The Brooklyn Trolley Blogger: NFL

Is Sam Still I Am With Cam back in Carolina? Not on IR.
First Von Miller, now Odell Beckham Jr.; the Rams are really assembling a hell of a team. Too bad their head coach is incapable of guiding them through to the finish.

No Gain

Aaron Rogers says he might have misled people.
Former NFL running back Frank Gore will fight former NBA point guard Deron Williams in a boxing match slated for Dec. 18.

PUNT!

Jon Gruden might be right insofar as being singled out and forced out of Las Vegas, but he still royally effed up.
Last week was one of the funkiest Football Sundays to date.

WEEK TEN
Friday line ~ NYP/MGM

Bills -13 JETS

If nothing else, the Jets demonstrated that playing them will not be as easy as the opposition once thought over the last two weeks. But they've been giving up a lot of points. The Bills are coming into this game pissed off after being limited to a mere six points against the Jags. A lot of their week-long frustration will be taken out on the Jets.

COWBOYS -9 1/2 Falcons

Here's the problem: the Cowboy secondary sucks, which means Matt Ryan can keep this close. But if Dallas continues featuring one of the game's better running attacks, Ryan's field time gets limited. Atlanta's defense sucks too. Dak Prescott can take of the rest, but the Cowboys really need to make this a statement game.

TITANS -3 Saints

I was very impressed with Tennessee's victory last week against the Rams. Their defense is top tier and New Orleans will be playing minus Alvin Kamara, and their starting left tackle. That could spell trouble for novice quarterback Trevor Siemian.

Jaguars +10 COLTS

Carson Wentz needs to replace his uniform number with a question mark. The Colts (4-5) are merely defeating the best of the rest. Wentz has had just one 300+ yard game to date. Which is to say, he hasn't elevated the Colts as high as they hoped. The Colts are actually 6-3 versus the spread. But their defense isn't performing up to expectations. I'm imagining Jacksonville scores roughly 19 points. Do you think the Colts cover? Too many points ...

Browns +2 PATRIOTS

I'll tell you why ... the Browns still have other things they can do after Belichick takes away what they do best. But Baker Mayfield must be up to the task. Another reason I'm leaning Browns is that the Patriots are just 1-4 at home.

STEELERS -8 Lions

I know the Steelers will struggle for points. But I can't see the Lions doing any better against the Steeler defense. So, who do you trust, Big Ben or Jared Goff? Compelling stuff, I know ...

Buccaneers -9 1/2 WASHINGTON

Washington gives me no reason to think otherwise. Their defensive front is the biggest group of underachievers in football. The Bucs are defending SB champs for a reason. Watch them turn it up over the second half of the season. Brady has always loved running up scores.

CARDINALS -10 Panthers

This is a lot of points. Cam Newton isn't playing; Sam Darnold is out, and P.J. Walker is starting for the Panthers. At least he'll have Christian McCaffrey back to help carry the load. In truth, the Cardinals should have few problems taming an ineffective Panther offense. Moreover, the Panthers' defense of the first three weeks has yet to reemerge, or they're just being overworked.

CHARGERS -3 1/2 Vikings

The Vikings run the ball well and the Bolts have trouble stopping the run. But I still like the Bolts at home against the Vikings, who are playing their second straight game on the road. If the Bolts can avoid settling for field goals, they got this.

Eagles +3 BRONCOS

The Eagles are coming off a loss at the Chargers, and the Broncos are coming off an uplifting win over the Cowboys. Therefore, it's a perfect time for the Eagles' to screw up everyone's best-laid plans.

PACKERS -3 1/2 Seahawks

I was so looking forward to Jordan Love versus Geno Smith. We must settle for Rogers versus Wilson. Aside from Wilson's potential QB rust, Seattle's defense is suspect. Temperatures are falling at Green Bay. Should be a good day for their fans.

Chiefs -2 1/2 RAIDERS

Another old-school rivalry should be fun. The Chiefs are 2-7 against the spread, but the Raiders continue failing to distinguish themselves, and we'll see why on Sunday. I'm giving the Chiefs the benefit of the doubt.

Schmear of the Week

Bills -13

Good luck and have a great Football Sunday!

Friday, November 05, 2021

PIGSKIN 2021: Week Nine

PIGSKIN

FOOTBALL SUNDAY

Week Nine

RESULTS

Week One

Week Two

Week Three

Week Four

Week Five

Week Six

Week Seven

Week Eight

SCOREBOARD

Week Eight Record: 7-7

Overall Record (ATS): 53-51-2

Schmear of the Week: 6-2

Bagels in the Basket: +12

1st and Ten

Broncos trade Von Miller to the Rams. If it wasn't for L.A.'s useless dolt of a head coach, this is a phenomenal acquisition to their defense.

2nd and Long

Mike White, the literal one-game wonder, hurt in his second start.
One half of the season is done; the final half is to go.

No Gain

Aaron Rogers: liar, liar, media on fire! He'll miss this week's game against the Chiefs due to a positive COVID, that virus-thingy he claimed to be "immunized" against.
No teams want Odell Beckham Jr? I wonder why ...

PUNT!

First John Gruden, now Henry Ruggs III ... if every NFL team owner(s) failed to take time out to address these matters and issues with their own extended organizations, they're wrong. Just ask the owner of the Phoenix Suns ...
And don't think we forgot who in the WFC was on the other side of those leaked email exchanges with Gruden.

WEEK NINE

Friday Line ~ NYP/MGM

Raiders -3 GIANTS

The Raiders have their issues, but so do the Giants. Big Blue still relies on Daniel Jones to do too much: pass, run, catch. Defensively, they're also not generating enough pressure. That's where Derek Carr comes in, who is playing better with Gruden gone. The Giants and Raiders have a common opponent - Denver. The Giants lost to the Broncos while the Raiders defeated them.

