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By Dave Consolazio, November 28, 2008 10:00 am

Dave’s Dime
“Because Two Cents Just Isn’t Enough”
www.davesdime.com

THE INTRO

Sorry the Dime is a little late this week. Food coma.

Thanksgiving Day had its pros and cons.

Pros: Ate lots of delicious food, went 2 – 1 on my NFL picks, 1 – 0 on my philosophy pick.

Cons: Angered family members, got sick to my stomach, took about 33 days off of my life expectancy, and added to the number on the scale I’m supposed to be subtracting from.

Hmm.

Man I love Thanksgiving.

Hope you had a great one! Lets see what we can do about this weekend’s picks while we snack on some leftovers.

THE RECORD

Last Week
With the spread: 10 – 5 – 1 (.667)
Without the spread: 9 – 7 – 0 (.563)
^^Philosophical Picks^^: 1 – 0 – 0 (1.000)

Season

With the spread: 92 – 80 – 3 (.535)
Without the spread: 111 – 64 – 1 (.634)
^^Philosophical Picks^^: 13 – 5 – 0 (.722)

QUICK RECAP OF LAST WEEK

THE GOOD:

Cincinnati (+11.0) @ Pittsburgh (-11.0) W
Tampa Bay (-7.5) @ Detroit (+7.5) W
Philadelphia (+1.0) @ Baltimore (-1.0) W
Houston (+3.0) @ Cleveland (-3.0) W
San Francisco (+10.0) @ Dallas (-10.0) W
New England (+1.0) @ Miami (-1.0) W
Chicago (-7.5) @ St. Louis (+7.5) W
Oakland (+9.5) @ Denver (-9.5) W
New York Giants (-3.0) @ Arizona (+3.0) W
Indianapolis (+2.5) @ San Diego (-2.5) W

THE BAD:

Minnesota (+2.0) @ Jacksonville (-2.0) L
Buffalo (-3.0) @ Kansas City (+3.0) L
Carolina (+1.0) @ Atlanta (-1.0) L
Green Bay (+2.5) @ New Orleans (-2.5) L

THE COULD HAVE GONE EITHER WAY/NOT MY WAY THIS WEEK:

Washington (-3.0) @ Seattle (+3.0) T

THE “WHAT THE $%^@”?:

New York Jets (+5.5) @ Tennessee (-5.5) L
Jets not only win, but a blowout win?

THE PICKS

* – Indicates Upset Pick
^ – Indicates Philosophical Pick

THURSDAY

Tennessee (-11.0) @ Detroit (+11.0)

PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Tennessee (Win)
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Tennessee (Win)

Seattle (+12.0) @ Dallas (-12.0)

PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Seattle (Loss)
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Dallas (Win)

Arizona (+3.0) @ Philadelphia (-3.0)
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^Philadelphia (Win)
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: ^Philadelphia (Win)

SUNDAY

Carolina (+3.0) @ Green Bay (-3.0)
There really isn’t much more to this game than where it is being played. Green Bay is a totally different team at home; the defense plays better, the offense runs more seamlessly. And yes, you can say this about a lot of teams, but its pretty uncanny for the Packers; 3 – 2 at home with double digit wins over Indy and Chicago, 2 – 4 on the road with the two wins coming against lowly Detroit and Seattle. As for 8 – 3 Carolina, they are 6 – 0 at home and 2 – 3 on the road; and their 2 road wins came on a miracle play on the last play of the game against San Diego and an extremely ugly game against Oakland. Tack on Green Bay being furious about being embarrassed so badly on Monday night, and I think the choice is clear.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Green Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Green Bay

Indianapolis (-4.5) @ Cleveland (+4.5)
One of two very scary philosophy picks for me Sunday, but the damn things are hitting over 70% this year, how can I turn my back on them? Indianapolis is surging after a slow start en route to 4 straight wins, and now they face a Cleveland Browns team that has been a mess all year. They can’t defend against the pass or get pressure on the QB, which makes them a horrible mismatch against Indianapolis. Brady Quinn’s season ending injury only adds insult to, well, injury. All this adds up to about 90% of bettors being on Indianapolis here, and Indianapolis has also been thrown into just about every parlay and teaser and exotic bet out there this week. Bookmakers haven’t budged on the line, it should be Cleveland +6.0 by now, but it hasn’t moved. They like something about this game. Maybe the team rallies to prove they aren’t a one man team? Maybe its the fact that Indy’s 4 wins have come by margins of 3, 4, 6, and 3? Whatever it is, I’ll take the side I’m “not supposed” to take.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^*Cleveland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: ^*Cleveland

Baltimore (-7.0) @ Cincinnati (+7.0)

When these teams meet up they generally play close games, so I really hate giving the home team 7 points here. But Baltimore is just too good on both sides of the ball for me to pick against them here. Cincinnati has played over their head in keeping losses close all year, but I can’t figure out how they are going to not only stop Baltimore, but score as well. I’d need more than 7 points to take the Bengals here.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Baltimore
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Baltimore

San Francisco (+6.5) @ Buffalo (-6.5)
With a blowout victory over Kansas City, New York’s forgotten team has ended their losing streak and somewhat gotten back into the thick of things. The AFC East appears to be a two horse race between the Jets and Patriots, but at 6 – 5 there is no reason for the Bills to roll over and give up on the season just yet. This is a very winnable game for them, and with the confidence boost of last week’s road win, I think they tack on another easy win here.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Buffalo
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Buffalo

Denver (+7.5) @ New York Jets (-7.5)

If you thought Cleveland was tough to swallow, how hard is it to pick Denver this week? The Jets have won 5 straight, including 3 straight 30+ point efforts and wins on the road against New England and previously-undefeated Tennessee. Their 2nd ranked offense (PPG) goes against the Bronco’s 28th ranked defense. The Bronco’s 27th ranked rushing defense and 25th ranked passing defense will be ill-equiped to stop the Jets juggernaut offense. The Broncos have lost 4 of their last 6, including last week a home blowout loss to the Raiders. Isn’t this a classic case of one team riding too high and the other team riding too low? Looks that way to me. And if you don’t want to blindly follow my philosophy pick and want a concrete reason to like Denver, maybe the fact that they have the league’s 3rd best passing attack and are going against the Jets’ 26th ranked passing defense might make you see a shootout as a realistic possibility? Jets will likely win here, but I say they have their hands full this week.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^*Denver
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: New York Jets

