The final week of the 2011 NFL regular season is here, and there is a surprisingly high number of games that carry meaning, which should lead to an exciting day of football.
Viewer’s Guide: NFL Christmas Week TV Schedule, Announcers, and Coverage Maps – Week 16
December 23, 2011 By Leave a Comment
One game of the Week 16 schedule is already in the books — the Indianapolis Colts secured win #2 of the season by defeating the Houston Texans at Lucas Oil Stadium. (But did they lose for winning?) What’s in store for the rest of Week 16? Check out the TV schedule below and our Bettor’s Guide, posted earlier this week.
Viewer’s Guide: NFL Week 15 TV Schedule and Announcers
December 15, 2011 By 2 Comments
I surely do not need to remind you what the biggest game of Week 15 is.
The Patriots and Broncos take the field together Sunday afternoon in what is being billed as Tom versus Tim but really is a battle of a great (though one-dimensional) offense against a good-to-great defense and a good-for-one-quarter offense against a can’t-stop-the-pass defense.
Viewer’s Guide: NFL Week 11 TV Schedule and Announcer Assignments
November 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment
This week isn’t really a banner week for the NFL in terms of compelling games to look forward to, but there are at least few interesting matchups on the Week 11 slate. [Read more...]
Viewer’s Guide: NFL Week 9 TV Schedule and Announcer Assignments
November 2, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Week 8 was just weird. St. Louis put a totally unexpected beatdown on New Orleans, Dallas didn’t even compete in their divisional battle against Philadelphia, and after eight weeks of play the San Francisco 49ers have a damn-near-clinching four game lead in the NFC West.
Wha-what?
So what could Week 9 possibly have in store for us?
Viewer’s Guide: NFL Week 1 TV Schedule and Announcer Assignments
September 6, 2011 By 2 Comments
The first week of the 2011 NFL season is upon us, kicking off Thursday night when the defending Super Bowl champion Packers take on the Saints (preview here). Our very own Kurt Allen has made his predictions for the 2011 NFL season. Have you?
In this post, as we do every week during the NFL season, we run down all of the TV and announcer information you need to plan your football viewing Sunday.
Viewer’s Guide: NFL Week 17 TV Schedule and Announcer Assignments
December 29, 2010 By 3 Comments
And it all comes down to this.
Though most playoff positions are locked up and a few teams have nothing to play for, there is still plenty on the line in Week 17. Most notably, St. Louis and Seattle will face off in the Sunday night game to determine the NFC West champion.
Other games of intrigue include the early Atlanta and New Orleans games, will determine whether one or the other gets the NFC’s #1 seed, or if the Bears have something to play for Thursday afternoon – we know Green Bay will.
Viewer’s Guide: NFL Week 16 TV Schedule and Announcer Assignments
December 23, 2010 By 3 Comments
Big weekend in the NFL. The 49ers and Rams battle to stay alive in the NFC West race. The Giants and Packers play to stay alive in the NFC playoff race. The Jets and Bears face off as both jockey for playoff positioning.
The stakes get higher every week. Plan your Sunday football watching with the Viewer’s Guide.
NFL Week 8 Picks, Point Spreads, TV Schedule, and Announcer Lineup
October 26, 2009 By 5 Comments
Update: The NFL Week 17 TV schedule, point spreads, and picks post is up.
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After having my first sub-.500 spread picking week in Week 6, I was able to bounce back in Week 7.
Coming into tonight’s Monday Nighter between the Redskins and Eagles (I took the Eagles -7.5, which is looking good so far) I was sitting at 7-4 for the week and 56-41 overall. The overall total could be a game or two off, but pretty solid regardless.
[Update: 8-4 for the week and 57-41 overall thanks to the Eagles' 10-point W.]
Looking ahead to Week 8, we have another week with six teams on bye. However, unlike Week 7, the schedule is filled with solid games: Denver-Baltimore, Giants-Eagles, Dolphins-Jets, Falcons-Saints.
Oh yeah, and Vikings-Packers…the return of Brett Favre to Lambeau Field.
NFL Week 7 Picks, Point Spreads, TV Schedule and Announcer Pairings
October 19, 2009 By 3 Comments
Update: The NFL Week 17 TV schedule, point spreads, and picks post is up.
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As I post this while getting ready for the Monday battle between Denver and San Diego, I am hoping the Chargers can prove me right and cover the 3.5 spread. If they do, it would allow me to sneak through a pretty forgettable Week 6 with a 7-6 record. (Update: Well, they didn’t, so I went 6-7. Awesome.)
Otherwise, I’ll have my first sub-.500 week of the season.
I’m still sitting a 49-36 heading into tonight’s game, so at worst I’ll be 12 games up, and I guess that’s no so bad. (Update: Current record: 49-37.)
But as we always do on Monday nights here at MSF, it’s time to look forward to next week. Hence, here we are with our usual look at next week’s TV schedule and point spreads, plus spread picks for each game.
And Myles and I will be here later in the week with the 4th and Short Podcast, where we discuss and pick the most compelling games on the schedule. So bookmark this page and come back, or be on the lookout Wednesday night/Thursday morning on the homepage.
NFL Week 5 TV Schedule, Point Spreads, Announcers, and Picks
October 5, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Update: The NFL Week 17 TV schedule, point spreads, and picks post is up.
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Well, this is the earliest I’ve ever gotten the new NFL TV schedule, spreads, and picks post up. I’m putting the finishing touches on it as I watch Monday Night Countdown in anticipation of the Vikings-Packers game tonight.
But in three or four hours, this game will be over and we’ll all be turning our attention to the pivotal games on the Week 5 schedule: Bengals-Ravens, Falcons-49ers, and the biggest game of the week: Bill Belichick and the Patriots traveling to Denver to face former Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and his 4-0 Broncos.
None of these games will have the anticipation of tonight’s Favre-Packers clash, but the ante gets upped each week and lines of demarcation between the haves and have nots becomes more strongly defined.
As always, this post is designed to be the most complete viewing guide you’ll find anywhere. Not only is every game listed (with date, time, network, and announcer pairing) but we also give you the point spread and over-under, as well as an educated guess at a spread pick for each game.
Through three weeks I am 35-27 against the spread. I had my first week at 50% last week, so I’m looking to rebound this week.
Read on for the NFL Week 5 tv schedule, point spreads, and picks.
NFL Week 3 Preview: TV Schedules, Point Spreads, Announcer Pairings, and Free Picks
September 21, 2009 By 2 Comments
Update: The NFL Week 17 TV schedule, point spreads, and picks post is up.
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Does it seem to anyone else like those first two weeks of the NFL season just flew by?
I suppose it always seems like that. Training camp and the preseason just drags on and on and before you know it — BAM! — your team is 0-2 and it feels like all hope is lost.
Yes, you guessed it, a Browns fan is writing this week’s NFL TV schedule, point spreads, and announcer pairings post.