Loss; 23-16 Giants

BENGALS -2 1/2 Browns

The Browns' performance and morale continue deteriorating. OBJ missed two practices this week, and he doesn't like Baker Mayfield. Meanwhile, the Bengals' blood must be boiling after last week's embarrassing loss against the Jets. They couldn't have done things any more wrongly than what transpired last Sunday. After watching the film, I'm sure they'll be sufficiently motivated.

Loss; 41-16 Browns

COWBOYS -10 Broncos

Dak is back, and Von Miller is no longer a Bronco - one less thing for Prescott to fret over. Dallas' defense is good enough to rattle Teddy Bridgewater. The Broncos haven't blown anyone out. They've been held under 20 points in four of their previous five games.

Loss; 30-16 Broncos

DOLPHINS -5 1/2 Texans

TOILET BOWL Week IX: Each team has one win, both in week one. They've since gone winless, respectively. The problem this week is the Texans are 0-4 on the road, but the Fish are 0-3 at home. Bookmakers like the Fish at the aquarium, so, what the hell ...

WIN; 17-9 Dolphins

SAINTS -5 1/2 Falcons

The Saints' defense will hold the Falcons in check, and the offense will take care of the rest because they can.

Loss; 27-25 Falcons

Patriots -3 1/2 PANTHERS

This game is more about competency and discipline and a team that gets a little better every passing week against a Carolina team falling out of the sky like a piano. Just wait and see what Belichick designs for Sam Darnold or his potential replacement, P.J. Walker.

WIN; 24-6 Patriots

Bills -14 1/2 JAGUARS

The Bills covered 14 points against Miami. The Bills are averaging 20 points more per game than their seven previous opponents.

Loss; 9-6 Jaguars

RAVENS -6 Vikings

Let u not lose faith in the Ravens, especially against the passive Minnesota Vikings.

Loss; 34-31 Ravens o.t.

Chargers -1 1/2 EAGLES

Stay away! The Eagles, to my dismay, can still run the ball, something the Chargers have trouble stopping. The big question mark is Eagles' Q.B. Jalen Hurts. He makes Philly the most unreliable team in football. Everybody has beaten the Lions. Thus the Eagles did nothing special. At least the Bolts were competitive against the Pats.

WIN; 27-24 Chargers

CHIEFS -7 Packers

There is no (Jordan) Love in this matchup for the Packers against Patrick Mahomes, who had his troubles against the Giants. Love makes the Packers as compromised as the Chiefs coming off a short week. I also like Coach Reid versus the Packers sideline.

Loss; 13-7 Chiefs

Cardinals +1 1/2 NINERS

The Niners are finally up and coming, but they allowed the Bears way too many chances to win. The division-leading Cardinals are looking to redeem themselves after suffering a tightly contested loss last week against the Packers - their first defeat this season. Injuries to Kyler Murray and DeAndre Hopkins won't stop those two from play ... well.

WIN; 31-17 Cardinals

RAMS -7 1/2 Titans

Smashmouth just sustained a major setback. Tennessee's Derrick Henry is out. Smashmouth is about running and maintaining ball possession. The Titans' defense will find themselves on the field more often. Opponents will manufacture more scoring opportunities.

Loss; 28-16 Titans

SCHMEAR of the WEEK

Ravens -6

LOSS

Good luck and have a great Football Sunday!

POSTGAME
Week Nine Record: 4-8

Overall Record (ATS): 57-59-2

Schmear of the Week: 6-3

Bagels in the Basket: +5

Saturday, October 30, 2021

PIGSKIN 2021: Week Eight

PIGSKIN

FOOTBALL SUNDAY

Week Eight

RESULTS

Week One

Week Two

Week Three

Week Four

Week Five

Week Six

Week Seven

SCOREBOARD

Week Seven Record: 7-5

Overall Record (ATS): 46-44-2

Schmear of the Week: 6-1

Bagels in the Basket: +15

WEEK EIGHT

Friday Line ~ NYP/MGM

Bengals -10 1/2 JETS

I was uncomfortable picking against the Bengals last week versus the Ravens. Lesson learned. Meanwhile, the Jets are still picking up the pieces after last week's crash landing at New England. Zach Wilson is out. Mike White is likely to start over recently acquired Joe Flacco. To their credit, the Jets held each of their first five opponents under 30 points. Then came the Patriots. Bengals should be good for at least 30 points. I'm so sure the Jets will even score.

Loss; 34-31 Jets

FALCONS -3 Panthers

The Falcons are a coin flip from an Atlanta point of view. Whereas the Panthers have fallen apart like wet toilet paper. They're nothing without Christian McCaffrey, who was involved in 60% of Carolina's plays from scrimmage. Sam, I Am, just isn't ...

Loss; 19-13 Panthers

BILLS -14 Dolphins

Worried about the points? In week two, the Bills shutout out the Fish 35-0 at Miami. Tua was hurt in that game. Now he's back. So what! Buffalo has scored no less than 30 points in their last five games and twice broke 40 points.

WIN; 26-11 Bills

BEARS +4 Niners

This is the perfect opponent for the Niners to get on track. The Bears feature the NFC's worst offense. Yet, somehow they have three wins. Something ponderous will happen. Niners will shoot themselves in the foot.

Loss; 33-22 Niners

Steelers + 3 1/2 BROWNS

Baker Mayfield is still banged up. After last season's playoff loss to the Browns, Coach Tomlin, Big Ben, and the Steelers really want to win this game. Their defense is still formidable.

