This thanksgiving the lions will play the packers and the cowboys will play the broncos.

Predictions: Dallas 24   Oakland 10  And  New York 35   Denver 21     And      Green Bay 35    Detriot  17

At the moment, I currently have some big ideas in my head for a series of paintings but in order to achieve what I have in mind I need to practice, practice, practice, and do a heap of studies of the subjects I wish to use. Therefore, you’ll see a whole lot of lions and female nudes over the next few weeks, until I feel I am proficient enough to get this out in a format that I call “artwork”.

As you may be able to tell, these are digital paintings using my Wacom pen tablet and Photoshop. Ultimately, the end product will be traditionally painted on canvas, but initially practicing on the digital medium is a great way to study line, value and colour. I will then move onto studies on canvas to be competent in the medium, and then onto the real works themselves. Please feel free comment and crit as much as you want. Afterall, this blog isn’t for me to pass time with, it is a platform for me to get a sense of my strengths and weaknesses in order to improve my practice, whilst getting to know other artists!

Please click for a larger image.

A lion study

Female nude study

Study for lion and female nude. Here I am marrying up both subjects to see how they work together visually. The final works will have similar subject matter, but obviously with greater depth.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

I sure have a lot to bet thankful for recently.  Namely, I thank my genius brain for figuring out this system that has been consistently correct 70-80% of the time. And I’m thankful that it works for basketball, football, and hockey.  I’m sure it works for baseball as well, but that’s going to have to wait another 6 months or so.

So today was yet another good day for me.  I won all 3 3-team teasers (2 7pts and 1 4pt).  I lost my 1 straight wager for the NBA by 1.5 points. That technically puts me at 9-1 for the day but since it was only 4 teams in the teasers I’ll call it 4-1. I was 5-0 SU on those games.  As for the NHL, I went 2-1 which normally isn’t bad but I tried to parlay them so it didn’t really work out for me.  I’m still happy with it since I made money on the day and I’m still learning.

I apologize for being a little disorganized lately, and my posts haven’t been too in-depth.  I’m still working the kinks out of my system and trying to get everything running smoothly, all while working 40 hours and exercising 14 hours a week. It’s tough to fit it all in but once I get everything sorted out I’ll be able to do the dirty work more quickly and have more time to write good posts.

Also, I know I haven’t updated the other pages in a while.  I’ll get to that this weekend. I promise.

Anyway, here are tomorrow’s NFL, NHL, and NBA picks for tomorrow.

GB VS DET; GB -11.5 (BOUGHT 2PTS)

Surprisingly this is my weakest game of the three.  You wouldn’t think I’d need to buy any points but I am a slave to my system so I do what it says. Stafford looked good last week but remember who he was playing.  And remember how many points the Browns scored on them.

OAK VS DAL; DAL -13.5

This game scares me a little just based on how Dallas has been playing lately.  I’m hoping they’ll be able to take advantage of the Raider’s beaten defense as they didn’t get much rest since their last game.  Obviously Dallas didn’t get much rest either but a short week is harder on the defense than it is on the offense. And I don’t think Oakland’s offense is good enough to really “take advantage” of Dallas.

NYG VS DEN; NYG -6.5

The Giants are back on their feet while the Broncos can’t even find theirs. Giants will keep rolling while the Broncos keep falling.

I also parlayed these games as my system says they are strong.  I played them in a 6pt teaser as well to hopefully offset some losses if they don’t quite cover the spread.

NHL:

Columbus vs Ottowa

Los Angeles vs Vancouver

It looks like the 2 US teams will not be so thankful tomorrow as they both are travelling out of the country and both are going to lose.  I’m playing this as a parlay as well.

NBA:

CHI vs UTA; UTA -3 (BOUGHT 4PTS)

This is the only game of 2 tomorrow that has a spread out right now and the only way I can play it is if I buy 4 points.  I cannot do that on sportsbook.com unless it is part of a teaser (they only let me buy up to 3).  If the other game isn’t good enough to use in a teaser I’ll probably just let it go.

Power Thursday

Increíble semana sin muchos juegos importantes, pero después de todo resulto ser una semana muy importante con todos los equipos del norte de la americana viéndose mal, los leones y los cafés brindaron un juego muy interesante sin aspiraciones a playoffs y los vaqueros y los Redskings uno muy aburrido. Los Titanes siguen ganando y los broncos siguen perdiendo…

Y para una semana en la que este jueves tendremos 3 partidos, un domingo mas ligero con los partidos de las 12 teniendo cero importancia, los de la tarde quiero verlos todos (menos el de los jefes) y el de la noche un platillo interesante en un duelo divisional entre los Acereros y los Cuervos. Y el lunes por la noche el plato principal:  Santos vs. Patriotas, Brees vs. Brady… oh yeah!

Como nota extra se aprobó en el presupuesto de los equipos el sueldo para un neurólogo, cosa que es una medida de seguridad muy importante… solo falta que los equipos y los jugadores tomen en cuenta la opinión medica.

32. Browns

[1-9] Un equipo espantoso, lesiones al por mayor pero posiblemente falsas; salían del partido dos jugadas y después absolutamente nada… pero pues pese a todo eso, me gusto el partido ya que fueron dos QB que quieren lucir pero aun no están listos contra dos defensivas espantosas

31. Rams

[1-9] Corrieron con suerte de no recibir una increíble paliza, ya que el QB rival salio por lesión y el rival bajo el nivel de juego. Muy seguramente no ganaran ni un solo partido mas y se quedaran con la primera selección para intentar juntar muchas selecciones y poner gente que ayude a Steven Jackson que es mucho jugador para tan poco equipo

30. Buccanners

[1-9] Después de recibir una increíble paliza y con un cierre de calendario que suena muy complicado este equipo que no es tan malo como los dos anteriores podría sufrir pero ser beneficiado; posiblemente no gane ningún partido mas, los cafés tienen un calendario mas flexible y por ahí ganarle a los Chiefs y Tampa tendría la segunda selección del draft y ayudarse para la siguiente temporada

29. Lions

[2-8] Matthew Stafford sigue con molestias en el hombro izquierdo después de la separación de hombro sufrida el domingo pasado, seria una estupidez completa que jugara contra los empacadores… y si las molestias continúan es mejor dejarlo sanar tranquilamente

28. Bills

[3-7] Regresa TO? naaa tuvo muchas yds pero no logro ayudar a su equipo con alguna escapada importante, y en su calendario pues simplemente recibes a los Patriotas y recibes a los Colts…

27. Seahawks

[3-7] Los Vikingos les hasta por abajo de la lengua y ahora tendrán una oportunidad de victoria ante los Rams