New York Giants (-3.5) @ Washington (+3.5)
This is just a gut feeling more than anything. The Giants have been near-invincible all season, and Washington hasn’t looked sharp in over a month now. No real reason to give them much of a chance. But with Bradshaw and Jacobs both not healthy and the Giants in command at 10 – 1, I could see them letting up a little bit, even if only subconsciously. Washington meanwhile is still very much alive at 7 – 4, thanks to some impressive upsets and a few easy out-of-division games. The Giants have had a brutal stretch of games over their last 5; @PIT, DAL, @PHI, BAL, @ARI, and now a division rival this week? I think the Redskins are less bruised up and are poised to pull off the upset.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Washington
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Washington

New Orleans (+4.0) @ Tampa Bay (-4.0)
Hard to pick against Drew Brees, and with Reggie Bush coming back, this incredible offense just got even better. But Tampa Bay’s defense is ranked 3rd in points given up this season, and the passing defense is ranked 2nd best in the NFL. I’m a firm believer in taking defense over offense, even if the offense is simply amazing. If Brees can carve these guys up, look out for New Orleans down the stretch.

PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Tampa Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Tampa Bay

Miami (-9.0) @ St. Louis (+9.0)
St. Louis is bad, awful, horrendous, etc. etc., but every dog has its day. The Rams have lost four straight games by 19+ points, and they are bound to string together a halfway decent game sooner or later. Miami has let bad teams stick around this season, and despite their fantastic year, they only have one double digit victory. St. Louis should lose, but I say they lose respectably this week.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *St. Louis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Miami

Atlanta (+4.0) @ San Diego (-4.0)

Every week people keep saying THIS IS THE WEEK that San Diego gets things “back on track”, but every week they are wrong. This might just be the week though. The fact that a 4 – 7 team that has shown nothing over the last 5 weeks (1 – 4 with a 1 point win over KC) is a favorite over a 7 – 4 team that has won 3 of their last 4 (Including tough New Orleans and Carolina) tells you which side bookmakers want you on. If San Diego can stop the run as well as they are capable of and pass the ball well, they should be able to win this game and cover the spread. It is about time they do.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: San Diego
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: San Diego

Kansas City (+3.0) @ Oakland (-3.0)

Kansas City is ripe for an upset, but I don’t think it comes this week. Since waiving DeAngelo Hall, the Raiders defense has been clicking much better, and last week the offense finally woke up. Russell had a great game and McFadden had two TDs. This week McFadden and Fargas get the league’s 2nd worst rushing defense, which should allow the Raiders to stay in their comfort zona and run the offense they want to. Tom Cable has done a good job getting the team to keep playing hard, and shockingly enough at 3 – 8 the Raiders are not totally out of the playoff hunt in the AFC West. I’m not saying they are going to make it; but they do have something to play for, and dare I say it, I think they pick up their second straight win this week.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Oakland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Oakland

Pittsburgh (+1.0) @ New England (-1.0)
I’ve gone back and forth on this game a dozen times, but what it finally comes down to for me is the Pittsburgh defense. They are just so damn stingy. Yes Matt Cassell has come into his own and proven he can play good football at this level, but this is as tough of a defense as New England has faced. I think Roethlisberger can do enough in this game to get Pittsburgh the lead and then go into shutdown mode, which they can do as well as anyone. I’ll take my chances on the Steelers “upset”.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Pittsburgh
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Pittsburgh

Chicago (+3.5) @ Minnesota (-3.5)
Chicago matches up well against Minnesota. They have a great rushing defense, but they usually end up getting beaten by teams through the air. Minnesota’s 26th ranked passing offense really isn’t that capable of exploiting that weakness though. Minnesota meanwhile has a difficult time defending against the pass, and with Kyle Orton back, this could be trouble for Minnesota. I think the Bears get the win here.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Chicago
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Chicago

MONDAY

Jacksonville (+3.0) @ Houston (-3.0)
Man, these games look so much better when they are scheduled during the preseason. Jacksonville was supposed to be a playoff threat; instead, they are simply an afterthought at this point. Houston isn’t great, but they have an outstanding passing game that should be able to light Jacksonville up; and I just haven’t seen any life out of them this year, making them impossible to back. Wouldn’t have guessed the Texans would be favored or I’d be taking them way back when, but here we are.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Jacksonville
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Jacksonville

THE COLLEGE NICKEL

RECORD: 58 – 56 – 1 (.509)

Week 14 Video Here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PamxOpmvqqI

Texas -35.0 (Win)
Akron/Temple OVER 57.5 (Loss)
South Carolina +1.0
SMU +15.0
Rice +3.0
Florida -16.5
Oregon +3.0
Oklahoma State +7.5

Have a great weekend and good luck everybody!
————————————————————
Questions? Comments? Love the Dime? Hate it? Should I cut it down to a nickel?
EMAIL ME FEEDBACK!

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By Dave Consolazio, November 21, 2008 10:00 am

Dave’s Dime
“Because Two Cents Just Isn’t Enough”
www.davesdime.com

THE INTRO

“Toss me a bone! Is 9 – 7 too much to ask for this week?”

Ask, and you shall receive.

9 – 7. It isn’t fancy, but it is a winning week, and it restored a little bit of confidence, which is definitely a good thing.

I’ll just get right to capping this week, but before I do, just wanted to let you know that I recorded a new episode of Spare Change, my interactive sports talk show. This week’s show is on the Pittsburgh/San Diego Lateral Debacle.

Watch it here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-7ZHFPnKn8) and then let me know which side you are on!