And although Browns fans may not have a whole lot to watch this week, considering their team has to travel to Baltimore, Week 3 is a pivotal week for a host of fan bases who had high hopes coming into this season.
That is a huge reason why you should be very careful before you bet against the Titans (at the Jets) and the Panthers (at Dallas on Monday night). I realize that neither of these teams has a favorable matchup, but both squads made the playoffs last year, had high hopes coming into 2009, and have rosters filled with prideful veterans.
They may not win, but I’d bet they’ll cover.
As always, this post is designed to be the most complete viewing guide you’ll find anywhere. Not only is every game listed (with date, time, network, and announcer pairing) but we also give you the point spread and over-under, as well as an educated guess at a spread pick for each game.
Through two weeks I am 19-13 against the spread. Not too shabby.
A couple of quick things to keep in mind:
- All times are ET.
- Some games do not have all of the information filled in as of this post being published (i.e. a few games don’t have spreads yet and the announcer assignments have not yet been announced). I’ll up date this post as soon as the information is available at the506.com.
- Point spread and over-under listings are as of Monday night, and obviously subject to change throughout the week. If you want update point spread info, or some expert advice as you make your weekly picks, below are a few helpful links.
- DocSports: NFL Odds
- DocSports: NFL Picks
And with all that said, here is your mood music and the Week 3 TV schedule, point spreads, announcers, and picks.
NFL Week 3 Viewer’s Guide
TV Schedule – Announcers – Kickoff Times
Point Spreads – Picks – Odds – Over-Unders
Kansas City Chiefs (0-2) at Philadelphia Eagles (1-1)
- Chiefs-Eagles Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Chiefs-Eagles Time: 1:00 ET
- Chiefs-Eagles TV Network: CBS
- Chiefs-Eagles Announcers: Kevin Harlan and Solomon Wilcots
- Chiefs-Eagles Point Spread: NL
- Chiefs-Eagles Over-Under: NL
- Chiefs-Eagles Pick: There is currently no line on this game, presumably while the powers that be await a decision on Philly’s QB and the status of Brian Westbrook. Well, I don’t care. Whatever it is (Philly will be favored) take the Eagles and the points. The Chiefs are awful. Chiefs-Eagles free spread pick: Eagles minus the points
New York Giants (2-0) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-2)
- Giants-Buccaneers Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Giants-Buccaneers Time: 1:00 ET
- Giants-Buccaneers TV Network: FOX
- Giants-Buccaneers Announcers: Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, and Tony Siragusa
- Giants-Buccaneers Point Spread: Giants -7.5
- Giants-Buccaneers Over-Under: 44
- Giants-Buccaneers Pick: I have been wholly unimpressed by the Bucs so far this year — their secondary is absolutely pitiful — whereas the Giants have played very sound football in moving to 2-0. I think Eli Manning will have another big game hooking up with Steve Smith and Mario Manningham and the Giants will roll, even on the road. Giants-Buccaneers free spread pick: Giants -7.5
Green Bay Packers (1-1) at St. Louis Rams (0-2)
- Packers-Rams Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Packers-Rams Time: 1:00 ET
- Packers-Rams TV Network: FOX
- Packers-Rams Announcers: Chris Myers and Trent Green
- Packers-Rams Point Spread: Packers -6.5
- Packers-Rams Over-Under: 41
- Packers-Rams Pick: This one is tricky. Before last week, it would have been Packers and the points without thinking about it. But after seeing how poorly the Packers’ line played, along with their inability to stop Cedric Benson, I’m a little worried. The Rams played Washington tough last week and will be in desperation mode at 0-2 in front of their home fans. In the end though, I don’t think the Rams can score enough to keep up with the Packers. Packers-Rams free spread pick: Packers -6.5
San Francisco 49ers (2-0) at Minnesota Vikings (2-0)
- 49ers-Vikings Date: Sunday, September 27th
- 49ers-Vikings Time: 1:00 ET
- 49ers-Vikings TV Network: FOX
- 49ers-Vikings Announcers: Sam Rosen and Tim Ryan
- 49ers-Vikings Point Spread: Vikings -6.5
- 49ers-Vikings Over-Under: 40
- 49ers-Vikings Pick: The 49ers are getting no love. I realize Minnesota has dominated their first two games, but they played Cleveland and Detroit. They have not yet faced adversity, and it will be interesting to see Favre and his new teammates respond to a close game against a team that can stop the run. I don’t know if San Fran can pull out the W on the road, but I do think they run the ball and stop the run well enough to keep it close. 49ers-Vikings free spread pick: 49ers +6.5
Tennessee Titans (0-2) at New York Jets (2-0)
- Titans-Jets Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Titans-Jets Time: 1:00 ET
- Titans-Jets TV Network: CBS
- Titans-Jets Announcers: Greg Gumbel and Dan Dierdorf
- Titans-Jets Point Spread: Jets -2.5
- Titans-Jets Over-Under: 37
- Titans-Jets Pick: This is a tough spread. The Jets’ defense has been out of its mind through two weeks, while the Titans’ proud defense has shown that it misses Albert Haynesworth and Jim Schwartz. This Tennessee team is a proud bunch that went 3-13 last year and will be playing with their backs against the wall. The Jets, I think, are ripe for a letdown after putting so much emotionally into last week’s win over the Patriots. And despite all the hype about Mark Sanchez, he is still a rookie and will have a few clunkers here and there. I don’t know that the Titans will win, but they keep it close. Titans-Jets free spread pick: Titans +2.5
Atlanta Falcons (2-0) at New England Patriots (1-1)
- Falcons-Patriots Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Falcons-Patriots Time: 1:00 ET
- Falcons-Patriots TV Network: FOX
- Falcons-Patriots Announcers: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman
- Falcons-Patriots Point Spread: Patriots -4.5
- Falcons-Patriots Over-Under: 44
- Falcons-Patriots Pick: The Patriots will be ready to go and focused after getting blasted by the Jets last week. The problem? Atlanta is really, really good. The Falcons can rush the passer, which attacks the Patriots biggest weakness on offense (protecting Tom Brady), and they can also run the ball. Oh yeah, and they have an emerging star in Matt Ryan who is having fun with his new toy, TE Tony Gonzalez. This will be a close one, and will come down to a mano-a-mano battle between Brady and Ryan. I think Brady ultimately wins it, but the Falcons cover. Falcons-Patriots free spread pick: Falcons +4.5
Jacksonville Jaguars (0-2) at Houston Texans (1-1)
- Jaguars-Texans Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Jaguars-Texans Time: 1:00 ET
- Jaguars-Texans TV Network: CBS
- Jaguars-Texans Announcers: Bill Macatee and Steve Beuerlein
- Jaguars-Texans Point Spread: Texans -3.5
- Jaguars-Texans Over-Under: 46.5
- Jaguars-Texans Pick: This Jacksonville team is terrible, and they have shown signs of being able to do anything offensively other than garbage points. The Texans’ D has not played well, but its offense got clicking last week against Tennessee. I would not be surprised to see this game break the over, and I think Houston wins by at least a TD or more. Schaub, Johnson, and a rejuvenated Steve Slaton (he’s due!) will be too much for Jacksonville to handle. Jaguars-Texans free spread pick: Texans -3.5
Washington Redskins (1-1) at Detroit Lions (0-2)
- Redskins-Lions Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Redskins-Lions Time: 1:00 ET
- Redskins-Lions TV Network: FOX
- Redskins-Lions Announcers: Thom Brennaman and Brian Billick
- Redskins-Lions Point Spread: Redskins -6.5
- Redskins-Lions Over-Under: 38
- Redskins-Lions Pick: Something tells me the Lions will be a trendy pick to get the upset W this week. And there is good reason for that: Washington is not a very good team right now. When you only beat St. Louis 9-7 at home, you have some issues. Detroit played well in the first half against Minnesota last week, but the Vikings are a really good team. I would take the under in this game, and my main hesitation in taking the Redskins and the point is that I don’t even know if they can get to 7 points. I do not think Detroit wins this game, but I do think they keep it close enough to give Jason Campbell and Jim Zorn some more sleepless nights next week. Redskins-Lions free spread pick: Lions +6.5
Cleveland Browns (0-2) at Baltimore Ravens (2-0)
- Browns-Ravens Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Browns-Ravens Time: 1:00 ET
- Browns-Ravens TV Network: CBS
- Browns-Ravens Announcers: GUS JOHNSON and Steve Tasker (Yes!!! A reason to watch the Browns! Gus Johnson!)
