TODAY
Giants (-11/2) over BEARS: Big Blue remains ensconced in NFC wild-card comfort zone, while Chicagoans are scrapping to return to .500. But unless this is latest chapter in “Groundhog Day”-like re-enactment of December Swoons Past, willing to chalk last week up to the Vikings enjoying specialized defensive insight about Eli. Derrick Ward’s presence should help.
DOLPHINS (-1) over Jets: This isn’t Miami’s absolute last chance to snag an ’07 win – but it’s almost certainly the last time it’ll be favored to do so. Dolphins are professionals, and sheer desperation can’t be underestimated. Without Jerricho Cotchery and Laveranues Coles, Jets are in bad way.
Falcons (+3) over RAMS: Marc Bulger’s concussion leaves St. Lou in hands of Gus Frerotte, whose nine picks in 120 throws this season do not inspire confidence. While no great shakes, Falcons will be fresher off Turkey Day loss to Colts, and few Atlanta boo-birds are likely to make this trip to hector Joey Harrington.
REDSKINS (-51/2) over Bills: By and large, ‘Skins respected Sean Taylor as a player, teammate and man. Despite obvious distraction factor, believe this is likely to go in the “Win it for Sean” column. Trent Edwards will be back at Bills’ helm this week, but if Washington’s breathing fire, a Marshawn Lynch-less Buffalo herd shouldn’t be able to keep pace.
VIKINGS (-4) over Lions: Minny’s had the hex on Detroit for years, though Lions snared narrow win at Ford Field in Week 2, benefiting from Jon Kitna returning from a mid-game concussion, and appreciating Tarvaris Jackson’s throwing four picks. History unlikely to repeat. So long as Jackson manages game properly, Adrian Peterson/Chester Taylor rushing combo rolls.
Texans (+4) over TITANS: Stud Tenny DT Albert Haynesworth had a decent midweek practice after not participating in three losses with his bad right hamstring. Given recent Titan performances, would surmise that Jeff Fisher needs Haynesworth close to 100 percent to have a chance against Matt Schaub/Andre Johnson battery. Watch for updates, but Houston’s the side if Haynesworth is absent.
Jaguars (+61/2) over COLTS: Indianapolis is desperate to get Marvin Harrison and Ryan Diem back off the injury list for this crucial AFC South match. But Harrison’s most unlikely, and Jags haven’t failed to cover in revenge against a divisional foe who handed them a same-season Florida loss in eight such situations over past decade-plus.
CHIEFS (+6) over Chargers: Bolts are seeking revenge for bad home loss during their early season coma, but believers are paying stiff price, given we’re dealing with Arrowhead atmosphere. Antonio Gates’ history against Chiefs inspires minimal fear. With Damon Huard quarterbacking, Kolby Smith and John Carney can keep Chiefs’ yardage and point totals ticking upward.
EAGLES (-3) over Seahawks: This has not been a great year for teams doing the ol’ West Coast/East Coast jaunt, especially those facing a 1 p.m. start. Put a big black mark against Seattle, as Eagles defensive headhunters look forward to honing in on Matt Hasselbeck after roughing up Tom Brady in big way.
49ers (+3) over PANTHERS: Vinny Testaverde looms the starter after last week’s disaster behind David Carr. But given their age and their injury list, it’s nigh impossible to generate sustained confidence in Carolina any longer. That leaves us with Frisco and freshened veteran Trent Dilfer, who has displayed above-average sharpness the past two weekends.
SAINTS (-31/2) over Bucs: If we knew Jeff Garcia would be sound and ready, would happily go the other way, but Garcia’s back woes would render him a standing target should he try to go. Saints historically atrocious as divisional home favorites, but weak lean in pivotal NFC South hookup.
Browns (pick) over CARDINALS: Cleveland’s starting to do the little, important things on defense, but should this evolve into a track meet, Brownies have developed enviable knack for winning high-scoring duels. Absence of ‘Zona SS Adrian Wilson and CB Eric Green helps our cause.
Broncos (-31/2) over RAIDERS: Broncos had their hooves on Bears’ throats and let up. That shouldn’t happen here, and may come easier than it looks, as Oakland’s off a (rare!) win vs. blood-rival Chiefs, and Mike Shanahan won’t settle for mere victory over Al Davis if humiliation is possible.
STEELERS (-7) over Bengals: Heinz Field conditions don’t figure to be scoring-conducive, but remember that (a) Steelers typically finish seasons strong, when the games mean something – and an afternoon Browns win will increase the intensity, and (b) Cincy is now closing in on 18 full seasons of low-percentage reliability when on the road against top-drawer foes.
TOMORROW NIGHT
Patriots (-20) over RAVENS: A ludicrous road lay, to be sure, but this is all about how Bill Belichick wants to manage his personnel down the stretch. He’ll want to clear by three TDs, plus, to maintain a safe margin (remember the Dolphins!). Backdoor seems primary viable threat.