And lastly, if I have a losing week in my college video this week, I promised to sing OH CANADA on youtube. That could be BAD.

Me singing. Really bad.

But that’s what cockiness an confidence do for you. I’m glad to be back; at least for now.

THE RECORD

Last Week
With the spread: 9 – 7 – 0 (.563)
Without the spread: 11 – 4 – 1 (.733)
^^Philosophical Picks^^: 1 – 1 – 0 (.500)

Season

With the spread: 82 – 75 – 3 (.522)
Without the spread: 102 – 57 – 1 (.642)
^^Philosophical Picks^^: 12 – 5 – 0 (.706)

QUICK RECAP OF LAST WEEK

THE GOOD:

Denver (+6.5) @ Atlanta (-6.5) W
Minnesota (+4.0) @ Tampa Bay (-4.0) W
Oakland (+10.5) @ Miami (-10.5) W
Houston (+8.0) @ Indianapolis (-8.0) W
Chicago (+3.5) @ Green Bay (-3.5) W
Tennessee (-2.5) @ Jacksonville (+2.5) W
San Diego (+5.5) @ Pittsburgh (-5.5) W
Dallas (-1.0) @ Washington (+1.0) W
Cleveland (+5.0) @ Buffalo (-5.0) W

THE BAD:

Baltimore (+7.0) @ New York Giants (-7.0) L
St. Louis (+6.5) @ San Francisco (-6.5) L

THE COULD HAVE GONE EITHER WAY/NOT MY WAY THIS WEEK:

New York Jets (+3.0) @ New England (-3.0) L
New Orleans (-5.5) @ Kansas City (+5.5) L
Detroit (+14.0) @ Carolina (-14.0) L
Arizona (-3.0) @ Seattle (+3.0) L

THE “WHAT THE $%^@”?:

Philadelphia (-9.0) @ Cincinnati (+9.0) L
A tie???

THE PICKS

* – Indicates Upset Pick
^ – Indicates Philosophical Pick

THURSDAY

Cincinnati (+11.0) @ Pittsburgh (-11.0)
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Pittsburgh (Win)
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Pittsburgh (Win)

SUNDAY

Tampa Bay (-7.5) @ Detroit (+7.5)
At 0 – 10, Detroit has been easy to figure out with no spread; but with the spread they are trouble. They’ve been killing me week in and week out. At only +7.5 against one of the NFC’s best though, I have to take my chances on the Bucs here. Against a terrible defense they SHOULD be able to score without difficulty, and the defense should force a few turnovers.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Tampa Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Tampa Bay

Philadelphia (+1.0) @ Baltimore (-1.0)
Easily one of the toughest games on the card, I’m going to take Baltimore. Hard to endorse them too heavily after last week’s blowout loss, but now they are back at home against a one-dimensional pass happy Philly offense. If they can force a few turnovers and keep it simple, they should be able to pick up the win at home here. It won’t be easy against an explosive Philly offense, but I think the defense is up to the task.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Baltimore
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Baltimore

Houston (+3.0) @ Cleveland (-3.0)

Another difficult game to predict, but I’m going to go with the Texans. Their passing game, even with Rosenfels as the starter, has been outstanding all year and should be able to put up plenty of points on a Cleveland secondary that has been getting torched over the last few weeks. Cleveland losing Brady Quinn was a big blow to the morale; Derek Anderson is just as capable, but getting an exciting win behind young Quinn only to find out that he is injured and will not play hurts; and I don’t think they overcome it this week.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Houston
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Houston

San Francisco (+10.0) @ Dallas (-10.0)

After a tough win against rival Washington, Dallas now has a much easier team this week in San Francisco. SF has been playing tougher under Coach Singletary, but I believe Dallas will build on the momentum of last week and get a convincing win here against the 49ers.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Dallas
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Dallas

New York Jets (+5.5) @ Tennessee (-5.5)

You know that Tennessee train I’ve been riding, the one that I want to ride until they give me good reason not to? Yeah, I’m going to keep riding it. Tack on the fact that the Jets are due for an off game on offense after scoring 47 and 34 over the last two weeks (and what better team to have an off game against then one of the league’s best on D?) and that you should always take the defensive powerhouse over the high-octane offense, and there isn’t much not to love about the Titans here.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Tennessee
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Tennessee

Minnesota (+2.0) @ Jacksonville (-2.0)

Very ugly game to try and predict here between two major disappointments this season. I’ll take Jacksonville; their biggest problem this year has been defending against the pass, which shouldn’t be too big of a problem against Minnesota. Jacksonville should be able to get the passing game going here and do enough to get the win at home.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Jacksonville
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Jacksonville

Buffalo (-3.0) @ Kansas City (+3.0)

Buffalo definitely should win this game, they are the superior team, even if they are in a major slump. I’m going to take the Chiefs though. Buffalo, who had high hopes of playoffs this year especially after a hot start, is sitting at 5 – 5 in the midst of a 4 game losing streak. They play a terrible Chiefs team now in an absolute MUST WIN GAME. Kansas City meanwhile at 1 – 9 already knows their fate. They are playing for nothing but pride at this point. All the pressure is on Buffalo, meaning they will be a lot more tense than Kansas City who can play loose and fun out there. Last week I was wrong, but once again, I’ll take the Chiefs in an outright upset.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Kansas City
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Kansas City

New England (+1.0) @ Miami (-1.0)
Tough to separate these teams, and on paper Miami actually makes a lot of sense in this game. But here I see two relatively evenly matched teams, both at 6 – 4, both needing this win to stay alive in the AFC East. While I understand this isn’t Tom Brady’s team anymore, this is exactly the type of game New England has been winning every single time for the better part of a decade now. Miami has come a long way in short time, but is the team coming off of 2 point victories over Seattle and Oakland really ready to beat the Patriots AGAIN? I don’t think New England is going to let it happen this week.

PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *New England
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *New England

Chicago (-7.5) @ St. Louis (+7.5)

After getting totally embarrassed in a 37 – 3 blowout loss against Green Bay, what better team to take out your aggression on then the St. Louis Rams? I don’t see the Bears letting this game get away from them after what happened last week. With Steven Jackson still out, this Rams team will have an awfully hard time moving the football.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Chicago
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Chicago

Oakland (+9.5) @ Denver (-9.5)
Say you have a hated rival. Say that hated rival is scheduled to play against you on Monday Night Football to open the season, in your stadium. They come in and embarrass the hell out of you on national television by a score of 41 – 14. Now call me crazy, but I’m pretty sure you are circling your calendar with a big red marker for the next time you face off against these guys. With nothing left to play for this season, this is the most meaningful game left on the schedule for the Raiders. They have no reason not to lay it all out on the field. Throw the stats out on this one; this game stays close.

PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^*Oakland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Denver

Carolina (+1.0) @ Atlanta (-1.0)

Funny what a difference a couple of points make. If Atlanta was the underdog in this game, they would have met one of my philosophy pick criteria; losing as a home favorite last week being a home dog this week. As such, I would have taken Atlanta without so much as a second glance. But the ever so slight -1.0 makes them a favorite, meaning I can look at this game subjectively; and what I see is an extremely underrated defensive team in Carolina not getting nearly the respect they deserve. And I don’t mean to rain on Atlanta’s parade, but they’ve beaten 0 – 10 Detroit, 1 – 9 Kansas City, 2 – 8 Oakland, and 5 – 5 New Orleans, Green Bay, and Chicago. Not taking anything away from them, its great that they are winning the games they should win; but they haven’t beaten a team over .500 yet, and I don’t think they will this week either.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Carolina

Washington (-3.0) @ Seattle (+3.0)

After an impressive start, the Redskins have come crashing back down to earth. At 6 – 4 they are still alive in the NFC, but 5 straight lackluster games make it hard to believe in this team. Much like my write-up of the Bills/Chiefs game, this is a must win game for the Redskins and all the pressure is on them, while Seattle will be able to play loose out there. They are getting healthy and have strong together two straight respectable efforts against Miami and Arizona. At home I think they put together a third straight respectable game, and this one will be good enough for the win.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Seattle
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Seattle

New York Giants (-3.0) @ Arizona (+3.0)

First of all, I’m convinced that the Giants can not be defended against. They have insane depth at the RB position as well as a QB who has finally come into his own and provides a very serious deep threat on every single play. They are just too versatile to stop. I was going to give Arizona a closer look of course out of due diligence, but glancing at their schedule I saw that they have played 3 straight division rivalry games; and the last two against Seattle and San Francisco were very close, physical games. Couple how much three straight division games wear on you with how good the Giants are, and 3 points is nowhere close to enough.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: New York Giants
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: New York Giants

Indianapolis (+2.5) @ San Diego (-2.5)
Two teams that were supposed to be locks to win their divisions now struggling to save their playoff lives. Crazy, crazy world. Quite frankly, I think Indy matches up very well here. San Diego’s passing defense is awful which should bode well for Indy, and Indy has won 3 straight while San Diego has looked awful in 4 straight, losing 3 and beating KC by only one point. This may be a trap line, but even if it is, I think Vegas just might be wrong here if they are trying to trap everyone into taking SD; I think Indy will win this game.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Indianapolis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Indianapolis

MONDAY

Green Bay (+2.5) @ New Orleans (-2.5)
This game should be a lot of fun. Especially if Reggie Bush comes back, which he is hopeful he will. Either way, I’m still taking Green Bay here. This game has all the makings of a shootout, and I believe that Green Bay has the better secondary which will come up with the big play or two needed to swing the momentum in their favor. Should definitely be a fun one to watch.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Green Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Green Bay

THE COLLEGE NICKEL

RECORD: 54 – 51 – 1 (.514)

Week 13 Video Here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpSvjC7JmfM

NC State +11.0
Indiana +12.0
Rice -9.0
North Texas +20.5
Idaho +23.5
West Virginia/Louisville OVER 45.5
East Michigan/Temple OVER 44.5
Central Florida/Memphis UNDER 46.5
Florida Atlantic/Arkansas State OVER 51

Have a great weekend and good luck everybody!
————————————————————
Questions? Comments? Love the Dime? Hate it? Should I cut it down to a nickel?
EMAIL ME FEEDBACK!

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By Dave Consolazio, November 14, 2008 10:00 am

Dave’s Dime
“Because Two Cents Just Isn’t Enough”
www.davesdime.com

THE INTRO

When the Gambling Gods decide to bury you in a slump, just making you lose isn’t good enough.

Every rare win you get is a close call that comes down to the last second; and some losses are even closer.

Wednesday night, I had Northern Illinois -4.0 against Central Michigan. When Central Michigan took a 30 – 6 lead, I accepted the loss. Then, miraculously, Northern Illinois scored 24 unanswered points in the second half to send the game to overtime. My hopes were officially up again. All Northern Illinois had to do now was score a TD and stop Central Michigan, and then I would – interception. CMU field goal. Ball game, I lose. Was the comeback for nothing really necessary?

Thursday night I had New England -3.0… they fall to 24 – 6, and I accept this as a loss. They claw back to 24 – 24, I get my hopes up. Jets score to make it 31 – 24 in the closing minutes, and I give up again. Randy Moss then catches a TD pass on 4th and 1 with 1 second left to send it to overtime. Destiny for me, right? Nope, Jets win.

So I ask you, Gambling Gods, what is it going to take to receive your mercy?

Prayer? Sacrifice? (Haven’t I sacrificed my dignity enough?)

You were right, I was wrong. You’re the best, I’m the worst. You are handsome, I’m… not attractive.

Please Gambling Gods! All me and my readers want is to go back to a time when this cocky kid thought he could pick more winners than losers and gosh darnit, he did more often then not.

Toss me a bone! Is 9 – 7 too much to ask for this week?

