Author: John Paulsen (Page 915 of 937)

Carolina @ Chicago (-3)

Let’s be honest: watching the Bears play is slightly less entertaining than watching paint dry. That said, Chicago has one of the best defenses in the league and can shut down an opponent’s offense on any given day. Carolina also has a very good defense and did a great job blanking a fairly potent Giants offense last week. This game should be a defensive struggle, but I think DeShaun Foster, Steve Smith and Jake Delhomme will generate enough offense to get the win on the road.

I’ve got an idea – the game shouldn’t count if no one scores a touchdown. What do you think?

Pittsburgh @ Indianapolis (-9.5)

We’ll never know what would have happened had Carson Palmer played the entire game against the Steelers. But injuries are a part of football and the Steelers aren’t going to look a gift horse in the mouth. Speaking of horses, the Colts have phoned it in the last month, so the question is – will they be ready to play? I think so. Indy’s D isn’t going to roll over like Cincy’s did, so the Steelers will have a tougher time finding running room. The bottom line is: if the Colts play well, they’ll win. And I think they’ll play well.

I’m sure there are some Steeler fans that want to call me crazy. So…call me crazy.

Washington @ Seattle (-9.5)

Unless Seattle lays an egg, they should be able to muster enough offense to get the win. The Redskins only managed 120 yards of total offense against the Bucs and are going to have a tough time sitting on a lead against an explosive Seattle attack. Plus, Washington has to fly cross-country for the game – no matter how many frequent flyer miles they get, that can’t help.

Am I right? Am I wrong? Tell me why.

In a battle of defenses, the Redskins prevailed 17-10, behind two big plays: 1) an interception that set up a Clinton Portis touchdown and 2) a fumble return for a touchdown. Then they did what they always do – they sat on the lead and, this time, were just good enough to get the win.

The Patriots dominated the Jags 28-3, getting a good effort in all facets of the game. They look like a very tough out for their next opponent, but they’re going to have to do it on the road.

Earlier today, the Panthers ran roughshod on a banged up Giants squad, 23-0. The key was the defense’s ability to contain Tiki Barber. Then, once they had a lead (behind Steve Smith’s receiving and rushing TDs), they were able to pressure Eli Manning into several costly mistakes. Carolina also looks like a tough out.