NFL Week 11 Predictions
By Brett Malamud
This week has a lot of great matchups, especially in the later games. Here’s my week 11 predictions:
BYES: Ravens, Cowboys, Jaguars, Jets
-Bills 09 (5-4) at Dolphins 22 (5-4), FINAL on Thursday
The Dolphins took a big win that propelled them into second place in the AFC East.
-Vikings (4-5) at Bears (3-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Bears defense can make or break this game. I think that the Vikings will come out strong and take the victory. Verdict: Vikings
-Texans (4-5) at Browns (6-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Good matchup here as the Texans head into Cleveland. The Browns are riding a three game winning streak and show no signs of stopping here. I think they’ll take this one in a close game. Verdict: Browns
-Falcons (3-6) at Panthers (3-6-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Panthers have not been able to get it together. Cam Newton has thrown one touchdown pass since week seven. I think that he’ll edge out Atlanta here though Verdict: Falcons
-Bengals (5-3-1) at Saints (4-5), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
I’m taking New Orleans, no question. I think that this one could turn ugly if Drew Brees is himself. Verdict: Saints
-Buccaneers (1-8) at Redskins (3-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Bucs enter week 11 with the 29th ranked offense and defense. They will probably lose this one on the road. Verdict: Redskins
-Broncos (7-2) at Rams (3-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Broncos should win this one easily. Look for Peyton Manning to have another great game. Verdict: Broncos
-49ers (5-4) at Giants (3-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Giants have won their last two matchups with the 49ers, the first of the two coming in the NFC Championship game a few years ago. However, I’m going to go with the 49ers on the road. I think that the Giants will make it a good game though and will stay close throughout. Verdict: 49ers
-Seahawks (6-3) at Chiefs (6-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This game will be a battle of defenses. I think Russell Wilson takes over and that Marshawn Lynch runs in a pair of touchdowns. Verdict: Seahawks
-Raiders (0-9) at Chargers (5-4), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
I expect the winless Raiders to stay winless this week. I just can’t see them taking down San Diego on the road. Verdict: Chargers
-Lions (7-2) at Cardinals (8-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Another fantastic matchup here puts Calvin Johnson and the Lions against the Cardinals secondary. I think that Megatron wins here and has a huge game. Don’t doubt Larry Fitzgerald. Even with the Carson Palmer injury, Fitzgerald could have a good game. Verdict: Lions
-Eagles (7-2) at Packers (6-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Rodgers takes on…Sanchez? A big game here sees one of the league’s top QB’s taking on the former butt-fumbler. Sanchez was good last week though. I just cannot see how he pulls one out in Lambeau though. Verdict: Packers
Mark Sanchez hopes to continue the Eagles winning ways this week in Green Bay (Via USA Today)
-Patriots (7-2) at Colts (6-3), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
Luck vs Brady. Now there’s a good matchup. The two QB’s will duel on national television in Lucas Oil Stadium. The Colts have the top ranked offense at the moment. I see that trend continuing this week as they take down the mighty Patriots. Verdict: Colts
-Steelers (6-4) at Titans (2-7), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
A strange Monday Night Football matchup sees the Steelers’ 4th ranked offense going head to head with the Titans’ 31st ranked offense. This game shouldn’t be close as long as Big Ben keeps his composure. I’m taking Pittsburgh. Verdict: Steelers
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week 10 Predictions
By Brett Malamud
This week sees a lot of boring matchups and few intriguing ones. It would be unfair to predict the Thursday night game, since this is being published on a Sunday. The Browns beat the Bengals, and I probably would have picked them, as they’ve been great thus far. Here are your week 10 predictions:
-Chiefs (5-3) at Bills (5-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM ESTSurprisingly this game is going to be really good. The Chiefs have the edge in my book, and I think that their run game will win it for them here. Verdict: Chiefs
-Dolphins (5-3) at Lions (6-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This is my game of the week and I’m going to keep up with it. Both teams enter with a top-three defense. The Dolphins have been great on the run and the Lions have been great on the pass. Calvin Johnson returns this week, but I don’t think that he’ll be too much of a factor. I think that the Dolphins take win on the road in a shocker. Verdict: Dolphins
Calvin Johnson returns this week, but shouldn’t be a huge factor. (Via AP)
-Cowboys (6-3) at Jaguars (1-8), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
We travel to Wembley Stadium in London, England for this matchup. It shouldn’t be much of a contest. The Cowboys will run right through the Jaguars. Verdict: Cowboys
-49ers (4-4) at Saints (4-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
A good matchup here sees the second ranked defense heading into New Orleans to face the second ranked offense. It should be a close one, but I’m taking the Saints. Verdict: Saints.
