Rating: 3 Unit Play of the Day

Peyton Manning returns to his former home once again. What a defense the Broncos displayed in rout of splendid Packers, with a 500-140 yd edge, neutralizing Rodgers, in the process. Now at 7-0 for the 1st time since '98, when they upset the Packers in the SuperBowl. Catching Colts off their Monday Nighter with Carolina is a definite plus, as is the revenge motive for last years 24-13 home playoff loss to Inddianapolit. the Underdog is 7-0 ATS in Colt games this year and Andrew is 2-0 versus Peyton. But Denver is 6-0 ATS off a SU underdog win, while Indy is 1-10 ATS at home versus a non-division opponent who is off a SU and ATS win.

Rating: 2 Units

Rating: 2 Units

Let's see: 20-point cover; 6½-point loss; 7-point cover; 11-point loss. What is that all about? Answer: results of this years Niner home games. No doubt that San Francisco is completely lost on the road (40-17 point per game deficit), but is a 50/50 shot in Levi's Stadium. Check 47-9 point deficit in their last 2 outings, along with 37-19 first down and 373-99 rushing yard shortages. Niners rank last in the NFL on offense and 2nd-worst on defense. Kaepernick has 6 touchdowns with 5 interceptions and 25 sacks.

Rating: 2 Units

First home game for the Bucs since Oct 11th. Tampa in off blowing another solid lead (20-3 in 3rd vesus Atlanta), before finally prevailing, 23-20, in OT (10-point cover). So three straight ATS wins for the Bucs, while averaging 30.3 points per game. A special 6 TD passes from Eli last week (no picks) in epic 52-49 loss at New Orleans. Tight score, of course, but check 36-28 and 614-416 yard deficits. NewYork is in a New Orleans/New England sandwich here, but had better not look in either direction. Giants are 1-9 ATS versus an opponent off SU division win. Bucs have a decided edge in most stat columns

Rating: 2 Units

The Steelers’ defense is very underrated. Pittsburgh has surrendered an average of 16.3 points in regulation during its last six games. The Steelers have held the Bengals, Patriots, Cardinals and Rams to their lowest point totals of the season. Cincinnati, which came into the game with the third-most potent offense, could manage only 16 points and 296 yards against Pittsburgh. Oakland no longer is a soft touch. The Raiders are traveling East for an early start time following their most impressive win of the year. That’s a vulnerable combination. The Raiders have lost 23 of their last 27 road contests. Worse, they are 1-15 SU, 6-10 ATS when playing in the Eastern Time Zone.

Rating: 2 Units

Brees coming into this one after throwing seven touchdowns (ties an NFL record), and for 511 yards (40-of-50),versus the Giants. New Orleans still needed a 50-yard Forbath field goal at the gun for its 52-49 win (spread push). So the Saints are on 4-1-1 ATS run (+24½ points in their last 3). School still out for Titans, who anxiously await the word on Mariota. Six straight losses, along with 10 turnovers in their last 5 games. Before Tennessee's 20-6 loss to the Texans, the dog was 5-0-1 ATS in Titan games, by 80 points, with 3-of-4 losses by just 2 3, and 3 points SU. But Tennessee is 1-9 ATS in the 2nd of 2 road games

Rating: 2 Units

Battle of the overall #1 picks in the 2011 & 2012 NFL drafts, namely Newton of the Panthers, and Luck of the Colts. Carolina has won 10 straight regular season games, with Cam just 3 short of Steve Young's record of 31 games with a rushing and passing touchdown. Panthers field NFL's 2nd best rushing offense, while Colts come in at 29th in overall defense. Indianapolis is the only team in the NFL which has not out gained a single opponent. Carolina is on a 7-2 ATS run, with its only misses by only 3 and 3½ points.

Rating: 2 Units

It was 18 years ago, that these 2 met in Super Bowl XXXII (31-24 Bronco upset). Both enter with perfect 6-0 records, although the Packers have a decided edge as far as offense is concerned, with Rodgers a brilliant 15 touchdows and only 2 inteceptions and hitting 68% of his passes, while the aging Manning is a horrible 7 touchdowns with 10 interceptions and 62%. Green Bay owns a 24-13 point per game edge on the road, and sports the NFL's 10th ranked offense. Denver has a 23-17 point per game advantage at home, ranking 29th on offense. However Bronco defense is #2, while the Packers are #18. Green Bay is 0-10 in November road game off a pair SU wins versus a non-division opponent.

Rating: 2 Units

Now that's more like it for the Seahawks, as they allowed just 3 points, 8 first downs, 61 rushing yards, and 81 passing yards in 20-3 win over the Niners, with a healthy Lynch running for 122 yards. However, note that Seattle didn't cross the goal line over the last 32:44 in that one, and that was versus the NFL's 2nd worst defense. Before that, Seahawks' only cover came in hosting 2-4 Bears. Four straight losses for the Cowboys, despite allowing just one offensive touchdown versus the Giants (58-yard interception, and 100-yard kickoff returns). And a 460-289 yard edge. It's been 9 years since Romo dropped playoff FG snap versus Seattle.  This one stays close.

Rating: 2 Units

Backto-back Saint wins for the 1st time since Oct of '14 (13½ and 10 point covers). Led Indy 27-0, before giving most of it back in 27-21 win. But check Ingram, with another 143 rushing yards (10.2 yards per rush). Brees? Not his old self 8 touchdowns and 4 interceptions, with 17 sacks, but breathing some life into this squad. Giants sit atop the NFC East, despite a less than stellar 4-3 record. They come in off beating Dallas, despite just 1 offensive touchdown, a 27-13 first down deficit, and a 460-289 total yard shortage. And they lost their last road game ATS by 16½ points. The Saints are 4-0 ATS hosting the Giants.

Rating: 2 Units

Five straight covers for Vikings, who wound up '14 season on an 8-2 spread run. Add them up, and Minnesota is on a 13-3 ATS run. The Vikings are in off their first division road win in 3 years. So a Minnesota call over the lowly Bears, right? Well, maybe, but note that Chicago is just an overtime loss (Detroit) from a 3-game winning skein. The Bears field the 10th ranked defense, while Minnesota entered its game with the Lions owning the 2nd worst offense in the NFL. Vikings are just 2-8 ATS as road favorites, while Chicago is 7-1 ATS versus an opponent off 3 or more covers. This one goes to the final gun.

Rating: 4 Unit NFL Game of the Week

A week ago, I gave a couple of solid reasons for backing the Browns over the Rams, such as Cleveland with an 11-3 ATS record as an underdog, as well as 10-1 ATS off a loss. Well, four lost fumbles put those stats into the trash bin. Still, the dog is 12-3-1 ATS in Cleveland games, and the Browns are 9-0 ATS as non-division home dogs. And try 6-0 ATS off scoring less than 14 points. But the Cards have a 34-22 points per game edge away this year, and are 7-0 ATS versus an opponent off a double digit SU loss. All things considered, Card call.

Rating: 2 Units

Unless something miraculous happens, the Ravens will now be in a "spoiler" role. Five losses by Oct 18. But note all 6 of their games have been decided by 6 points or less SU, and the spread on this one is 7. However Arizona losing to Pittsburgh, 25-13,despite a 469-310 yard edge, with 421 passing yards from Palmer, who now has 14 touchdowns with 5 interceptions. Similar 26-13 first down edge in Arizona's other loss. Remember also, Arizona bouncing back with a 42-17 win at Detroit. Ravens are 0-8 ATS as road dogs off 2 SU losses, so I am looking for the Cards to again storm back in style off a loss.

