Mike Kern's NFL picks: Giants vs Jets, Bears vs Lions, Browns vs Bills, Vikings vs Cowboys, Cardinals vs Bucs, Seahawks vs 49ers + a teaser
And now for the pro stuff, because it wouldn’t be Sunday (or even Monday) without them. Especially when the Birds are taking the week off.
Let’s start with a three-team teaser:
Ravens (-1.5) over Bengals, with Saints (-4.5) over Falcons and Colts (-3.5) over Dolphins
This could be pushing things a little, since the Saints and Colts still have to win by more than a field goal. That can be dangerous. The Bengals got a backdoor cover in the first meeting with Baltimore, but they’re not very good and are using a young quarterback. My only concern is it’s a division game and Indy is coming off two really big wins. But I don’t think Mr. Jackson is losing this one. I think Falcons are a mess, and Saints are at home. Although again it is a division matchup. The Dolphins might make it a little bit of a game, but remember they’re not trying to win. And Indy, which might have its QB back, is. But as always, keep in mind that they do call it a teaser for a reason. Don’t say you weren’t warned. But I have won teasers each of the past two weeks, which might be a first. Anyone for a hat trick?
Giants (-2.5) over Jets
Dreadful matchup. But I think the Jets are more dreadful, even though they’ll be at home. Of course it’s also the Giants’ home. Could be interesting to see what the stadium is like. I just think the Giants have a little bit more going for them, which isn’t really saying much. Still, I’ll take my chances with Jones over Darnold, and Shurmur over Gase. Hell I’d take Kotite and Bowles over Gase. Well, maybe.
Bears (-2.5) over Lions
Bears are home, I’m not thrilled with their offense but I think they really need to win a game and the defense might come up big. I think it could be close but I’m hoping they can win by like a field goal to a touchdown. Hope it doesn’t come down to a kick. And I know Detroit isn’t bad. This is one of those hunch things, more or less.
Browns (-2.5) over Bills
Hey, I like the Bills. And nobody’s shedding any tears for the Browns. But again, I just think they’re due to win something for a change. Like the above game, I’m not thinking it’s going to be pretty. Hope my hunches have a good week and it’s not just the chili I had for lunch.
Cowboys (-3) over Vikings
I know Eagle fans are rooting for the Vikes, but I’m not seeing it. Still not so sure about Kirk Cousins in a really big spot. Just think the Boys will come up with a prime-time worthy effort at home.
Cardinals (+4.5) over Buccaneers
I’m a big fan of Bruce Arians. But Jameis Winston, not nearly as much. And the Cards seem like they’re playing hard with first-year coach and QB. Not sure they’ll win, but I like their chances of covering, even on the road.
And finally …
Seahawks (+6.5) over 49ers
I know the unbeaten Niners are at home. I just like Seattle, and especially Russell Wilson, in this situation. Not saying the Hawks are going to pull off an upset, but I think they have a shot. And I know the Niners defense has been playing great. But I see this one at least being a game.
There you have it. May the ball bounce your way.
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