26. Redskings

[3-7] En un partido muy aburrido contra los Vaqueros en el cual no hicieron absolutamente nada por intentar ganar (tampoco los vaqueros), con un roster sufriendo con muchos lesionados y con un calendario complicadísimo al cierre contra equipos como águilas, santos, gigantes y chargers… pues no podremos esperar una mejora

25. Chiefs

[3-7] Están en el top25 después de ganarle a un equipo que la semana pasada estaba en el 6to puesto

24. Raiders

[3-7] Suben 4 lugares y crean una interesante situación ya que después de un buen juego por Bruce Gradkowski el futuro de JaMarcus Russell con el equipo esta en duda, Gradkowski sera el que inicie el resto de la temporada. Mejoro increíblemente la ofensiva, sin estar tantos puntos abajo la defensiva aguanto y consiguieron una victoria que hizo ver mal a muchos de los “psíquicos” (al igual que contra las águilas). Veremos que noticias nos trae este equipo que dentro de unas horas enfrentan a los Vaqueros que vienen bajando de nivel y el resto de su calendario le permitiría conseguir una o dos victorias mas; cosa que seria de mucho beneficio para la confianza del equipo para la siguiente temporada y porque es importante no estar en buena posición en el draft no nos valla a tocar otro Russell cuando pudimos haber elegido un Peterson

23. 49ers

[4-6] Derrota ante los Packers pero no se vieron tan tirados pal monte… van contra los Jaguares con posibilidades importantes de la victoria y un calendario que incluye a los Leones y a los Rams que posiblemente pueda meterlos en la pelea si se ponen las pilas

22. Jets

[4-6] Mark Sanchez después del incidente del hotdog no puede levantar y se habla de que tendrá que disfrutar de algún tiempo en la banca

21. Bears

[4-6] Cutler necesita jugar mejor y punto, esta matando a este equipo ya que solamente quiere lanzar la bola sin dejar correr a Forte

20. Panthers

[4-6] Visitan a los Jets y estoy esperando un buen juego por parte de las panteras

19. Texans

[5-5] Bajan 4 lugares ya que se vinieron abajo al final del partido sin poder logar nada

18. Titans

[4-6] Una importante victoria y Chris Johnson es una maquina, con Vince Young se le abre un poco de hueco porque también tienes que cuidar que Young no sea el que corra. Y quizá podrían levantar su temporada ya que esta semana reciben a los Cards y quizá podrían llevarse la victoria y digamos que ganan (5-6), pierden en Indianapolis (5-7), recibes a los Rams (6-7), recibes a los Delfines que sin R. Brown no sabemos si puedan aguantar ya que la gente estará preparada contra Ricky Williams y digamos que ganan (7-7), los Chargers dependiendo de como decidan cerrar su temporada seria otra derrota (7-8) y contra los de Seattle una victoria (8-8) y cerrar 8-8 para un equipo que arranco la temporada con 0-6 son muy buenas noticias

17. Dolphins

[5-5] ¿Estarán con vida estos delfines? Tienen un calendario que les permitiría con un buen juego terminar la temporada con récord positivo, una vez mas si juegan bien podrían estar aunque se ve complicado

16. Ravens

[5-5] Es difícil jugar contra Peyton y los Colts, pero este equipo que empezó bien podría quedarse fuera de posibilidades numéricas ya que tienen un calendario que se podría complicar (pese a tener dos posibles, bueno… casi victorias seguras en contra de los Raiders y los Leones). Pero aun tienen que enfrentar dos veces a los acereros y este domingo es una de ellas… duelo directo que es clave para ambos equipos

15. Falcons

[5-5] Este equipo viene en caída libre. Posiblemente despierte su ofensiva pero su defensiva no esta logrando jugadas clave en el mano a mano, pero tienen la “suerte” de tener un calendario que si se ponen las pilas podría volverlos en la pelea ya que tienen que enfrentar 2 veces a Tampa y a los Bills, y prácticamente son tres victorias que los dejarían (8-5), así que la responsabilidad esta en sus manos enfrentando a las águilas y jets que con una victoria ante alguno de ellos los pondría 9-7 (incluyendo una derrota contra los Santos) y ese 9-7 los puede poner en la pelea

14. Jaguars

[6-4] JonesDrew es una maquina juego tras juego, esta semana tuvo una “baja” en su juego ya que solamente corrió para 66yds y 1TD (si eso es baja de juego pues felicitaciones). Equipo que tiene en sus manos la calificación pero no me agradan como equipo

13. Broncos

[6-4] Una tremenda barrida que recibieron por parte de los cargadores los pone de vuelta en el lugar, derrota tras derrota para tener una racha de cuatro consecutivas. Equipo que esta demostrando lo que la mayoría creíamos, pero gracias al buen inicio tiene la calificación en sus manos ya que aun puede lograr nueve victorias ya que enfrentan 2 veces a los jefes y reciben a los Raiders. Dos derrotas en contra de los hermanos Manning respectivamente (Giants y Colts) y jugarse la calificación en contra de las águilas.

Honestamente no creo que sean capaces de conseguirlo, pero tambien honestamente preferiría ver a los broncos que a algún otro del este o sur de la americana (excluyendo a los Pats y a los Colts obviamente)

12. Packers

[6-4] Interesante victoria en contra de los 49es, su defensiva esta muy lesionada… pero creo que su ofensiva es tan buena que si logran proteger un poco las a Rodgers este equipo puede despreocuparse de las lesiones y concentrarse en un puesto de playoffs

11. Steelers

[6-4] Una dura derrota contra un equipo tan débil como Kansas que podría afectar sus aspiraciones a calificar, ya que no solo es la derrota si no que pierdes a tu QB suplente para la temporada y posiblemente al Big Ben en un partido CLAVE contra los cuervos. Aunque ese posiblemente es falso, Big Ben jugara si o si

10. Giants

[6-4] Regresan a la senda del triunfo, esta semana van a ganarle a Denver lo que los pone en lucha seria y si aprendieron de sus errores como candidatos serios para la final de la NFC, y con tres juegos divisionales restantes en su calendario la calificación esta completamente en sus manos

9. Eagles

[6-4] Interesante victoria en contra de las águilas y esta semana posiblemente le ganaran a los Broncos para conseguir legítimamente el liderato de la división

8. Cowboys

[7-3] Una victoria muy aburrida en contra de los Redskings pero al final es una victoria que los sigue manteniendo empatados en victorias de su división. Buenas noticias es que Romo aparenta esta mejor y listo para enfrentar a los Raiders en algunos minutos

7. Bengals

[7-3] Dolorosa derrota en contra de los Raiders, y esperemos para bien de ellos que perder contra equipos de “abajo” no sea cosa de quedarse porque enfrentan en semanas consecutivas a los cafés y a los leones, y en la 16 a los jefes. De ser victorias estas tres estarían amarrando posiblemente un boleto