WIN; 15-10 Steelers

LIONS +3 1/2 Eagles

The Lions have a heart, and it's time they win their first game. Their worst performance came in week two against the Packers. They've been within a touchdown of their opponents in every game since.

Loss; 44-6 Eagles

Titans -1 1/2 COLTS

No disrespect to the Colts, who are tough, but smashmouth is starting to surge. Tennessee's loss to the Jets was a complete fluke - any given day. The Colts have wins over the Dolphins, Texans, and the Niners, who all have losing records. The Titans defeated the Colts by nine points in week three at Tennessee.

WIN; 34-31 Titans

Rams -14 1/2 TEXANS

Four times the Texans have been held below ten points. This will be game number five. Houston has scored a mere eight points over the last two weeks. The Texans have averaged just ten points per game after opening the season with 37 points against the Jaguars.

WIN; 38-22 Rams

CHARGERS -4 Patriots

If this spread were more expansive, I'd lean the other way. The Bolt's most recent loss against the Ravens doesn't jive with the way their season is really going. I respect what the rebuilding Patriots are doing, but they've only defeated the Jets and Texans.

Loss; 27-24 Patriots

SEAHAWKS -3 1/2 Jaguars

Geno Smith versus Trevor Lawrence ... what's a gambling degenerate to do? At their best, the Jags erupted for a season-high 23 points last week against Miami. However, Seattle has been held to 20-points or less in each of their previous three games. The Seahawks should still be better at home.

WIN; 31-7 Seahawks

BRONCOS -3 Washington

The Broncos are a step down from Washington's recent competition. Denver's three victories have pretty literally come against the worst teams in football since 2017. But I'm going to trust Teddy Bridgewater against anything WFC can throw at him. I have no idea what Washington is doing. Their football team is terrible, too.

WIN; 17-10 Broncos

Buccaneers -4 1/2 SAINTS

I expect a good game. The Saints being limited to 13 points by the Seahawks might be a warning flag. Although Tampa is not trustworthy against the spread, they're still a more well-rounded team.

Loss; 36-27 Saints

Cowboys -2 1/2 VIKINGS

I expect a dogfight. I also envision Ezekiel Elliott running to daylight. Holding on and winning by a field goal sounds perfectly reasonable to me.

WIN; 20-16 Cowboys

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL

CHIEFS -10 Giants

There is no more vulnerable team in football right now than the Chiefs. But Andy Reid's ability to coach through this cannot go unspoken. The Chiefs are a talented but desperate team which makes them very dangerous. Coming off last week's declawing of the Panthers, the Giants are feeling pretty good about themselves as well. Both teams are gassed up with motivation. I can actually see both quarterbacks scrambling out of the pocket and completing big plays downfield. But I can also see Patrick Mahomes completing twice as many.

Loss; 20-17 Chiefs

Schmear of the Week

Bengals -10 1/2

LOSS

Good luck and have a great Football Sunday!

POSTGAME

Week Eight Record: 7-7

Overall Record (ATS): 53-51-2

Schmear of the Week: 6-2

Bagels in the Basket: +12

Saturday, October 23, 2021

PIGSKIN 2021: Week Seven

PIGSKIN

FOOTBALL SUNDAY

Week Seven

RESULTS

Week One

Week Two

Week Three

Week Four

Week Five

Week Six

SCOREBOARD

Week Six Record: 7-5

Overall Record (ATS): 39-39-2

Schmear of the Week: 5-1

Bagels in the Basket: +10

1st and Ten

Arizona is still undefeated.

2nd and Long

Fully vaccinated Cam Newton is still yet to sign with a team.

No Gain

Detroit Lions are still winless at 0-5.

PUNT!

This NFL email conspiracy with the WFC needs to be blown wide open. Other miscreants were reading and responding to those emails. Oh, wait, Congress is now stepping in!

WEEK SEVEN

Friday Line ~ MGM/NYP

Panthers -3 GIANTS

I get the Panthers are losers of three in a row. They're at the edge of the cliff, looking down. But the Giants are already down there, looking up. Big Blue still has more problems than a math book. Without Andrew Thomas protecting his blind side, Daniel Jones's game goes downhill. They enter week seven with too many injuries to the offensive line, their receivers, and Saquon Barkley. No one is stepping up on defense; they're generating zero pressure. If the Giants win, it'll be because Sam Darnold threw three picks.

Loss; 25-3 Giants

PATRIOTS -7 Jets

Of course, Zack Wilson had a bad first game against the Patriots. New England defeated the Jets by 19 points in their first meeting. Now that Belichick has game film from their first head-to-head matchup, there's no way the Jets get off the ground.

WIN; 54-13 Patriots

RAVENS -6 1/2 Bengals

Don't look now, but the Bengals have yielded the second-fewest points in the AFC. But can they slow down Baltimore's run game? I like the Bengals to make this a great match through the first three quarters. But I don't think they're ready to get down and dirty in trenches. By the fourth, the Ravens' ground game will start running away.

Loss; 41-17 Bengals

PACKERS -8 Washington

Washington played their best games to date against the Giants and Falcons, in which they won each time by one and four points, respectively. Washington has also yielded 30-plus points in their last four games. Aaron Rogers will give Washington a new team name by the time this one is through.

WIN; 24-10 Packers

TITANS +5 1/2 Chiefs

The Titans are coming on. Smashmouth sometimes needs time to gain momentum. They're coming off a massive win against Buffalo. Despite holding the ball for only 27-minutes, they still rushed for 146 yards and 362 yards overall against the AFC's top defense. The Chiefs are among the league leaders in points allowed. Pat Mahomes continues performing magic outside the pocket. This week, ball control wins the day.