Rating: 2 Units

Chargers stand at just 2-4, despite the fact that they are smoking, offensively. Check a 56-31 first down edge versus Pittsburgh and Green Bay (24-20 & 27-20 losses). Note a 38:00-22:00 time edge versus Green Bay, as well as a 548-370 yard advantage, with Rivers setting franchise records with 65 passes, 43 completions, and 503 passing yards. He now stands at a decent 12 touchdowns with 5 interceptions with an NFL-leadinng 2,116 passing yards (353 passing yards per game). Raiders seem to stay tight, with a 94-93 point edge since their 20-point opening day loss to Cincinnati. Oakland is 12-2 ATS as a division road dog off SU division loss, and 9-3 ATS versus San Diego.

Rating: 2 Units

The Chiefs come into this one with 5 straight losses (SU & ATS) with -35 points ATS. Just 27 points combined the past 2 weeks; Smith only has 6 touchdowns with 3 interceptions for the season, and no Charles. In the process, the chalk, which was 9-1 ATS in Kansas City games, is currently just 4-8. The Steelers continue to succeed, even with no Ben, taking the Chargers at the whistle, and the Cards, comfortably, despite a combined first down deficit of 45-28. However, note 463 RYs versus those 2 (+23 points ATS). Tomlin is 7-1 ATS on the road, off a SU win, so Pitt keeps it going.

Rating: 2 Units

Time for 1 of these 2-win squads to turn it around. Well, the Bucs did take the measure of the hapless Jags in their last game, before their bye, by the score of 38-31. That ended an 11-game home losing steak for Tampa. The Bucs rolled up an impressive 183-55 rushing yard edge, so now at 162 rushing yards per game in their L2 games. The Redskins have topped 21 points in only 7 of their last 23 games, and Tampa is 11-0 as a road dog off after topping 27 points. Toss in Gruden's 1-7 ATS record versus less than .500 opponents and I'll take the 3½

Rating: 2 Units

Division sandwich for Falcons, while the Titans in 3rd straight home game. Atlanta in off 1st loss of year, but was done in by 3 lost fumbles (150-81 rushing yard edge). However, Falcons are still at 29.4 points per game in 11 of their last 12 games, are averaging 155 rushing yards in their last 4 games, and are on an 11-5 ATS run. Titans have topped 14 points just once since their opening day 42-14 pasting of the Bucs. And Mariota is only 5 touchdowns with 5 interceptions since his 4/0 start. Tennessee defense ranks 3rd, but game up 180 rushing yards and 434 total yards versus Miami. Atlanta is 9-1 ATS as a favorite of 3+ points versus a losing AFC squad, and 8-0 ATS in October off and upset loss versus a losing opponent

Rating: 4 Unit NFL Game of the Week

Well, what do you know? He's human after all. The initial interception (pick-six) for Brady in win over Indy (not by enough: Colt touchown in final 1:19), so he is now only 14 touchdowns with 1 interception for the season (71%). The Jets just continue to do it, now standing at 4-1, both SU & ATS, with the SU winner covering New York games by 17½, 20, 9, 11½, & 7½ points. So why not another? Home team is 29-8 ATS in Pat games, and New England is at 36.4 points per game in their last 8 games. Jets +39½ points ATS on road this year, but Pats are 8-0 ATS at home versus opponents who are off 2 wins

Rating: 4 Unit Game of the Month

- Eagles finally came alive in the 39-17 throttling of the Saints, who are in search of  anything that will come to their aid. No, those 34 first downs, 186 rushing yards, and 519 total yards (Bradford: 333 passing yards, and now has 8 touchdowns with 6 interceptions) aren't to be dismissed, but consider the opponent. That snapped a 9-0 ATS dog run in Philly games. And the pup is 8-2-1 ATS in the Giants' last 11 games, as well. Three straight wins for New York,  but no cover versus the Niners, despite 30 first downs and 525 yards. Eli a superb 41-of-54 with 3 touchdowns and only 1 interception in that one, and is a respectable 10 touchdowns wih 2 interceptions for the season, which hasn't been the case, recently.

Rating 4 Unit NFL Game of the Week

After facing the likes of Tyrod Taylor, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Marcus Mariota, Blake Bortles and Ryan Mallet, the Colts step way up in quarterbacks drawing Tom Brady and the NFL’s top offense. New England is averaging 37.2 points per game while leading the NFL in total yards and passing yards. Indianapolis is 21-7-1 ATS in its last 29 home games. That record is trumped by New England’s dominance of the Colts during the Chuck Pagano era. The Patriots are 4-0 SU and ATS versus the Colts in the last three years – and that’s against Andrew Luck. The  Patriots have buried the Colts during this span winning 59-24, 43-22, 42-20 and 45-7. That comes out to average victory of 29 points.

Rating: 2 Units

They just keep on doing it. Cincinnati is now 5-0 for the 1st time since '88, when they made it to the Super Bowl. And they are in off the 2nd biggest comeback win in franchise history, overcoming 24-7 deficit in the 4th versus that Seattle defense, tying it on a Nugent FG as time expired, and another in the extra session, with Dalton going 13-of-15 for 135 yards in the 4th quarter and overtime. Bengals are 4-0-1 ATS so far (+36½ points). Buffalo, on the other hand, has managed just 12 point per game since that 41-14 wipeout of the Dolphs. Bill frist downs run: from 23, to 21, to 14, to 13. Lost last home game by 19½ points ATS

Rating: 2 Units

Second meeting for these 2 since the Cardinals last minute 27-23 Super Bowl loss in '08, as they also lost 32-20 at home in 2011. The Steelers are paying the price for the loss of Roethlisberger, sneaking by the Rams, and losing (in OT) to the Ravens before their Monday encounter with the Chargers. Just can't see a turnaround strong enough to offset the highly productive Cardinals, who are averaging a 38-18 point per game edge for the year, with Palmer now 13 touchdowns and only 3 interceptions on the year

Rating: 2 Units

For the 2nd straight week, the Lions are the only winless team in the NFL. Mistakes are their bane, with last weeks 25-point loss to the Cards a perfect example. A 29-15 first down edge, along with a 436-345 total yard advantage, but a 6-0 turnover deficit. Again, as Thurman Thomas said in Bills' '92 52-17 Super Bowl loss to Dallas: "You can't beat a high school team with 7 turnovers. Bears in off 2 wins, but note a 111-63 point deficit in their last 4 games. Lions are 11-2 ATS in division play, off a double digit ATS loss, while allowing 35+ points

Rating: 2 Units

On paper, this one should be no match, for the Titans have the 9th best offense in the NFL, along with the 6th ranked defense, while the Dolphins check in at 26th on offense, and 29th on defense. Miami a suicidal 642-312 rushing yard deficit for the year, while on the short end of a 200-yard margin in its London game with the Jets. And "savior" Tannehill is just 7 touchdowns with 5 interceptions so far this season. Titans in off a pair of wrenching losses: 35-33 versus Indy, and 14-13 versus Buffalo, so no questioning their competitiveness. Titans 9-0 ATS off SU loss of less than 8 points, versus a less than .500 opponent, and Fish are 2-10 ATS off a SU/ATS loss versus a less than .500 opponent off a loss.

Rating: 2 Units

Injuries are wreaking havoc on the offensive line for San Diego, and is one of the reasons first-round draft pick Melvin Gordon is off to a slow start in his rookie campaign, failing to surpass 51 yards in three of his four games. The Chargers have been generous against the run, yielding 126.8 yards per game. Speedster Martavis Bryant, who had eight TD receptions last season, returns for Pittsburgh from a four-game suspension while running back Le'Veon Bell will continue to be the focal point of the offense after rushing for 129 yards last week and catching seven passes for the second straight game. Pittsburgh has been stingy on defense, allowing 18.8 points.  The Chargers, also, haven’t been covering spreads going 3-12 ATS the past 15 times.