THE RECORD

Last Week
With the spread: 6 – 8 – 0 (.429)
Without the spread: 9 – 5 – 0 (.643)
^^Philosophical Picks^^: 0 – 1 – 0 (.000)

Season

With the spread: 73 – 68 – 3 (.518)
Without the spread: 91 – 53 – 0 (.632)
^^Philosophical Picks^^: 11 – 4 – 0 (.733)

QUICK RECAP OF LAST WEEK

THE GOOD:

Denver (+3.0) @ Cleveland (-3.0) W
Green Bay (+2.5) @ Minnesota (-2.5) W
Baltimore @ Houston (Pick’em) W
Carolina (-9.5) @ Oakland (+9.5) W
Indianapolis (+3.0) @ Pittsburgh (-3.0) W
Kansas City (+15.5) @ San Diego (-15.5) W

THE BAD:

Tennessee (-3.0) @ Chicago (+3.0) L
Jacksonville (-6.5) @ Detroit (+6.5) L
St. Louis (+9.0) @ New York Jets (-9.0) L
New Orleans (+1.5) @ Atlanta (-1.5) L
Buffalo (+3.5) @ New England (-3.5) L

THE COULD HAVE GONE EITHER WAY/NOT MY WAY THIS WEEK:

Seattle (+8.0) @ Miami (-8.0) L
New York Giants (+3.0) @ Philadelphia (-3.0) L

THE “WHAT THE $%^@”?:

San Francisco (+9.5) @ Arizona (-9.5) L

THE PICKS

* – Indicates Upset Pick
^ – Indicates Philosophical Pick

THURSDAY

New York Jets (+3.0) @ New England (-3.0)
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: New England (Loss)
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: New England (Loss)

SUNDAY

Denver (+6.5) @ Atlanta (-6.5)
The Atlanta train just keeps on rolling, and everyone is hopping aboard. Can’t blame anyone, it is an awesome story and Matt Ryan does seem to be the real deal. Interestingly enough, I always seem to end up picking against them; and it isn’t out of disrespect for them, but more that I just feel their opponents are on the right side of the spread. I feel that way again this week. Denver is not a good football team, but they have a powerful passing attack that I believe will be able to shootout with Atlanta. I’m expecting this to be a last-one-with-the-ball-wins type of game. New Orleans let me down last week, but I believe Denver will keep this loss in the 1 – 6 point range.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Denver
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Atlanta

Minnesota (+4.0) @ Tampa Bay (-4.0)
On top of the fact that Tampa Bay is a great home team and Minnesota isn’t a very good road team, I believe that Tampa Bay has the personnel and the scheme to keep Minnesota’s rushing game in check. They also have a passing attack that should be able to move the ball on Minnesota. Tampa Bay matches up well here on both sides of the ball, and I believe they are the pick.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Tampa Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Tampa Bay

Baltimore (+7.0) @ New York Giants (-7.0)

Through my slump, the one thing I’ve been able to count on is the Baltimore Ravens. People refuse to accept that the offense is real, and refuse to acknowledge the defense is back, too. A team so powerful on defense and so smart and creative on offense shouldn’t be giving up 7 points to anyone in the league, in my opinion. Yes, that includes the Giants, who also happen to be pretty darn good on both sides of the ball. New York has proven once again to be the team to beat in the NFC, but that doesn’t mean they are going to blow out everyone. Coming off of two straight division rivalry games doesn’t usually help heal the bruises, either. I’ll take the points.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Baltimore
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: New York Giants

Oakland (+10.5) @ Miami (-10.5)

With DeAngelo Hall gone, the Raiders have actually improved on defense, and they had an outstanding game defensively against Carolina. The problem stems from the anemic offense; but Jamarcus Russell and, more importantly, Darren McFadden are set to return. This should provide at least somewhat of a spark, even with Javon Walker out. Miami is also very likely to be thinking about New England next week and be chalking this game up as a win. In what should be a very low scoring affair, 10.5 is too many points to pass up on.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Oakland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Miami

New Orleans (-5.5) @ Kansas City (+5.5)

Very quietly, 1 – 8 Kansas City has put together three straight solid efforts, against three decent opponents in San Diego, New York Jets, and Tampa Bay no less. They’ve played well enough to win in all 3 but just couldn’t finish late. I’m sure I will regret picking against New Orlean’s pass happy attack, but KC has played very well and they seem to be gaining confidence. Tyler Thigpen is working well in the new spread offense they installed for him, and Larry Johnson returns this week. I call stunner; Kansas City upsets the high-octane Saints.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Kansas City
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Kansas City

Houston (+8.0) @ Indianapolis (-8.0)

Houston had a miserable game last week against Baltimore, but that will happen sometimes when you face a tough defensive team. Indianapolis isn’t quite that. Houston tends to play Indy tough more often then not, and they have the passing attack to keep up with them. After the last meeting between these two teams ended in a miraculous Indianapolis comeback, Houston should know two things; not to be stupid, and that if they play well for 60 minutes they can beat these guys. I don’t think they will this Sunday, but I do think 8 points is way too many to pass up on.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Houston
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Indianapolis

Detroit (+14.0) @ Carolina (-14.0)

Carolina’s offense isn’t explosive enough to keep giving up these double digit point spreads, but I have to bite again this week. Carolina’s defense is stingy and should prove to be very difficult for Detroit to score on, especially IN Carolina. And the Panthers offense should bounce back after a poor showing in Oakland; Detroit’s defense will be much easier to handle. I’ll give up the whopping 2 TDs and expect the Carolina blowout.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Carolina

Philadelphia (-9.0) @ Cincinnati (+9.0)

Really no need for a long write-up here. Yes, Cinci is coming off of a win, but they still don’t have the talent to hand with a team like Philadelphia with Palmer out. In need of wins and stuck in one of the NFL’s toughest divisions, Philadelphia will not take games like this one lightly; they will be focused and they should be able to win this game comfortably.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Philadelphia
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Philadelphia

Chicago (+3.5) @ Green Bay (-3.5)