- Browns-Ravens Point Spread: Ravens -13.5
- Browns-Ravens Over-Under: 38.5
- Browns-Ravens Pick: Ugh. I don’t even want to analyze this game this week. I would take Baltimore and the points if the spread was 21. Cleveland has shown no signs of life on offense, it wears out their D by the second half, and this Browns team always gets trounced at Baltimore when the Ravens are good. Well guess what? Baltimore is really good this year, and barring a huge surprise, they will take the Browns behind the proverbial woodshed. Browns-Ravens free spread pick: Ravens -13.5
Chicago Bears (1-1) at Seattle Seahawks (1-1)
- Bears-Seahawks Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Bears-Seahawks Time: 4:05 ET
- Bears-Seahawks TV Network: Dick Stockton and Charles Davis
- Bears-Seahawks Announcers: FOX
- Bears-Seahawks Point Spread: Bears -2.5
- Bears-Seahawks Over-Under: 37
- Bears-Seahawks Pick: Poor Matt Hasselbeck. He just can’t seem to stay healthy anymore. If he were healthy and playing, I think they’d be a good bet to win and certainly to cover 2.5 points. However, I think last week’s win was a big confidence builder for Jay Cutler and the Bears. And after seeing what Frank Gore did to Seattle last week, Matt Forte will no doubt be ready for his 2009 breakout game. I think he gets it, and I think the Bears win by a TD. Bears-Seahawks free spread pick: Bears -2.5 (for the record, I’m already re-thinking this one…Seattle is tough to beat at home. But the absence of Hasselbeck seals it. Bears, minus the points, final answer.)
New Orleans Saints (2-0) at Buffalo Bills (1-1)
- Saints-Bills Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Saints-Bills Time: 4:05 ET
- Saints-Bills TV Network: FOX
- Saints-Bills Announcers: Ron Pitts and John Lynch
- Saints-Bills Point Spread: Saints -5.5
- Saints-Bills Over-Under: 52.5
- Saints-Bills Pick: I love the Saints this year. Their offense has just been spectacular, and they have played surprisingly well defensively. The Bills did a good job of containing the Patriots for 3 1/2 quarters in week 1 and are playing better than I think most people expected. They certainly are running the ball better than expected, and that should help them keep this game close. I think the Saints’ O will continue to roll, but Buffalo should be able to control the ball somewhat and limit Drew Brees’ chances. I think the Saints win, but I also think the Bills have enough to keep this one close and cover. Saints-Bills free spread pick: Bills +5.5
Miami Dolphins (0-2) at San Diego Chargers (1-1)
- Dolphins-Chargers Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Dolphins-Chargers Time: 4:15 ET
- Dolphins-Chargers TV Network: CBS
- Dolphins-Chargers Announcers: Dick Enberg and Dan Fouts
- Dolphins-Chargers Point Spread: Chargers -6.5
- Dolphins-Chargers Over-Under: 43
- Dolphins-Chargers Pick: The spread has not been posted yet as of publishing this on Monday night, but I’m taking the Dolphins. The ‘Fins played very well on Monday night in so many facets of the game, holding the Colts to under 15:00 time of possession. Peyton Manning is one of the few QBs who could win a game like that, and he did. San Diego is struggling against the run, especially with Jamal Williams now out for the season. I think Miami will be able to run the ball, keep it close, and perhaps even come out with the win. Either way, they’ll cover; and remember, desperate teams usually make good bets to cover. Dolphins-Chargers free spread pick: Dolphins + the points (6.5)
Denver Broncos (2-0) at Oakland Raiders (1-1)
- Broncos-Raiders Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Broncos-Raiders Time: 4:15 ET
- Broncos-Raiders TV Network: CBS
- Broncos-Raiders Announcers: Ian Eagle and Rich Gannon
- Broncos-Raiders Point Spread: Raiders -1.5
- Broncos-Raiders Over-Under: 35.5
- Broncos-Raiders Pick: Ugh. This is going to be an ugly game. Amazingly, either Denver will be 3-0 or Oakland will be 2-1 after this game. Neither team will be as good as their record indicates, but someone has to win. Right now, I have very little faith in JaMarcus Russell. The Raiders somehow won on the road with Russell going 7-24 last week, but that will not happen again. I’m not at all sold on Denver, but I do think their offense is starting to click a bit. The Raiders’ D is much better this year, which will keep Oakland in the game, but Denver can really get after the passer and will force mistakes by Russell. I think this one stays under the number, but the damn Broncos move to 3-0. Broncos-Raiders free spread pick: Broncos +1.5
Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1) at Cincinnati Bengals (1-1)
- Steelers-Bengals Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Steelers-Bengals Time: 4:15 ET
- Steelers-Bengals TV Network: CBS
- Steelers-Bengals Announcers: Jim Nantz and Phil Simms
- Steelers-Bengals Point Spread: Steelers -4.5
- Steelers-Bengals Over-Under: 37
- Steelers-Bengals Pick: Cincinnati shocked a lot of people by going into Lambeau and beating the Packers last week. They did it by pressuring the QB and stopping the run. So far this year and last year, the Steelers have really struggled to both run and protect Ben Roethlisberger. However, I cannot in good faith recommend the Bengals as a winner in this game when their RB is my sworn fantasy enemy Cedric Benson. But since they are at home, and seemingly playing much better, I do think they can keep it close. Pittsburgh won’t blow many teams out, and I think they just squeak by with a win in Cincy. Steelers-Bengals free spread pick: Bengals +4.5
Indianapolis Colts (2-0) at Arizona Cardinals (1-1)
- Colts-Cardinals Date: Sunday, September 27th
- Colts-Cardinals Time: 8:20 ET
- Colts-Cardinals TV Network: NBC
- Colts-Cardinals Announcers: Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth
- Colts-Cardinals Point Spread: Cardinals -2.5
- Colts-Cardinals Over-Under: 48
- Colts-Cardinals Pick: This has all the makings of a really tough spread choice. Both offenses are fantastic in the passing game but struggle running the ball. However, neither defense is particularly adept at stopping the run. The Colts absolutely stole Monday night’s game in Miami despite having the ball for less than 15 minutes. Arizona’s offense is too good to allow the Colts to do something similar here. The Cardinals won’t be able to run the ball as well as Miami did against Indianapolis, but I do think they have enough firepower to outscore the Colts and win by at least field goal. Colts-Cardinals free spread pick: Cardinals -2.5