Rating: 2 Units

Seems as if there are a huge batch of juicy chalk plays in the NFL this week, with perhaps this one leading the way. Not only are the Giants having little trouble moving the ball, behind Eli's 7 touchdowns and only 1 interception start, but are in off holding the potent Bills to just 10 points, 14 first downs, and 55 rushing yards. In stark contrast, the Niners, who are in off the Steelers, Cards, and Packers, stand at 1-8-1 ATS, with the home team holding a 72-point ATS edge for the year. Try a 107-28 point deficit since their opener. Giants are 7- 2 ATS versus San Francisco, as well as 7-0 ATS versus losing NFC teams.

Rating: 2 Units

Seems unbelievable, but the Bronco defense has to carry the water for its suddenly ineffectual offense. Denver's stop unit is at the top of the NFL heap (7 sacks in tight win over the Vikings), while its offense ranks 30th, with Peyton just 6 touchdowns with 5 interceptions for the season, and its once feared overland game coming in at 31st. The Raiders' 2-game run is a thing of the past, in last second loss to the Bears, but did give the road favorite role a run for its money. Back home now, so note covering their last home game by 7½ points. Carr at 861 passing yards with 7 touchdowns and 2 interceptions in his last 3 games. Del Rio faces his former team, and may squeak out an outright win.

Rating: 3 Unit NFL Play of the Day

The Cardinals defeated the Lions with Drew Stanton at quarterback last season, 14-6. Arizona is much more potent this season with a healthy Carson Palmer averaging 37 points per contest. Arizona had covered its past eight games with Palmer as a starter until last Sunday’s loss to the Rams when the Cardinals had to settle for field goals instead of touchdowns during many trips inside the Red Zone. Matthew Stafford entered Week 4 having thrown the most interceptions in the NFC. A short week after playing the physical Seahawks on Monday doesn’t leave the Lions in a great spot either physically or mentally.

Rating: 2 Units

Semi-miracle win for Ravens, taking Pitt in OT, after a pair of missed Scobee field goals, coupled with 42 and 52 yard Tucker field goals (final 0:03 and in OT). Baltimore came from 73 rushing yards per game, to 191 versus Pittsburgh, behind Forsett's 150. Flacco had 1 touchdown and 1 interception last week, and now has 5 touchdowns with 5 interceptions for the season. Browns come in off losing to the Chargers on 2nd try field goal on the final play. The dog is now 9-2-2 ATS in Cleveland games, as well as 9-2 ATS in Baltimore contests, so this should be fairly close. Ravens are 1-8 ATS a division home favorites of 4+ points, while the Browns are 8-1 ATS off a SU loss, and 9-3 ATS as an  underdog. Take the points

Rating: 2 Units

Well, the bloom is off the road edge in Chief games, for the time being, with back-to- back 38-point defensive efforts at Green Bay and Cincinnati. A 3-game losing streak, allowing 31.7 points per game. And KC's "D" ranks just 25th. Admittedly, the Bears aren't even close to the level of the Packers and the Bengals, so a definite shot for the Chiefs to call a halt to their slide, and do it up right. First win for Fox in taking Raiders on 49-yard field goal in last 0:02. But KC 9-0 ATS as a non-division chalk of 8 or more points.

Rating: 2 Units

Seattle comes into this one with a win and cover with their defense whole again (allowed 7 first downs). But in that 26-0 win over Chicago, Seattle managed just 1 sustained touchdown drive (4 fieldgoals). However, the Lion defense shouldn't be much of a problem. Seattle is 8-1 ATS on Monday, as well as 12-0 in the 2nd of 2 home games versus a less than .500 opponent.  The Lions are 1-10 ATS on the AFC road, and 0-10 ATS on the road versus the NFC West. The home team is 9-3 ATS in Detroit games, with the favorite at 9-3 ATS

Rating: 3 Unit NFL Game of the Day

The Cards have posted back to back 40+ point games for their first time since '69, and in off their largest victory margin since '70. Arizona now 9-0 SU when Palmer starts, so note the correlation, as Cards were at 12.9 points per game in their final 8 games last year. The Rams have come from a 4-0 run, to current 1-5 slide, and check just 11 and 12 first downs the last 2 weeks. St Louis score wise: from 34 points, to 10 points, to 6 points. In addition, the Cardinals are 10-2-1 ATS in their last 13 home games under Bruce Arians.

Rating: 2 Units

The Falcons had the worst pass defense last season and it’s not much better this year ranking 29th. Atlanta also rates in the bottom six defensively in yards allowed. Houston ranks in the top 12 both in offensive yards and giving up the fewest yards. The Texans are a tough, physical team. No team runs the ball more. Ryan Mallet is starting to look more comfortable. RB Alfred Blue had a breakout performance last week and is capable. Houston is a power team. Atlanta is more finesse. So it’s not an ideal matchup for the Falcons.

Rating: 2 Units

The Bucs are 0-10 SU, 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games. Last year, Tampa Bay lost eight games by six points or less. Carolina is 9-1 in its last 10 games. The Panthers have outgained 10 of their last 11 opponents. Jameis Winston has the best receiver, Mike Evans,  but Cam Newton has the better ground attack even if Jonanthan Stewart can’t play. Winston is minus 6-foot-5 inch, security blanket Austin Seferian-Jenkins. The Panthers are tough on lower-tier quarterbacks have already posted victories against Blake Bortles, Ryan Mallet and Luke McCown.

Rating: 2 Units

Jacksonville has promising talent, including quarterback Blake Bortles. The Jaguars were missing multiple starters in their blowout loss to New England this past Sunday, including offensive left tackle Luke Joeckel. They should get a number of them back for this matchup The 1-2 Colts were one of the most disappointing teams during September. Andrew Luck has been picked off seven times. He’s yet to develop a consistent rhythm with his receivers, several of whom are new. The main culprit for Luck’s struggles, though, is Indy’s makeshift offensive line. To cap off this selection  Indianapolis is 1-12 as an October home favorite.

Rating: 2 Units

Only one way to go for Dolphins, following 41-14 pasting in hosting the Bills, which represented the most lopsided home opener loss in the history of this franchise. Fish have a 435-253 rushing yard deficit this year, and Tannehill came from a 3 touchdown 0 interception start to 2 touchdowns with 3 interceptions versus Buffalo. Miami is now in a  current 1-7 ATS slide. So not in the best of shape. Jets came from a 5-1 turnover edge, in upset of Indianapolis, to a 4-1 deficit in loss to Philadelphia. But they didn't fold after quick 24-0 deficit, losing by just 24-17. Miami's Philbin is 0-5 ATS in 2nd of 2 division games and 0-3 versus the Jets

Rating: 2 Units

- It's only fitting that in the season in which the NFL celebrates its 50th Super Bowl, the Chiefs will play the Packers. The score of the inaugural Super Bowl: Green Bay 35 - KansasCity 10. Both teams are legitimate possibilities to meet again, in this years Super Bowl, although highly unlikely. A Denver/GreenBay/Cincinnati run for Chiefs, but a Seattle/KC/San Francisco run for the Pack. The visitor in Chief games is 24-4 ATS. Kansas City catches Green Bay off tough revenging win over the Seahawks, and have an extra 3 days to prepare.