-Titans (2-6) at Ravens (5-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Titans enter week 10 towards the bottom of the league in virtually every major category. They will face the Ravens, who played a good offensive game last week, but were outmatched by Big Ben and the Steelers. I’m going with the smart play and am taking Baltimore. Verdict: Ravens
-Steelers (6-3) at Jets (1-8), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Jets are done. I think there’s a chance that they win here, but not a big chance. The Steelers have the third ranked offense and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger comes in with 12 touchdown passes in his last two games. The Jets will make it interesting, as they always do, but will ultimately fall to Pittsburgh. Verdict: Steelers
-Falcons (2-6) at Buccaneers (1-7), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Falcons come in off of the bye week and head into Tampa Bay on a five game losing streak. Tampa Bay is ranked 31st in both offense and defense. That’ll be more of the same here, and the Falcons will win the game. Verdict: Falcons
-Broncos (6-2) at Raiders (0-8), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
Is this even a game? Not really. The Broncos will easily dispose of the winless Raiders. Verdict: Broncos
-Rams (3-5) at Cardinals (7-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Hmmm. This one isn’t really too hard to pick, I’m going with Cardinals at home. Verdict: Cardinals
-Giants (3-5) at Seahawks (5-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
The Giants will need all of their star power to take down the mighty Seahawks. I see Seattle’s defense taking advantage of Eli Manning and coasting to the victory. Verdict: Seahawks
-Bears (3-5) at Packers (5-3), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
A Sunday Night Football game that won’t be easily forgotten. This game will strictly come down to defense. Both of these offenses are projected to score a boatload of points tonight. Whoever can step up on defense will take it. And I think it’ll be Green Bay. Verdict: Packers
-Panthers (3-5-1) at Eagles (6-2), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
Headed in with the fourth ranked offense, the Eagles look to continue their early season success. However, they’ll turn to Mark Sanchez at quarterback, following the injury to Nick Foles. This could prove to be the Eagles kryptonite as they have the 23rd ranked defense. I see them running the ball a lot en route to the victory. Verdict: Eagles
NFL Week Nine Predictions
By Brett Malamud
-Saints (3-4) at Panthers (3-4-1), Thursday @ 8:25 PM EST
The Saints come into week nine off of a big win against the Green Bay Packers. The Panthers come in with a loss to the Seahawks. Cam Newton looked bad. Plain and simple. I’m not sure that their defense will be able to stop Drew Brees and Brandin Cooks though. I’m taking the Saints. Verdict: Saints
-Buccaneers (1-6) at Browns (4-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Buccaneers are going to have a tough time here. Nothing has been clicking for them and the Browns have been playing well. Brian Hoyer will lead Cleveland to another victory. Verdict: Browns
-Cardinals (6-1) at Cowboys (6-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This is shaping up to be a great matchup. The Cowboys and the Cardinals have both been great. The Cardinals took down the Eagles while Dallas was edged out last week by the Washington Redskins. I think that this week will be different though and Dallas win get the win Verdict: Cowboys
-Eagles (5-2) at Texans (4-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Eagles were taken down by Arizona last week. They’ll take on the Texans this week, who beat the Titans last week. Look for the Texans defense to give the Eagles trouble throughout the game. I’m still going with the Eagles though. Verdict: Eagles
-Jets (1-7) at Chiefs (4-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Jets announced that Michael Vick will start at quarterback. However, the move comes against a tough Chiefs defense that manhandled the St. Louis Rams last week. Kansas City’s crowd will be into it, especially after they watched the Royals lose in the World Series. The Chiefs will run right through the Jets. Verdict: Chiefs
-Jaguars (1-7) at Bengals (4-2-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This game doesn’t have much debate regarding the winner. The Bengals will take this one. Verdict: Bengals
-Chargers (5-3) at Dolphins (4-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Dolphins are good, but are they good enough to beat the Chargers? I think that this will be a close one but San Diego will pull away at the end. Verdict: Chargers
-Redskins (3-5) at Vikings (3-5), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
RG3 returns in this matchup against the Vikings. The Vikings have the 29th ranked offense, which should lead to their downfall. Verdict: Redskins
-Rams (2-5) at 49ers (4-3), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
The 49ers enter with the second ranked defense. They’ll take on Austin Davis and the Rams who have the 22nd ranked offense. The Niners will take this one. Verdict: 49ers
-Broncos (6-1) at Patriots (6-2), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Brady vs Manning. It doesn’t get much better than that. This will be a QB deal throughout but Denver will come out on top Verdict: Broncos
-Raiders (0-7) at Seahawks (4-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Is this even a game? The answer is no. I see this more of a funeral for the Raiders’ season. The Seahawks will coast to the victory. Verdict: Seahawks
-Ravens (5-3) at Steelers (5-3), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
Could be a good one here. The Steelers put up 51 points on the Colts last week and according to the NFL, have the third ranked offense. I think they’ve got what it takes to beat the Ravens at home on national television. Verdict: Steelers
-Colts (5-3) at Giants (3-4), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
The Colts travel into Metlife Stadium with the top ranked offense. The Giants? Eh. They come in off of their much needed bye week after losing in the previous two weeks. I’m taking Luck and the Colts, no question. Verdict: Colts
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week Eight Predictions
By Brett Malamud
A recordbreaker, a fantasy football stud, and “the next Tom Brady or Kurt Warner” are few of the many who will suit up this week. Here are your week eight predictions:
BYES: Giants, 49ers
-Chargers (5-2) at Broncos (5-1), Thursday @ 8:25 PM EST
This is shaping up to be a great game. The Broncos head into this matchup coming off of Peyton Manning’s record breaking performance and he shows no signs of slowing down. The Chargers are hungry though, and a week after taking a loss at home to the Kansas City Chiefs, they’ll look to bounce back on the road. Both teams are passing teams and that will be a big factor in the game. I’m going with the safe bet here by taking Manning and the Broncos. Verdict: Broncos
-Lions (5-2) at Falcons (2-5), Sunday @ 9:30 AM EST
At this moment in time, the Lions have the top ranked defense according to the NFL. They’ll travel to the Georgia Dome to take on the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons enter with the 30th ranked defense, but the sixth ranked offense. Defense wins games and they’ll win this one. I’m taking the Lions. Verdict: Lions