Carolina Panthers (0-2) at Dallas Cowboys (1-1)
- Panthers-Cowboys Date: Monday, September 28th
- Panthers-Cowboys Time: 8:30 ET
- Panthers-Cowboys TV Network: ESPN
- Panthers-Cowboys Announcers: Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, and Jon Gruden
- Panthers-Cowboys Point Spread: Cowboys -9.5
- Panthers-Cowboys Over-Under: 46
- Panthers-Cowboys Pick: I don’t like this game at all and would not touch it with a ten-foot pole if I actually bet money on these things. Luckily I don’t, so I can still offer up at least a guess as to how it will turn out. I think it all comes down to who you trust more: Tony Romo or Jake Delhomme. If Romo protects the ball and lets his great RBs do the heavy lifting, the Cowboys should rebound from their home opener for a win. However, Dallas is terrible against the pass (as proven last week by Eli Manning) and perhaps this is the game that Jake Delhomme gets well again. In the end, I do think Dallas will win this game, but Romo will make enough mistakes and Dallas’ DBs will play poorly enough for Carolina to keep it close. Plus, when in doubt, go with the 0-2 team that had playoff expectations coming into the year. Desperation can be huge in the NFL. Panthers-Cowboys free spread pick: Panthers +9.5
NFL Week 2 Preview: TV Schedule, Announcers, Point Spreads, and Picks
September 15, 2009 By 1 Comment
This is from 2009!!!
Click here for the 2010 NFL Week 2 Viewer’s Guide.
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So, let’s quickly take note of what we learned during the first week of the 2009 NFL football season:
- Adrian Peterson is an absolute beast.
- Tom Brady is still, well, Tom Brady.
- Jake Delhomme is still, unfortunately for Carolina, the same Jake Delhomme that we saw last year in the playoffs.
- The Ravens and Falcons, at least for one week, appear that they will pick up right where there turnaround 2008 seasons left off.
- Miami might not be in the same boat.
- Drew Brees and the Saints might have the most explosive offense we’ve seen in a loooong time. (You know, since the 2007 Patriots.)
- Jay Cutler is still the same reckless “gunslinger” that he was in Denver. He’ll have to cut down on the INTs and increase the TDs now that Brian Urlacher is out for the rest of the season.
There is more, as we always learn plenty from the first week of the NFL season.
But do we…really?
It often seems like the greatest disparity from week-to-week for individual teams comes between Weeks 1 and 2. In contrast to the preseason, now that each team has seen its starting lineup play an entire regular season game, legitimate and meaningful adjustments can be made.
In cities like Houston, Washington, and Arizona, among others, teams that fancy themselves as playoff threats will need to make adjustments before Week 2 to avoid falling to 0-2.
In cities like San Francisco, Green Bay, and Dallas, the hope is that the positives from last week were not a mirage and that an auspicious 2-0 record is on the horizon.
We shall see.
As you get ready for another week of NFL action, we bring you our handy, dandy NFL TV Schedule and Point Spread post like we do every week. Each game is listed below with the date, kickoff time, TV network, announcers, point spread, over-under, and even a spread pick.
(Note: No, I do not keep track of how I do against the spread each week; honestly, I don’t care. Each pick below is just based on my gut instinct as I type up this post early in the week. I was 14-16 picking straight up last week though.)
A couple of quick things to keep in mind:
- All times are ET.
- Some games do not have all of the information filled in as of this post being published (i.e. a few games don’t have spreads yet and the announcer assignments have not yet been announced). I’ll up date this post as soon as the information is available at the506.com.
- Point spread and over-under listings are as of Monday night, and obviously subject to change throughout the week. If you want update point spread info, or some expert advice as you make your weekly picks, below are a few helpful links.
- DocSports: NFL Odds
- DocSports: NFL Picks
And with all that said, here is your mood music and the Week 2 TV schedule, point spreads, announcers, and picks.
NFL Week 2 Preview
TV Schedule – Announcers – Kickoff Times
Point Spreads – Over-Unders – Spread Picks
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Houston Texans (0-1) at Tennessee Titans (0-1)
- Texans-Titans Date: Sunday, September 20
- Texans-Titans Time: 1:00
- Texans-Titans TV Network: CBS
- Texans-Titans Announcers: GUS JOHNSON and Steve Tasker
- Texans-Titans Point Spread: Titans -7.5
- Texans-Titans Over-Under: 40.5
- Texans-Titans Pick: Houston may not win, but I see no way the Texans go down without a tooth-and-nail fight. This is a team under enormous pressure to win, and the Titans do not have an offense that will put up an extraordinary amount of points. Texans-Titans spread pick: Texans +7.5
- StubHub: Texans-Titans tickets as low as $28!
Arizona Cardinals (0-1) at Jacksonville Jaguars (0-1)
- Cardinals-Jaguars Date: Sunday, September 20
- Cardinals-Jaguars Time: 1:00
- Cardinals-Jaguars TV Network: FOX
- Cardinals-Jaguars Announcers: Chris Myers and Trent Green
- Cardinals-Jaguars Point Spread: Jaguars -3.5
- Cardinals-Jaguars Over-Under: 42.5
- Cardinals-Jaguars Pick: This is a tough one. I am not a big fan of either one of these teams this season. Because the Cardinals have the best player on the field (Larry Fitzgerald) I’m picking them to cover. As to who will win, I say it’s a toss-up. Cardinals-Jaguars spread pick: Cardinals +3.5
- StubHub: Cardinals-Jaguars tickets as low as $30!
New Orleans Saints (1-0) at Philadelphia Eagles (1-0)
- Saints-Eagles Date: Sunday, September 20
- Saints-Eagles Time: 1:00
- Saints-Eagles TV Network: FOX
- Saints-Eagles Announcers: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman
- Saints-Eagles Point Spread: No Line
- Saints-Eagles Over-Under: No Line
- Saints-Eagles Spread Pick: Something tells me they are waiting to find out more info on Philly’s QB situation before posting a line on this one. Until then, here’s a piece of advice: take the over!
