So we have five instances of a vastly superior team getting points because it is expected they will lie down. That is quite a shameful week. But what are we to make of it? Let's start with the Titans and the Redskins since they are both "win and in."
We know we are going to get a heavy dose of Sorgi time in Indy. In all honesty I have not seen much of Sorgi — has anyone? — but he has seemed like a serviceable QB. But who else on Indy gets to mail it in? What about Jeff Saturday? Whether Sorgi is good or bad, Albert "Riverdance" Haynesworth against a second string center is asking for trouble. On the other hand, by week 17 the Colts usually have nothing to play for and they are 4-1 in the last five years. I guess when you can get the Colts and points, you gotta take it. Pick: Indianapolis +6.5
The Cowboys are getting 9.5 points from the highly-motivated Redskins in DC. There will be no Romo and no T.O. in this game, but much is being made of the possible return of Terry Glenn and Brad Johnson will be Romo's replacement and he is known to harbor a grudge against the 'Skins for dropping him in 2000 after a pro bowl year in favor of Jeff George. There's also a rivalry factor at play here. As with the Colts, I just can't pass up the points here. I don't expect the Cowboys to win, but even their scrubs will want to make it close. Pick: Dallas +9.5
I hate making picks like this, but the Week of Shame leaves us no alternative. What we're doing here is not solid analysis based on stats. We're playing the game of trying to read emotions and everyone in Miami is playing for their job. And they know it. The Tuna effect begins. Pick: Miami +3
One of the most telling spreads is in the Seattle/Atlanta game. Seattle has nothing to play for and that means Seneca Wallace. But does Atlanta have anything to play for? Not really. So apparently the thinking is if both teams have nothing to play for, you take the talent differential out of the equation, thus Atlanta gives the standard 3 points as the home team. Except even if it's not in the equation, the talent differential is still there. Weird. Pick: Seattle +3
Both the Chargers and the Steelers need wins to avoid Jacksonville in round one. The Steelers play in Baltimore, giving the moribund Ravens a mere 3.5 points. The choice is clear. Pick: Pittsburgh -3.5
Article comments
1 - Matthew T. Sussman
Since it's Week 17, and you're ahead, shouldn't you be resting your picks and just put in the backup?
2 - RJ Elliott
Vince Young has no guts.
3 - david mazzotta
Well, it could have been worse. Looks like I break even on the point spread and drop around half my cushion on the money line.
You're right Suss. I should have just taken the week off.
4 - david mazzotta
Yes RJ. Which QB was it that had to have his linemen carry him to the line of scrimage in a key game a few years back?(Was it McNabb?) Doubt we'll be seeing aything like that from Vince.
On the other hand, if Young can't run, he just guy in pads who throws like a girl.
Now I hate the Titans even more.