6. Cardinals

[7-3] Un partido interesante en contra de los Titanes, digo… interesante si no juega Warner, de lo contrario van a ganar y van a clasificar; si no fuera por ayudarlos mas, aun tienen partidos en contra de los Rams y los Leones

5. Chargers

[7-3] Enfrentan a los jefes, de ahí a los cafés para prácticamente amarrar la división. De ahí vaqueros, bengals, titanes y redskings

4. Patriots

[7-3] Un equipo que se viene viendo consistente durante las ultimas semanas y este lunes enfrenta la prueba de fuego ante los Santos en un partido de si o si…  y sin importar una posible derrota el lunes, de mantener el paso (sin lo de regalar juegos como contra los Colts) este equipo amarra la división y descansa la primera semana

3. Colts

[10-0] Siguen ganando, y como mencionábamos la semana pasada que no son buenas noticias… si ganan y pierden los Jaguares aseguran la división. Su defensa no me agrada y gracias al calendario que tienen posiblemente logren mantener la temporada invicta… y OJO! NOSTRADAMUS! bueno, obviamente descansan la primera semana, y después… eliminados!

2. Saints

[10-0] Un día de campo en contra de TampaBay, la ultima vez que los baje de #1 le dieron una paliza a los Gigantes… así que veremos este lunes si logran retomar la punta ya que no merecen el #1 pese a seguir invictos a como han venido jugando

1. Vikings

[10-0] Nuevo líder! Un día de campo en contra de los Seahawks es importante que el resto de su calendario no esta regalado pero tampoco en un día de campo, lo que serainteresante para mantener a ritmo de juego a Favre pero sin exigirlo al máximo y descansando la primera semana, ojo con el general en los playoffs con ayuda de su gran defensiva y el solido juego por tierra. Con una posible adelanto de playoffs en la semana 16 en contra de los Gigantes

By Raimundo Ortiz

Thanksgiving is a time for food, family, and football.  Today, I’d like to focus on football.  I’ll tell you what to expect from the games, and what to keep your eye one to help avoid the ‘itis.

Game One: Packers vs. Lions

The Lions proved they have a pulse last week in an unexpected barn-burner against the Cleveland Browns.  Unfortunately, their statement was marred by another injury to rookie QB Matthew Stafford.  Adding inury to injury, Calvin Johnson’s status is also up in the air.

If Johnson plays, backup Daunte Culpepper’s big arm could keep Detroit competitive.  Maybe.  Some will point to Aaron Rodgers’  line’s inability to protect him as another reason the Lions could hang around and sneak an upset in on Thanksgiving.

Fret not Packers fans.  Rodgers will not have a problem carving up Detroit, pressure or not.  And for the record the Lions served up 37 points to the Browns.  Green Bay is slightly more talented.  Take Green Bay (-11.0) if you’re betting.  If not, watch for Calvin Johnson to put on a show of athleticism and Kevin Smith to take advantage of the absence of linebacker Aaron Kampman.  Too bad the Lions don’t have a defense.  If they did, they’d have a shot.

Game Two: Cowboys vs. Raiders

The Raiders would have been committing a sinful act by subjecting a large Thanksgiving audience to watching JaMarcus Russell attempt to play quarterback.  They looked great last week in upsetting the Cincinatti Bengals, a team that’s for real.  Bruce Gradkowski played well and Raider Nation had an oppurtunity to cheer for once.

Hope they enjoyed it.

Dallas has been stagnant the last two weeks offensively, and many are back to hounding Tony Romo, proclaiming Miles Austin a fluke, and not believing in the Cowboys.  Me?  I don’t really buy into America’s Team as the beast of the NFC East, but I do think they’ve got some sick weapons on offense.  And I also think the Raiders are terrible.  I’m figuring we’re gonna see a blowout in this one.

The Raiders run game is in flux, with three backs and nobody taking the reins.  They should be handing the ball off to McFadden, and using Bush and Fargas to spell the young stud.  Instead, they’re a confusing jumble with a mediocre QB and no real threats at wide receiver.

Look for Marion Barber to punish them, Felix Jones to have 1 or 2 highlight reel runs, and Roy Williams to flourish with Nnamdi Asomugah latched onto Miles Austin.  Take Dallas (-13.5) to the bank.

Game Three: Giants vs. Broncos

NOW!  Here’s a game.  I’ve never been very high on the Denver Broncos, and they’ve validated all my suspicions with their recent downturn.  However, the G-Men have serious flaws of their own.  Their pass rush has been far less formidable than the preceding two years, and their depleted secondary has given up way too many big plays.

Kyle Orton will play.  This means the Broncos have a great chance to hit it big with passes to Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal.  They will need those two wide receivers to step up in a big way.

Conversely, the Giants will need Danny Ware to play at a starter’s level with Ahmad Bradshaw’s foot in a boot.  Brandon Jacobs needs a tag-team partner, and this is Ware’s moment in the sun.

The desperation card will be played by both teams, because both hit the rocks after fast starts and have lost their respective division leads.  The way I see it, Eli Manning led Big Blue to victory last week against Atlanta when their backs were against the wall.  Eli is at his best when the odds are stacked against him.  He is more equipped to rise to the occasion than Kyle Orton, not to mention healthier.  The Giants run game is stronger.  The Giant defense is more explosive, and their wide receivers just as efficient as the Broncos unit.  Expect it to be close, and for Eli to pull away late.  Giants win in an exciting nightcap.  Take them (-6.5).

by Tony Bosma

Nothing goes better with gorging yourself than the National Football League. Thankfully, the NFL is granting fans with a three-game lineup to enjoy, so long as the tryptophan doesn’t take over for too long. Lucky for us, the Lions still play on Thanksgiving, which means a nap can still be fit into the day.

Green Bay @ Detroit (12:30 ET)

The Lions are coming off an emotionally-charged win over the Cleveland Browns (somehow that’s possible). Quarterback Matthew Stafford doesn’t look likely to play after injuring his throwing shoulder in the game, but it won’t matter who is playing QB for the Lions in this game. Green Bay is in the hunt for an NFC Wild Card bid and are facing the Lions at an opportune time. Though it’s always an opportune time to play the Lions, the Packers are showing signs of life since losing to Tampa Bay in Week 9 by beating the Cowboys and 49ers in the past two weeks, respectively.

GB over DET, 28-10

Oakland @ Dallas (4:15 ET)

It’s put-up or shut-up time for the Cowboys. After a loss to Green Bay in Week 10 and an ugly win over Washington in Week 11, the Cowboys offense is due for a resurection. Who better to play than the Raiders? Well, to give the Raiders their due, they did beat the Bengals in Week 11, but when Bruce Gradkowski is your quarterback, don’t expect your luck to last too long.