Chicago is a tough team to crack, but there are a few concerning issues for them right now; Rex Grossman is not a good quarterback, and they can’t seem to defend against the pass. Very worrisome, considering Green Bay does a pretty good job defending against the pass and they have a very strong passing attack themselves. That extra little .5 scares me a bit, but I like the Packers to cover at home here in a game they match up in well.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Green Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Green Bay

Arizona (-3.0) @ Seattle (+3.0)

I promised myself I wouldn’t over-think things this week, and that I wouldn’t try to outsmart the public and the bookies and all that and just try to cap games. But COME ON, if this isn’t a philosophy pick that smacks you in the face with a philosophy bat, what is? Seattle plus only 3?!? I know that Hasselbeck is coming back, but they weren’t exactly lighting up the scoreboard before he got injured. 6 – 3 Arizona VS. 2 – 7 Seattle. The league’s highest ranked offense in total scoring VS. the league’s 25th ranked defense in points given up. The league’s 2nd best passing attack (and that includes games Boldin was out, mind you!) VS the league’s 2nd WORST (31st ranked) passing defense? +3.0?!?! Shouldn’t Seattle be getting double digits here? 90% of bettors are on Arizona and the line hasn’t moved! Bookmakers have been missing on these over the last few weeks and I doubt they’d set another trap if they weren’t sure about it. Doesn’t get much more clear cut “looks too easy” than this!
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^*Seattle
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: ^*Seattle

St. Louis (+6.5) @ San Francisco (-6.5)

“Too many points” seems to be the mantra of this Dime, but it again rings true here. Yes, the Rams got shellacked by the Jets last week in embarrassing fashion. But the Jets are a good team. So are their last two losses, Arizona and New England. I see two bad football teams that aren’t that far apart from eachother. These games tend to stay close anyway; 5 of the last 6 meeting between these two teams has been decided by 4 points or less. Singletary gets his first coaching win this week, but not in comfortable fashion.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *St. Louis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: San Francisco

Tennessee (-2.5) @ Jacksonville (+2.5)

Well, you saw how well picking against Tennessee did me last week. This team is the best team in the NFL, they are undefeated, and now Jacksonville is supposed to beat them? Why? Because they blew out a pathetic Detroit team? Jacksonville has been inconsistent and bad all year long, but they are only a 2.5 point underdog to the best team in the league? This may be a trap, but I’m beginning to think it isn’t a trap; it is the public’s unwillingness to accept that this Titans team is for real, and that “they are due for a loss” isn’t a valid reason to pick against them.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Tennessee
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Tennessee

San Diego (+5.5) @ Pittsburgh (-5.5)

Teams often live and die by their quarterback, and Big Ben blew the game last week against Indy. He was visibly torn up over it, and when a quarterback starts getting in their own head too much, it is usually a recipe for disaster. I find it hard to believe he will miraculously be mistake free this week, even against a bad San Diego pass defense. I also think Pittsburgh will run a simpler playbook with more runs to try and build up Ben’s confidence again. As such, I think underachieving San Diego is the right side here with 5.5 points. It should be a close game and I even think Pittsburgh will prevail, but it will be by around a field goal.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *San Diego
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Pittsburgh

Dallas (-1.0) @ Washington (+1.0)
I really hate to jump on the TONY ROMO WILL FIX EVERYTHING bandwagon, especially considering the fact that he doesn’t play defense, a unit that has given up 30+ in 3 of their last 4 games. Sure, you could argue they’ve been on the field too much thanks to the hapless offense, but that still doesn’t excuse that many points given up. But can you really take Washington here? They’ve been asleep for an entire month now, losing to St. Louis, barely getting by Cleveland and Detroit, and getting smashed by the Steelers. Dallas needs a win bad, they’ve already lost to hated Washington once this season, and they get their leader back which should be a huge boost to the entire locker room. Have to take the Cowboys here.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Dallas
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Dallas

MONDAY

Cleveland (+5.0) @ Buffalo (-5.0)
Cleveland just can’t seem to get things straight. When their offense was dead, their defense was alive and well. Now the offense starts clicking and the defense forgets how to play. Hard to endorse an inconsistent team like this. Baltimore and Denver have strong offenses this season though, something you can’t say about the Bills lately. Edwards has looked terrible and this is another team that is tough to endorse the way they’ve been playing of late. As if the 5 points aren’t enough, this happens to qualify as a philosophy pick; Buffalo is coming off of three straight division rivalry games and is now favored in this game. Leaving it all out on the field against all of your rivals for three disheartening losses, and now you want me to give away 5 points, too? No thanks.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^*Cleveland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: ^*Cleveland

THE COLLEGE NICKEL

RECORD: 50 – 46 – 1 (.521)

Week 12 Video Here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnpuptMxrKA

Nothern Illinois -4.0 (Loss)
Miami/Virginia Tech UNDER 43 (Win)
Texas -13.0
Oregon State -3.0
USC -23.0
San Diego State +28.5
Tulsa -4.0
Notre Dame/Navy OVER 50.5
Boise State/Idaho UNDER 59.5

Have a great weekend and good luck everybody!
————————————————————
Questions? Comments? Love the Dime? Hate it? Should I cut it down to a nickel?
EMAIL ME FEEDBACK!

Comments Off

By Dave Consolazio, November 7, 2008 10:00 am

Dave’s Dime
“Because Two Cents Just Isn’t Enough”
www.davesdime.com

THE PICK

Hey Everyone,

Sorry to send out two separate emails this week. I wanted to cap all the games before this Thursday night game so I could just send you one convenient email, but I did so poorly last week that I really need the extra time on the rest of the schedule to try and right the ship this week. So here is the pick for tonight’s game, and you’ll get the regular Dime with the rest of the games tomorrow morning as usual. Thanks for understanding.

