Note: Every week, I pick games against the spread on the Michael Irvin Show, and I’m putting them on our blog.
After a disappointing 1-4 in Week 1 (predictable, given how much I hate betting on Week 1), even I was surprised by my rebound last week, going 5-1 against the spread and losing out on only the Colts-Vikings game (the Vikes were getting 2 points, were up by 15, and lost by 3 - ugh). This week, there are a couple spreads I love (Bills, Bears) and a few I just feel OK about. Here’s hoping (my picks in bold).
Arizona Cardinals +3 at Washington Redskins
Cardinals have held the two No. 1 receivers they’ve faced to a whopping 1 catch for 9 yards. If they can slow down Santana Moss that way, I don’t see Antwan Randle El tearing them up.
Oakland Raiders at Buffalo Bills -9.5
Run-DMC will likely get his first start in the pros, but the Bills were able to swallow up the Jags’ running game, so I don’t think that will go so well. Lane Kiffin’s impending firing has to be a big distraction for the Raiders.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Chicago Bears -3
The Bucs are starting someone who lost his job with the Bears last year to Rex Grossman. Griese won’t have Joey Galloway to throw to; and watch for Danieal Manning on the return game if Hester doesn’t play.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Philadelphia Eagles -3
Donovan McNabb is No. 2 in passing yards, and his starting receivers haven’t played a down. With Roethlisberger slightly bruised, Willie Parker may have to carry the Steelers against the League’s No. 1 rush defense.
Kansas City Chiefs at Atlanta Falcons -6
Irvin’s partner Kevin Kiley likes the Chiefs because their “backs are against the wall” and they need this win. What, to go 3-13? The Chiefs are starting someone at quarterback who couldn’t make the Vikings roster at that position!
Dallas Cowboys -3 at Green Bay Packers
Tough game to pick. I like the Cowboys in part because I see the Packers getting 3 as a trap. I also think Brandon Jackson has fumblitis, and the Packers’ running game could have trouble getting going.
Last week: 5-1. Season: 6-5.
on Sep 19th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Avoiding the Pats -12.5? Even when noted good sportsman Joseph Porter has riled NE like hornets? Even when the secondary looks like I could burn them on a 30 yard out and up? Cassel may pass for 700 yards on Sunday.
I am cry.
on Sep 19th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
It’s an interesting game. But, in the end, 12.5 points was too much for me to bite.
on Sep 21st, 2008 at 11:09 pm