-Vikings (2-5) at Buccaneers (1-5), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This will probably turn out to be a close game but could be a boring one. The Vikings competed with the Bills this week and barring a last second touchdown catch by Sammy Watkins, they would’ve won the game. This week will probably be different and will end in a win for the Vikings. Look for Teddy Bridgewater to come alive in this one. Verdict: Vikings
-Bills (4-3) at Jets (1-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Could the Jets start their season at 1-7? At the beginning of the season, that was what I thought they’d do. Unlike my prediction, they probably won’t win their final eight in a row (Yeah that was a pretty insane prediction) to snag a playoff spot. The addition of Percy Harvin will be a bit of a decoy but won’t make an immediate impact simply because of this: If Geno Smith cannot accurately throw the ball to Percy Harvin, then Harvin is a non-factor. They’ll face the Bills here and I’ll take a shot on them in this game for the upset. Verdict: Jets
-Bears (3-4) at Patriots (5-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Patriots escaped with a win last week against the Jets. They won’t see it getting any easier for them this week when they host the Chicago Bears. The Bears enter this week off of a bad game against the Dolphins last week. They’re going to have a rough time against Tom Brady. Verdict: Patriots
–Seahawks (3-3) at Panthers (3-3-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
I’ve been looking forward to this game for a few week now. Russell Wilson and Cam Newton have been two of the top running quarterbacks this season. This week they’ll put it on the line to see who can lead their team to victory. I’m going to go with Wilson, but expect Newton to test the Seahawks defense. Verdict: Seahawks
–Dolphins (3-3) at Jaguars (1-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Dolphins came out on top in their matchup against the Chicago Bears, and should have no problem this week. They’ll take on the Jaguars, who finally got their first win last week against the Browns Verdict: Dolphins
-Ravens (5-2) at Bengals (3-2-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Bengals were shut out last week against the Colts but look to move on. They’ll probably take a loss this week though to the Ravens, who took down the Atlanta Falcons last week. Verdict: Ravens
-Texans (3-4) at Titans (2-5), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Both of these teams took losses last week and will attempt to change what have become disappointing seasons. The team that can step up on defense will win this one and I think it’ll be Houston Verdict: Texans
-Rams (2-4) at Chiefs (3-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Brett Favre said that Rams quarterback Austin Davis could be “the next Tom Brady or Kurt Warner.” That’s a pretty big compliment coming from one of the greatest quarterbacks in the history of football. This week he’ll turn his attention the Kansas City Chiefs, whose defense was one of the leagues best last season. I can see him getting by though, and the Rams will win a close one. Verdict: Rams
Austin Davis: the next Tom Brady? (Via AP)
–Eagles (5-1) at Cardinals (5-1), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
This is my game of the week. The Eagles come off of their bye week and head into Phoenix to play the Cardinals. In their last game, Philadelphia shut out the New York Giants and were clicking on all cylinders. This week they’ll take on the Arizona Cardinals, who had a bit of a break last week when they faced the dreaded Oakland Raiders. This game will probably be decided in the final minutes, and I believe that the Eagles will come out on top. Verdict: Eagles
–Colts (5-2) at Steelers (4-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Last week, Andrew luck had another great performance in route to a shut out over the Cincinnati Bengals. The Steelers won last week, but didn’t really show that they could make some noise this coming week. Indianapolis will take the W. Verdict: Colts
–Raiders (0-6) at Cleveland (3-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Can the Raiders finally win one? The Jacksonville Jaguars won their first game against the Cleveland Browns last weekend. This week Cleveland will take on the Oakland Raiders and hope to come out with a win. I think that they’re too good for Oakland and will coast to the victory. Verdict: Browns
–Packers (5-2) at Saints (2-4), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
R-E-L-A-X. Aaron Rodgers has got it under control. He threw for three more touchdowns last week in a huge win over the Panthers. Drew Brees, meanwhile, has had the worst of luck this season and can’t seem to win games. This week, the quarterback duel should be fun to watch but ultimately, the Packers will win the game. Verdict: Packers
–Redskins (2-5) at Cowboys (6-1), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
Two NFC rivals will go head to head in this week eight matchup. DeMarco Murray continues to dominate each and every week that should continue this week. On the other side, Kirk Cousins was pulled from the game in favor of Colt McCoy, who led Washington to the victory. The Cowboys will take this one, and it could be by a landslide. Verdict: Cowboys
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week Seven Predictions
By Brett Malamud
This week has Peyton Manning on the precipice of NFL history. Manning needs just two touchdowns to tie Brett Favre for the all time touchdowns record. Here’s what else is on tap for week seven:
BYES: Philadelphia Eagles, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
-Jets (1-5) at Patriots (4-2), Thursday @ 8:25 PM EST
The Jets come into this matchup off their loss to Peyton Manning and the Broncos. They showed signs of promise, and kept with Denver for most of the game. This week they’ll face another hall of fame quarterback in Tom Brady. Brady was excellent last week against the Bills and hopes to continue his success. I believe that the game will be close throughout, but I’m taking New England. Verdict: Patriots
-Falcons (2-4) at Ravens (4-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Falcons lost to the Bears last week in a game that was close through three quarters before Chicago pulled away. They’ll face the Ravens, who return home after their biggest win this season. Joe Flacco finished his day with five touchdown passes in route to a 48-17 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. I’m going to pick the Ravens to stay hot. Verdict: Ravens
-Titans (2-4) at Redskins (1-5), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Titans barely edged out the Jacksonville Jaguars last week, in a performance that Tennessee should not be proud of. They allowed 336 passing yards to Jaguars rookie quarterback Blake Bortles. This week they’ll have a tougher matchup against Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins who threw for 354 yards against a tough Arizona Cardinals defense. The task will be tough, and I think it’ll be too difficult for the Titans to stop Cousins. Verdict: Redskins
-Seahawks (3-2) at Rams (1-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Seahawks were shocked last week by the Dallas Cowboys. Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson was held to just 126 yards on the day. The Rams also were defeated last week, taking a Monday night loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Look for Rams rookie quarterback Austin Davis to show some promise against a deadly Seahawks defense, and ultimately win. The Rams will continue powering through their rough schedule. Verdict: Rams
-Browns (3-2) at Jaguars (0-6), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