Rating: 3 Unit NFL Play of the Day

The Bills have a 307-120 rushing yard edge this year, while the Dolphins have a 284-116 rushing yard deficit. And Miami is a 3 point favorite? As per usual, Buffalo couldn't stay with the Patriots, despite an overly hyped crowd, as a quick 7-0 lead melted into a 37-13 deficit. But Taylor was 23-of-30 (76.7%) for 242 yards, but he had 3 touchdowns with 3 interceptions and now has 4 touchdowns and 3 interceptions for the season. Tannehill comes in with 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions while completing 67% so far, but that rushing yard edge for Buffalo cannot overlooked. The Bills won, 29-10, here a year ago.

Rating: 4 Unit Inter-Conference Game of the Week

The problem for St. Louis is an extremely young offensive line that is enduring growing pains. Sparked by promising second-year linebacker Ryan Shazier, the Steelers showed defensive improvement against the 49ers, who did much of their damage during garbage time in a 43-18 loss to the Steelers. St. Louis’ defensive strength is a fierce pass rush that has accounted for eight sacks. Roethlisberger counters this by operating a no-huddle offense. Pittsburgh’s offense is going to be even better now because Le’Veon Bell comes off suspension. Bell set a Steelers team record by gaining 2,215 yards from scrimmage last season. Until burying the 49ers this past week, the Steelers were 0-5 and averaging 16 points when yhey didn’t have Bell. When they have had Bell, Pittsburgh is 19-10 while averaging 26.7 points.

Rating: 2 Units

Well, Mariota got his comeuppance in loss to the Browns, right? Well, not so quick to disparage this rising star, as he absorbed 7 sacks in that one, and still moved his TD-to-INT ratio to a perfect 6/0 for the year. So, a 31-pint home cover for the Titans, along with a 15½-point road loss. Sure, it may continue, but we can't ignore such figures as Pagano's 12-1 ATS mark versus division opponents, as well as Colts' 7-0 spread run as division road favorites, nor the simple 6-0-1 ATS run for Indy over Tenn.

Rating: 2 Units

Well, there are only 2 winless AFC squads at this early date. Not unexpected, but the fact that those teams are the Ravens and these Texans is quite surprising. Fact is that Houston has held 5-of-6 opponents to 20 points or less, but check that 172-61 rushing yard deficit at Carolina. The Bucs turned it around last week, with upset of the free-falling Saints, after that 42-14 blowout loss versus the Titans. First touchdown pass for Winston, and you know that Watts is licking his chops for a shot at him. Tampa is 1-7 ATS after playing the Saints.

Rating: 2 Units

Both teams are young with enough talent to be playoff contenders. Each relies on their superstar. Philip Rivers is healthy again, something he wasn’t during his second half of the season nosedive last year. Adrian Peterson is back running with authority, but still rusty fumbling three times last week. Minnesota has allowed an average of 3.4 sacks during its last 14 games. San Diego is on the road a second consecutive week with an early start time. The Chargers, however, have covered 64 percent during the last 22 times they’ve been a regular season underdog and also are 16-7 ATS when playing out of division

Rating: 2 Units

Given Tony Romo’s collarbone injury and how poorly the Eagles are playing this NFC East matchup takes on added significance. Despite being beset with defensive injuries, the Giants would be 2-0 instead of 0-2 if not for blowing fourth quarter leads against Dallas and Atlanta. Statistically-speaking, the Redskins could be 2-0 instead of 1-1. They have outgained their two opponents, Dolphins and Rams, 722 yards to 469 while owning time of possession with an average of 37:49 minutes to 22:11. The Giants’ run defense needs the return of injured middle linebacker Jon Beason to help combat the Redskins’ 1-2 running punch of Alfred Morris and Matt Jones.

Rating: 2 Units

It's a division sandwich for the Colts, but after their dismal showing at Buffalo, a quick bounce back is in the Cards for Luck and his teammates. Five takeaways greased the skids for Bowles' first win as new HC of the Jets, but continuing versus this type is unlikely, especially in this setup, as Indy is a perfect 9-0 ATS as a Monday chalk of greater than 1½ points. The Jets are 0-7 as September underdogs versus an opponent off a SU favorite loss. Throw in Pagano's record of 10-1 ATS off a SU loss. Colts a bit more firepower than the Browns

Rating: 3 Unit SNF Smoker

Rodgers has a tremendously balanced offense with Eddie Lacy and Randall Cobb. Picking up veteran James Jones, a wide receiver Rodgers is comfortable with, was a huge plus. Seattle’s defense isn’t as dominant on the road and currently is minus holdout star safety Kam Chancellor. Seattle is far from intimidating away from CenturyLink Field. The Seahawks are 2-9 SU and ATS during their last 11 September road games. Marshawn Lynch hasn’t been as effective on the road and he’s running behind a mediocre-at-best offensive line that when the shuffling finally stopped starts two players who went undrafted and one who was taken in the seventh round of the draft. This has Green Bay’s written all over it.

Rating: 3 Unit NFC Game of the Day

The Cowboys have a veteran, productive, high-percentage in passer in Tony Romo as an underdog against the Sam Bradford-led Eagles, who are all about “potential.” Bradford, a 58.2% career completion percentage person, has played all of one real game for Philly. It wasn’t pretty, and although there is potential to improve, potential at -5 is a tightrope walk. The Eagles could not run DeMarco Murray much on Monday Night because of the scoreboard situation. The situation was that they were trailing by 17 points at halftime. A lot of people assume that when they start 0-0 here, Murray will make the Cowboys suffer for letting him go to Philadelphia in free agency. But he’s no lock to run as well as he did behind the Eagles line as he did behind the Dallas line. Different blocking schemes. And the Cowboys know how to make him fumble.

Rating: 2 Units

The Steelers out played the Pats in theirThursday Night game, 464-361 in total yards,  with Ben tossing for 351 yards. RB Williams also had 127 rushing yards. A year ago, Pittsburgh scored at least 30 points in 5 of its first 6 home games, so why not again, as  Steelers catch 49ers off their Monday Night game with the Vikings. San Francisco had a 217-165 point deficit in their previous 10 games prior to last Monday, and were 0-5-1 ATS, by 48½ points. It's all Pittsburgh today until the Niners find some answers.

Rating: 2 Units

Palmer has been simply splendid during his gig with the Cards. last week: 307 passing yards along with 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions, and he has become the first Card QB since Jim Hart to win 7 straight starts. 'Zona also posted 120 rushing yards, but 69 of those yards came from Ellington (5.8 yards per rush), and he is questionable for this one. The Bears are in a Packer/Seahawk sandwich here, but they did move it versus Green Bay (402-322 yard edge and 25 first downs), behind 142 rushing yards from Forte. Jake had only 1 touchdown with 1 interception last week , but a bit of awakening this time around.

Rating: 2 Units

Texans got off slowly versus the Chiefs, with a 27-6 deficit, before 27-20 final. A 2-0 turnover deficit is always crucial, and insertion of Mallett for Hoyer was a success, going 8-of-13 with 1 touchdown and 0 interceptions. Houston has held its last 5 opponents to 20 points or less. Carolina is 6-1 SU (Seattle),and  that Panther defense has held 6 of their last 7 opponents to 11.3 points per game. They had 5 sacks and 3 takeaways versus the Jags, although Carolina managed just 263 yards, and one offensive touchdown. Houston is 5-0 SU in their 2nd game of the year, so call an upset in what should be a defensive struggle.