- StubHub: Saints-Eagles tickets as low as $65!
Oakland Raiders (0-1) at Kansas City Chiefs (0-1)
- Raiders-Chiefs Date: Sunday, September 20
- Raiders-Chiefs Time: 1:00
- Raiders-Chiefs TV Network: CBS
- Raiders-Chiefs Announcers: Kevin Harlan and Solomon Wilcots
- Raiders-Chiefs Point Spread: Chiefs -3.5
- Raiders-Chiefs Over-Under: 39
- Raiders-Chiefs Pick: I have to admit that I was impressed by the Raiders on Monday night. They played hard, did a solid job against the run, and JaMarcus Russell showed at least some signs of improvement. I really look at this game as a toss-up, but think the Raiders at least come within a field goal. Raiders-Chiefs spread pick: Raiders +3.5.
- StubHub: Raiders-Chiefs tickets as low as $40!
New England Patriots (1-0) at New York Jets (1-0)
- Patriots-Jets Date: Sunday, September 20
- Patriots-Jets Time: 1:00
- Patriots-Jets TV Network: CBS
- Patriots-Jets Announcers: Greg Gumbel and Dan Dierdorf
- Patriots-Jets Point Spread: Patriots -5.5
- Patriots-Jets Over-Under: 46.5
- Patriots-Jets Pick: The Jets are going to come after Tom Brady big time, and are coming off of a great defensive performance against Houston. I don’t see the Jets winning, because there is no way I’m picking Mark Sanchez over a Belichick defense and Tom Brady, but I think they can keep it close with New England at home. Patriots-Jets spread pick: Jets +5.5.
- StubHub: Patriots-Jets tickets as low as $12!
Minnesota Vikings (1-0) at Detroit Lions (0-1)
- Vikings-Lions Date: Sunday, September 20
- Vikings-Lions Time: 1:00
- Vikings-Lions TV Network: FOX
- Vikings-Lions Announcers: Ron Pitts and John Lynch
- Vikings-Lions Point Spread: Vikings -10.5
- Vikings-Lions Over-Under: 47
- Vikings-Lions Pick: Detroit is going to win a few games this year, but it’s not going to be this one. Adrian Peterson is just too good, and I expect Brett Favre to attempt a few more passes down the field than he did against Cleveland. Detroit may stay close in the first half, but like last week Peterson wears ‘em down in the end. Vikings-Lions spread pick: Vikings -10.5.
- StubHub: Vikings-Lions tickets as low as $18!
Cincinnati Bengals (0-1) at Green Bay Packers (1-0)
- Bengals-Packers Date: Sunday, September 20
- Bengals-Packers Time: 1:00
- Bengals-Packers TV Network: CBS
- Bengals-Packers Announcers: Ian Eagle and Rich Gannon
- Bengals-Packers Point Spread: Packers -9.5
- Bengals-Packers Over-Under: 42
- Bengals-Packers Pick: The Packers are the better team and I think they will win, but the Bengals’ offense is good enough to cover. Especially after how they lost last week to Denver, I expect the Bengals to come out with some fire. Bengals-Packers spread pick: Bengals +9.5.
- StubHub: Bengals-Packers tickets as low as $80!
St. Louis Rams (0-1) at Washington Redskins (0-1)
- Rams-Redskins Date: Sunday, September 20
- Rams-Redskins Time: 1:00
- Rams-Redskins TV Network: FOX
- Rams-Redskins Announcers: Sam Rosen and Tim Ryan
- Rams-Redskins Point Spread: Redskins -10.5
- Rams-Redskins Over-Under: 36.5
- Rams-Redskins Pick: The Rams just are not very good, and showed it last week against Seattle. Washington is another team, like Carolina, that is already desperate after only one week. In front of their home fans I think the Redskins win this one going away, carried by their defense. Rams-Redskins spread pick: Redskins -10.5.
- StubHub: Rams-Redskins tickets as low as $20!
Carolina Panthers (0-1) at Atlanta Falcons (1-0)
- Panthers-Falcons Date: Sunday, September 20
- Panthers-Falcons Time: 1:00
- Panthers-Falcons TV Network: FOX
- Panthers-Falcons Announcers: Dick Stockton and Charles Davis
- Panthers-Falcons Point Spread: Falcons -6.5
- Panthers-Falcons Over-Under: 43
- Panthers-Falcons Pick: The Panthers are in some big trouble with Jake Delhomme, and desperately need him to have a good game. He is a proud veteran and has a great running game to lean on. I would not be surprised to see the Panthers, with their backs already against the wall, win this game. Either way, I think they cover. Panthers-Falcons spread pick: Panthers +6.5.
- StubHub: Panthers-Falcons tickets as low as $23!
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-1) at Buffalo Bills (0-1)
- Buccaneers-Bills Date: Sunday, September 20
- Buccaneers-Bills Time: 4:05
- Buccaneers-Bills TV Network: FOX
- Buccaneers-Bills Announcers: Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, and Tony Siragusa
- Buccaneers-Bills Point Spread: Bills -4.5
- Buccaneers-Bills Over-Under: 42
- Buccaneers-Bills Pick: Tampa Bay did not impress anyone in their Week 1 loss to Dallas, while Buffalo played New England toe-to-toe and would have won had Leodis McKelvin not fumbled. I’m worried that this could be a letdown game for Buffalo, but they are buoyed by the fact that they are at home and Tampa Bay has so many new parts from last year. I think T.O. has a big day and the Bills send Tampa Bay to a reeling 0-2. Buccaneers-Bills spread pick: Bills -4.5.
- StubHub: Buccaneers-Bills tickets as low as $55!
Seattle Seahawks (1-0) at San Francisco 49ers (1-0)
- Seahawks-49ers Date: Sunday, September 20
- Seahawks-49ers Time: 4:05
- Seahawks-49ers TV Network: FOX
- Seahawks-49ers Announcers: Thom Brennaman and Brian Billick
- Seahawks-49ers Point Spread: 49ers -1.5
- Seahawks-49ers Over-Under: 39.5
- Seahawks-49ers Pick: I am a huge fan of the 49ers this season, and their opening week road victory over the Cardinals was a perfect example of why. The Seahawks will be better this year, but the Rams made them look a lot better than they are last week. The 49ers win by at least a field goal. Seahawks-49ers spread pick: 49ers -1.5.
- StubHub: Seahawks-49ers tickets as low as $51!