I picked the Browns to win last week and they did against the Pittsburgh Steelers. They’re going to win this one too, especially against the winless Jaguars. Verdict: Browns
-Bengals (3-1-1) at Colts (4-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Last week’s Bengals-Panthers game ended with Mike Nugent kicking a 36-yard field goal wide right as the clock expired to end the game in a tie. The Bengals now look to regroup as they head into Indianapolis. They’ll try to stop a red-hot Colts team, led by quarterback Andrew Luck and wide receiver T.Y. Hilton. The Colts come off of a win in Houston on Thursday Night Football. They’ll take this one, especially at the rate they’ve been playing at. Verdict: Colts
-Vikings (2-4) at Bills (3-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Bills couldn’t handle Tom Brady and the Patriots last week, and that sent them to an even 3-3 on the season. Bills quarterback Kyle Orton did look good though and hopes to continue that this week. He’ll match up against Vikings rookie quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. Bridgewater couldn’t find the endzone last week against the Detroit Lions. I think that will change, but the Bills will run away with this one. Verdict: Bills
-Dolphins (2-3) at Bears (3-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Jay Cutler impressed last week, torching the Atlanta Falcons for 381 passing yards in route to a 27-13 victory. This week, the Bears turn their attention to the Miami Dolphins, who come off of a closely contested game with the Green Bay Packers. This game will be very close, but I’m going with Chicago here. Verdict: Bears
-Saints (2-3) at Lions (4-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Saints head off of their bye week into Detroit, where they’ll take on the Lions. Injuries will have an impact in this one, as the Saints will likely be without tight end Jimmy Graham, and the status of Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson is up in the air as well. The one achilles heel of the Lions could be their running game, currently ranked 29th in the league. With that said, look for wide receiver Golden Tate to step into the spotlight and lead the Lions to a close victory. Verdict: Lions
-Panthers (3-2-1) at Packers (4-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Panthers escaped last week’s game with a tie after the Bengals kicker Mike Nugent missed a 36-yard attempt as time expired in overtime. Carolina quarterback Cam Newton had 284 passing yards and two touchdowns through the air, in addition to his 107 yards and a touchdown on the ground. The Panthers will take on the Packers at Lambeau Field this week. The Packers beat the Dolphins this week and look to continue their win streak. I believe that they will. Verdict: Packers
-Chiefs (2-3) at Chargers (5-1), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
The Chiefs come in off of the bye week after being defeated in San Francisco the week before. The Chargers on the other hand squeaked out a victory against the Oakland Raiders. Quarterback Philip Rivers threw for 313 yards and three touchdowns. San Diego has the third ranked defense and will have to stop the Chiefs’ run game. I think they will, and will charge past the chiefs this weekend Verdict: Chargers
-Cardinals (4-1) at Raiders (0-5), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
I’d be shocked to see Oakland come away with a victory in this one. The Cardinals took down the Redskins last week, and the Raiders took a loss to the Chargers. Look for the Cardinals to keep the Raiders winless. Verdict: Chargers
-Giants (3-3) at Cowboys (5-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
A battle is brewing in the NFC East. The Eagles and Cowboys are currently tied for first place at 3-1 and lurking behind them is the Giants at 3-3. The Giants are sure to miss wide receiver Victor Cruz after he tore his patella tendon, ruling him out for the rest of the season. Odell Beckham Jr. and Ruben Randle will have to step up, knowing that they’ll have to get open quick due to the bad offensive line that the Giants have. I’m going to have to go with the Cowboys simply because of their offense, that took down the mighty Seattle Seahawks last weekend. Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo and running back DeMarco Murray should have a big day. Verdict: Cowboys
-49ers (4-2) at Broncos (4-1), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
My game of the week is right here, with the 49ers traveling into the Mile High City. The Broncos are fresh off of their win against the Jets last week. Peyton Manning is two touchdown passes away from tying Brett Favre for the all time touchdowns record. He’ll most likely tie the record on Sunday. The 49ers took down the Rams last week, but will probably take a loss to Peyton and the Broncos here. Verdict: Broncos
Peyton Manning will go for the NFL all time touchdowns record this week (Via CBS Sports)
-Texans (3-3) at Steelers (3-3), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
The Texans took a loss at home on Thursday Night Football to send them to an even 3-3 record. The Steelers took a loss to the Cleveland Browns. With both teams looking to bounce back, expect a good game here. I’m going with the Steelers, who head into this week with the sixth ranked offense in the league. Verdict: Steelers
NFL Week Six Predictions
By Brett Malamud
Thursday is here and that can only mean one thing. Yes, get ready for another week of football with the week six predictions:
Byes: New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs
-Colts (3-2) at Texans (3-2), Thursday @ 8:25 PM EST
Thursday Night Football this week could turn out more intriguing than not. The Texans will attempt to knock off the Colts in Houston. The Texans have the most takeaways in the NFL and have allowed the fourth fewest points in the league. Andrew Luck hopes to change that. Luck passed for 312 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions last week. With that performance, Luck passed for at least 300 yards in four out of his last five games. As he heads to Houston, I believe he’ll do just that and lead the Colts to the victory. Verdict: Colts
-Steelers (3-2) at Browns (2-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Down 28-0, the Browns stormed back to take a 29-28 shocker in Tennessee last weekend. This week they return home and turn their attention to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers had a rough time in Jacksonville, barely escaping with a 17-9 victory over the winless Jaguars. Roethlisberger wasn’t anything special, throwing for less than 300 yards. This week’s matchup could pose well for Cleveland and I think they’ll get it done, disposing of the Steelers. Verdict: Browns
-Patriots (3-2) at Bills (3-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
A battle in the AFC East sees the Patriots travel to Buffalo to face the Bills. Tom Brady threw for 292 yards and two touchdowns against the Bengals. Brady heads into this one with a career 22-2 record as a starter against the Bills. The Bills escaped with a last second field goal in Detroit, but with Kyle Orton leading the team at quarterback, I’m not sure they’ll match up with New England. Verdict: Patriots
-Panthers (3-2) at Bengals (3-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Cam Newton has been a huge disappointment thus far for fantasy owners, more specifically in the run game. Newton has not ran the same way that he used to. Last week, he finished with six carries for nine yards. He’ll face a tough Bengals defense this week. The Bengals come off of their loss to the Patriots last week. I think they’ll bounce back though and take down Cam Newton. Verdict: Bengals