Rating: 2 Units

Seems like nothing but negatives for the Redskins who are 6-19 ATS, have a 68-17 point deficit in their last 3 non-division home games, and have failed to reach 21 points in 13 of their last 18 games. But a look at last week's stats shows Washington with 161-74 rushing yard edge over the Dolphins, but losing on a punt return for a touchdown. Cousins was a nice 21-of-31, and they had 121 rushing yards from Morris. In this one, they catch the Rams in a Seattle/Pittsburgh sandwich. Successful OT effort versus Seahawks by St. Louis, was draining, with just 1 touchdown pass from Foles. Redskins in a outright win.

Rating: 2 Units

It’s always a tough spot for the Thursday visitor being forced to travel so early in the week. A greater concern for the Broncos, though, is their offense and Peyton Manning’s decline. Denver’s offense ran out of steam losing to the Bengals during Week 16 of last season and being held to 13 points in the playoffs by Indianapolis. Then this past Sunday, Manning could lead Denver to only four field goals at home against Baltimore. The Chiefs’ run defense is strengthened by the return of 346-pound nose tackle Dontari Poe.

Rating: 2 Units

Twenty wins for the Eagles since the arrival of Kelly, and Philadelphia is at 30.3 points per game in their last 25 games (covered last road game by 10½ points). By the same token, note that the Falcons finished last season at 28 points per game in 5 of their final 6 games. The Eagles have added RB Murray from Dallas, as well as Bradford from the Rams, so an even more potent offense.  The Falcons have just 10 wins the last 2 years, opening 2-9 and 2-6 SU. Matty Ice still flinging it (4,694 yards and 28 touchdowns in '14), but no running, and very little defense, so they grabbed DC Quinn from Seattle. It will take time to improve so take the more prolific offense.

Rating: 2 Units

The Ravens defense finished in the top eight in fewest yards allowed per game and fewest points per game in 2014. They have the finest pass rushing tandem in the NFL in Elvis Dumervil and Terrell Suggs, who teamed up for 29 sacks last season. They can disrupt Manning’s precious flow and timing. Manning desperately needs to have this since he can no longer throw deep anymore. Unlike last year, the Ravens now have a healthy secondary, too. Baltimore hasn’t had a losing year in seven seasons under John Harbaugh, averaging nearly 12 victories per season. The Ravens have covered the last four times they were underdogs, winning three of those games straight-up.

Rating: 2 Units

Jay Cutler has a knack for having his worst games against Green Bay. Cutler has lost the past seven times to the Packers, who have won 18 of their last 22 at Solider Field winning and covering the last five times. Cutler has been picked off 19 times in 10 games versus Green Bay. Chicago’s defense has ranked among the worst in franchise history the last two years. This is saying a lot since the Bears have been playing in Chicago since 1921! Things aren’t looking up either this season as the Bears’ secondary remains highly inviting – ripe for Aaron Rodgers to pick apart.  Chicago is just 1-8 ATS versus the Pack (0-5 as series host). While the Favorite is 11-6 ATS in GB games.

Rating: 2 Units

Buffalo led the NFL in sacks last season, while finishing fourth-best overall defensively holding opponents to an average of 18 points and 312 yards per game. Marcell Dareus, the Bills’ excellent defensive tackle, is suspended for this game. However, Buffalo can still harass Luck with Mario Williams and Jerry Hughes. LeSean McCoy led the NFL in rushing two years ago.  He can carry Buffalo’s offense, taking the pressure off Taylor. The Colts’ defense is soft. Taylor brings a running and mobility dimension to Buffalo’s offense. The Bills have upgraded their receiving corps, too, picking up Percy Harvin and tight end Charles Clay to go along with holdovers Sammy Watkins and Robert Woods. The Bills are going to be sky high as this is Rex Ryan’s Buffalo coaching debut. Ryan won his last four season-openers when he was with the Jets.  In addition, the host is 12-4 ATS in Bill contests, Buffalo 8-2 ATS in game 1, and 14-4 ATS as series host.

Rating: 2 Units

Chiefs have won 20 games in Reid's 2-year tenure, but have only 1 playoff game to show for it. With Denver and Green Bay on deck, a possible tendency to peek ahead, but KC has played its best on the road. As a matter of fact, the visitor is 22-4 ATS in Chief contests, while the Texans are a horrible 2-13 ATS at home the last 2 years. Houston improved dramatically under O'Brien in '14, with winning 9-7 mark, after 2-14 in '13. Wolfork, Clowney, and  Watt  lead solid defense, but note Texans are just so-so in the aerial game, and loss of Johnson will be felt.

Rating: 3 Unit NFL Play of the Day

Last year, when the Seahawks played on this field, the Rams (+6½) pulled the 28-26 upset, thanks, in part, to a successful faked punt late in the game. So you know that Seattle who is 47-20-1 ATS lately will be more than prepared. Still one of the best teams in the NFL, especially with that impregnable defense. The addition of TE Graham from New Orleans gives QB Wilson another key option. Rams swapped Bradford for Foles, but their offensive line is still a problem, with the use of rookies needed, so that will take some time. St Louis lost its last home game by 16½ points ATS, and now face determined Seahawks team.

Rating: 2 Units

Has anyone heard the word "Deflategate" during the off-season? Forget it. He's back. Brady has been given the okay, with his 4-game suspension waved to play tonight. The line reacted to that news by moving from 3 to 7 points. Loss of Revis, Wolfork, and Vareen hurts, but Belichick will plug in TE Chandler, and CB Fletcher. Pats rarely miss a beat regardless of their many changeovers. The host is covered 26-6 in New England games of late, and the Patriots are 9-3 ATS versus the Steelers. Pittsburgh dearly hurt with loss of Polamalu, and defensive coach LeBeau.

Rating: 2 Units

New England has the more dangerous and varied offense. The Patriots put up 35 points on Baltimore and 45 points on Indianapolis during the playoffs. The Ravens gave up the sixth-fewest points per game on the season and tied for the second-most sacks, while the Colts had been on a defensive roll holding the Bengals and Broncos to a combined 23 points in their two playoff contests. Again, if not counting the meaningless regular-season finale against the Bills, the Patriots would have averaged 33.4 points a game. That would have ranked No. 1 in the league. If you add in their two playoff victories, the Patriots’ scoring average goes up even higher to nearly 35 points a game. New England’s defense is decent enough to slow down the Seahawks, who will be overly dependent on Lynch with their limited wide receivers facing a much improved Patriots secondary that features shutdown cornerback Darrelle Revis. The Patriots are opportunistic being a plus 12 in turnover margin, which tied for second-best. They have the high-powered versatile offense that can put up enough points against a Seahawks defense that is down several defensive linemen, including underrated nose tackle Brandon Mebane, and whose secondary could be banged-up worse than they are letting on. Seattle is very tough and resilient. The Seahawks are a proud Super Bowl champion. But this matchup is at a neutral site so Seattle isn’t going to have its fabled 12th man advantage. The recommendation here isn’t against the Seahawks. It’s on New England in a battle of two great teams

Rating: 3 Units

Brady, hasn’t shown signs of slippage during the second half of the season like Peyton Manning and he isn’t a choke artist like Andy Dalton. The Colts weren’t able to step up when they lost to the Ravens, 24-9, in the playoffs during Luck’s first year and they weren’t able to step up last season at Foxboro in the playoffs. Luck keeps getting better. He very well may be the most valuable player nextseason, but right now the Patriots still have too much for the Colts to overcome on the road. Luck has failed three times to dent Belichick’s defense, lacking a ground attack and enough receiving weapons to accomplish the task, which is made more difficult by the Patriots upgrading their secondary by having Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner come on board this season. Indy’s time is getting closer, but it’s not here yet.