DAL over OAK, 33-13

New York Giants @ Denver (8:20 ET)

Denver is in disarray, and that’s putting it lightly. While you can’t count them out of this game, their defense looks to have lost all of its power and their offense can’t do anything if Kyle Orton isn’t under center. That being said, it’s hard to just hand this game to the Giants, who have been so inconsistent this season that they can’t be a favorite in any game. To stay in the Wild Card hunt, both teams need this game, badly. This game will come down to a coaches duel, and in that situation, go with experience.

NYG over DEN, 18-10

It is that time of year again in America, Thanksgiving and by the way it is something people in Britain just don’t get.

We have the usual games in Detroit and Dallas along with a game in Denver this year.  So if nothing else we should get alot of points.  So now that i have said that it will be 3 really low scoring games.

No game looks like it is going to be a classic and if anything the chances are there will be a couple of blow outs.

First up is Green Bay beating Detriot

Or at least you would hope so, yes the Lions put up a ton of points last week but lets face it they were playing the Browns.  The Packers defence is a totally different kettle of fish.  I expect Rodgers to have a big game and for the Packers to win by 14 or so.

Second up is Dallas beating Oakland

Surely the Dallas offence can’t play that bad again, even Romo must get better!
In all honestly I expect this game to be over by half time and I refuse to believe that Oakland win two games in a row.

Finally we have New York beating Denver

The Giants and Eli are getting back into the swing of things and I think they will enjoy a comfortable win against a rapidly failing Broncos team.

This last Sunday and Monday were as crazy a week in the NFL as I can remember.  There was hardly a game that went down the way that everyone had expected.  Many analysts looked at this as a down week and after looking at the schedule before Sunday’s games that was my feeling as well.  Boy, were we wrong about that, where do you even start?  The fact that the Bengals lost on the last play of the game to the Raiders after they fumbled the kickoff or how about the Texans losing to the Titans who have now won four in a row, to go along with quarterback Vince Young’s personal eight game winning streak.   Maybe, you don’t like to dwell on the negatives and you want to talk about how the Colts and Saints are still unbeaten and it was not at all easy for the Colts.  I don’t know what to talk about either, but it was a great weekend.

I will say this though there is a team that won on Sunday in dramatic fashion and made me a believer and that team is the Detroit Lions.  What?  I know what you’re thinking, how could I be a believer in the Lions?  I’m not a believer in the Lions this year or probably even next year, but I believe in the guy they have at quarterback, Matthew Stafford.  I thought he might just be another Jamarcus Russell or “Jarmucus” as Tom Jackson calls him, but he’s not.  He came out and threw five touchdown passes and lead his team to victory at the end of the game.  He even threw that last touchdown with a separated shoulder now that’s tough.  You could even see him after he threw it saying it’s out, it’s out.  I am now a Stafford fan I hope he keeps playing big and that eventually the Lions will surround him with the talent necessary to win.

While Matthew Stafford impressed me I think the best team in the league to this point isn’t one of the unbeatens.  It pains me to say it, but the Minnesota Vikings thrashed the Seahawks the way they were supposed to on Sunday and nobody even batted an eyelash.  As long as Favre can keep playing at the same level for the rest of the season I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see him holding up that Lombardi Trophy.  The reason that I really like the Vikings is not their offense, which is dynamic, it’s that defense.  I think they might have the best defense in the league right now and you could argue that they have the best team on both sides of the ball.  So, you heard here first look out for the Vikings I actually see them getting home field advantage throughout the playoffs passing up everybody’s darling the Saints.

Now as for this week, it should be a good one there are a lot of good games especially the Patriots and Colts game that will be the talk of ESPN for the next few days.  We’ll also have the traditional Thanksgiving Day games featuring the Cowb0ys and the Lions.  Thanksgiving is synonymous with football whether it be watching it on TV or playing it in the backyard, no holiday says football like Thanksgiving.  So have a good one tomorrow watch and play some football and most of all eat up, I know I will.

Posted: November 25, 2009

I’ll take another round turkey, a heaping pile of mashed potatoes and a mound of stuffing.  I’ll go for seconds, maybe thirds, on yams and cranberry.  I’ll make room for a slice of pie or three, and then it’s on to dessert and a plate full of Sleepers for Week 12:

QUARTERBACK

Alex Smith (San Francisco) vs. Jacksonville – Projection: 21-35, 220 yards, 2 TD
Smith didn’t look great on Sunday against Green Bay, but still threw for 227 yards and 3 TD.  Jacksonville ranks 25th versus the pass, so another solid performance is a high probability.

Vince Young (Tennessee) vs. Arizona – Projection: 13-21, 155 yards, 1 TD, 5-35 rushing
Young is not an exciting fantasy option, but it’s surprising how little it takes to get double-digit fantasy points from the guy.  With just 116 passing yards in Week 11, Young was still good for 14 fantasy points thanks to 73 rushing yards and a passing TD.

RUNNING BACK

Justin Forsett (Seattle) @ St. Louis – Projection: 13-71 rushing, 5-31 receiving, 1 TD
Even if Julius Jones returns from his bruised lung, Forsett has more than proven his worth in Seattle, and will get his touches.  The Rams are 28th in the league against the run, so this will probably be the last week Forsett qualifies as a “Sleeper”.

Jamaal Charles (Kansas City) @ San Diego – Projection: 14-65 rushing, 3-11 receiving, 1 TD
Against a tough Pittsburgh D, Charles still found a way to be a viable fantasy option by catching a 2-yard touchdown pass from Matt Cassel and returning a kickoff for 6.  San Diego is 21st against the run, so Charles could have another solid day.

Danny Ware (New York Giants) @ Denver – Projection: 9-51 rushing, 3-24 receiving
When the Giants travel to Denver for a Thanksgiving night showdown with the Broncos, Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle) will not make the trip.  With Brandon Jacobs (leg) a bit hobbled, the door could swing open for the Giants’ number three back.

WIDE RECEIVER

Antonio Bryant (Tampa Bay) @ Atlanta – Projection: 5-67 receiving, 1 TD
Bryant had 1248 yards and 7 TD just one season ago.  After battling injuries for much of this year, he’s healthy and could start to build a rapport with Tampa Bay rookie gunslinger, Josh Freeman.  It doesn’t hurt that Atlanta is 29th against the pass.