-Jaguars (0-5) at Titans (1-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Here is my Game of the Weak. How many times am I going to say that the Jaguars stink? I seem to say it each and every week, but it’s finally setting in that they’re simply put: awful. They still have yet to win a game, although they gave the Pittsburgh Steelers a run for their money last week. I’m taking the Titans, who I’ll take off of the hook this week, even though they’re not the best of teams either. Verdict: Titans
-Packers (3-2) at Dolphins (2-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Dolphins come off of their bye week and welcome the Green Bay Packers. The Packers had that huge blowout against the Vikings last Thursday and come into this one with their heads held high. The Dolphins will have a tough task in slowing down Aaron Rodgers. I’m taking the Packers. Verdict: Packers
-Lions (3-2) at Vikings (2-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Lions will have a tough time if they cannot get Calvin Johnson in the lineup. The wide receiver has a high ankle sprain and has been bothered by it all week. If he can’t go, keep an eye on Golden Tate. He’ll get the majority of targets from Matt Stafford. The Vikings were embarrassed by the Green Bay Packers last week. Minnesota was without quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, but this week will be different. I’m expecting a close game, with the Lions taking the victory. Verdict: Lions
-Broncos (3-1) at Jets (1-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Earlier today, Dabuzzza writer Jack Allen had a piece on the Jets small chance at beating the Denver Broncos (Which you can check out here). I’m a Jets fan, and while I can relate to Jack’s optimism, I just can’t see any good outcomes this week for Gang Green. The Jets have been a disgrace this season, and that starts at the quarterback position. Geno Smith had the worst game he’s ever had in San Diego. He was 4-for-12 with 27 passing yards and an interception. Head coach Rex Ryan turned to backup quarterback Michael Vick in the second half last week, opting to pull Smith out. The Jets lost their fourth straight game and were shutout by the Chargers. Rex Ryan’s job has been put in jeopardy and if the Jets hoped that they can move past their struggles, they’ll most likely have to wait until next week. Peyton Manning comes off of a game against the tough Arizona Cardinals defense that saw him throw for 479 yards and four touchdowns. Do you really think that the Jets defense is great? Sure, they’re pretty good on the run but their secondary? There’s no way that the Broncos lose this one. They’ll send the Jets into their Thursday night matchup in New England with a loss. Verdict: Broncos
-Ravens (3-2) at Buccaneers (1-4), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Ravens took a loss to a red-hot Colts team last week. The Buccaneers kept up with the Saints for the entire game, before falling to them. But, the Buccaneers put up 31 points, much to my surprise. Doug Martin will need to take over the game to win. With that, I’m taking still Joe Flacco’s Ravens. Verdict: Ravens
-Chargers (4-1) at Raiders (0-4), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
The Chargers come off of a 31-0 shutout over the New York Jets. Were the Chargers really good or were the Jets just really bad? I think it was a bit of both but more from the Jets being bad. Chargers rookie running back Branden Oliver ran for 114 yards and a touchdown. Oliver also caught four passes for 68 yards and a touchdown. The Raiders fired their head coach and brought in Tony Sparano as the interim head coach. They’ll come off the bye, still winless. Expect that to remain the same after they host San Diego. Verdict: Chargers
-Bears (2-3) at Falcons (2-3), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
Chicago took that loss to the Panthers to drop them below .500 for the season. The Bears turned the ball over four times, an inexcusable number. Atlanta headed into MetLife Stadium ready to take advantage of Eli Manning. They headed out with a loss though, after blowing a ten point lead. Matt Ryan still looks good though, and playing in the Georgia Dome should help to propel them to a victory. Verdict: Falcons
-Cowboys (4-1) at Seahawks (3-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
This is my game of the week. Seahawks Quarterback Russell Wilson completed 18-of-24 passes for 201 yards and two touchdowns. Wilson also had 11 carries for 122 yards and another touchdown. The Seahawks had two more touchdowns that were taken away by penalties in their win over Washington. Dallas escaped Houston in overtime. Can Tony Romo handle the 12th Man? I don’t think that he can, and that Seattle will defeat the Cowboys. Verdict: Seahawks
Tony Romo hopes to beat the Seahawks this week (Via AP)
-Redskins (1-4) at Cardinals (3-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
The Redskins fell to the Seahawks last week, and the Cardinals to the Broncos. The Cardinals defense should manhandle the Redskins offense in route to the victory Verdict: Cardinals
-Giants (3-2) at Eagles (4-1), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
The Giants had a comeback effort against the Falcons last week. The Eagles, meanwhile, had an average game against the St. Louis Rams at home. This Sunday Night Football matchup should be a good one though, as most Giants-Eagles games are. I’m going to go with my gut and take the Eagles. It’ll be a close one though. Verdict: Eagles
-49ers (3-2) at Rams (1-3), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
The St. Louis Rams stuck with the Eagles last week, losing by just six points. Austin Davis threw for 375 yards and three touchdowns, two of which to wide receiver Brian Quick. It’s safe to say that the young quarterback looks settled in. The 49ers come off of a win against the Kansas City Chiefs. However, five out of their six scoring drives only went for field goals. The offense will have to continue to work on getting into the red zone before they start running into trouble. I’m gonna pick them here though. Verdict: 49ers
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week Four Predictions
By Brett Malamud
As we approach another week in the NFL, we see teams begin to have their bye weeks. But for the rest of the teams, this week could help to carry the momentum for the rest of the season. Here’s my week four predictions:
–BYES: Broncos, Seahawks, Cardinals, Bengals, Rams, Browns
-Giants (1-2) at Redskins (1-2), Thursday @ 8:25 PM EST
The Redskins are playing some great football at the moment, even with the loss to the Eagles last week. I’m taking them here over the Giants, who look to string together a win streak. Verdict: Redskins
-Packers (1-2) at Bears (2-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Aaron Rodgers told Packers fans to “relax.” However, if i’m a Packers fan, I’m not relaxing. Their lone win came against the Jets. They looked horrible against the Lions last week, much like in week one against the Seahawks. Meanwhile, the Bears are playing very well and come off their Monday Night Football win against the Jets. The wide receivers are a huge help to Jay Cutler. I’m going with the Bears here (and Packers fans definitely won’t be able to relax after this one.) Verdict: Bears
