OK, given my record to date this year, I’m not at all sure that “bonus” is a term that can be accurately applied to any picks given, but here are a few college games this week anyway:
[Editor’s note: Updated 11/9/10 to include week 9 and college scores: Ron goes an incredible 13-3]
Yes – OREGON 35 1/2 Washington
Not nearly enough points. The Huskies have lost their QB, and have to start a freshman on the road vs. #1 after barely gaining 100 yards last week. Get on board the Oregon express before the line moves to unlisted.
Yes – MICHIGAN 3 Illinois
Rich Rodriguez is coaching for his job and Denard Robinson is electric. That said, the Illini have been playing some nicely balanced football and Michigan’s defense cannot stop anyone. Unless Robinson stops his streak of being knocked out of every game thus far and the Wolverines discover defense, the Illini will win outright.
Yes – TCU (away) 5 UTAH
These two teams are in the top 5. Really. I have to think that TCU has the defense to get it done on the road in the biggest regular season game in quite a while for both teams, but don’t bet the house either way.
NFL
Yes – Chicago 2 1/2 BUFFALO
When a 4-3 team is barely favored over an 0-7 team, you know there are issues. Still, I like the Bears chances coming off a bye and on a fast track in Toronto.
Yes = San Diego 2 1/2 HOUSTON
Another road favorite – and this time it’s even stranger on paper. Still, the Chargers usually start getting it together at this point in the season, so they’re the pick.
Yes – New Orleans 6 1/2 CAROLINA
At least this time I understand why I’m taking the road team. NO is getting well and the Panthers have little to play for.
No – MINNESOTA 9 Arizona
OK, if the Vikings have finally figured out that AP is their best player, they might be ready to win some games. Good luck to the AZ QBs this week. Minnesota takes out their frustrations on the Cardinals.
No – ATLANTA 8 Tampa Bay
I like the Falcons this week. The Buccs really haven’t proven themselves yet against top competition.
Yes – NY Jets 4 DETROIT
How amazing is this line? The pre season Super Bowl favorites (at least in their own minds) against the hapless Lions. And you know what, I’ll take the Lions.
No – BALTIMORE 5 Miami
This is one of those division games that the smart gambler probably hedges. I like the Ravens to win, but the Dolphins are playing well enough to cover.
Yes – New England 4 1/2 CLEVELAND
The Patriots should be able to throw in this one, but Cleveland has shown a serious ability to run the ball and keep things close. They might just cover this one and NE is likely to be letting down just a bit. I like the Browns.
Yes – NY Giants 7 SEATTLE
The Giants are playing much better right now and I don’t think any collegiate tricks will help Pete Carroll and the Seahawks out this week. Giants big.
Yes – OAKLAND 2 1/2 Kansas City
Wow – this is a game that had “no meaning” written all over it at season’s start. Now it’s two hot and forward looking teams. Right now, I like the Raiders ground game at home against KC’s still somewhat inconsistent passing attack.
Yes – PHILADELPHIA 2 1/2 Indianapolis
The Eagles are at home, with Michael Vick returning. I still like Peyton Manning and the Colts in this one.
Yes – GREEN BAY 8 Dallas
No reason to bet on anyting in Dallas except Wade Phillips departure date at this point. Packers roll.
Yes – Pittsburch 4 1/2 CINCINNATI
Winning team (Steelers) vs. losing team (Bengals). Division games always are tough, but the Steelers are smarter and ready to get back to winning.
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Year to date:
RS = 45 – 58 (Updated as of 11/9/10)