Baltimore Ravens (1-0) at San Diego Chargers (1-0)
- Ravens-Chargers Date: Sunday, September 20
- Ravens-Chargers Time: 4:15
- Ravens-Chargers TV Network: CBS
- Ravens-Chargers Announcers: Dick Enberg and Dan Fouts
- Ravens-Chargers Point Spread: Chargers -3.5
- Ravens-Chargers Over-Under: 41.5
- Ravens-Chargers Pick: There is uncertainty regarding the status of LT’s injured ankle, and the Chargers looked very uneven on Monday night. Baltimore, on the other hand, destroyed Kansas City in Week 1. Part of me thinks Baltimore will win this game outright, as the Chargers typically some time to heat up each season. Either way, they’re covering. Ravens-Chargers spread pick: Ravens +3.5.
- StubHub: Ravens-Chargers tickets as low as $48!
Cleveland Browns (0-1) at Denver Broncos (1-0)
- Browns-Broncos Date: Sunday, September 20
- Browns-Broncos Time: 4:15
- Browns-Broncos TV Network: CBS
- Browns-Broncos Announcers: Bill Macatee and Steve Beuerlein
- Browns-Broncos Point Spread: Broncos -3.5
- Browns-Broncos Over-Under: 37.5
- Browns-Broncos Pick: I hate to say it, but this will probably be the ugliest game of the week. The Broncos stole won in the Cleveland last year, and I think the Browns do the same thing this year. The Broncos were lucky last week, and the Browns stood toe-to-toe with Minnesota for a half. I say we see more of the first half Browns on Sunday. Browns-Broncos spread pick: Browns +3.5.
- StubHub: Browns-Broncos tickets as low as $42!
Pittsburgh Steelers (1-0) at Chicago Bears (0-1)
- Steelers-Bears Date: Sunday, September 20
- Steelers-Bears Time: 4:15
- Steelers-Bears TV Network: CBS
- Steelers-Bears Announcers: Jim Nantz and Phil Simms
- Steelers-Bears Point Spread: Steelers -3.5
- Steelers-Bears Over-Under: 37.5
- Steelers-Bears Pick: Jay Cutler threw 4 INTs on Sunday in the loss to the Packers. And on Monday we found out that Brian Urlacher is out for the year. But Pittsburgh is a 3.5 favorite in Soldier Field? The Steelers may win, but not by more than a field goal. I think Cutler has a solid rebound game and the Bears win outright. Steelers-Bears spread pick: Bears +3.5.
- StubHub: Steelers-Bears tickets as low as $130!
New York Giants (1-0) at Dallas Cowboys (1-0)
- Giants-Cowboys Date: Sunday, September 20
- Giants-Cowboys Time: 8:20
- Giants-Cowboys TV Network: NBC
- Giants-Cowboys Announcers: Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth
- Giants-Cowboys Point Spread: Cowboys -2.5
- Giants-Cowboys Over-Under: 44
- Giants-Cowboys Pick: I’m high on the Cowboys this year, and think that the loss of T.O. has been wildly overestimated. Dallas has a running game that rivals the Giants’, and a better corps of receivers than Eli Manning has. If Dallas can give Tony Romo time, they’ll be okay. I think they will, and that the Cowboys win by a field goal. Giants-Cowboys spread pick: Cowboys -2.5.
- StubHub: Giants-Cowboys tickets as low as $40!
Indianapolis Colts (1-0) at Miami Dolphins (0-1)
- Colts-Dolphins Date: Monday, September 21
- Colts-Dolphins Time: 8:30
- Colts-Dolphins TV Network: ESPN
- Colts-Dolphins Announcers: Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Jon Gruden
- Colts-Dolphins Point Spread: Colts -3.5
- Colts-Dolphins Over-Under: 42
- Colts-Dolphins Pick: The Colts will be without a proven #2 WR and have no running game to speak of. With the Dolphins coming off of a terrible loss, I think the Parcells-Sparano combo has them ready to play. I think the Dolphins actually win this game outright in front of their home fans on Monday night. They’ll certainly cover 3.5 points. Colts-Dolphins spread pick: Dolphins +3.5.
- StubHub: Colts-Dolphins tickets as low as $42!
NFL Week 1 Preview: TV Schedule, Announcer Pairings, Point Spreads, and Picks
September 7, 2009 By 5 Comments
Update: The NFL Week 17 TV schedule, point spreads, and picks post is up.
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As Michael Jackson once sang with his brothers, “can you feel it…Can You Feel It…CAN YOU FEEL IT!?”
Not sure exactly what the late, great MJ was referring to when he sang those lyrics, but I reference them to illustrate my excitement at what will happen this Thursday night: the kickoff of another NFL season.
I love college football, and was excited about the first full slate of games this past Saturday, but nothing beats the NFL. And now that the Official Sports League of America is back, so to is our weekly look at each game with the NFL Week 1 Preview, including the TV Schedule, Announcer Pairings, Point Spreads, and Over-Unders. Plus, I try my hand and predicting each game against the spread.
A quick note for all the gamblers out there:
First of all, the point spreads and over-unders you see listed below are current as of September 7th. Thus, if you want the most up-to-date information, follow this link to DocSports where we get our information from:
- DocSports: NFL Odds
Secondly, I don’t bet on the NFL or any sports, so I won’t be “putting my money where mouth is” to test out the wisdom I dispense below. And I don’t have any charts of historical trends regarding how teams do against the spread in various situations. My picks, while against the spread, are just my own educated gut feelings. If you want true expert advice, here is a helpful link:
- DocSports: NFL picks.
