Week 16 NFL Picks

Here are my picks for the NFL today. Both full plays, and gun-to-head bets.

Carolina @ Atlanta (-6.5): Carolina is in a free-fall and looks to be without Jake Delhomme again today. Atlanta is fighting for the wild card spot, and Jim Mora, Jr. is fighting for his job. The interesting question is if his own players care. That said, we'll bet on Atlanta -6.5.

Tennessee @ Buffalo (-4.5): Tennessee is a dangerous team with Vince Young, and an improving defense. That said, it came out this week that Vince Young seems both mentally and physically tired after a long season last year playing into January, and the grueling NFL season. I think Young comes back down to earth a little bit this week, and we like the Bills to cover here. They seem to play very well at this time of year - typically because they're out of it by week 8 year in and year out. Buffalo -4.5 is the play.

Chicago @ Detroit (+5.5): While the home dog this year has been a great pick, I think this team is just dreadfully bad. The Chicago D was a little bit embarrassed last week with the comeback that Tampa Bay put on, so look for them to come out fired up to make a statement that they won't be shredded by a questionable Quarterback with limited weapons. The visiting team covers the 5.5 point line today. Chicago -5.5.

Indianapolis @ Houston (+9): Another home dog, but another pitiful team. If the Patriots can wipe the field with Houston with their current state of players I think Indy will cover this number as they know they're playing for a shot at the all-important 1st round bye. Indy -9 here.

Patriots @ Jacksonville (-3): Take the points. New England is looking to make a statement and will have to do it without Vince Wilfork. No firm word yet on Rodney Harrison, but look to be surprised that he may return to the field tonight. I see a lot of 4-3 Defense from the Patriots this week and I think David Garrard will struggle with a Bill Belichick defense. Patriots +3 is the play here.

San Diego @ Seattle (+4): Here's one for the home dog. Seattle comes out with a little to prove today. They put a complete game together and take out LT and the Chargers. A paltry day for Tomlinson ruins every jerk-off fantasy football manager who thinks he is good even though he only had Tomlinson and this is their fantasy championship. So screw you LT owner and SCREW LT. Seattle +4 is the pick.

Gun to head for the remainder games: Baltimore +3.5, Cleveland -3, 49ers -4, Wash +1, Denver -3, Giants -3