an intriguing game and Vick did well in his return to the Georgia Dome.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Carolina Panthers
C – “Panthers to win.”
A – “It remains to be seen whether they (the Panthers) can make themselves a factor in the wildcard race, but I fancy them here.”
G – “Panthers again for me, but this game really could end up being a close one.”

The Panthers are within one game of the Falcons now, but have the Patriots, Vikings, Giants and Saints in a run-in that no team would pick.

St. Louis Rams @ Chicago Bears
C – “Something needs to happen at the Edward Jones Dome before they get stuck in a rut… Chicago win.”
A – “The Bears… well, they’re shaping up to be this year’s biggest disappointment. However, I fancy them here”
G – “The Rams are looking fair now, but it is still very difficult to pick them. The Bears for me this week.”

The Bears improve to 5-7, but are surely looking towards next season now.

Tennessee Titans @ Indianapolis Colts
C – “As impressive the Titans have been at late… I foresee a Colts victory.”
A – “…the Colts are something else right now.”
G – “The Colts still look great and I expect a win here.”

12-0 and no signs of slowing down. All four remaining games look very winnable, and this is a team that will look to close out the season in some style.

Denver Broncos @ Kansas City Chiefs
C – “Broncos win.”
A – “Broncos to win.”
G – “I still rate the Broncos and was probably foolish not to pick them last week. They should have more than enough to see off the Chiefs.”

The Broncos stay just behind the Chargers, but comfortably in a playoff spot for now. Next week against the Colts is an important game.

New Orleans Saints @ Washington Redskins
C – “So sorry Skins fans, but i see another loss coming your way to add to a bad season.”
A – “No need to apologise Craig, they’re gonna have fun with us in all aspects of the game. I see embarrassment.”
G – “It is going to take more than the home advantage to save the Skins here.”

Oh this was a painful game. The Skins have been playing hard all season, but yesterday was a great performance against the NFC leaders. The end hurt, and I still think Rock had his arm down… but it’s completely on us. A 23 yarder? Come on Suisham!

Detroit Lions @ Cincinnati Bengals
C – “The Bengals defence will hold tight so it will be a struggle for them (The Lions) to do that. Bengals win.”
A – “I see a low scoring game going the Bengals way.”
G – “This should be a comfortable win for the Bengals.”

With a 3 game lead on the Steelers and Ravens, and being 6-0 in division (!) the Bengals will tie up the division with just one more win. Unfortunately, their next two games are on the road: Minnesota and then San Diego.

San Diego Chargers @ Cleveland Browns
C – “Chargers to have another big game and win.”
A – “there are not many teams that I’ll back to beat the Chargers. The Browns aren’t one of them”
G – “I can’t see the Browns coming close to an on form San Diego, Chargers win.”

The Chargers keep, err, charging. They’ll be looking for the Colts to beat the Broncos next week while they visit Dallas.

Baltimore Ravens @ Green Bay Packers
A – “I like the Pack here. The Ravens haven’t been the dominant defensive team we’re used to them being (by their own high standards at least) and whilst Green Bay probably aren’t a great team, they are a very good team.”
G – “Green Bay for me this week.”

C – “Like i said, it will be very tough, but if we go in thinking we can win, we shall. Ravens win.”

In a game full of penalties, the Packers were always in the lead and largely in control against a Ravens team who are disappointing this season.

What We Got Wrong

Oakland Raiders @ Pittsburgh Steelers
C – “In all, i’m going to say a Steelers win.”
A – “… they’re a better unit than the Raiders and I fancy them to get the job done this week.”
G – “Expect the Steelers to get things level again this week with a win.”

Ouch. Oakland are becoming a frustrating team and the Steelers are seeing their season fall apart, much like it did last time they were defending a title. Now 6-6, they need a very strong finish to the season, and need some key competitors to slip up to sneak into the post-season.

Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars
C – “As i said before, i like Houston. They’re a decent team playing well… So yeah, Texans win.”
A – ” I backed the Texans last time, who let me down, but I think they’re the stronger team at the moment so will see if they can get the job done this time.”

G – “Jaguars. I feel they are the slightly more consistent team, which coupled with the home advantage might just swing it their way.”

New rule for next season: Andrew doesn’t have to predict the Texans.
Well done to Graham for picking the Jags.