And finally, before we delve into the Week 1 preview, a quick shout out to our sources for the helpful information contained in this post, as well as some mood music in the form of an embedded mp3 to get you ready for Week 1 of the 2009 NFL season:
- Week 1 announcer pairings: the506.com
- NFL Week 1 TV schedule: NFL.com
NFL Week 1 Preview
TV Schedule – Announcers – Kickoff Times
Point Spreads – Over-Unders – Spread Picks
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Click here to great deals on NFL tickets from Stubhub
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Tennessee Titans (0-0) at Pittsburgh Steelers (0-0)
- Titans-Steelers Date: Thursday, September 10th
- Titans-Steelers TV & Kickoff Time: 8:30 ET on NBC
- Titans-Steelers Location: Heinz Field in Pittsburgh
- Titans-Steelers Announcers: Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth
- Titans-Steelers Point Spread: PIT -5.5
- Titans-Steelers Over-Under: 35
- Jerod Morris, MSF Titans-Steelers Preview and Analysis
- Titans-Steelers Prediction: The Steelers are at home and will be excited to begin their Super Bowl defense in front of the terrible towels. Tennessee is now without Albert Haynesworth and still does not have a legit outside threat to keep the vaunted Pittsburgh D honest. Titans-Steelers spread pick: PIT -5.5
Miami Dolphins (0-0) at Atlanta Falcons (0-0)
- Dolphins-Falcons Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Dolphins-Falcons TV & Kickoff Time: 1:00 ET on CBS
- Dolphins-Falcons Location: Georgia Dome in Atlanta
- Dolphins-Falcons Announcers: Greg Gumbel and Dan Dierdorf
- Dolphins-Falcons Point Spread: ATL -4
- Dolphins-Falcons Over-Under: 43.5
- Dolphins-Falcons Prediction: One of the NFL’s two surprise teams from 2008 will being 2009 with a loss. Considering the Falcons have a stellar rookie QB with a year of experience and another weapon in Tony Gonzalez, while the Dolphins still are relying on Ted Ginn to be their #1 WR, I like the Falcons to win this one, but not easily. Dolphins-Falcons spread pick: MIA +4
Kansas City Chiefs (0-0) at Baltimore Ravens (0-0)
- Chiefs-Ravens Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Chiefs-Ravens TV & Kickoff Time: 1:00 ET on CBS
- Chiefs-Ravens Location: M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore
- Chiefs-Ravens Announcers: Ian Eagle and Rich Gannon
- Chiefs-Ravens Point Spread: BAL-10.5
- Chiefs-Ravens Over-Under: 37
- Chiefs-Ravens Prediction: Kansas City will very likely be awful this year, with Matt Cassel already hurt and the O-line looking shaky. The Ravens have a more experience Joe Flacco, a solid ground game, and a defense that wants to prove it was more than just Rex Ryan’s scheming. I think Baltimore continues its trend of having alternating good/bad seasons, but it won’t begin in Week 1. Chiefs-Ravens spread pick: BAL -10.5
Philadelphia Eagles (0-0) at Carolina Panthers (0-0)
- Eagles-Panthers Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Eagles-Panthers TV & Kickoff Time: 1:00 ET on FOX
- Eagles-Panthers Location: Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte
- Eagles-Panthers Announcers: Dick Stockton and Charles Davis
- Eagles-Panthers Point Spread: PHI -1.5
- Eagles-Panthers Over-Under: 43.5
- Eagles-Panthers Prediction: This is a very intriguing matchup. Philly is trying to work Michael Vick into the lineup, but will have a few weeks not to worry about it while he is suspended. I think Donovan McNabb, usually a fast starter, uses these couple of weeks to assert himself and remind coaches and fans that he is the undisputed #1 QB. Plus, this will be the Philly defense’s first game without deceased former DC Jim Johnson, and I expect an inspired performance. And sorry Panthers, but your awful performance in the playoffs is still ringing my head. Eagles-Panthers spread pick: Eagles -1.5
Denver Broncos (0-0) at Cincinnati Bengals (0-0)
- Broncos-Bengals Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Broncos-Bengals TV & Kickoff Time: 1:00 ET on CBS
- Broncos-Bengals Location: Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati
- Broncos-Bengals Announcers: GUS JOHNSON and Dan Fouts
- Broncos-Bengals Point Spread: CIN -4
- Broncos-Bengals Over-Under: 43.5
- Broncos-Bengals Prediction: I am not bullish at all on the Broncos this season. I do, however, think the Bengals will rebound from last year to win 6 or 7 games at a minimum (as long as Carson Palmer stays healthy). Palmer should be healthy for Week 1, and despite my hatred for Cedric Benson, I don’t see the Broncos getting a road win in Josh McDaniels’ first game. I do, however, think the Broncos will play inspired and keep it close. Broncos-Bengals spread pick: Broncos +4
Minnesota Vikings (0-0) at Cleveland Browns (0-0)
- Vikings-Browns Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Vikings-Browns TV & Kickoff Time: 1:00 ET on FOX
- Vikings-Browns Location: Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland
- Vikings-Browns Announcers: Thom Brennaman and Brian Billick
- Vikings-Browns Point Spread: MIN -4
- Vikings-Browns Over-Under: 40
- Vikings-Browns Prediction: My heart is telling me to pull for the Browns, who obviously want to kick off 2009 on the right foot in front of the home fans. But as we saw with the Jets last year, Brett Favre will probably get off to a good start this season, and the Browns have not yet proven they can put consistent pressure on the passer or stop the run. That’s a bad combo against Brett Favre and Adrian Peterson. I hope I’m wrong, but doubt it. Vikings Browns spread pick: Vikings -4
New York Jets (0-0) at Houston Texans (0-0)
- Jets-Texans Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Jets-Texans TV & Kickoff Time: 1:00 ET on CBS
- Jets-Texans Location: Reliant Stadium in Houston
- Jets-Texans Announcers: Jim Nantz and Phil Simms
- Jets-Texans Point Spread: HOU -4.5
- Jets-Texans Over-Under: 43.5
- Jets-Texans Prediction: Houston is, once again, a trendy pick to make the playoffs this year. The Jets have a rookie QB and a rookie head coach, which prior to last year suggested struggles. But I am still not a total believer in Houston, and I think the Jets’ D has a chance to be among the league’s best with Rex Ryan at the helm. Houston may win this game, but not by more than a field goal. Jets-Texans spread pick: Jets +4.5
Jacksonville Jaguars (0-0) at Indianapolis Colts (0-0)
- Jaguars-Colts Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Jaguars-Colts TV & Kickoff Time: 1:00 ET on CBS
- Jaguars-Colts Location: Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis
- Jaguars-Colts Announcers: Kevin Harlan and Solomon Wilcots
- Jaguars-Colts Point Spread: IND -7
- Jaguars-Colts Over-Under: 44.5
- Myles Berry, MSF: Colts-Jaguars Preview and Analysis
- Jaguars-Colts Prediction: Peyton Manning and the Colts are going to want to come right out and show that their offense will not skip a beat without Tony Dungy and Marvin Harrison. With new RB Donald Brown ready to provide depth and explosiveness with the experienced but oft-injured Joseph Addai, I like the Colts’ chances to put up some points. I think the Jags will be better this year, and they always seem to play the Colts tough, but I think Indy pulls away in the second half. Jaguars-Colts spread pick: Colts -7
Detroit Lions (0-0) at New Orleans Saints (0-0)
- Lions-Saints Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Lions-Saints TV & Kickoff Time: 1:00 ET on FOX
- Lions-Saints Location: The Superdome in New Orleans
- Lions-Saints Announcers: Chris Myers and Trent Green
- Lions-Saints Point Spread: NO -13
- Lions-Saints Over-Under: 49
