Week 16 NFL Picks

Before we go into this week’s picks I would like to take a second to wish all of you a very happy and healthy holiday season.  It is very easy to get caught up in the chaotic schedules of the holidays, so be sure to enjoy some quality time with your family and friends.

Last week I went 11-4, for a season total of 132-86, which has me feeling like the New England Patriots as they head into the playoffs.  Here are my picks for week 16.

Cowboys over the Cardinals- Dallas appears to be back on track, especially offensively, and should have no problem taking care of the Cards.  Anyone else find it interesting how much Jason Garrett’s play calling has changed since becoming the head coach?  Cowboys 35-13

Patriots over the Bills- Buffalo may keep this game close as they continue to play hard as evidenced by their victory over the Dolphins last week.  In the end the fine-tuned New England offense will make some big plays to secure the victory.  Patriots 20-10

Ravens over the Browns- This has the potential to be a very physical game between two fierce division rivals.  I think the Baltimore defense will be the difference in the game, especially if Colt McCoy cannot play due to sickness.  Ravens 21-13

Jaguars over the Redskins- I am not going to lie Rex Grossman surprised me last week with his performance.  With that being said I think the Redskins are a team in turmoil and will not put up much resistance against a motivated Jacksonville team.  Jaguars 24-6

Chiefs over the Titans- Kansas City is playing for a division title while the Titans are trying to figure out if they want to retain Jeff Fisher or Vince Young.  Look for the KC running game to wear down the Tennessee defense.  Chiefs 17-10

Dolphins over the Lions- Miami is coming off of a terrible loss to the Bills that has many questioning the leadership of the organization.  Detroit may keep this game interesting but I have a funny feeling that the Dolphin running game will be too much to handle.  Dolphins 16-9

Rams over the 49ers- Believe it or not this game could end up determining the NFC west division champion.  St. Louis (6-8) should be able to take advantage of the 49ers (5-9) porous offense.  Either way neither team will pose a threat in the playoffs.  Rams 20-6

Chargers over the  Bengals- San Diego is in a must win situation while Cincinnati looks to play the role of spoiler.  If the Chargers get out to an early lead Cincy will fold.  Chargers 24-7

Texans over the Broncos- There is a good chance that both of these coaching staffs will not be with their current team next year.  I have a hard time believing that Tim Tebow can compete in a shootout with Matt Schaub.  Texans 30-14

Raiders over the Colts- Upset special.  Indianapolis is desperate for a victory but look for the Oakland running game to keep their high powered offense off of the field.  Add in the home field advantage and I smell upset.  Raiders 21-20

Packers over the Giants- Aaron Rodgers is expected to return this week which should give Green Bay a boost.  The Giants are coming off of a devastating loss to the Eagles and one can only wonder how much of an effect it had on the psyche of the team.  Packers 21-17

Buccaneers over the Seahawks- Both of these teams are fighting for their playoff lives, but in the end going with the team that has the better quarterback.  Matt Hasselbeck is starting to look like a backup quarterback at best.  Buccaneers 24-21

Eagles over the Vikings- It does not matter if Favre plays or not, the Vikings are just not a good team.  This game could get ugly early.  Eagles 34-10

Falcons over the Saints- I expect the Falcons running game along with a fired up home crowd to make things very difficult for New Orleans.  Lets not forget Matt Ryan just about never loses at home.  Falcons 27-24

New York Jets vs. Chicago Bears

The Jets need a victory to clinch a playoff spot, while the Bears are looking for a first round bye.  The number one question heading into the game is who will be playing quarterback for New York, as Mark Sanchez is dealing with a shoulder injury.  Also there are some questions surrounding Gang Green’s state of mind as they are coming off of an emotional victory and have been dealing with Rex Ryan’s off the field issue.  Will the Jets be able to match the physicality of the Bears? Will Rex Ryan have his team ready to play emotionally?  Find out these answers and more on Sunday in my game preview.

Happy Holidays!!!

Tyson Rauch

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