WIN; 27-3 Titans

Falcons -2 1/5 DOLPHINS

Tua gives the Fish a fighting chance, but the veteran Matt Ryan still packs a bigger punch. After their one-point win in Week One over the Pats, the Dolphins have essentially been blown out every week since.

Loss; 30-28 Falcons

RAMS -16 1/2 Lions

A fascinating game featuring Jared Goff versus Matthew Stafford ... not. This will be a no-contest. Who understands Joff's inefficiencies better than the Rams? The Lions will remain winless after facing the Paper Tiger.

Loss; 28-19 Rams

RAIDERS -3 Eagles

Laying the obligatory three points at home is another way of saying the bookmakers have no idea. The Eagles are unsolvable.

WIN; 33-22 Raiders

BUCCANEERS -12 1/2 Bears

Yeah, the Bucs have injuries, but the Bears are still a 50/50 venture. Their defense is legit, but you just never know who, how, when, and if they'll score points. They're averaging 16 points per game.

WIN; 38-3 Bucs

CARDINALS -17 Texans

Bad luck looms around every corner. However, in the NFL, the better team usually always wins. This is a no contest. The Cardinals are 5-1-0 against the spread. J.J. Watt will also have something to say.

WIN; 31-5 Cardinals

Colts +4 49ERS

The Colts played tight games against the Rams and Ravens and came up short. They desperately needed a win last week and blew out the Texans. They're getting it together. Carson Wentz plays behind a good offensive line, and despite their record, the Colt defense is solid. Something is wrong with the Niners. I can't put my finger on it ... maybe they haven't adjusted to the loss of Robert Salah. Can't plant your flag with victories over the Lions and Eagles.

WIN; 30-18 Colts

Schmear of the Week (5-1)

Packers -8

WIN

Good luck, and have a great Football Sunday!

POSTGAME

Week Seven Record: 7-5

Overall Record (ATS): 46-44-2

Schmear of the Week: 6-1

Bagels in the Basket: +15

Sunday, October 17, 2021

PIGSKIN 2021: WEEK SIX

PIGSKIN

FOOTBALL SUNDAY

Week Six

RESULTS

Week One

Week Two

Week Three

Week Four

Week Five

SCOREBOARD

Week Five Record: 7-6-1

Overall Record (ATS): 32-34-2

Schmear of the Week: 4-1

Bagels in the Basket: +5

1st and Ten

Arizona stands alone as the NFL's undefeated team and added 3-time Pro Bowl TE Zach Ertz from Philly.
However, the Cardinals head coach and GM test positive for COVID; be well!

2nd and Long

The Cheifs are stuck at two wins.
Rich Bisaccia named Raiders interim coach.
Three second-place teams with losing records.

No Gain

Jacksonville and Detroit remain without a win.
Week Six is no time for a BYE, but the Jets can really use it.
Geno Smith is back in the saddle again.
PITT JuJu Smith-Schuster out for the season.

PUNT!

The fact John Gruden deservingly got fired (quit) is his own folly. He deserves what he got. However, the conspiracy involving the NFL leaking emails and their reluctance to pry into Washington's business is another.

WEEK SIX
Friday Line ~ MGM/NYP

Rams -9 1/2 GIANTS

The Giants have too much to overcome. Rams are coming off extra rest. I can see Aaron Darnold wreaking havoc in the Giant backfield.

WIN; 38-11 Rams

Dolphins -3 Jaguars *LONDON

The Jags have lost twenty in a row ... Tua is back in the lineup. Odds say Jacksonville is bound to win, but I just can't go there - not with the head coach nonsense going on there.

Loss; 23-20 Jaguars o.t.

Packers -5 Bears

The Packers are giving up a lot of points, something the Bears have trouble scoring. I respect the Bears' defense, but it's not gonna be enough against the Packers.

WIN; 24-14 Packers

Bengals -3 1/2 LIONS

The Lions will make this closer than I would like. The Bengals are just more dynamic, whereas the Lions are playing yawn-inducing football.

WIN; 34-11 Bengals

COLTS -10 Texans

It's high time the Colts got their crap together. Houston is the right team for the Colts to finally get on track.

WIN; 31-3 Colts

Chiefs -7 WASHINGTON

This is gonna be one ugly game. But whereas the Chiefs seem to know what they're doing, Washington appears utterly clueless.

WIN; 31-13 Chiefs

PANTHERS +1 Vikings

Dalvin Cook keeps running on a bad ankle. I like the Panthers defense stifling what run game the Vikings do generate. Christian McCaffrey is still out, so this is up to Sam Darnold.

Loss; 34-28 Vikings o.t.

Chargers +2 1/2 RAVENS

I like the Chargers' defense to slow down the Ravens, who aren't running the ball as well as they used to. If the Bolts end the game with a field goal ... win!

Loss; 34-6 Ravens

Cardinals +3 BROWNS

Kyler Murray vs. Baker Mayfield ... The Cardinals are flying high while the Browns are dealing with bumps, bruises, and injuries.

WIN; 37-14 Cardinals

BRONCOS -3 1/2 Raiders

I like the matchups and the Broncos at home. They play the Raiders tough.

Loss; 34-24 Raiders

Cowboys -3 1/2 PATRIOTS

This is a week when the Cowboys remind everyone the Patriots are a rebuilding team.

WIN; 35-29 Cowboys

STEELERS -5 Seahawks

JuJu Smith-Schuster is out, but their defense is still good. I just can't get myself to rally 'round Geno Smith and Seattle's suspect defense.

Loss; 23-20 Steelers

Schmear of the Week

Colts -10

WIN

POST-GAME

Week Six Record: 7-5

Overall Record (ATS): 39-39-2

Schmear of the Week: 5-1

Bagels in the Basket: +10

Good luck, and have a great Football Sunday!

