NFL Picks - Week 5

How random is the NFL? The Lions and 49ers are thinking playoffs. And not too many people can disagree. Let's see if I can sort through some of this stuff.

(Winners in bold)

Bills at Giants

The Giants make no sense. One day they look amazing; the next they're putrid. If you have an idea of what to make of them, please let me know. Buffalo has "magic season" written all over them.

Colts at Bengals

I'm not a total believer in the Bengals. I think they actually benefit from being overlooked by everyone in consecutive weeks. A bad team is rolling into town to feed the hype machine.

Jaguars at Steelers

Again, the Steelers aren't quite done yet. The Jags, meanwhile, haven't really gotten started.

Eagles at Redskins

Eventually, something has to go right for Philly. This looks like a trap game to me.

49ers at Lions

Who would have thought this would be the game of the week. The Lions really just own teams when playing at home. Can't change my thinking right now.

Rams at Packers

Not a chance.

Panthers at Falcons

The Panthers are so close to being respected, but they can't seem to put it together for a whole game. The Falcons are far from impressive, but they haven't gotten this bad.

Browns at Raiders

This was supposed to be the year the Browns took a step forward. Shows how much you know, right?

Texans at Ravens

If Andre Johnson was available, I'd be more inclined to pick an upset. Take away Mario Williams and the Texans are slightly above average. Not good enough.

Saints at Buccaneers

I can't go chalk this week. If there is going to be an upset at all, I think it happens here.

Cowboys at Patriots

Speaking of upset, this is the sexy pick for everyone, but when have the Patriots ever followed the script. Until I get a reason to pick against Brady (or for Romo for that matter) then I'm staying put.

Vikings at Bears

Two horribly coached teams matching up. I have no idea what took Leslie Frazier so long to give the ball to Adrian Peterson and Bears offensive coordinator seems hell-bent on killing his quarterback. Regardless, if a team's best chance is to keep the ball away from the quarterback (McNabb), you aren't in good shape.

Dolphins at Jets

For the past two years, I have been calling the Jets "Ravens Lite". If they somehow lose this game, they drop straight to "Diet Ravens" or "Ravens Zero". I haven't decided. Miami is terrible, though so...

I'm aware that I chose the home team in 11 of the 13 games, but I don't care. Those are the match-ups I see. I let my record do the talking.

Last Week: 8-5
Season: 50-27