- Lions-Saints Prediction: Detroit is coming off of an 0-16 season and spent their high draft picks on offense. Even though new head coach Jim Schwartz is a defensive guy, the Lions simply have not improved their personnel enough…certainly not enough to contain what will prove to be the NFL’s most prolific offense in 2009. I think the Lions come out an inspired and keep this game close early, but Drew Brees and the Saints will rack up points and pull away in the second half. Lions-Saints spread pick: NO -13
Dallas Cowboys (0-0) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-0)
- Cowboys-Buccaneers Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Cowboys-Buccaneers TV & Kickoff Time: 1:00 ET on FOX
- Cowboys-Buccaneers Location: Raymond James Stadium in Tampa
- Cowboys-Buccaneers Announcers: Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, and Tony Siragusa
- Cowboys-Buccaneers Point Spread: DAL -5.5
- Cowboys-Buccaneers Over-Under: 39
- Cowboys-Buccaneers Prediction: I have been telling anyone who will listen that I like the Cowboys this year. They will not be as exciting or dramatic as they were the last two seasons, but I think they will be better. Living in Dallas, it is easy to see the difference in focus between this year and last year. Tampa Bay has a new coach, a recycled QB, and a completely new identity on defense. Home or not, the Bucs don’t have what it takes to hang with a talented team that wants to make a Week 1 statement. Cowboys-Buccaneers spread pick: DAL -5.5
San Francisco 49ers (0-0) at Arizona Cardinals (0-0)
- 49ers-Cardinals Date: Sunday, September 13th
- 49ers-Cardinals TV & Kickoff Time: 4:15 ET on FOX
- 49ers-Cardinals Location: University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale
- 49ers-Cardinals Announcers: Sam Rosen and Tim Ryan
- 49ers-Cardinals Point Spread: ARI -6.5
- 49ers-Cardinals Over-Under: 46.5
- Matt Noonan: 49ers-Cardinals Preview and Prediction
- 49ers-Cardinals Prediction: The 49ers are another team I am bullish on in 2009, and I think they have a good chance, like the Cowboys, to be a non-playoff team from 2008 that makes it in 2009. We all know how much the Super Bowl loser struggles the next year, and I see no reason not to expect a similar hangover for the Cardinals who, remember, were only 9-7 in the regular season last year. The 49ers play well with Shaun Hill and QB and I think they actually grind out a win this Sunday. Either way, they keep it close enough to cover. 49ers-Cardinals spread pick: 49ers +6.5
Washington Redskins (0-0) at New York Giants (0-0)
- Redskins-Giants Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Redskins-Giants TV & Kickoff Time: 4:15 ET on FOX
- Redskins-Giants Location: Giants Stadium in New York
- Redskins-Giants Announcers: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman
- Redskins-Giants Point Spread: NYG -6.5
- Redskins-Giants Over-Under: 37
- Matt Noonan, MSF: Redskins-Giants Preview and Prediction
- Redskins-Giants Prediction: Washington typically starts out well before fading late, and Jason Campbell has had a couple of good starts in the preseason. The Giants have an incredible defense, and will put lots of pressure on Campbell, but are still struggling to find continuity between Eli Manning and his receivers. This is a division game that will be hard-fought and close, and while the Giants probably pull out a victory, I think it will be by a field goal or less. Redskins-Giants spread pick: WAS +6.5
St. Louis Rams (0-0) at Seattle Seahawks (0-0)
- Rams-Seahawks Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Rams-Seahawks TV & Kickoff Time: 4:15 ET on FOX
- Rams-Seahawks Location: Qwest Field in Seattle
- Rams-Seahawks Announcers: Ron Pitts and John Lynch
- Rams-Seahawks Point Spread: SEA -8
- Rams-Seahawks Over-Under: 41
- Matt Noonan, MSF: Rams-Seahawks Preview and Prediction
- Rams-Seahawks Prediction: A lot of people are high on the Seahawks this season, but I am not one of them. And while the Rams were beyond awful last year, a lot of that was due to injury. Every report out of Rams camp has been glowing regarding the players’ willingness to embrace new coach Steve Spagnuolo, and I think running back Steven Jackson will be on a mission (until he gets hurt) to prove that he is a forgotten star in this league. I definitely would take the over, but Matt Hasselback’s creaky back and the absence of Walter Jones has me reluctant to predict Seattle to win by more than a touchdown, if they win at all. Rams-Seahawks spread pick: STL +8
Chicago Bears (0-0) at Green Bay Packers (0-0)
- Bears-Packers Date: Sunday, September 13th
- Bears-Packers TV & Kickoff Time: 8:30 ET on NBC
- Bears-Packers Location: Lambeau Field in Green Bay
- Bears-Packers Announcers: Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth
- Bears-Packers Point Spread: GB -3.5
- Bears-Packers Over-Under: 46.5
- Ronald Clements, MSF: Bears-Packers Preview and Analysis
- Tyler Juranovich, MSF: Chicago-Green Bay Strengths/Weaknesses and Matchup Analysis
- Bears-Packers Prediction: What a great game to have on the first Sunday night of the season. The Packers ran circles around their preseason opponents, with Aaron Rodgers and Greg Jennings looking like the NFL’s next great QB-WR duo. I also expect a solid season from Ryan Grant and an improved Packers’ D. The Bears have bee one of the marquee stories of the offseason with Jay Cutler now at the helm and an emerging superstar in the backfield in Matt Forte. The Bears will clearly will be better this season, but not good enough to beat the Packers at Lambeau in Week 1. Are they good enough to keep it really close though? Yes they are. A Mason Crosby field goal wins it late for Green Bay, but the Bears cover. Bears-Packers spread pick: CHI +3.5
Buffalo Bills (0-0) at New England Patriots (0-0)
- Bills-Patriots Date: Monday, September 14th
- Bills-Patriots TV & Kickoff Time: 7:00 ET on ESPN
- Bills-Patriots Location: Gillette Stadium in Foxboro
- Bills-Patriots Announcers: Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, and Jon Gruden
- Bills-Patriots Point Spread: NE -10.5
- Bills-Patriots Over-Under: 47.5
- AJ Kaufman, MSF: Bills-Patriots Preview, Analysis, Prediction
- Bills-Patriots Prediction: Buffalo is in absolute disarray right now. Marshawn Lynch is suspended, the offensive line has five starters in new positions, T.O. is having toe problems, and Dick Jauron recently fired OC Turk Schoenert. With very little continuity, how in the hell are the Bills going to keep up with Tom Brady, Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Joey Galloway, Sammy Morris, Fred Taylor, and the rest of the Patriots’ sterling offense? New England does have question marks on D, but Buffalo is not good enough to take advantage and outscore Brady and Co. Bills-Patriots spread pick: NE -10.5
San Diego Chargers (0-0) at Oakland Raiders (0-0)
- Chargers-Raiders Date: Monday, September 14th
- Chargers-Raiders TV & Kickoff Time: 10:15 ET on ESPN
- Chargers-Raiders Location: Oakland Coliseum in Oakland
- Chargers-Raiders Announcers: Mike Greenberg, Mike Golic, and Steve Young
- Chargers-Raiders Point Spread: SD -9
- Chargers-Raiders Over-Under: 43
- Chargers-Raiders Prediction: Oh Lord. The Raiders looked absolutely awful against the Saints during the preseason, and have given fans little hope that they will be better in 2009. I think the Chargers may fly under the radar somewhat this season, and that it could finally be the year they break through and make it to a Super Bowl. They certainly are not going to get tripped up in Oakland, with Philip Rivers and LaDainian Tomlinson both getting off to great starts. I foresee a boring laugher of a game, and it has nothing to with morning tools Mike and Mike being in the booth. Chargers-Raiders spread pick: SD -9