Rating: 2 Units

The Seahawks own the premier home field in the NFL (22-2 SU), and are on a 47-18-1 ATS run overall. They rank not only #1 overall on defense, but #1 versus the pass, as well. Wilson continues to amaze. A nice 15-of-22 versus the Panthers. He was 8-for-8 on 3rd down throws, while averaging 24.9 yards per throw (highest in NFL this year). A bevy of receivers, with Lynch always a threat to take it the distance. An overpowering force, with an attitude other squads can only dream to duplicate. The Packers, of course, are just 4 seasons removed from their Super Bowl title, and have been a steady elite ever since the emergence of Rodgers as possibly the premier passer in the league. He had an amazing 41 touchdowns with only 5 interceptions this season, as well as his 66% passing. In that comeback win over Dallas, he was 9-of-9 in the 4th, the best by a QB in the playoffs in 25 years! However, although the Packers are averaging 32. 7 points per game in their last 14 games, the favorite is on an 11-5-1 ATS run in Green Bay games, and the Pack has just 1 road win since Sept (24-21 at Minny: 5½ point ATS loss). And that defense has allowed 20+ points in 7 of its last 8 games

Rating: 2 Units

The Colts are coming off an impressive showing in blowout of Cincinnati, nearly doubling the Bengals' yardage. Luck had 376 passing yards and now has 5,137 passing yards with 41 touchdowns and 16 interceptions for the season. He passed Kurt Warner with the most passing yards in his first 4 playoff starts (1,438 yards). But the home team is covering 6 of  the Colts' last 7 games, with their only underdog role since their opener resulting in a 42-7 loss (-31½ points ATS). As far as the Broncos are concerned, they have scored 32.5 points per game in their last 46 games with another 4,727 passing yards from Peyton who finished with 39 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. Two years of unbelievable playoff disappointments for the Broncos have resulted in a #3 ranked defense, as well as total dedication.

Rating: 2 Units

The Cowboys have ridden a 5-game winning streak (37.8 ppg) to this point. And they own a perfect 8-0 SU record away (7-1 ATS). In Romo (36/9), they have the NFL's top-rated QB, & in Murray, the league's #1 rusher (1,920 yds). They do it behind a top-quality "O" line. That comeback win over Detroit marked the first time in franchise-history that Dallas has won after a DD halftime deficit. On fire. These are two evenly matched squads so take the points

Rating: 2 Units

The Panthers and Seahawks have met each of the last three years – all at Carolina. Seattle won each time – but never by more than five points. Wilson threw a 23-yard touchdown pass with 47 seconds left to give the Seahawks a 13-9 win against Carolina this year. Wilson also threw a fourth quarter touchdown pass to beat the Panthers, 12-7, two years ago and the Seahawks narrowly beat Carolina, 16-12, in 2012. So in three games against the Panthers the past three seasons, the Seahawks have averaged 13.6 points. This is by far the lowest over/under total of the four playoff games. Points are going to be at a premium. So why not take them?

Rating: 2 Units

For 12 of the last 14 years, the Patriots are again in the playoffs, & as has always been the case, they open at home. But although they've won 9 of those 11 on the field, they stand at 6-4-1 ATS. And they're just 3-7 ATS in playoff home games since '07, regardless the round. They sport a 33-17 point per game edge at home in '14, & are on an 8-3 ATS run in meaningful games (+129 points). Brady continues to do it: 64%,  with 33 touchdowns, 9 interceptions, and 4,109 passing yards. The Ravens, however, are tied with GreenBay for the most playoff road wins (10), & Flacco's 7 wins as playoff visitor are the most since '70 merger. Baltimore at 26.9 points per game in their last 13 games, & won AFC title here in '12.

Rating: 2 Units

The Cowboys have been December wonders, with 4-0 run (165-79 point edge SU, and +77 points ATS), with Romo at 75% with 12 touchdowns and only 1 interception. They have topped 30 points in 6 of their last 7 games, & Tony now has 34 touchdowns and 9 interceptions on the year. Throw in Murray's 1,845 rushing yards and Bryant's 16 touchdown catches, and you have quite a machine. The Lion defense is second to only Seattle, but this is another matter. The home team is 6-1 ATS in Detroit games, and  the Lions are averaging just 10.7 points per game in their last 3 road games.

Rating: 2 Units

The Bengals haven't won a playoff game since Jan 6, 1991. This marks their 4th straight Wild Card placement, & so far, results haven't been good, especially for Dalton, who has tossed 6 interceptionss in 31-10, 19-13, & 27-10 losses. He has just 19 touchdowns with 17 interceptions for the season, but Cincinnati was in division chase until final week. However, the Bengals' 5 losses have been by 26, 27, 21, 21, & 10 points. Luck broke Manning's passing yard record with 4,761 yards, and that Indy offense should prove too much

Rating: 2 Units

No questioning the solid edge of the home team in this year's series, with covers of 17½ & 21½ points. Roethlisberger just continues to do it with 4,952 passing yards and 32 touchdowns with only 9 interceptions. And Brown is the NFL's top receiver (1,698 yards), with his 71 & 63 yard touchdowns breaking Cincinnati's back last week. However, Bell (#2 rusher) is out with a knee injury. The Ravens came back from 4th quarter TD deficit versus the Browns. Flacco comes in with 27 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, and Forsett has 1,266 yards with NFL-best 5.4 yards per rush. Pitt has scored 29.0 points per game in their last 8 home games and you can't ignore that.

Rating: 2 Units

Have to wonder just how good the Cards could have been with a healthy Palmer. But such is the case, as they're down to 3rd-stringer Lindley (41-of-83 past 2 wks, but 4 picks). Just 12.1 ppg in their last 7 outings, but that "D" has held 12 foes to 20 pts or less. And check an 18-6-1 ATS run, as well as a 19-6 SU skein. The Panthers have turned it around, with current 4-game run, allowing 10.8 ppg, off a 6-game slide, so are only the 2nd playoff team with a losing record. Cam is only 18/12, but doing what must be done. Cards won't fold their tent.

Rating: 2 Units

The winner here becomes just the 2nd team ever to make the playoffs with a losing record ('10 Seahawks & their 7-9 mark). The Falcons are a perfect 6-0 ATS in divison play of late, and have averaged 28 points per game in their last 5 games. Ryan keeps on doing it, another 322 passing yards (4,434 this year) in rout of the Saints (4-0 turn over edge). But the visitor is on a 6-1 ATS run in Falcon games, while the guest is 5-0 ATS in Panther division games in '14. And Carolina is 12-0 ATS in December versus an opponent off SU underdog win.

Rating: 2 Units

Packers haven't lost at Lambeau all season. Their average victory margin there is 26.8 points. Green Bay's point differential is plus 128 on the year. The Lions' point differential is plus 49. Detroit has held 11 of its 15 opponents under 18 points. But it's way too much to ask the Lions' defense to shut down Rodgers, Eddie Lacy – who has 13 touchdowns in his last 12 games – Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb and a Green Bay offensive line that is the team's best in 10 years. The Packers average 41.1 points at home. The Lions are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 games on grass and 3-13 ATS in December

Rating: 4 Unit NFL Game of the Week

There are teams currenty playing up to their potential but nobody is on the level of the Seahawks. They are not only on 5-0 SU run (4-0-1 ATS), but total domination, holding those 5 opponents to 6.6 points per game along with a franchise record of 596 yards in annihilation of one of the better defenses in the league ('Zona). Wilson: 339 passing yards (17 yards per pass); Lynch: 113 rushing yards (11.3 yards per rush). The Rams are -27½ points ATS last 2 weeks, and will pay the price for earlier 28-26 upset.