Earl Bennett (Chicago) @ Minnesota – Projection: 7-84 receiving
Over the past 3 weeks, Chicago’s leading ypc receiver (12.8) has a modest 15 grabs for 177 yards.  Not exactly a trend that would suggest a big game versus Minnesota, but here we go again, putting up the bucks for a guy who always fails to deliver a TD.  This could be the week…

Pierre Garcon (Indianapolis) @ Houston – Projection: 5-72 receiving
Over the past 3 weeks, Garcon is tied with Roddy White for 13th in the NFL in WR targets (28).  Over that span, he has 14 catches, 218 yards and 1 TD, including 108 yards last week.  By the way, he has Peyton Manning throwing him the ball.

TIGHT END

Jermichael Finley (Green Bay) @ Detroit – Projection: 4-39 receiving, 1 TD
How can I not go with Finley (again)?  He’s owned in less than 20% of fantasy leagues, yet, per game, is outperforming Jason Witten, Jeremy Shockey and John Carlson, all of whom are owned in more than 75% of leagues!  Plus, here comes Detroit.

KICKER

Dan Carpenter (Miami) @ Buffalo – Projection: 2 FG, 2 PAT (1 FG 40+)
It’s time to see if Carpenter can be a cold weather kicker.  Safe bet, the Montana alum will be fine, and the Dolphins will get him into range at least twice against the Bills.  Carpenter has scored 74 (real life) points thus far in 2009, and has a big leg.

DEFENSE

Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay – Projection: 17 points allowed, 2 sacks, 1 Int, 1 fumble recovery
The Buccaneers have shown flashes of ability on offense, and there could be some again on Sunday.  That said, Atlanta is averaging 2 sacks and nearly 2 takeaways per game, and Tampa will really be no match at home.

To celebrate the Holidays I am going to post a free winning pick for every day of the week starting on Thanksgiving and going all the way to Sunday. I will also post some great sportsbook bonus so you can take advantage of some of the best in the business! Take time out to be thankful for everything in life and remember the troops that can’t be home on Thanksgiving.

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Happy Thanksgiving to Everyone!

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Free Pick for Thursday November 26th, Turkey day!

Texas @ Texas A& M

Texas has already clinched the Big 12 South and will play Nebraska in the

Happy Holidays!

Championship game but they can’t afford to get caught napping here. This will be no problem for Texas as they are focused on going to the Championship game after the loss last year that put them out. Texas A&M has flopped in six of nine as dogs of 20 points or more and in 10 of 12 ATS off a home win. The Longhorns have scored at least 41 points in their four previous road games this season. They are 23-12-2 ATS in November and get a blowout win here.

Play: Texas -21

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Free Pick for Friday November 27th

Alabama @ Auburn

Auburn enters this game with revenge after getting blanked last year. Alabama is going to the SEC Championship game against Florida so this game is a warm up. The Tigers have covered seven of 11 against Alabama and the home team is 4-1 ATS in the last five showdowns. The Crimson Tide dropped nine of 13 ATS when giving up more than 11 points on the highway. Auburn will not win but they will keep it close.

Play: Auburn +10

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Free Pick for Saturday November 28th

Arkansas @ LSU

The loss for LSU was a tough one that will linger over to this week. Arkansas has pulled off the upset against LSU the last two seasons. The Razorbacks are 11-6 as road dogs and the visitor is 6-3 in the past nine meetings. The Tigers are 2-14 as SEC home favorites and they have floundered in 27 of 34 ATS at Baton Rouge in November. Arkansas knows hwo to beat LSU and will do it again.

Play: Arkansas +3.5

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Free Pick For Sunday November 29th

Indianapolis @ Houston
Houston will be playing on a short week and they have to get Chris Brown in the right mindset for this game. Houston has cashed eight straight as home dogs and won six of those eight SU, the only two losses at the hands of the Colts by a total of four points. The Colts have struggled within the division, dropping 14 of 21 ATS, while the Texans are 6-2 at Reliant Stadium versus AFC-South citizens. Indianapolis has won six of seven at Houston, but failed in five of seven ATS. Houston finally gets the win against the Colts.

Play: Houston +3

Week 11

1. Colts – they remain unbeaten and have had a tougher schedule than the Saints.
2. Saints – Big game this week in fact make it a huge game this week and I have to say I think they will go down to their first lose of the season.
3. Vikings – This team is not getting alot of attention which is surprising with Favre in it but they continue to win and win well.
4. Patriots – Pretty much sealed up the division this weekend and can now look forward to ruining the Saints perfect start to the season.
5. Bengals - They are praying the lose to the Raiders doesn’t hurt them too much.
6. Chargers - Looked good beating up the Broncos and should win the division now.
7. Cardinals – This team still seems to surprise people even after last season.
8. Cowboys – Warning signs are up since they struggled to beat the Redskins.
9. Packers - How could would this team be if they could protect Aaron Rodgers?
10. Giants - Got the win they needed after the bye week even though they tried their hardest to lose it.
11. Eagles – The Bears game was closer than it needed to be.
12. Steelers - Must stop losing so silly teams like the Chiefs.
13. Broncos – Simms was so bad he made Orton look like Elway.
14. Jaguars - Nearly losing to Buffalo shows how bad this team can be at times.
15. Falcons – Not surprised by the news they are seeking a new kicker.
16. Ravens - They need to win a game against a good team to be taken seriously.
17. Dolphins – Still winning even with all those injuries.
18. Texans - Things looked so good a few weeks ago but know they look like the .500 Texans we all love.
19. Titans – Being winless seems like a long long time ago now.
20. Panthers – Run the ball in the red zone please.
21. Bears - They are only this high because there are so any bad teams right now.
22. Jets - Looks like a team coached by a rookie head coach and with a rookie starting QB.  Nice to see the disrespected us quote coming out this week.
23. 49ers - Smith looks ok at last.
24. Chiefs - Big win last week.
25. Raiders - Finally they have a QB who can throw the ball.
26. Bills - When do they move to Canada now?
27. Seahawks – Time to start worrying about next season.
28. Redskins – See above.
29. Lions - How do you lose so many yards and points to the Browns?
30. Rams - I still feel sorry for Steven Jackson.
31. Buccaneers - Man this team is bad.
32. Browns - and this team is even worse.

Some Festive Games and Some Turkeys

We’ve arrived at Thanksgiving week, and the NFL season has become one of haves, have-nots, and mediocre teams.  The haves (New Orleans, Indianapolis, Minnesota, Cincinnati, San Diego, Arizona, and New England) figure to be the eight teams playing in the second round of the NFL playoffs. 

 The have-nots (Cleveland, Detroit, Tampa Bay, St. Louis, Washington, Kansas City, Oakland, Seattle, and Buffalo) have nothing to play for at this point.  To wager on these teams, one must find a reason to believe these teams’ players will have a reason to give everything they’ve got.

 The 15 mediocre teams remaining are the ones competing for the final four playoff berths.  These are the teams that must be watched carefully as the stretch drive begins.  Be careful playing against one of these teams when they are playing a have or have-not.  They can be dangerous.