Denver (+3.0) @ Cleveland (-3.0)
Believe it or not, I like Denver here. Despite being mired in a 3 game losing streak (and having failed to cover the spread in 6 straight games; not that they are worried about that), Denver is still atop the AFC West thanks in large part to their quick start and the rest of the division’s troubles. Tonight they will face first-time starter Brady Quinn, and this really is a slap to the face of the Broncos; The Browns are so confident that they can move the ball on an injured and ineffective Broncos secondary that they are willing to put in their inexperienced young quarterback on a SHORT PRACTICE WEEK. Starting Quinn off of the 10 day break would have made sense, but they like him matched up against Denver. I don’t think Denver will take kindly to that. I also believe that Cutler will be able to move the ball through the air on Cleveland’s pass defense without too much trouble. Couple the motivation of making Brady Quinn’s first start in the NFL hell on earth with a 3 game losing streak and a must win to stay atop the AFC West, and I think Denver makes for a good upset pick here.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Denver
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Denver

The rest will be out tomorrow! Thanks!

Dave’s Dime
“Because Two Cents Just Isn’t Enough”
www.davesdime.com

THE INTRO

I can usually brush off a bad week, but this one hurt really bad.

Like, Oakland Raider bad. Like, my lame attempt at humor bad.

A season riding high, it was only a matter of time before I got shot down and had a week like last week. I knew that. But still, it hurts bad to see a season’s worth of hard work go down the drain in one snake-bitten week.

If you told me at the beginning of the season that heading into week 10 I’d be 52.8% against the spread, I’d have been very happy to hear that. If you then told me I was 55.8% heading into week 9, I’d feel… well, something like I feel now.

But the lesson is a valuable one. There will be weeks when everything you touch is gold, and weeks when everything you touch is dirt. The separation between winners and losers is a mere couple of percentage points. How hard are you willing to fight for that extra 1 or 2%?

I fight really hard for it. And it isn’t necessarily going to be a winning fight; but I can promise you that I do fight awfully hard. And no matter what I end up doing, win or lose, I hope you all continue to enjoy my write ups and insight.

Now that I’m in a sentimental mood, I’m going to go watch Rudy. I’ll cry a bit. Cry more when I realize that I’m watching Rudy alone and I need to do something with my life. Then I will eat some candy to feel better. Then I’ll try to pick some winners.

Fortunately for you, time lapses don’t show up in writing. So you can skip my breakdown and move on… probably best for everyone involved.

THE RECORD

Last Week
With the spread: 4 – 10 – 0 (.286)
Without the spread: 10 – 4 – 0 (.714)
^^Philosophical Picks^^: 0 – 2 – 0 (.000)

Season

With the spread: 67 – 60 – 3 (.528)
Without the spread: 82 – 48 – 0 (.631)
^^Philosophical Picks^^: 11 – 3 – 0 (.786)

QUICK RECAP OF LAST WEEK

THE GOOD:

New York Jets (+5.5) @ Buffalo (-5.5) W
Baltimore (+1.5) @ Cleveland (-1.5) W
Arizona (-3.0) @ St. Louis (+3.0) W
Miami (+3.0) @ Denver (-3.0) W

THE BAD:

Dallas (+9.0) @ New York Giants (-9.0) L
Atlanta (-3.0) @ Oakland (+3.0) L
Philadelphia (-6.5) @ Seattle (+6.5) L
Pittsburgh (+2.0) @ Washington (-2.0) L

THE COULD HAVE GONE EITHER WAY/NOT MY WAY THIS WEEK:

Houston (+4.5) @ Minnesota (-4.5) L
Green Bay (+4.5) @ Tennessee (-4.5) L
New England (+6.0) @ Indianapolis (-6.0) L

THE “WHAT THE $%^@”?:

Three of the league’s worst teams decide to show up, while my Oak, Dal, and Sea picks fail miserably.

Detroit (+12.5) @ Chicago (-12.5) L
Jacksonville (-7.5) @ Cincinnati (+7.5) L
Tampa Bay (-9.0) @ Kansas City (+9.0) L

THE PICKS

* – Indicates Upset Pick
^ – Indicates Philosophical Pick

THURSDAY

Denver (+3.0) @ Cleveland (-3.0)
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Denver (Win)
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Denver (Win)

SUNDAY

Tennessee (-3.0) @ Chicago (+3.0)
My magical philosophy picks finally let me down last week, making me take losses on two terrible teams that were very obviously overmatched. Frustrating as it may have been, I can’t abandon what’s gotten me here; the outside the box thinking on these picks has had quite a bit of success this season. So instead of playing with fear, I’ll go back to the well this week. On one side we have an undefeated Tennessee Titans team that has a downright scary defense and running game, coming off of impressive back to back wins against Indianapolis and Green Bay. On the other side, we have a Chicago Bears team that certainly isn’t a pushover, but is coming off of two very shaky wins against a mediocre Minnesota team and a downright terrible Lions team. Even more worrisome is Kyle Orton’s injury, putting Rex Grossman back in the spotlight against the league’s toughest defense. Why is Tennessee only giving up 3 points here? They are clearly the best team in the NFL, and they should manhandle Rex Grossman. This has trap game written all over it; strange spread, Tennessee faces hated rival Jacksonville next week (if you believe in looking ahead), and they’ve got to lose at some point; this just might be the week.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^*Chicago
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: ^*Chicago

Jacksonville (-6.5) @ Detroit (+6.5)
This one is just simple logic. Detroit may still be winless, but they have strung together four straight respectable losses (by margins of 2, 7, 8, and 4) and the addition of Daunte Culpepper definitely shouldn’t hurt. Jacksonville, meanwhile, has played 8 games this season, all decided by 7 points or less. Would I like to take Jacksonville to break out of their slump against a weak Detroit team? Yes, I would. But at some point, perhaps we have to accept that a slump that lasts half a season may not be a slump at all; it may just be what the team is.

PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Detroit
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Jacksonville

Seattle (+8.0) @ Miami (-8.0)

Something tells me a long write up isn’t really necessary for me to explain why I like a surging pass happy Dolphins team at home over a reeling, injury-filled, pitiful-pass-defense Seahawks team on the road. Was that adequate enough?
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Miami
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Miami

Green Bay (+2.5) @ Minnesota (-2.5)

These games just annoy me to no end. You have Minnesota, who can run the ball well and can’t defend against the pass, and Green Bay, who can pass the ball well and can’t defend against the run. Feel free to ignore my pick and go flip a coin. I’ll be taking the Packers, simply because in what should be a close game, I’d rather have my money on Aaron Rodgers than Gus Frerotte.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Green Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Green Bay

Baltimore @ Houston (Pick’em)

Houston’s passing attack is formidable, but I believe Baltimore’s defense will be able to slow it down a bit. And perhaps the bigger story is Baltimore’s offense; lost in all of the media love for Matt Ryan, Joe Flacco is putting together a fantastic rookie season and has given the Ravens a vertical passing game that they have sorely lacked for years. Both teams will put up some points, but I think Baltimore comes out on top here.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Baltimore
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Baltimore

St. Louis (+9.0) @ New York Jets (-9.0)

So we are throwing St. Louis under the bus because they got beat by a very good Arizona Cardinals team? Or are we overvaluing the Jets coming off of their upset in Buffalo? Either way, 9 points is way too many; St. Louis has shown me enough their last four games in beating Washington, beating Dallas, and staying close with New England that they can compete. Bulger should be able to pass on this team, and at least keep it close; especially if Favre keeps his interception-returned-for-a-TD streak going.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *St. Louis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: New York Jets

New Orleans (+1.5) @ Atlanta (-1.5)

I love what Matt Ryan is doing in his rookie season as much as anyone, but I think the Saints are the pick here. Drew Brees is quietly (and it is only quiet because New Orleans is only 4 – 4) putting together a remarkable season, and I don’t think that the Falcons have the defense to stop him. Do the Saints have the defense to stop Ryan? No, not really. But in what should be a true shootout, I’ll take the veteran Brees to get the last score and come out on top.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *New Orleans
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *New Orleans

Buffalo (+3.5) @ New England (-3.5)

Buffalo has fallen from grace quite a bit, losing 2 straight and 3 of their last 4 games. But I’m not willing to write them off just yet; those losses were cross country in Arizona, a tough Miami team in Miami, and in my opinion just catching the Jets at the wrong time. Not that there is ever a “right” time to face New England in New England. But New England’s pass defense is just so so, and I actually think Buffalo matches up pretty well here. I think Trent Edwards is going to have a big day and surprise a lot of people, and the Bills will come out on top.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Buffalo
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Buffalo

Carolina (-9.5) @ Oakland (+9.5)

Oakland is in complete shambles right now. They were embarrassingly bad last week against Atlanta and there isn’t any reason to believe that Carolina can’t do the same. I liked the DeAngelo Hall waiving a lot, but the players didn’t, and it is causing a pretty clear riff in the locker room. As if they aren’t bad enough already, they didn’t need even more reason to give up on themselves. Carolina is walking into a great situation to win comfortably. I’d love to philosophy pick the Raiders, but I just can’t.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Carolina

Indianapolis (+3.0) @ Pittsburgh (-3.0)

I can never quite figure out Pittsburgh this year, and there is still no definitive word on Roethlisberger’s status. With Willie Parker out too, it is hard to figure out where Pittsburgh will be getting their offense from. The Colts meanwhile have been a major disappointment all year that I don’t feel the least bit comfortable picking. But maybe they can build on their win over New England and start their playoff push. With Pittsburgh’s two best offensive players out, what better time then now to beat the Steelers? In a move I will likely regret, I’ll take the Colts.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Indianapolis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Indianapolis

Kansas City (+15.5) @ San Diego (-15.5)

It makes perfect sense. San Diego fresh off of a bye has had ample opportunity to prepare for this game, and are poised to make their routine late-season run. They face the league’s worst rushing defense with Tomlinson and Sproles likely licking their chops. A blowout win is a very real possibility. Here’s the thing though; not only has Kansas City kept its last few games close against the Jets and Bucs (a game they should have won), but this rivalry doesn’t exactly produce too many lopsided victories. In their last 15 meetings this game has not had a winner decided by more than 15 points. The Chargers haven’t beaten the Chiefs by more than 14 in over 10 years. And has San Diego really even been that overpowering this year? I may get burned here but I’m more than happy to take my chances with this spread.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Kansas City
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: San Diego

New York Giants (+3.0) @ Philadelphia (-3.0)
This is an extremely tough game that I can easily see going either way. I’m going to take my chances on the Eagles though. I believe they are capable of slowing down the Giants’ running game, the environment should be nice and hostile, and McNabb should be able to put together a big day. Sorry to not break this game down better, it is really more of a gut feeling than anything else. Hard to point out weaknesses on the Giants when they don’t really have any.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Philadelphia
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Philadelphia

MONDAY

San Francisco (+9.5) @ Arizona (-9.5)
When this game was scheduled during the preseason, I’m sure the 49ers were projected to be a whole lot better than they are now. Unfortunately for them, and the viewing public, they aren’t. The Cardinal’s rushing defense and their likely early lead should be good enough to force the 49ers to start throwing the ball; and that is usually where things get ugly. Not much reason to believe the Cardinals won’t be scoring easily, either. Even minus the big number, I do believe Arizona is the easy pick on Monday night.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Arizona
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Arizona

THE COLLEGE NICKEL

RECORD: 47 – 41 – 0 (.534)

Week 11 Video Here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psKUi6HMhWM

Northern Illinois +9.5 (Loss)
Toledo/Akron Over 54.5 (Win)
Arkansas +12.0
Army +11.0
Southern Miss/UCF Over 49.5
Arizona -41.0
Arkansas State -2.5
Arizona State -14.0
Tulane/Houston Over 56

Have a great weekend and good luck everybody!
————————————————————
Questions? Comments? Love the Dime? Hate it? Should I cut it down to a nickel?
EMAIL ME FEEDBACK!