-Bills (2-1) at Texans (2-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Intriguing matchup here, as the AFC East leading Bills take on the AFC South leading Texans. This is sure to be a good game. The running game for Buffalo has been nothing short of the expectations headed into the season. I think they’ll run over Houston this week. Verdict: Bills
-Titans (1-2) at Colts (1-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Colts faced two of the toughest opponents they’ll meet all season within the first two weeks of the season, so that’s where their record comes in to play. The record definitely doesn’t represent the team. They’ll prove that this week against the Titans, who’ve lost their last two games. Verdict: Colts
-Panthers (2-1) at Ravens (2-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Panthers and Ravens head into this one both at 2-1. The Ravens have been superb on the running game, especially after the loss of Ray Rice. The Panthers took a brutal loss to Pittsburgh last week and I think the same happens here in Baltimore. Verdict: Ravens
-Lions (2-1) at Jets (1-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
A good defensive battle sees the top two defenses (thus far) face off. The Jets secondary is going to have a long day, especially with Calvin Johnson, who looks to find the end zone for the first time in three weeks. On the other side of the ball, the Jets run game has been great. Hopefully, Rex Ryan realizes that and stops Geno Smith from making more bonehead plays. I’m going with the Jets here in a shocker. Verdict: Jets
-Buccaneers (0-3) at Steelers (2-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
This one shouldn’t be that much of a contest. The Bucs aren’t playing well at all and come off a week in which they allowed 56 points to the Falcons on national television. I’m going with the Steelers, no question. Verdict: Steelers
-Dolphins (1-2) at Raiders (0-3), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Boring matchup here, as the Dolphins face the Raiders. I’m going to take the Dolphins, simply because the Raiders can’t get anything right this season. Verdict: Dolphins
-Jaguars (0-3) at Chargers (2-1), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
The Chargers host a team that they should run right over. The Jaguars haven’t stopped a team with a good quarterback this season, and I don’t see any reason of why they’ll suddenly do it this week. It could be a long day for Jaguars rookie QB Blake Bortles in his first career start. Verdict: Chargers
Blake Bortles heads into San Diego for his first career start at quarterback (Via Fansided)
-Falcons (2-1) at Vikings (1-2), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
I think that Teddy Bridgewater will be good but not great this week. I also think that Matt Ryan is phenomenal and will play well. I’m taking the Falcons in a close one here. Verdict: Falcons
-Eagles (3-0) at 49ers (1-2), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
This is my matchup of the week. The sixth-ranked 49ers defense will look to stop the sixth-ranked Eagles offense. I think that Kaepernick will have a major game by torturing the Eagles’ secondary. But in the end, I think that the Eagles will escape and move to 4-0. Verdict: Eagles
-Saints (1-2) at Cowboys (2-1), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
This matchup was on my radar since week one. I don’t recommend fantasy owners to start either team’s defense because I believe that this will be a high scoring game. I think that the Saints take it, and Drew Brees gets another game ball to add to his collection. Verdict: Saints
-Patriots (2-1) at Chiefs (1-2), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
This could be quite the battle throughout this one. The Patriots offense, known to be dominant, has struggled this season. The Chiefs defense, which was one of the league’s best last season, has also struggled this season. It should be a good game, but I’m going with Tom Brady. Verdict: Patriots
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week Three Preview
By Brett Malamud
-Buccaneers (0-2) at Falcons (1-1), Thursday @ 8:25 PM EST
The Buccaneers travel one state over to the confines of the Georgia Dome. The Falcons come in after their offense was virtually shut down by Cincinnati last week. I think that coming home will heal the woes and that Matt Ryan will come back strong tonight. Verdict: Falcons
-Chargers (1-1) at Bills (2-0), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
I watched the Bills game last week and there wasn’t much excitement, other than the Sammy Watkins touchdown play and the C.J. Spiller kickoff return for a touchdown. I think that after taking down Seattle last week, the Chargers should roll through the Bills. Verdict: Chargers
-Cowboys (1-1) at Rams (1-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Cowboys beat the Titans last week and DeMarco Murray and Dez Bryant looked great. The Rams third-string quarterback Austin Davis went 22/29 for 235 yards and no interceptions, as St. Louis slightly edged out Tampa Bay. If Davis continues at that pace this week, it could make for a close game, but I’m still going with the Cowboys. Verdict: Cowboys
-Redskins (1-1) at Eagles (2-0), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Kirk Cousins is now at the helm for the Redskins and it’ll definitely be noticeable. Cousins went 22/33 and completed his first 12 passes. Not bad for a guy coming in cold off of the bench. I don’t think they’ll get past the Eagles though, after they’ve rolled as of late. The duel back combo of LeSean McCoy and Darren Sproles continues to be the story and should be it again this week. Verdict: Eagles
-Texans (2-0) at Giants (0-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Giants stink. They took a loss to the Drew Stanton led Arizona Cardinals after quarterback Carson Palmer was announced as inactive for the game. The G-Men turned the ball over the ball four times, much to the disappointment of head coach Tom Coughlin. The Texans, on the other hand, won in Oakland last week. I’m gonna take the Texans here because the defense will be too strong for the Giants. Verdict: Texans
-Vikings (1-1) at Saints (0-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Saints are 0-2. Seriously? They’re so great but have had some not so great moments. A last second field goal decided their fate last week in Cleveland. I’ve got to take them here, especially after the beat down that the Patriots gave Minnesota. Verdict: Saints
-Titans (1-1) at Bengals (2-0), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Titans couldn’t find a way to beat the Cowboys. Jake Locker showed some promise, throwing for 234 yards with a touchdown. The Bengals come in fresh off a win at home against the Falcons, and my belief is that they’ll stay undefeated after this week. Verdict: Bengals
-Ravens (1-1) at Browns (1-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Browns shocked the Saints last week, winning on a field goal in the final seconds. Baltimore came together after losing Ray Rice and didn’t allow a touchdown to the Steelers last week on Thursday Night Football. Still, Joe Flacco only threw for 166 yards. I think the Browns continue to shock and take this game in another close one. Verdict: Browns
-Packers (1-1) at Lions (1-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Packers were down 21-3 to the New York Jets. They came all the way back, beating the Jets 31-24. Aaron Rodgers looked pretty invisible in the first quarter and a bit of the second quarter, but powered back in the second half and finished the day off with 346 passing yards and three touchdowns. The Lions showed that Megatron was human, as Calvin Johnson could not be found in the end zone last week. Instead, the lone Lions touchdown went to Fullback Jed Collins. I think the Packers stay hot and win this one. Verdict: Packers