New England Patriots @ Miami Dolphins
C – “This could be a great game, but at the end of it i think the passing game of the Pats will win the game.”
A – “I think the spanking the Pats took at the hands of the Saints last week will make for a painful game for the ‘Fins this week.”

G – “I would have to be mad to pick Miami right? The Dolphins can win this, I am sure. ”

Are the Pats really this ordinary? They’re not looking consistent at all, which is something that we’ve come to expect from them over the Bellicheck years. A great win for Miami.
A grumbling ‘well done’ to Graham… I suppose.

Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants
C – “Both quarterbacks are inconsistent and all eyes will be on them. Romo v Eli. In the end, i think it’ll be Romo that comes out on top.”
A – “Personally, I can’t see past the Cowboys here. They’ve not been playing well (neither team has) but I think that they will step up when they need to.”
G – “On first glance I was leaning towards the Giants, but I just don’t have the confidence. I am going for a Cowboys win from a hard fought battle.”

The Giants sweep the Cowboys, really hotting up the NFC East. The Cowboys and Eagles stay in playoff positions and the 7th NFC ranked Giants are close to the Packers in 6th. Again the division to watch.

San Francsico 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks
C – “I do like the 49ers though and i see them grinding out a victory this week.”
A – “Graham’s enthusiasm for the ‘niners is also somewhat infectious, so I find myself backing them this week.”
G – “Glad to see everyone has picked the 49ers this week (should we expect a loss?). I still think there is more to come, lets just hope Singletary can beat it out of them. 49ers win.”

Yeah, thanks Graham!

Minnesota Vikings @ Arizona Cardinals
C – “I just can’t bring myself to vote against the Vikings”
A – “Like Craig, I can’t look past the Vikings here, but I do think the Cards will give them a good game.”
G – “Vikings win, but as Andrew says it could be a close one. The Cards always look stronger at home.”

None of us could Craig. Shame.

Another strong week from Graham sees him stretch his lead. Craig had his worst week so far, in what turned out to be not as straight-forward as it first appeared.

Image Credit: Keith Allison

Tough week, and one where Craig led the way. HHmmm… not sure it was a good idea getting him here Graham.

What We Got Right (Based on official Mac predictions)

Green Bay Packers @ Detroit Lions

A – “…the Lions are back to earth with a bump.”
G – “A Green Bay win for me.”
C – “Green Bay, for all their offensive line flaws, have a good set up and will score some points.”

Oakland Raiders @ Dallas Cowboys

A – “I see a close game, but the Cowboys taking it.”
G – “The Raiders will be looking to build on their impressive win last week, but I think the Cowboys will be just a little too much for them.”
C – “Cowboys. They’re going to come out with something to prove to themselves and everyone watching.”

Washington Redskins @ Philadephia Eagles

A – “Graham accused me of ‘cursing’ my team last week by not supporting them. I won’t make that mistake again. Redskins to win.”
G – “I think this will be an Eagles win.”
C – “I think this one will be close, pretty much like last week against the ‘boys, but i’m going for the Eagles to edge the win.”

It was close indeed. Looks like the curse has set in now!

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons

A – “I’ve got to back the Falcons here.”
G – “Falcons win for me this week.”
C – “This is a tough one, and i’ll probably regret sticking my neck out (like opting for the Browns last week) but i’m going for a Tampa Win.”

Almost a really good call from Craig, but they ran out of steam in the end against an injury ravaged Atlanta Offence.

Indianapolis Colts @ Houston Texans

A – “After getting above 500, I think they’re going to fall below that this week. Colts to win.”
G – “The Colts should keep going with a win here.”
C – “As much as i like Houston and Schaub, I’m going for the Colts win.”

An explosive start from the Texans fell apart under relentless Colts’ pressure on both sides of the ball. The Colts book a post-season spot after just 11 games.

Cleveland Browns @ Cincinnati Bengals

A – “Both teams are coming off losses that must hurt, but I fancy the Bengals to be both better and mentally stronger.”
G – “Bengals are my pick.”
C – “Bengals for me too.”

The Bengals go 6-0 in the AFC North and have a two game lead as well as the edge in the tie-breaker. They can taste the post-season.