Friday, October 08, 2021

PIGSKIN 2021: Week Five

PIGSKIN

FOOTBALL SUNDAY

Week Four

RESULTS

Week One

Week Two

Week Three

Week Four

Scoreboard

Week Four Record: 10-4

Overall record (ATS): 25-28-1

Schmear of the Week: 3-1

Bagels in the Basket: +2

1st and Ten

London Calling! 9:30 am (EST)
And then there was one - the Arizona Cardinals are the only undefeated team left.

2nd and Long

Both the Jets and Giants win for the first time this season, in overtime! We're so spoiled.
Too bad: Russell Wilson out 4 to 8 weeks.

No Gain

Urban Meyer at the bar ... C'mon, man!
Speaking of which, the Jaguars and Lions are a combined 0-8.
Someone is gonna break Big Ben.

PUNT!

John Gruden apologizes for using racial language in a 2011 email. That was no slip of the tongue either, you really have to want to say something like that.

WEEK FIVE

Friday Line ~ NYP/MGM

COWBOYS -7 Giants

The question is can Daniel Jones, Kenny Golladay, and Kadarius Toney win a shootout against the Cowboys. If Jason Garrett lets Saquon Barkely run 20 to 25 times, maybe. I'd love to see it. The Dallas secondary is indeed terrible. But the Giants defensive front isn't generating any pressure. Even when they blitz, they're still not getting near the quarterback. Even though Ezikiel Elliott and Amari Cooper are banged up, you just can't give Dak Prescott that kind of time. Blake Martinez and now Jabrill Peppers are out. The Giants still aren't rushing effectively either, and now (guard) Ben Bredeson is out.

WIN; 44-20 Cowboys

Jets +3 Falcons *LONDON

Why do we constantly export terrible games across the pond? Atlanta is just aweful. They had no business defeating the Giants. Three of four opponents have scored 30 points or more against the Falcons. You know which team didn't top 30 points against Atlanta? The Giants. Stick with the Jets coming off last week's defensive marvel against the Titans.

Loss; 27-20 Falcons

BENGALS +3 Packers

Trap game! The Packers should win, but will they? Joe Burrow is hotter than the sun ... something to be said for the up and comers of the league. Gotta take underdogs if you wanna win (ATS).

Push; 25-22 Packers

Lions +9 VIKINGS

Week Five Toilet Bowl: Just looking for the Lions to cover. Like last week, Dalvin Cook is playing on an injured ankle, and you saw what happened against the Browns. Minnesota's win over Seattle was unimpressive. The Lions are 2-2 against the spread and so are the Vikes. Heads I win, tails you lose.

WIN; 19-17 Vikings

STEELERS +1 Broncos

The Steelers have one more win in them. They'll do it for their coach. Big Ben has a bum hip, but he should be able to bust the Broncos.

WIN; 27-19 Steelers

BUCCANEERS -10 Dolphins

It turns out Miami's week one win against the Patriots was a fluke. Meanwhile, the world awaits Tom Brady versus Jacoby Brissett.

WIN; 45-17 Bucs

WASHINGTON +2 Saints

Washington has no business winning this game, not with their lack of discipline. I'm giving Coach Rivera one last vote of confidence to garner some competency from his talent. They should be able to create all kinds of chaos around Jameis Winston, but will they ...

Loss; 33-22 Saints

PANTHERS -3 Eagles

Panthers are banged up. But the Eagles are the most undependable team in football. They're harder to solve than a sudoku puzzle. Sam, I Can ...

Loss; 21-18 Eagles

Titans -4 1/2 JAGUARS

Urban Meyer missed the team flight back to Florida so he could chill in Ohio and party. You can take the man out of college but you can't take college out of the man. I wanna see Jacksonville lose their 20th in a row. When it rains it pours.

WIN; 37-19 Titans

Patriots -9 TEXANS

This is a lot of points. Houston's defense can make this game closer than Bill Belichick would like. A touchdown and a field goal, I'll take my chances.

Loss; 25-22 Patriots

RAIDERS -5 1/2 Bears

Back to the desert, they go ... not a good place for bears. Chicago's problem is points - they simply do not score. They average 16-points per game.

Loss; 20-9 Bears

Browns +2 1/2 CHARGERS

It's time the Bolts experience a short circuit. Chargers are a legit 3-1 team. But ya can't hold the Browns' competition against them. Their defense is good, really good. If Baker Mayfield plays under control, they're in.

Loss; 47-42 Chargers

CARDINALS -5 49ers

No Jimmy G ... I picked the Cardinals last week against the Rams. The Cardinals can seize the NFC West by the neck, and they know it.

WIN; 17-10 Cardinals

Bills +3 CHIEFS

If there was ever a game the Chiefs should plow forward behind the run, this is it. Run, run, run, chew up yardage behind that big offensive line, and keep Josh Allen and the Bills off the field. Problem is, Buffalo's defense is among the NFL's best.

WIN; 38-20 Bills

Schmear of the Week (3-1)

Bucs -10

WIN

Good luck, and have a great Football Sunday!

POST-GAME

Week Five Record: 7-6-1

Overall Record (ATS): 32-34-2

Schmear of the Week: 4-1

Bagels in the Basket: +5

Friday, October 01, 2021

PIGSKIN 2021: Week Four

PIGSKIN

FOOTBALL SUNDAY

Week Four

RESULTS

Week One

Week Two

Week Three

SCOREBOARD

Week Three Record: 3-9

Overall Record (ATS): 15-24-1

Schmear of the Week: 2-1

Bagels in the Basket: -7

1st and Ten

Back to the 1980s: AFC West - Raiders and Broncos atop the division with the Chargers a close third.
GO WEST! The AFC West and NFC West lead their respective conferences with nine wins.
Meanwhile, Buffalo remains the best (and only) team in New York State.
Sam Darnold is undefeated as a Panther! LOL

2nd and Long

Four of five undefeated teams come from two divisions.
Big Ben second-guessing himself for playing another season?