Rating: 2 Units

Worst showing in 2½ years for the Colts, in meaningless 42-7 (28-0 at half) loss to the Cowboys, with a 127-1 rushing yard deficit. And Luck had no touchdowns passes with interceptions butdoes have 38 touchdowns with 16 interceptions on the year. Last weeks game further extended Indy's road futility, as it has allowed 33.3 points per game in 6 of its last 7 road games. However, that only serves to push the Colts to a solid finale, such as last years 30-10 regular season rout of Jacksonville. And what better team to set that scenario against than the Titans, who have dropped 9 straight, and are on a 3-18 ATS run. Pagano is 14-2 ATS in division play, and 17-4 ATS versus

Rating: 2 Units

Now or never for the Ravens, who also need help from the Chiefs (vs Chargers). Allowed only 1 touchdown in 25-13 loss to the Texans (6 FGs), but Flacco threw 3 picks, after just 1 in his previous 5 games, & that Baltimore running game has come from 183, to 93, to 35 in the last 3 weeks. But the Browns are approaching hapless status, with an unbelievable 51-13 first down deficit in their last 2 games (751-335 yard shortage, as well). So four straight losses for Cleveland, with just 2 offensive touchdowns in their last 3 games, 1 of which came on an 81-yd pass.

Rating: 2 Units

- If the Saints have any pride left, they will have little trouble taking out their frustrations on the Bucs, who are in just their latest debacle, namely a 6 first downs and16 rushing yard effort versus the Packers, along with a 431-109 yard deficit. They have a 2-13 SU record, while failing to top 17 points in 15 of their last 18 contests. Sure, Smith is 9-1 ATS with revenge off a double digit SU loss, but the visitor has covered the last 8 games involving New Orleans. Brees has 32 touchdowns and 14 interceptions for the season with 4,580 yards, so ability to take this, with some to spare.

Rating: 4 Unit NFL Game of the Week

Seattle looks to be near full speed now. They need two wins for the division title, and possibly home field throughout the playoffs. Their defense is near its apex, allowing just 27 points in their last 4 games. That's 6.75 points per game versus Arizona, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. They have given up just 9 and 14 first downs in the last 2 weeks. The Cardinals are still atop the NFC West, but are averaging only 13 poins per game in their last 5 games, are going it without Stanton, and have managed just 2 touchdowns in their last 19 quarters.

Rating: 2 Units

 It didn't take long for the Cpwboys to get back in the groove, following their Thanksgiving Day home rout loss to the Eagles, posting 79 points in their 2 games since, both on the road. Romo had 3 touchdowns with 0 interceptions in that thriller versus Philladelphia, and now had 28 touchdowns with 8 interceptions on the season. Dallas is in the driver seat for now, but obviously, can't afford a letup. The #1 offense of the Colts will put that somewhat iffy defense of the Cowboys (27+ points in 5 of their last 6) to the test, but Indy is allowing 31.6 points per game in 5 of their last 6 road games.

Rating: 2 Units

The Chiefs' road record under Andy Reid stands at 11-4 ATS. The Chiefs are battle-tested having played numerous powerful opponents, including the Broncos twice, Patriots, Seahawks, 49ers and Cardinals. Aside from the Colts, the Steelers haven't faced any non-division foes with a winning record In addition, The dog is 6-1 ATS in Pitt games (+83 points), and the Chiefs' last 5 road games have been decided by 5, 3, 4, 4, 3 points SU. 

Rating: 2 Units

The Dolphins are suddenly searching for an offense (16, 13, 13 points in their last 3 games), coming from 277 rushing yards versus the Jets to just 63 and 76 the past 2 weeks. However, they rank 6th in total defense, and had only an 11-yard deficit in last week's rout loss. The Vikings have covered 4 straight (+25½ points), and 6-of-7, but are in off seeing a 14-0 lead over Detroit end in a 16-14 loss, not managing a point over the final 40:05. But Miami has to have this.

Rating: 2 Units

 Nice comeback win for the Lions versus Minnesota, after trailing 14-0, holding the Vikings without a point over the final 40:01. Detroit has the #2 ranked defense and has held 10 of its 14 opponents under 18 points so far and the favorite is on a 5-1 ATS run. For the Lions, this is the 2nd of 3 division games, to wind up the regular season, and they need them all, if they are to take the NFC North, or at least secure a Wild Card spot. This is a revenge setup for the Bears, but the favorite is on a 6-0 ATS run in Chicago games

Rating: 2 Units

The 49ers come into this one off of three straight losses, while being held below 18 points in 7 of their' last 8 games (a 162-110 point deficit in those 8). In last week's loss to the Seahawks, they managed a mere 67 yards in the 2nd half, and Kaepernick was sacked 6 times. They lost their last home game by 17 points ATS. Chargers just a game behind in the WildCard chase, despite dropping 2 straight. They held the potent Broncos to a single touchdown.

Rating: 2 Units

After a 19-3-1 ATS mark in New Orleans home games try a 6-0 SU and ATS run for the visitor in Saints' contests, with the latest being a 41-10 home thrashing at the hands of Carolina, which entered on an 0-6 SU run. But the Saints still have a change to win the NFC South. The Bears are done. They come in with a 66-10 point deficit in windup versus Lions, and 35-7 trailing of Dallas. To seal the deal the favorite is 6-0 ATS in Chicago games. Saints call in this one.

Rating: 3 Units

Just 2 weeks ago, the Eagles destroyed the Cowboys, with a 464-267 yard edge in 33-10 rout (26-point cover). But, despite that result, Dallas bounced back quickly in romp of the Bears. In that one Tony threw 3 touchdowns with 0 interceptions and now has 25 touchdowns with 8 interceptions this year. In addition Murray had a season-high 179 rushing yards. The Cowboys have 6 straight road wins. But from those 464 yards by the Eagles versus Dallas, they had only 139 versus Seattle (career-low for any Kelly coached team). This one should go to the wire.

Rating: 2 Units

This is the 3rd straight home game for Detroit, and so far, the Lions have posted 34-17 & 34-17 wins. Last week's rout of the Bucs snapped a 9-game December losing streak for the Lions. Stafford continues hot, and another 158 receiving yards for Calvin. Minnesota is in off OT win over the Jets with their 4 touchdowns coming on 56, 87 yard passes, along with and interception and fumble returns (2 blocked punts in prior win). Vikings have the 30th-rated offense versus the Lions' top-ranked defense.

Rating: 4 Unit NFL Game of the Week

The Seahawks are again the at the top of the NFL. They have had 379-164 and 440-139 yard edges at San Francisco and Philadelphia (17, 11 pt covers). They are coming off holding the former 416 yards per game Eagles to only 139 yards. The Niners are sinking fast, with a 145-103 point deficit in their last 7 games (5 of last 6 SU wins by just 5, 5, 3, 6, & 4 points). Seattle is 7-1 ATS hosting an avenging division opponent.

Rating: 2 Units

Something has not settled well with me this season when it comes to the Broncos. They seem a bit overrated and their current injuries do not help them this week. I do believe that Rivers gets the job done today and out plays the Broncos offense. He's great with ball control and he will keep Manning off the field for long periods of time.

Rating: 2 Units

Luck now has 36 touchdowns with 13 interceptoins and 4,305 yards. Last week in thd win over Cleveland, Indy allowed just 1 offensive touchdown. The Texans are on a 2-game run however their victims were over the Titans and Jags, who have a combined 4-22 record. The favorite is 10-3 ATS in Houston games this year. The Colts own their division, with current 13-2 ATS mark versus AFC South opponents.