Calvin Johnson looks to get back in the end zone this week vs. the Packers (Via Getty)
-Colts (0-2) at Jaguars (0-2), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Colts lost…to the Eagles. And I say it that way because the Eagles looked fantastic. But the Colts looked good too. They were edged out at the last second and so the loss might sting a bit, but I know they’ll come back strong this week against the Jaguars, who were slaughtered by Washington last week. Verdict: Colts
-Raiders (0-2) at Patriots (1-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
There shouldn’t be much debate here. The Patriots woke up last week, and beat down the Vikings by a score of 30-7. They’ll take on the Raiders in what could be an ugly result. Verdict: Patriots
-49ers (1-1) at Cardinals (2-0), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
I have been and am still pushing hard on this Cardinals defense. I’ve said it all along, I really like their defense. They forced four Giants turnovers last week at MetLife Stadium. This will be their toughest test yet, as they take on the 49ers. The Niners, however, didn’t look right at home in the second half of the inaugural game of their new stadium. Instead, quarterback Colin Kaepernick forced passes throughout and the Bears rallied to beat them. I think that the woes will stop and that Kaepernick will lead his team to the victory. Verdict: 49ers
-Broncos (2-0) at Seahawks (1-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
This is my matchup of the week. A rematch of last season’s Super Bowl sees the Broncos headed to Seattle to face the Seahawks. The Seahawks took a loss last week to the Chargers. Marshawn Lynch was not much of a factor, only rushing for 36 yards. Wes Welker is back this week after the NFL and NFLPA agreed on a new drug policy, freeing him from the remaining four games on his previous suspension. I think that the attention on Welker should free up Demaryius Thomas and Julius Thomas. I like the Broncos this week to quiet the 12th man. Verdict: Broncos
-Chiefs (0-2) at Dolphins (1-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
The Chiefs almost took down Peyton Manning and the rest of the Denver Broncos last week, but they didn’t. Instead they dropped to 0-2 and their defense has allowed 50 points through only two games. On the other side of the field will be the Miami Dolphins, who shocked everyone back in week one, when they took down the New England Patriots. Last week was a different story and they couldn’t get anything going, taking the loss to the Buffalo Bills. The Chiefs are desperate for a win in the competitive AFC West, and I think they’ll get their first of the year here. Verdict: Chiefs
-Steelers (1-1) at Panthers (2-0), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
The return of Cam Newton brought a great performance by the Carolina Panthers offense. Newton was 22/34 for 281 yards and a touchdown as he defeated “Donkey Kong Suh and [his] fellow Auburn teammate Nick Fairley.” The Panthers look ahead now to this week’s matchup at home against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Night Football. Simply put, the Steelers couldn’t score a touchdown last week on Thursday Night Football. This week they’ll play their second game in a row in a primetime slot. I think that they’ll lose this one as well, and the nation will see the flaws of this struggling team. Verdict: Panthers
-Bears (1-1) at Jets (1-1), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
Ah, the Jets. Many of you know how much I love the Jets, and how I continue to root for them, even in the darkest of times. Well, last week was one of those times. The Jets went up 14-0 within the first seven minutes of the game. Then, the Jets were up 21-3 in the middle of the second quarter when things started to unfold. Capped off by an 80 yard laser to Jordy Nelson for a touchdown, the Jets collapsed and lost 31-24. As far as bright spots, there were not many. Eric Decker looked good, but how long until defenses double team him on every play? Chris Johnson played an awful game, and finished the day with 21 yards on 12 carries. Instead, the running back who looked the best was Chris Ivory, who had just 43 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries. I’m not sure they’ll bounce back this week though, facing the Chicago Bears. The Bears had three fourth-quarter touchdowns to take down the 49ers. I don’t think that the Jets secondary can handle Brandon Marshall, who scored three touchdowns last week. Jay Cutler is 8-4 on Monday Night Football with 20 touchdowns in only 12 games. The trend of touchdowns for him should continue this week, and you can bet that Jets head coach Rex Ryan will be upset with that. Verdict: Bears
Studs and Duds: NFL Week Two
By Brett Malamud
The injury bug seemed to be going around NFL stadiums this week as star after star went down with injuries. Robert Griffin III will likely miss the rest of the season (or most of it anyway) with a dislocated ankle. DeSean Jackson, Jamaal Charles, AJ Green, and Knowshon Moreno all left the field with various injuries. Some players stuck out in good ways, and others in bad ways, prompting this weeks edition of studs and duds.
Stud: Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers saw his Packers down 21-3 halfway through the second quarter to the Jets. He led the charge in what was a wild comeback, throwing for 346 yards with three touchdowns, good enough for 27 fantasy points in ESPN standard leagues.
Dud: Colin Kaepernick
Kaepernick threw three interceptions and looked like he was trying to force passes, resulting in a tough loss at the hands of the Chicago Bears. He’ll try to bounce back in Arizona next week.
Stud: Brandon Marshall
Brandon Marshall was a game time decision headed into the Bears Sunday night contest in the inaugural game of Levi’s Stadium. Marshall hauled in three touchdowns on the most ridiculous catches.
Dud:Matt Cassel
Not much explanation needed here as Cassel chalked up four interceptions this week versus the Patriots. It’ll be tough to bounce back, as the Vikings head to New Orleans to face the Saints.
Stud: Antonio Gates
Antonio Gates was back to his old self on Sunday, racking up three touchdowns. The trend may continue, but based on his inconsistency, I would keep an eye on him as a fantasy owner.
Dud: Rob Gronkowski
Gronk was much of a disappointment this week. The Patriots tight end only lined up for 28 of their 67 snaps and finished with four catches for 32 yards.
Stud: Darren Sproles
What can you say about this guy? The former Saint looked right at home in his new offense, scoring a huge game-tying 19 yard rushing touchdown. But it wasn’t his rushing yards (four carries for 26 yards) that were the story, but rather what he did with the ball in the air. Sproles proved that he is still a threat when Nick Foles drops back to pass. Sproles had seven catches for 152 yards, which not only led all Eagles receivers, but led all receivers on Monday night.
Darren Sproles showed how valuable he can be to the Eagles last night in Indianapolis (Via Philly)
Stud: Kirk Cousins
Coming in off of the bench cold after Robert Griffin III departed with injury was no easy task for Cousins, although it looked that way. He proved that he can lead Washington’s offense while Griffin is out. 250 yards and two touchdowns in route to a 41-10 win over the Jaguars, is something that Cousins should be very proud of. We’ll see how he continues to play next week against Philadelphia.