 This week presents some interesting contests.  On Thanksgiving night, the Denver-New York Giants game features two of the aforementioned mediocre teams.  A match-up of two mediocre teams in essence becomes a playoff elimination game.  The loser of this game has very little chance of recovering to make the playoffs this year.

 Indianapolis plays at Houston, and the Texans find their backs up against the wall.  After losing a close Monday night game, Houston is in a must-win position.

 Arizona plays at Tennessee, and if the Titans win this one to get to 5-6, they would have to be considered a dark horse candidate to finish 9-7 and sneak in as the final AFC Playoff team.  No NFL team has ever started a season at 0-6 and finished 8-8 must less 9-7.  The 1970 Cincinnati Bengals began the season 1-6 and won seven games in a row to win the AFC Central Division at 8-6.

 Baltimore and Pittsburgh face off in a blood and guts battle that could easily be a playoff elimination game.

 The Monday night game is the best MNF game of the year.  New England plays at New Orleans.  It could easily be a preview of the Super Bowl.

So the zoo was fantastic!! I really liked it. Although I do have to say that I felt a little bit sad, seeing all the animals contained. I mean, I guess it’s good because they are safe and protected. But we saw these poor eagles that probably never get to spread their wings and really fly. That made me feel a little bit sad, but other than that I really enjoyed myself.

The Koalas, which I don’t think I have ever seen before, they were so cute! And all getting high on Eucalyptus, it smelled so good!

Here I am searching for a kleenex for John. He likes to snap pictures of me, whenever he holds the camera.

The Meerkats were really cute. One was just lying on it’s back, like it was waiting for a belly rub, and the other one running around like crazy checking everyone out!

The zoo is really big. We spent a good 5 and a half hours there. There is a bus ride you can take around the whole park that takes about an hour, but we decided to just go it on foot. We did however do the aerial tram. It was really cool, and from the top we had a great view of San Diego from it. It’s pretty short, about 4 minutes from one side to the other.

After checking out some of the animals, we decided to have lunch. We found a little restaurant in the trees, near the Gorillas, called Albert’s. It was great. Something different from the usual hotdogs and burgers. I had a Portobello mushroom wrap and fries, and John had a chicken sandwich and fries. They also gave us fresh-baked bread to start, and it was still warm! Yummy!

Probably the most entertaining of the animals were the Orangutans. We were standing by the glass watching this little one play with a burlap sack, and then this other bigger one, came right up to me at the glass. It was pretty cute.

It was hard to get really good pictures through the glass. The lions were magnificent also. They were both just lazing around, but we got so close to the female because she was right next to the glass. And the male’s gaze kept following me. I think he just liked my red shirt.

Isn’t she beautiful? Looks like you could snuggle right up with her.

I think that the animal I liked best were the pandas. Both the pandas we saw were born in captivity at the San Diego zoo. They were so cute. I think I really like pandas because when I was little, pandas came to stay at the Calgary Zoo. It was a special exhibit, and my mom took me to a special event called “Breakfast with the Pandas”. We had to get up really early, they served us breakfast and then we got to see the pandas eat their breakfast up close with next to no one around. It was really cool, and one of those memories that has really stuck with me. (So thanks Mom!)

Aren’t they so cute? They remind me of Solomon, because of their cute faces.

So after the zoo, we were pretty tired. We decided to just head back to the hotel and veg. We watched tv and ordered room service. It was a perfect end to a great day. I like these kind of vacations where nothing is really planned, and we just do whatever!

I read an interesting letter in response to a New Yorker review of Jonathan Safran Foer’s new book, Eating Animals. It provides a different perspective on the idea that killing animals for food is wrong, from a rather unexpected source. It’s also very concisely written. Definitely a good read, as it strongly reinforced my preconceptions, on a psychological level.

And I’ve always respected those who take up vegetarianism for the health benefits. By combining certain fruits and vegetables together, one can create a very balanced and beneficial diet. Much more balanced than that of a typical omnivore. I’ve actually gone an entire month without eating meat just because. My mom was doing it for temple, and I figured I would just follow suit. As long as you have a general know-how in terms of making food taste good, meat is negligible. That’s not to say I didn’t have an immense craving for bacon, burritos, pizzas, and the like. It’s just I’ve never really been a picky eater, so eating vegetables all the time never sounded like a bad thing to me. Until I realized that in that month, I was never got full.

And I’ve tried to respect, to a degree, activists who become vegan for the sake of these animals who are, rather unpleasantly slaughtered for our ruthless consumption. Yes, the backbone of America is not the most pretty, but it keeps us going. Not all of us can afford to go organic, and not all of us have the time to put in the research of which beans and sprouts make a complete protein. We just don’t have time to worry about that, when we know that even a small amount of cheap meat can provide enough fat and protein to keep a family alive and thriving.

But I don’t like it when people tell me that killing animals is wrong. Because lions do it. And lions are bigger than me, scarier than me, and overall have more potential to induce chaos and catastrophe than me. So if anything, we should be deflecting the attention off of fanatical eaters like myself, and onto the lions and the other scary cats in the world. Pfft. Just because we humans are smart and invented efficient ways to take down our prey. Look. If lions had torpedoes build onto their backs, gazelles and antelopes would’ve been extinct eons ago. With the prowess, the cunning, the general superiority associated with the Lion (…I blame Disney), surely a lion with a torpedo on its back would drive mankind into a inescapable pit of slavery. Would you not agree?

With factory farming and other rather maniacal methods of meat production and packaging available to us, it may seem as though we are playing God, determining life and death. But we are what are. We are human. We are animals. We eat, we hunt, for survival. When we are satiated, that is when we are able to think about others, and about ourselves on a deeper level. And it is precisely that activity that brings us above other animals. The activity of being overly satiated. The fact that we see eating as a routine and not the only means of survival makes us look at the world with an eye that skews. That’s why we see our act of killing animals instead of seeing the man on the street that would kill an animal to stay alive.

We can’t feed the hungry microgreens and expect them to be satiated. When a beast reaches the point of desperation, the only thing that makes sense is to drive another beast into a similar turmoil, or a fate even worse. Meat. Our visceral desire awakens in periods of uncertainty. And that side of us, disregarding our moral beliefs, wants to feast. Because it is the only certainty. The blood of the fallen fuel the blood of those who want to rise to see the sun once more.

So yes, I’m not the biggest proponent of animal rights.I don’t mean to offend, but if we are going to continue to be the dominant species, then we should acknowledge it, accept it, and embrace it. Because I don’t want to live in a world where I am forced to eat soy bacon, or soy meatloaf.

