I’m still bitter about that blocked punt on Monday night. The Cowboys’ defense makes a stop, blocks a punt, and for a split second, seem poised to spring the upset. Instead, well, you all know what happened: Burrow to Chase once again, and the 5½ points we were catching, evaporated.
This is what separates a winning or losing week, but no, I’m not bitter. Another week means another litter of puppies to pick over.
Here are my three favorites:
Jaguars +3 ½ vs. Jets
Since getting blown out in Detroit a few weeks ago, the Jags are showing a little bite, hanging tight with the Texans and winning on the road in Nashville a week ago. The defense is improved, the offense is making things simple for Mac Jones, and he’s developing some chemistry with rookie stud WR Brian Thomas, Jr.
Meanwhile, the Jets found yet another way to lose a game they should’ve won, and you just have to question their motivation heading down to the Panhandle. They’re playing out the string for an interim coach. They may sneak out with a win, but this is too many points. The Jets have been overvalued all season and they basically never cover.
That continues this week.
Browns +4 vs. Chiefs
Despite their glitzy record, you could make a lot of money fading the Chiefs this season. We’ve seen dreadful teams like the Raiders and Panthers fight them to the very end lately, and the Browns have shown they’re still playing hard.
Maybe it’s the Hard Knocks cameras being everywhere, maybe they’re just a well-coached, prideful group, but the Browns will be ready for the Chiefs, and their talented defensive line is going to make it a long day for the Chiefs’ patchwork offensive line.
Jameis Winston is the ultimate wild card here. But on a rainy, windy day with temperatures in the low 40s, I think points will be at a premium. If the Chiefs pull another rabbit out of their hat, it won’t be by more than a field goal.
Steelers +5 ½ at Eagles
Mike Tomlin’s success throughout his career as an underdog is well documented, and he’s catching a lot of points this week against a team that keeps winning but one that has struggled with consistency and is dealing with a bit of turmoil in the locker room.
Pittsburgh is the AFC version of Minnesota this season, far outperforming expectations, led by new QBs that few expected to be as good as they’ve been. Russ and the Steelers won’t have their best weapon, George Pickens, so the Steelers will have to dink and dunk and use both running backs to wear down the tough Eagles defense.
Their strong defense is equipped to keep Saquon Barkley from torching them, and they could force Jalen Hurts into a couple of key mistakes. Despite their record, I don’t put Pittsburgh in the same class as the other elite AFC teams, but they’re going to be a tough out and they play above their weight against strong competition.
Last Week: 1-2
Season: 18-24