No Gain

~~New Jersey~~ New York metropolitan area football is 0-6. Hockey and basketball are just two and three weeks away.
Richard Sherman signs with the Bucs.

PUNT!

If the Giants, Jets, and Jaguars are the Moe, Larry, and Curly of football, I guess that makes Detroit, Shemp.

WEEK FOUR

Friday Line ~ NYP/MGM

SAINTS -7 Giants

The Giants, who generate very little QB pressure, to begin with, are without their second-leading tackler, Blake Martinez, out for the season. The offense is still far from operating as a cohesive unit. I'm setting the over/under at 7.5 for Giant penalties.

Loss; 27-21 Giants, o.t.

Titans -7 JETS

Sometimes smash mouth gets off to slow starts. The Titans appear to be coming on. Zack Wilson will continue playing with a bullseye on his back until the Jets muster a running game.

Loss; 27-24 Jets, o.t.

Washington -1 1/2 FALCONS

Washington also needs to get their stuff together. Coach Rivera has a bunch of young talent to work with; it's just not being tapped properly. Otherwise, the Giants should have beaten the Falcons ... as if.

WIN; 34-30 Washington

BILLS -17 Texans

We know the Bills can score, but their defense has been stellar. Texans, rookie quarterback, you know the drill.

WIN; 40-0 Bills

BEARS -3 Lions

Week Four Toilet Bowl: it's supposed to rain all day, meaning Andy Dalton is less of a factor, and running and defense win the day. I made a "mistake" last week; I'm doubling down with the Bears at home.

WIN; 24-14 Bears

Browns -1 1/2 VIKINGS

I'm still surprised that Minnesota defeated the Seahawks. That's precisely why I see the Vikes losing to the Browns - no consistency. Is Baker Mayfield a leader? Dalvin Cook is hobbling on a bum ankle. If Cleveland can slow down the Vikings' run, they're in.

WIN; 14-7 Browns

COWBOYS -4 1/2 Panthers

The Panthers are playing good defense but are without Christian McCaffrey. Sam Darnold has his hands full. This is a good challenge for him. It's also an excellent opportunity for the Cowboys to seize early control of the NFC Least.

WIN; 36-28 Cowboys

Colts +2 DOLPHINS

No Tua, no chance. Oh, and now the Dolphins starting center is out too! I know Carson Wentz is a nightmare; I know the Colts have offensive line issues, but the Colts cannot start 0-4, can they?

WIN; 27-17 Colts

Chiefs -7 EAGLES

Coach Reid will not allow the Chiefs to lose three in a row, much less at Philly.

WIN; 42-30 Chiefs

Cardinals +4 RAMS

Battle of the undefeated ... I'm a stubborn contrarian. The Rams have owned the Cardinals. I know Matt Stafford is the right guy for the Rams. I know they sport a good defense. But I still think they're a paper tiger. Blame their head coach. This all applies to the playoffs, I know. In the meantime ...

WIN; 37-20 Cardinals

49ERS -3 Seahawks

Seattle's defense is the most significant variable in this game. I think the Niners are Super Bowl contenders, although the Rams and Cardinals might have other ideas.

Loss; 28-21 Seahawks

Ravens +3 BRONCOS

The Bronco defense is legit. But let's be clear, they are 3-0 after beating the Moe, Larry, and Curly of the NFL. A healthy Lamar Jackson would undoubtedly make this contest easier to forecast. But let's see what happens when Teddy Bridgewater throws into a real defense.

WIN; 23-7 Ravens

PACKERS -6 1/2 Steelers

The Steelers are that aging and injured animal lagging behind the herd. We all know what comes next.

WIN; 27-17 Packers

Buccaneers -7 PATRIOTS

Let's not make too much of this. The Patriots are rebuilding and jettisoned a veteran quarterback to help kickstart their own drafted rookie. Where have I heard that before? The Bucs are too polished for these Patriots, Belichick or not. In fact, they're good enough to repeat.

Loss; 19-17 Bucs

Schmear of the Week (2-1)

Packers -6 1/2

WIN

Post-Game

Week Four Record: 10-4

Overall record (ATS): 25-28-1

Schmear of the Week: 3-1

Bagels in the Basket: +2

Good luck, and have a great Football Sunday!

Saturday, September 18, 2021

PIGSKIN 2021: Week Two

PIGSKIN

FOOTBALL SUNDAY

Week Two

RESULTS

Week One

WELCOME BACK, and THANK YOU for making PIGSKIN one of my more popular features. There is no PIGSKIN nor a Brooklyn Trolley Blogger without you. I can not express enough how appreciative and grateful I am for your time and continued interest.

The New York Football Giants department of my blog: DO IT FOR THE DUKE. Just so you know, I am a blue bleeding Giants fan. I was a novice in the mid 1970's when John McVay still roamed the sideline. The disciplinarian Ray Perkins followed and guided the Giants through my first playoff experience. Bill Parcells takes over the reigns in 1983, and the rest is history.

The Jets department of my blog: WALT MICHAELS' REVENGE. I am not a Jets hater. If you follow me you'll concur. I just call it like I see it. I'm one who enjoys the mayhem that comes with having so many pro teams playing within our metropolitan area. I remember Joe Namath's last season in green and was just as dismayed as any Jets fan to see him in a Rams uniform. Joe Klecko belongs in the Hall of Fame! What on god's earth is Canton waiting for? I also derived no joy from watching Richard Todd throw three interceptions in the 1983 AFC championship game at Miami - the game that got Walt Michaels unfairly fired.