Kansas City Chiefs @ San Diego Chargers

A – “There aren’t many teams I’d pick over the Chargers. The Chiefs certainly aren’t one of them”
G – “The Chargers are looking great right now, so they are my pick.”
C – “the Chargers are really coming along nicely and i see them winning by a good margin. ”

Jacksonville Jaguars @ San Francisco 49ers

A – “The 49ers are stumbling on … I think they’ll have enough to get past the Jags.”
G – ” It feels good to be picking the 49ers again this week.”
C – “49ers. They are a hard team to beat and i just don’t see the Jags breaking them down.”

Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings

A – “Look for Jared Allen to greet his good friend Jay Cutler with a friendly sack or two.”
G – “This should be a business like win for the Vikings.”
C – “Can’t see anything but a Vikings win. Cutler to get picked at least 3 times”

2 sacks for Allen. Parrty. Cutler only picked twice though Craig.

What We Got Wrong

New York Giants @ Denver Broncos

A – “The Broncos could enter crisis mode anytime, and that’s if they’re not already there”
G – “The Giants have been good on the road though, and I can see them taking this one. Giants win”
C – “Both teams have been disappointing as of late. I’d think that the Giants have a bit more about them than the Bronco’s though”

We all thought that this one would be close… it wasn’t, and with the Cowboys and Eagles both winning, the post-season could be slipping away from the Giants.

Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills

A – “All things considered … I’m going to back the Dolphins here.”
G – “This should be the Dolphins game”
C – “. The Bills did a good job last week against the run, but i think the Wildcat will be a bit much for them.”

Oh dear. We were all way of base here.

Seattle Seahawks @ St. Louis Rams

A – “This is one that could really go either way, but I think I’m leaning towards the Rams.”
G – “Its interesting that the bookies are giving the Rams quite a chance at home this week. I can’t see it myself so I am going with Seattle.”
C – “I’m going to go with the Rams this week, even though Bulger is out (isn’t that a good thing?)”

Craig and I let the side down here. Too many injuries meant the Rams couldn’t carry on their good recent form.

Carolina Panthers @ New York Jets

A – “Panthers to win.”
G – ” I am going with the Panthers”
C – “I’m opting for the Jets win this week.”

We owe Craig an apology here. A good win for the Jets.

Arizona Cardinals @ Tennessee Titans

A – “The Cardinals have a firm grip on the NFC West, but have been erratic. Generally though, they’ve been strong and I’m picking them here.”
G – “I am going to pick the Cards here, but I wouldn’t bet on it.”
C – “I’m going with Tennessee to carry on their streak.”

And Craig gets it right again, but Graham and I don’t. This game had a stunning finish, with Vince Young taking massive strides as the leader of this team.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens

A – ” I think when push comes to shove, across the board you can count on them more than the Ravens.”
G – “My head says Ravens, but my heart says Steelers. I am going with the Steelers.”
C – “My heart says Ravens but my head says Steelers. So i’m going for the Ravens win”

Craig will be doing the predictions himself next week! Like with the Cardinals game, the Steelers were without their starting QB but it took overtime to settle this close game.

New England Patriots @ New Orleans Saints

A – “I like the Pats in this matchup. Patriots to win.”
G – “I feel the Saints might just edge it.”
C – “I want to say the Saints will continue their season as it has been thus far, but my gut tells me to go with the Patriots win.”

How good are the Saints looking now?

Image Credit: TommyGUNZ

The arrival of Craig seemed to have a good effect on us. The official Mac prediction only fell short on a couple of games.

Andrew managed to claw yet another game back from me this week, so I am really going to have to up my game. Andrew scored 12-4 whilst Craig and I both got 11-5 this week. I am glad things are getting closer as the season goes on!

What We Got Right (Based on official Mac predictions)

Miami Dolphins @ Carolina Panthers
A – “I think the Panthers should have enough here. Sorry Graham”
G – ” I see Miami just taking it…..no…..really”
C – “my prediction goes to the Dolphins. Miami win”

This turned out to be a great game with Ricky Williams showing that there was little reason to be worried about the loss of Ronnie Brown.