Rating: 2 Units

Twelve straight 10-win seasons for the Patriots, with their comeback win over the Chargers, turning a 14-3 deficit into a spread covering 23-14 win, behind yet another brilliant showing from Brady who had 317 passing yards and 2 touchdowns with 1 interceptions including the clinching 69-yard connection with Edelman in the final 8:41. Patriots on a 7-2 ATS run (+118 points), and at 37.6 points per game in their last 6 home games. Patriots are 10-1 ATS in December off a SU/ATS win versus a division opponent who is off a SU loss.

Rating: 3 Units

Two straight shutout wins for the Rams (their 1st time since 1945), with a 303-88 rushing yard edge, but versus Oakland and Wash (5-21). And have covered last 2 home games by 67 points. Cards in off snapping 2-game slide, and still 1-up on Seattle, but has just 13 points per game in their last 4 games, with only 2 touchdowns in their last 15 quarters, and did lose their last road by 13 points ATS. However, Arizona is a stellar 10-1 ATS away versus an opponent off a double digit cover

Rating: 2 Units

The Packers are on a 4-0 & 8-1 SU runs, with an average of 36.2 points per game in their last 9 games. They come in off a 478-320 yard edge over the smoking Patriots, with another 2 touchdowns and 0 interceptions along with 368 passing yards from Rodgers who now has 32 touchdowns with only 3 interceptions and 3,325 for the season. The Falcons are tied with Saints at 5-7 for the NFC South lead, after a 500-yard output versus Arizona, and Ryan now has 21 touchdowns with 10 interceptions. Two straight road wins and covers for Atlanta, but that was versus Tampa Bay and Carolina who have a combined 5-18-1 record. The Packers own a 41-18 points per game edge at home this season.

Rating: 2 Units

The Patriots' 7-game winning streak was snapped last week in 26-21 loss at Green Bay, with a 478-320 yard deficit. But, despite that, New England is still +113 points ATS in their last 8 games, with a 36 points per game average. Brady had 2 interceptions with 0 interceptions  last week and now has 28 touchdowns with only 6 interceptions for the year along with 3,243 passing yards. The Chargers never led the Ravens until the final 0:38, in that upset, with Rivers hitting for 2 TD passes in the final 3:40. So 3 straight wins, but by just 7, 3, and 1 point. The Patriots in off Indy, Detroit, and Green Bay, but the Chargers in a Baltimore, New England, Denver, San Francisco, Kansas City windup.

Rating: 2 Units

Last week a 464-267 yard edge for the Eagles in 33-10 rout of the Cowboys and on the road. Philly now is at 34.4 points per game in their last 5 games, with McCoy in off 167 and 159 rushing yard efforts. So the Eagles are one up on Dallas in the NFC East, and on a 16-4 SU regular season run. But the Seahawks are approaching last year's form, with duplicate 19-3 wins over both the Cardinals and Niners, with a 379-164 yard edge versus San Francisco. They also have 835 rushing yards in their last 4 games. Lynch, Wilson, and that clamp-down defense going to be the difference.

Rating: 2 Units

This marks the 3rd road favorite role for the Texans this year and so far, they've posted 30-14 and 30-16 wins, with the Jags the perfect opponent to extend that small trend. Fitzpatrick suddenly a force, with a franchise-record 6 touchdown passes in Houston's 45-21 rout of the Titans (358 passing yards). He had just 11 touchdowns with 8 interceptions entering that one. Jags set franchise record for the largest comeback in franchise-history (21-0 deficit; 25-24 win versus the Giants: last 0:28), with 2 fumble return touchdowns.

Rating: 2 Units

Weccan't ignore 6 picks from Hoyer in his last 3 games. They did hold Buffalo to 1 offensive touchdown, and held a 28-yard edge, but ended up with a 26-10 loss. But still in the playoff chase (1½ back of Cincinnati). The Colts have topped 32 points in 6-of-last-10, and QB Luck is in off his 10th 300-yard game of the year (a franchise record), and a career-high 5 touchdown passes versus Washington, and now had 34 touchdowns with 11 interceptions. Cleveland is 2-12 ATS in December coming off a double digit SU non-division loss, while Indianapolis is 10-3 ATS off a double digit cover

Rating: 4 Unit NFL Game of the Week

Home/road dichotomy worm sure has turned in Bengal contests, with the road team on 4-1 SU and ATS run. Three straight wins for Cincinnati, so 1½ up on Ravens, Browns, and these Steelers. Dalton had 1 touchdown with 3 interceptions at Tampa, but Bengals survived, due to inopportune Buc penalties. The underdog is on an 8-1 ATS run in Cincinnati games, and the Bengals lost their last home game by 27 points ATS. The Steelers, with and underdog 5-0 spread run in their last five games, by 63½ points. Ben has 3,705 passing yards thus far, and the Steelers had a 538-393 yard edge over the Saints.

Rating: 2 Units

The Patriots and Packers are at the very peak of the current NFL teams. The Patriots have scored 39.6 points per game in their 7-game SU run (6-1 ATS), with a 119-50 point edge in their last 3 games. Tom Brady a terrific 26 touchdowns with only 6 interceptions and 2,998 yards. Although the Packers have been just as hot the Patriots are underdogs and they must be worth a strong look anytime that happens. It's happened four times this year and the Patriots won all four of those games by a combined 83 points.

Rating: 4 Unit NFL Game of the Week

The Cardinals got their comeuppance in 19-3 loss at Seattle, posting only 12 first downs, 64 rushing yards, and only 204 total yards. But, they are still 2 games up in the NFC West, & and have won 16 of their last 20 games, while covering a profitable 15-4-1. They did sack Wilson 7 times in that loss, and Stanton was off a 305 passing yard effort, before just 149 versus the Seahawks. The Falcons can move it, behind Matty who has 19 touchdowns with 9 interceptions, but rank dead last on defense.

Rating: 2 Units

The Chargers are coming off a pair of narrow wins, after 3 straight losses on the field (95-41 point deficit) , and 4 straight to the points. Mathews a nice 105 rushing yards versus the Rams, and although Rivers had just 1 touchdown with 1 interception he has 22 touchdowns with only 9 interceptions for the season. Their win over St. Louis only happened because of a last-minute goal line interception. Ravens are always a solid home play and are a perfect 6-0 ATS as a home favorite versus and AFC West opponent.

Rating: 2 Units

This is the first game for Steelers since their comeback at Tennessee, after trailing by 11. However, they did have a 206-49 rushing yard edge, along with a 39:49-20:11 time advantage. The home team has covered the last 6 games involving the Steelers, by 79 points, and Pittsburgh is averaging 41.3 points per game in their last 3 home games. With their bye, this one is the only home game for the Steelers in a 6-week stretch. Saint scoring production is on the decline. In their last 4 games the have scored 44 points, to 28, to 24, to 10. The home team is also 20-5-1 ATS in New Orleans games

Rating: 2 Units

The Panthers are on their seven different starting offensive line combination. Carolina was idle last week yet still maintain playoff hopes in the horrible NFC South despite a 3-7-1 record. Minnesota QB Bridgewater has accuracy issues, but Minnesota, has the superior defense. Carolina has give up 38, 37, 38 and 45 points during its past four road games and are really missing their currently suspended pass rushing star Greg Hardy

Rating: 2 Units

Dallas has topped 29 points in 7 of their last 10 games. They come in +42 points ATS in their last 10 games, and QB Tony Romo is in off another stellar performance throwing for  4 touchdowns with 0 interceptions and now has 22 touchdowns with only 6 interceptions for the year. They also had another 121 rushing yards from Murray who has 1,354 so far. The Cowboys have won six of their past eight Thanksgiving games. Tony Romo is 28-6 in November. He'll go after an Eagles secondary that has permitted 24 touchdown passes.