Please allow me to reiterate my appreciation for your support.

SCOREBOARD

Week One Record: 8-6-0

Schmear of the Week: 1-0

Bagels in the Basket: +5

1st and Ten

A covid outbreak among Saints coaching staff.
Tom Brady says he can play until he is 50-years old. The old goat threw for a mere 379 yards and four touchdowns against the Cowboys.

2nd and Short

What the hell happened to the Packers? We'll find out Monday night.
Giants defense makes Washington's Taylor Heinckie look like Joe Theismann.

No Gain

NYG, Nick Gates, out for the season, broken leg early in game one.
NYJ, Mekhi Becton, out for the foreseeable future with an injured leg.

PUNT!

Atlanta Falcons
After his first-ever NFL game, Giants ROOKIE receiver Kadarius Toney vents frustrations on social media over his role on the team; c'mon, man!

N.Y. Giants: Week Two Marred By More Mistakes and Another Fourth Quarter Meltdown

WEEK TWO

Friday Line ~ MGM/NYP

Patriots -6 JETS

N.Y. JETS: No Better Time to Underestimate the Patriots Than Now

WIN; 25-6 Patriots

Bengals +2 1/2 BEARS

If the Bears win, they'll do so by one or two points. That's why it's called gambling. The Bears' big-name defensive players went MIA last week, and they do not appear inclined to start their rookie quarterback, so expect to see Andy Dalton again. The Bengals pulled off an OT win against the Vikings. I'll stick with Dalton playing his former team and momentum on the road.

Loss; 20-17 Bears

BROWNS -12 1/2 Texans

Houston benefitted from playing against the Jags. Last week they yielded 27 points against a rookie quarterback, which goes in hand with Tyrod Taylor getting outplayed by Trevor Lawrence. Browns are still playing without Odell Beckham, but it didn't seem to slow them down. Browns can run the ball and keep Houston's offense off the field. I do not see the Texans defense slowing them down.

Loss; 31-21 Browns

Rams -3 1/2 COLTS

If Seattle can go into Indianapolis and win, so can the Rams. Carson Wentz was okay, but Russell Wilson was outstanding against the Colts' defense. The Rams offense will treat them similarly.

Loss; 27-24 Rams

Bills -3 1/2 DOLPHINS

The Fish had their fun last week against New England. Meanwhile, I'm confident the Bills are furious after last week's letdown against the Steelers. Despite their victory, Miami's week-one offense was relatively unimpressive. The Patriots killed themselves with turnovers. This line is mysteriously close. Take the Bills in a stampede.

WIN; 35-0 Bills

49ers -3 EAGLES

Anything about the Eagles involves a coin and flipping it. The Niners allowing 33 points to the Lions is concerning. But whereas the Niners are poised for winning, the Eagles are not. Look for Dr. Jeckyll taking the day off and Mr. Hyde circumventing the Eagles at home.

WIN; 17-11 Niners

STEELERS -5 1/2 Raiders

That was an impressive comeback by the Raiders last week against the Ravens. Derek Carr did all the work because the Raiders have no run game. Running back Josh Jacobs is out this week. Because of Coach Gruden's drafting, the Raiders are still no better than par. I think folks entered the season underestimating the Steelers.

Loss; 26-17 Raiders

Saints -3 1/2 PANTHERS

The only real problem the Jets had last week against the Panthers was an inability to account for Christian McCaffrey. On the other hand, the Panthers' defense faces their first real test against the Saints. Coach Sean Payton will only make Jameis Winston better.

Loss; 26-7 Panthers

JAGUARS +6 Broncos

If Trevor Lawrence can limit interceptions, this game stays within range.

Loss; 23-13 Broncos

CARDINALS -3 1/2 Vikings

I'm down on the Vikings, to begin with. I was impressed last week with the way Arizona bottled up the Titans' running game. If the Vikings can't run, they can't win? Kirk Cousins threw for 351 yards last week with two touchdowns and still lost against the Bengals.

Loss; 34-33 Cardinals

BUCCANEERS -12 Falcons

This spread is warranted. The Falcons are a mess.

WIN; 48-25 Bucs

Cowboys +3 CHARGERS

What do you suppose could have happened to the Chargers last week if Ryan Fitzpatrick did not get hurt?

Push; 20-17 Cowboys

SEAHAWKS -6 Titans

I hate this spread, but what are ya' gonna do ... Russell Wilson is insanely good, Seattle is home, the Twelfth Man is back in the house, and after last week's performance, the Titans pose a big question mark.

Loss; 33-30 Titans

Chiefs -3 1/2 RAVENS

Not sure if these are the Ravens of last season. If the spread was any wider, I'd side with Baltimore. But (I believe) the Chiefs are playing with three rookies on the offensive line and managed to outlast the Browns. Lamar Jackson, good, competent but isn't necessarily known to put the team on his back and carry them.

Loss; 36-35 Ravens

Schmear of the Week (1-0)

Patriots -6

WIN

Good luck, and have a great Football Sunday!

POSTGAME

Week Two (ATS): 4-9-1

Overall Record: 12-15-1

Schmear of the Week: 2-0

Bagels in the Basket: +2

Saturday, September 11, 2021

PIGSKIN 2021: Week One

PIGSKIN

FOOTBALL SUNDAY

Week One

The New York Football Giants department of my blog: DO IT FOR THE DUKE. Just so you know, I am a blue bleeding Giants fan. I was a novice in the mid 1970's when John McVay still roamed the sideline. The disciplinarian Ray Perkins followed and guided the Giants through my first playoff experience. Bill Parcells takes over the reigns in 1983, and the rest is history.