Indianapolis Colts @ Baltimore Ravens
A – “I think it’ll be a close game, but can’t look past the Colts.”
G – “The Colts just keep going and should win this one.”
C – “I see the Colts getting the win”

San Francisco 49ers @ Green Bay Packers
A – “I’ve got to fancy the Packers here.”
G – “I am going with Green Bay, but only just.”
C – “Packers also”

Buffalo Bills @ Jacksonville Jaguars
A – “I’ve got to trust my instincts here and back the Jaguars.”
G – “Jaguars win for me.”
C – “Jaguars all the way”

Atlanta Falcons @ New York Giants
A – “I think the Giants will take it.”
G – “Sorry about this Giants fans but I am picking them again, maybe the bye week will break the curse?”
C – “Again, i’m agreeing with the fellas”

New Orleans Saints @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
A – “Saints to win.”
G – “This should be the Saints game.”
C – “Saints all the way.”

Cleveland Browns @ Detroit Lions
A – “Oh my. Just thinking about this game makes me tired. Lions to win.”
G – “Detroit should pick up a win here.”
C – “Browns to scrape a win.”

This was actually a great game, that had two rookie QBs showing what they could do against two Ds that… well, let’s not talk about them too much. This game went beyond the clock as a Hail Mary pass had defensive interference called on it. Matt Stafford was the epitome of toughness as he kept the play alive and got nailed on releasing it, but stepped up to make the final play. Great finish to a great game.

Washington Redskins @ Dallas Cowboys
A – “I’m going to have to go with a Cowboys’ win here.”
G – “I am going for a Skins win”
C – “Cowboys win.”

Even though points were few and far between, this was a great game to watch and really could have gone either way. With help from a missed field goal the Cowboys finally managed to take the win.

Seattle Seahawks @ Minnesota Vikings
A – “Got to be a Vikings’ win here”
G – “I expect the Vikings to continue their impressive form and pick up another win this week.”
C – “Vikings to win. I don’t see any other outcome.”

Arizona Cardinals @ St. Louis Rams
A – “I can’t see them struggling to record a win against the Rams.”
G – “Another Cards win for me.”
C – “Warner has had an up and down season, but i see him getting the job done against the Rams. ”

New York Jets @ New England Patriots
A – “I’ve got to back the Patriots here”
G – “Pats win.”
C – “Pats win. I don’t think Sanchez will have a good game personally.”

San Diego Chargers @ Denver Broncos
A – “I’ve deliberated more on this game than any other this week, but think San Diego will take it.”
G -”The home advantage should see the Broncos making a great start.”
C – “I’m going with Chargers this week. ”

Philadelphia Eagles @ Chicago Bears
A – “I have to fancy the Eagles.”
G -”I expect the Eagles to ’soar’ in the end though….geddit?…oh never mind….”
C – “I’m going with the Bears.”

What We Got Wrong…

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Kansas City Chiefs
A – “Steelers to win big.”
G – “I think that the Steelers will be too much for the Chiefs here”
C – “I’m going with Steelers too. They’ll romp away to victory”

This is a massive win for the Chiefs, and the Steelers are getting dragged well and truly into the a Wildcard battle.

Cincinnati Bengals @ Oakland Raiders
A – “Bengals to win.”
G – “Bengals for me too.”
C – “Bengals. No question.”

The Bengals round out a miserable weekend for the AFC North, who went 0-4. They should have won this one.

Tennessee Titans @ Houston Texans
A – “I think Houston will take this one to break the Titans’ run.”
G – “Houston are another team that always seem to do the opposite to what I predict. I am going with them here though.”
C – “In spite of the Titans turn around i’m going for the Texans win.”

Image Credit: Castleton Road

Graham and I disagreed on four games this week, and I took three of them to narrow the gap again. Graham’s strong showing in the difficult early weeks means he still has a lead for now.

A slightly different format this week, let’s take a look at what we got right and wrong…

What we got right

Chicago Bears @ San Francisco 49ers
We both called the 49ers to beat the struggling Bears.

Cincinatti Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers

A – “I’m going with the Bengals here”

The Bengals are here to stay, and have now swept division rival Steelers and Ravens and beaten the Browns to be 5-0 in the AFC North. They have the Raiders, Browns and Lions up next and surely the post-season beckoning.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Miami Dolphins

A – “I can’t look past the Dolphins here”
G – “Expect a Miami win here”

So we were perhaps a little bit lucky, but the dolphins did indeed have enough to edge past the Bucs.