And at some point, I just fall into a depression. Because I know these people are noble in their causes. And I know that what I say won’t mean anything. I’m fine with that. I think we should all have the freedom to believe what we want. It’s just, when I see cute vegan girls sitting on the grass, it really pains me.

Because they will never know what it’ll be like to be on a dinner date with me, myself, and bacon.

Last Saturday we spent a couple of cold (sorry Katie!!!) hours with Katie at the State Park.  She was totally a trooper and you can barely make out the goose bumps on her!  Here are some of our favorites from the editing so far:

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I thought that all that time in shorts and bare feet might have done her in, but she kept on going!  Awesome!

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We called it a day when we lost our light and we couldn’t feel our toes anymore!

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Thanks Katie!  We had a great time!

Lizzie was our next AOA senior and we had a great time  photographing her!  We did a lot in Elkins Lake, and then went to the downtown Huntsville square area.  Here are some of my favorites:

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It’s always fun to have a friend with you on a shoot!

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what’s a girl without her phone?

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Then we moved from Elkins to the square…

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and created a legacy … you’ll have to ask Lizzie about that…

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and I’ll end with one of my favorites … just really sweet …

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Thanks Lizzie!  You’re beautiful!

This is the bit I plan to write that categorically will not be about the Bears.  Otherwise I may as well just go apply for a job kissing Lovie Smith’s ass.  SO:

If there’s any one way of not talking about the Bears, it would be to talk about every other member of the NFC North.

First, the Lions, who not only inexplicably decided to play an actual game of football on Sunday, but Stafford also led the league in passing yards for the week with 422.  And 5 TDs.  What the hell.  Admittedly it was against the Browns, which is a bit like throwing 5 TDs past your own grandmother, but still, extremely impressive from the other team in the NFC North that has no hope of reaching the playoffs this season.

Second, we have the Vikings, who are quickly becoming the team they kept threatening to be the last 5 years or so.  They finally have a competent QB, and look what happens.  Suddenly NFL analysts all over the world realise that those two guys dressed in purple that line up near the sideline aren’t mascots but wide receivers.  To give me an extra kick to the kidneys this does of course give Adrian Peterson even more goddamn space to run.  Oh, and they creamed the Seahawks on Sunday.

Last, and in my mind least, we have the Packers. They also won on Sunday.  I think somebody called Roger played quite well.  More importantly to me, they lost two of their better defensive players (Al Harris and Aaron Kampman) for what seems like the rest of the season.

Anyway, bitterness and Packer hatred aside, I think I’ll try and do this every week, but with a different division each time.  Or, I’ll get bored about this time every night and I’ll have analysed the whole damn league before you can say “Cutler throws a pick.”

See ya.

David Knows What’s Up…and he Lives in Brooklyn.

The Ballast is proud to introduce our new bi-weekly columnist David Marchese. Our inaugural story’s theme in the spirit of the holiday, involves Thanksgiving’s travel stories. We hope you enjoy! Keep a look out for our next story as David keeps letting us know what’s up.

The Truth About Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving, you’ll get annoyed at relatives you wish you didn’t have to see and eat till Africa gives you the finger. No shit. That’s what always happens. I can offer solutions.

Regarding the eating, maybe stop at the fourth helping of Fluffernutter sweet potatoes. You’re welcome. Make the check out to cash. And about family? I learned a new word recently: consanguinity. It means a close relation. I read the word in an interview with the author Cormac McCarthy, the schmo who wrote The Road and No Country for Old Men. He was saying something about how he doesn’t care about consanguinity. Neither do I. Neither should you. The best warm-and-fuzzy, huggy-wuggy memory I have about Thanksgiving involves sitting next to a guy on an airplane that I thought was gonna be a total drip.

I was flying from New York to Toronto the night before Thanksgiving last year. I’d gotten all comfortable in my seat when I see an old orthodox Jewish man slowly coming my way. (Before I go much further, let me just say that I’m Jewish — so cool your jets.) There’s often a lot of Orthodox Jews on the New York to Toronto flight. I’ve sat next to members of that persuasion a few times and they’re never friendly. The worst was when I shared a row with this young Orthodox couple that kept up this nasal, upwardly inflected sub-Nanny banter the whole goddamn flight. “You want I should tell Morris about your problems in bed?” — “Morris knows from such things, the putz.” On an on.

Actually, that was the second worst. Once I got stuck in the window seat when a girl and a guy that were also sitting in my row — I think they were co-workers on a business trip — started getting frisky. They asked for a blanket from the attendant and then spread it over their laps. It wasn’t hard to tell what was happening under there.

Anyway, this old guy dressed like Moses at a funeral stops at my row and asks — more like tells — in a thick Yiddish accent if I would help him put his bag in the overhead compartment. Whatever. I did it. Flight takes off and oldie’s totally hogging the arm rest and talking loudly to his wife, who’s sitting in the row in front of us. He sucks back big loogies and hocks them into his hanky. He smells like a hospital. About 20 minutes into the flight, the attendant comes by and gives us each a little packet of wasabi sesame crisps or whatever. Oldie asks if I can read the fine print on the package for him. He wants to know if the snack is kosher. I read some Hebrew word out loud to him. He complements me on my pronunciation and asks if I’m Jewish. I said I wasn’t. I just didn’t feel like getting into it and I wanted him to think that someone who wasn’t Jewish would still be able to accurately pronounce a Hebrew word.
But after that happens, the guy starts talking to me — asking what I do, where I’m from, why I’m going to Toronto. Turns out he’s really nice. He tells me that as a child his family escaped from Austria just as the Holocaust was getting into gear. Eventually, he made his way to Israel and founded a town modeled after the one his family left in Europe. I’m not making this shit up. Then when the flight ends, I help him with his bag and walk him and his wife to the customs counter and he says thanks and wishes me good luck in life.

My second best Thanksgiving experience was when I ordered a Festive Special from Swiss Chalet and they gave me an extra order of stuffing.

On to my picks for Thanksgiving’s NFL games:

Packers at Lions
I’m going with the Pack on this one. They’re better at playing football than the Lions.

Raiders at Cowboys
Cowboys. Romo hits a fall-away three at the buzzer to win it.

Giants at Broncos
Losers of four in a row, the Giants are reeling. Having either won or lost their last game, the Broncos are primed for an upset. It’s a tough call, but I’m saying this one gets canceled on account of weather.