The Jets department of my blog: WALT MICHAELS' REVENGE. I am not a Jets hater. If you follow me you'll concur. I just call it like I see it. I'm one who enjoys the mayhem that comes with having so many pro teams playing within our metropolitan area. I remember Joe Namath's last season in green and was just as dismayed as any Jets fan to see him in a Rams uniform. Joe Klecko belongs in the Hall of Fame! What on god's earth is Canton waiting for? I also derived no joy from watching Richard Todd throw three interceptions in the 1983 AFC championship game at Miami - the game that got Walt Michaels unfairly fired.

Please allow me to reiterate my appreciation for your support.

RULES of PIGSKIN

This is a friggin hobby, okay! I do this for fun and entertainment purposes only. PIGSKIN is not bookie. If you lose money following PIGSKIN advice, tell it to the Marines.
Otherwise, the PIGSKIN preferred unit of value is a good old Brooklyn deli BAGEL. For what it's worth, my favorites are everything, pumpernickel, and cinnamon raisin, in that order. Each PIGSKIN pick is worth one Bagel; the Schmear of the Week is worth three Bagels.
I usually post PIGSKIN picks by Friday evening. But I have a real-life, therefore sometimes my picks get posted on Saturday.
Regardless of posting day, PIGSKIN uses the NFL line from Friday's NYP/NYDN.
PIGSKIN only cares about Football Sunday. Exceptions are on Thanksgiving Day and if the GIANTS/JETS play Monday/Thursday nights.
PIGSKIN, for years, has openly protested the Washington D.C. Football Club and sees no reason to stop now.
PIGSKIN is cool. Tell your friends.

1st and Ten

More Nickelodeon!
Sam Darnold is free and faces the Jets in Week One.
Seventeen game season?

2nd and Long

J.J. Watt with the Cardinals?
Big Ben ...
T.J. Watt signs for big bucks ...
Jameis Winston with the Saints?

No Gain

Aaron Rogers' off-season hissyfit is finally over.
Jets' new head coach, new quarterback ... expect the same subpar results.
Dak Prescott makes his return and loses to the GOAT.
Matthew Stafford with the Rams?

PUNT!

This was the most inconsequential preseason in NFL history!
Bill Belichick cut Cam Newton; no surprise there.
Why do the Giants have eight home games, and the Jets get ten home games?

ICYMI:

WEEK ONE

Friday Line - NYP

Broncos -3 GIANTS

I will be very surprised to see the Giants pull this out. An aspiring defense was overworked last season. All eyes are on the offensive line ... again! They either protect Daniel Jones and create daylight for the running game or play like the Keystone Cops.

WIN; 27-13 Broncos

PANTHERS -4 Jets

Sam Darnold gets to play with real players, and real coaches, and a real team with their own stadium. His experience will serve him well. There will be no more motivated person on planet Earth than Sam. The Jets simply have too much to do before they can be labeled credible ... rookie quarterback, etc. Honestly, how many points do you expect them to score?

WIN; 19-14 Panthers

FALCONS -3 1/2 Eagles

Maybe a new head coach does the Falcons some good ... maybe a new head coach does the Eagles some good. Matt Ryan should be worth four points at home.

Loss; 32-6 Eagles

Steelers +6 1/2 BILLS

I think the Bills are on the shortlist of Super Bowl favorites, but after such a pathetic NFL off-season I just don't like them laying that many points against the Steelers in Week One. For most starters across the league, Week One will be more like pre-season game four.

WIN; 23-16 Steelers

BENGALS +3 Vikings

A building block in the Joe Burrow era ... Vikings are a complete mystery. Just when they win your confidence, they fail miserably.

WIN; 27-24 Bengals

49ers -7 1/2 LIONS

The Niners have much to prove ... to themselves. Meanwhile, the Lions still have more problems than a math book. They'll be vying for the number one overall draft pick.

WIN; 41-33 Niners

TITANS -3 Cardinals

JJ Watt will spend more time playing against the run than he will be hunting the quarterback. The Titans are improved with Julio Jones and their run game will minimize Kyler Murray's time on the field.

Loss; 38-13 Cardinals

COLTS +3 Seahawks

Colts still have a very good offensive line. They will dominate Seattle's defensive front. The rest needs to work itself out.

Loss; 28-16 Seahawks

WASHINGTON +1 Chargers

Washington features a very formidable defensive front. Ryan FitzMAGIC gives them a viable chance on offense. We're only talking about one point here. Chargers are another team that needs to show me. They're good against pedestrian teams, not so good against others.

Loss; 20-16 Chargers

TEXANS +3 Jaguars

Week One Toilet Bowl: What can I say ... Trevor Lawrence? Show me. That said, I have no confidence in Houston. Along with the Lions, I think the depleted Texans will be vying for the number one overall draft pick.

WIN; 37-21 Texans

Browns +6 CHIEFS

See the Steelers/BILLS game ... I just think that's a lot of points in Week One. Consider the upcoming Browns officially experienced. They're ready to win. The Chiefs offensive line is perhaps the biggest question mark in all the NFL that no one is talking about.

WIN; 33-29 Chiefs

PATRIOTS -3 Dolphins

Welcome to the season's first opportunity to underestimate the Dolphins.

Loss; 17-16 Dolphins

Packers -3 1/2 Saints (Jacksonville, Fla.)

Neutral site game ... just consider the season Aaron Rogers put up last year versus the season Jameis Winston is praying to have.

Loss; 38-3 Saints

RAMS -7 1/2 Bears

The Paper Tigers win because I have no idea where the Bears are getting points.

WIN; 34-14 Rams

Schmear of the Week

PANTHERS -4