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
NFL Week 2 Preview
By Brett Malamud
Week one proved to be a great week of football that was full of crazy catches and games coming down to the wire. Let’s hope week two can bring the same level of excitement. Here’s my picks for this week:
-Steelers (1-0) at Ravens (0-1), Thursday @ 8:25 PM EST
The Steelers escaped a major comeback at the hands of the Cleveland Browns. Now they’ll face their rivals, the Baltimore Ravens, who were narrowly defeated at home against the Bengals, under the bright lights of M&T Bank Stadium in primetime. Crowd noise will be a factor, but I’ll take the Steelers here in a close one. Verdict: Steelers
-Dolphins (1-0) at Bills (1-0), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Pretty even matchup here as these AFC East foes duke it out. The Dolphins are coming in red hot after defeating the almighty New England Patriots. Buffalo is also coming in with some momentum as well, after shocking the Chicago Bears in overtime. The addition of Knowshon Moreno has proven to be great for Miami thus far, especially after he ran for 134 yards on 24 attempts with a touchdown. I’m going to take the Dolphins here. Verdict: Dolphins
-Jaguars (0-1) at Redskins (0-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
I’m going to be brutally honest, I will not tune in to this one. After watching the Texans dispose of the Redskins offense last week, I can regretfully say that I am not interested in the team, with the exception of Alfred Morris, DeSean Jackson, and Jordan Reed (who has been a major disappointment to my fantasy team), as they are amongst the players on my three fantasy football teams (thankfully, each is on a different team). I’m taking the Jaguars, who took a 17-0 lead into halftime last week against the Eagles. Verdict: Jaguars
-Cowboys (0-1) at Titans (1-0), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Now we come to the Cowboys, who were manhandled last week when they faced the San Francisco 49ers, and at one point were down 28-3. The game included two fumbles from the Cowboys offense, one of which was taken all the way back by the 49ers defense for a touchdown. The Titans had a great showing out of quarterback Jake Locker, who threw for 266 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. I’m going with the safe bet of picking the Titans to win this one. Verdict: Titans
-Cardinals (1-0) at Giants (0-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
Both of these teams played in the Monday Night Football doubleheader in week one and each of those games was a polar opposite of the other. The Cardinals rallied late, scoring two touchdowns in the final quarter. Carson Palmer looked phenomenal, and his night was highlighted by a 63 yard bomb to Michael Floyd, who also had an impact on the game (although he didn’t score a touchdown). The other game was rather one-sided and the Giants were done from the opening whistle. Eli Manning was intercepted twice and there wasn’t much room for Rashad Jennings to run. The Giants should struggle this week against a tough defense. Verdict: Cardinals
-Patriots (0-1) at Vikings (1-0), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Patriots were shocked last week, taking a tough loss to the Miami Dolphins. They’ll travel to Minnesota to face the Vikings, who had an excellent game last week by shutting down the Rams in St. Louis. My gut tells me that the Patriots will come back strong and win the game. Verdict: Patriots
-Saints (0-1) at Browns (0-1), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Saints lost a heartbreaker in Atlanta after fumbling the football in overtime. Drew Brees tried out his new toy in Brandin Cooks and liked what he saw. Cooks has one less catch than Jimmy Graham, hauling in seven receptions for 77 yards and a touchdown. The Browns rallied against the Steelers from a 24-point deficit but ultimately lost on a field goal as time expired. The Browns may give the Saints a run for their money at the beginning of this game, but I think the Saints pull away in the second half. Verdict: Saints
-Falcons (1-0) at Bengals (1-0), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
On the other end of the Saints’ heartbreaking loss was the Atlanta Falcons. Didn’t Matty Ice look great? I mean, seriously! 448 yards. FOUR HUNDRED AND FOURTY EIGHT YARDS! A Falcons franchise record for him with that, and he even threw three touchdowns. I do like the Falcons’ addition of Devin Hester, who was targeted six times and caught five of those for 99 yards. The Bengals blew a 15 point lead but scored a touchdown with just over five minutes left against the Ravens. I don’t see it shaping up that way this week, because instead I see the Falcons going up early and not looking back. Verdict: Falcons
Matt Ryan ran through the Saints defense last week and hopes to do the same this week vs. the Bengals (Via AP)
-Lions (1-0) at Panthers (1-0), Sunday @ 1:00 PM EST
The Lions looked fantastic last week, but after all, they were playing the Giants, who blew coverage after coverage. It seems that nobody could stop Calvin Johnson, who made the most ridiculous catches. The Panthers will get Cam Newton back but I don’t see much changing. The Lions are just too good right now. Verdict: Lions
-Rams (0-1) at Buccaneers (0-1), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
Another boring matchup on the week two slate sees the Sam Bradford-less, touchdown-less St. Louis Rams, squaring off with the team that had the worst ranked defense in the NFL last season. The Rams might have lost their backup as well, with Shaun Hill going down last week with a strained quad. Doug Martin did nothing last week, piling up a whopping nine yards on nine carries. I’m pulling for them this week though, and this could be the week that Doug Martin comes back to form. Verdict: Buccaneers
-Seahawks (1-0) at Chargers (0-1), Sunday @ 4:05 PM EST
This seems to be one of the more intriguing battles this week. The Chargers took a loss, but looked good against the Arizona Cardinals. The Seahawks also looked good in their game, taking down the Packers. I’m going to take the Seahawks here, but I’m sure that San Diego will compete throughout. Verdict: Seahawks
-Texans (1-0) at Raiders (0-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
The Texans defense is electric. They were great against the Redskins. The Raiders were not, and took a loss to the Jets. I see the Texans defense as too much of a threat to the Oakland offense. Verdict: Texans
-Jets (1-0) at Packers (0-1), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
This could be a really close game, but it could also turn ugly and end up as a blowout for Green Bay. The Packers look to bounce back against the Jets after being defeated by the Seahawks last Thursday. The Jets have assembled a bit of a new offense, with Chris Johnson and Chris Ivory as duel threats in the backfield. Johnson caught five passes and one touchdown out of the backfield in addition to his 68 rushing yards. Eric Decker also played nicely, racking up 74 yards on five receptions. Ultimately, I see the Packers taking this one, but not by much. Verdict: Packers
-Chiefs (0-1) at Broncos (1-0), Sunday @ 4:25 PM EST
The Chiefs weren’t themselves on defense last week. They were picked apart by Jake Locker and allowed him to drive down the field, resulting in two touchdowns. This week they’ll face an even tougher task: Peyton Manning. The 38 year old took down his former team, the Indianapolis Colts, in a showdown with Andrew Luck. Peyton found Julius Thomas in the end zone three times and utilized the acquisition of Emmanuel Sanders. The Chiefs are no match for the top team in the AFC. Verdict: Broncos
-Bears (0-1) at 49ers (1-0), Sunday @ 8:30 PM EST
The Niners dominated the Cowboys throughout. Rookie Carlos Hyde scored a touchdown and Vernon Davis caught two. The Bears lost that shocker to the Buffalo Bills last week and I’m not sure their defense can keep up with the Niners’ fast west coast offense in the inaugural game for Levi’s Stadium. Verdict: 49ers
-Eagles (1-0) at Colts (0-1), Monday @ 8:30 PM EST
Interesting matchup here as the Eagles face the Colts on Monday Night Football. Andrew Luck threw for 370 yards against the Broncos. Darren Sproles and LeSean McCoy are a deadly combo for Philadelphia. Should be a great offensive duel but I’m taking the Colts at home. Verdict: Colts
Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
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