Saturday was so much fun! Seeing New moon and all! Fun, fun! After the film we went into town to start a little Christmas shopping, i cannot believe its that time of year already! D: .. not that I’m complaining! But still, I feels like I was enjoying the rays of summer only 2 weeks ago! .. Blimey. But hayho? .. Where was I, oh .. We were in town and brought a new stretcher for my ear 3mm, it hurts like fuuuuckk!!! D’: ..It’s hurting right now, as i sit in media doing fuck all. (: (Well I’m doing reviews on blog sites .. LOL Cha’right ;D) The soundtrack it quite good actually, its surpirsing how I remember which song was used for what scene in the film. I’m so awesome ^^, im hand has cramp again! .. Perhaps people sell cramp-wrist harnesses? D:- If only.
I had the weirdest dream last night! D:
I was in a pet shop with my family, and a couple friends, but the pet shop had a model section, and there was this hulk model under this batman one. And he was laying down on some lab bed in his green hulky form, and he looked really serious. But in the middle of his chest was a button, i obviously pushed it and i made farting noises! D: LOL .. so i kept pushing it, having myself a nice chuckle. I read the side and I was called something like, Whoopsie, there I go again! D: They walked off and my parents and that were like we’re going now, so they went I was gonna go aswell, but then inside one of those heater tank things was my friend Mark! D:< .. Wth? :L :L :L .. and he was sleeping, I go to him, 'Mark?! .. When I die can my funeral have a Lion theme?' He ignored me and proceeded in sleeping. I dont remember anymore, but I was strange. LOL! (: … Anyways I have to go now! Art awaits ¬¬'
Caio! ^^

Since 1990, 66% of teams that start the season 6-4 have made the playoffs.

With that statistic in mind, you can count on the chances of the following teams making the playoffs at 66%:

Indianapolis, Cincinnati, New England, Pittsburgh, San Diego, Denver, Dallas, New Orleans, Minnesota, Arizona, New York Giants, Philadelphia, and Green Bay.

Of the teams above, only a handful gave a worthy performance today. New England, San Diego, Minnesota, and Green Bay.

The rest either did not live up to their potential or did not deserve their night in the spotlight. Take the following things into mind.

Dallas continues to exhibit an offensive brain fart. I don’t know which coach is worse: Charlie Weis or Wade Phillips. How can you justify barely winning at home against a 3-7 team, scoring only one touchdown. As one of my old college co-workers stated on Twitter, the Mayor of Dallas should be giving a key to the city to Redskins kicker Shawn Suisham. Thanks to Suisham, Dallas narrowly defeated the Redskins, 7-6.

Grit wins games, as Indianapolis learned today. How can you justify going into an hostile environment today (M & T Bank Stadium) and winning by two? It was all about making the correct plays. Peyton Manning was outgunned by his younger brother today, but yet still led Indianapolis to its 19th straight win, two shy of the NFL record set by the Patriots several seasons ago.

Speaking of the Mannings, what a game Eli had today! Eli set career highs in passing yardage with 384 yards on 25 for 39, with three touchdowns and one interception. If not for Matt Stafford (read below) or Brett Favre, I’d call it the Offensive Performance of the Week. Eli willed the Jints to their sixth win of the season, snapping a four-game losing streak.

Boy did San Diego send a statement today. A win at Mile High over the reeling Broncos to claim first in the AFC West. Sure, Denver’s been off the last two games since Kyle Orton went down, but that’s not an excuse. Denver defeated Dallas, so they were legit. Something’s wrong with the Broncos, and something’s going right for the Chargers.

Detroit may have saved their season with that game today. Defeating the Browns with no time on the clock, and Matt Stafford throwing his fifth touchdown of the day? Amazing. Detroit has totaled their win-total from the past two seasons already this year. That’s good news for the Motor City.

Big Ben was knocked out, and the Steelers lost. Roethlisberger had 398 yards, 3 TDs and 2 INT on 32 for 42 passing. That is a good game if anything, but Kansas City won their first game at Arrowhead Stadium today behind an overtime field goal.

Is Favre Human? How can a 40-year old man have a passer rating of near-perfect? 141.8? in the 10 games this season, Favre has had only three games of sub-100 passer ratings. He has 21 touchdowns against three interceptions. The way the Vikes are playing, they will probably meet New Orleans in the NFC Championship game in January.

After the 4th and 2 dilemma last week, New England delivered today.The Pats scored on three straight drives in the end of the first and in the early minutes of the second quarter, to put the game out of reach of their divisional rivals.

Vince Young’s going back to the state of Texas, but he won’t win. This is Houston, This is Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson. No way will they let the Titans win. The Texans will win. On Monday Night Football.

It’s not football, but…congratulations to Jimmie Johnson on his fourth straight Sprint Cup title.

Game of the week for next week that I can’t wait to see: New England at New Orleans. There’s also Pittsburgh at Baltimore on Sunday night and the Giants at Denver on Thanksgiving. My brother better have the NFL Network…or else.

This week the Lions actually won another game! They played against the only team in the league that is worse than them but a win is a win. A lot of fans believe that it is between these two teams receiving the number one draft pick in next years draft. Usually we want to get that pick, but with the amount of money paid to that pick, the Lions DO NOT WANT THAT PICK. Today may have secured the Cleveland Browns that pick along with the financial burden it comes with. We may not win another game this season, but we won the most important game for us today. Down 24-3 at one point the game was highly entertaining, with the Lions making a comeback to win 38-37.

This blog entry will be short and sweet. Just like that win.

With another victory this week over the San Francisco 49ers, the Packers have moved into playoff contention. At 6-4, their record ties them with only the New York Giants, good enough for a wild card berth at this point. They might also be tied with the Eagles, but the outcome of the Eagle’s game against the Bears has not yet been decided. With 6 games left to play, the next few weeks will be critical. A few more victories would put Green Bay in control of its own destiny. Let’s hope the team doesn’t have a letdown due to the close win this week. They are on a short week, playing the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving this Thursday.

If 49ers fans are feeling down, maybe feeling a little bitter after that loss, they should grab some San Francisco sourdough bread, a bay area specialty. They can use it as comfort food. It’s really quite good. They can also grab some extra napkins to dry their tears. My step-brother Kyle is a 49ers fan – maybe I’ll offer him a loaf. He was at the game. I wonder how that went down… he was probably booed by the Green Bay fans. Nothing a little sourdough bread can’t fix. “Hey Kyle, why don’t you shove this sourdough bread in your sourpuss?” Ha-ha.

This victory was vindication for Aaron Rodgers, as the 49ers passed him over for Alex Smith in the 2005 draft. He had something to prove this week, and it showed. I think he had the last laugh, as he put up some big numbers and guided the Pack to a second straight win. If he keeps playing like that, I like the Packers chances to make the playoffs. It was also nice to see a better performance out of our offensive line, which enabled Ryan Grant to have a 100-yard rushing day. The balance on the offense was a big key to the Pack’s win.

Like I said, the Packers play the Lions this Thursday in Detroit. Go Pack!

This week’s winner: Aaron Rodgers

This week’s loser: Alex Smith