Detroit Lions @ Minnesota Vikings
Yeah yeah. Everyone called this one right.

Buffalo Bills @ Tennessee Titans

A – Like Graham, I think this could be close. But the Titans’ recent form and confidence that has bought will get them by the Bills.
G – I think the Bills could pull something off here, but I am not confident enough to back them. Titans win for me.

It was close until the 4th quarter at least.

Denver Broncos @ Washington Redskins

A – “I fancy the ‘Skins here, and it’s not just fan-blindness (probably). The Broncos are struggling to score and after a strong start are faltering slightly.”

Oh yeah.

G – “Quick! Get the fan blindness specs out. There is no way the Skins will hold the Broncos back.”

Oh no.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders

A – “Chiefs to win a barnstormer!”
G – “The Raiders are used to losing at home and that’s good because I think they are heading for another loss this week.”

After a promising 1st quarter, this game bogged down. The second half saw a total of three – count ‘em! – points scored.

Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals

A – “I do think it’ll be closer than is expected. Cards to win.”
G – “I am going with the Cards here.”

The Cards had enough in the final stretch here, outscoring the Seahawks 21-3 in the second half.

Dallas Cowboys @ Green Bay Packers

A – “I’m picking Green Bay. I just don’t fancy the Cowboys to get it done here”

Yay!

G – “I am going to pick the Cowboys.”

Boo!

Philadelphia Eagles @ San Diego Chargers

A – “You can never write off the Chargers, but I think the Eagles will sneak by them.”

Boo!

G – “I am going with the home advantage for the Chargers”

Yay!

New England Patriots @ Indianapolis Colts

A – “Colts win, but a strong Pats’ showing.”
G – “I have to go with the Colts just taking it.”

The Pats were just 2 yards from wrapping this game up, and it was a brave call that will be remembered as not working by Belicheck to go for it. Looking at how easily the Pats’ D was being carved up in the second half, you can understand the call… but still, it led to a loss.

Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns
We both called this one right, like so many others did.

What we got wrong

Atlanta Falcons @ Carolina Panthers

A – “I think the Falcons will have enough, but it should be a close one.”
G – “I’ll pick the Falcons, but not by any margin.”

So the Panthers are improving more quickly than we though, and Matt Ryan is struggling. Worth keeping an eye on these two

Jacksonville Jaguars @ New York Jets

A – “The Jets have lost two straight at home, but think they’ll stop that run here.”
G – “The Jets will be too much for the Jags this week. Jets win for me.”

Not a bad call, but it wasn’t to be. Some astute play-calling at the end of the game from the Jags.

What we got right, but also wrong

New Orleans Saints @ St. Louis Rams
We got the result right (Saints’ win) but…

A – “Saints to cruise to a win.”
G – “The Rams are coming off of a win….oh hold on it was against the Lions. Who are they facing this week….oh the Saints. I’ll stop writing now.”

Yeah, not so much.

Image Credit: Thanks to hoosierbug

There were some great games this week, which is the main thing, but we both got caught out in the late games and also by the Buccaneers.

For the Giants, the bye-week can’t come soon enough as they’ll be looking to try and arrest a five game slide when the Falcons come to town in week 11. There is still plenty to play for in the NFC East (for 3 teams at least) but the form of the Cowboys has surprised many after their rocky start. We both backed the 49ers too, but the Titans had this game under control and Chris Johnson still looks like a beast coming out of the backfield.

We only disagreed on two games this week, and they both went in my favour. The Bengals are for real, perhaps the Broncos aren’t.

Image Credit: With thanks to XIKhai

Not a great week by any standards for either of us, but I did beat Graham for only the second time this season by taking the games we disagreed on 3-1.

To be fair though, we both got caught out on a number of matches where we agreed. The Cardinals, most notably, but also the Giants, Lions and Packers. Most importantly though, there were some good games on, and I enjoyed channel surfing across a number of games. The Jaguars @ Titans game was great viewing, and though we couldn’t view it the Vikings @ Packers game was a small piece of history.

I also beat Graham in our head-to-head Fantasy League this week, but have promised myself I won’t gloat too much.

Image Credit: With thanks to Glenonaya