Wild Card Weekend

With the final games in the regular season, we were able to recover to a 62% correction rate. Though it was a weakest season since doing these pick, we’re still ahead of the so-called “wiseguys” in Vegas.

Last Week’s Results
Against the Spread: 8-4-4
Head to Head: 12-4

Regular Season to Date
Against the Spread: 119-95-41
Head to Head: 161-95

Odds Courtesy of OddsShark.com


Saturday, January 7th


Cincinnati (9-7) at Houston (10-6)
Line: Texans by 3

Houston limped their way to the post-season using four (Count ‘em! 4) starting quarterbacks this season. T.J. Yates was injured last weekend, but is expected to start, but if he can’t, backup Jake Delhomme is ready. Much of the Texans success can be given to defensive coordinator Wade Philips, who was able to put together the fourth best defense in the league this season. Another important piece of the puzzle is running back Arian Foster, who ran for 1,841 and 10 touchdowns. As for the Bengals, their incredible season continues. The vastly inexperienced squad jelled together nicely for head coach Marvin Lewis. With a rookie quarterback (Andy Dalton) and rookie wideouts (led by A.J. Green), Cincinnati surprised critics and predictors (including us) with a wildcard bid. He key in this game is the Houston offense. How will they respond given the numerous injuries to key personnel? Look for a hard fought game to be had.

Smooth’s Pick – Cincinnati (24-17)


Detroit (10-6) at New Orleans (13-3)
Line: Saints by 11

Drew Brees has made a case on why he should be the NFL’s MVP. He shattered Dan Marino’s record for the most passing yards. His Saints offense was number two in points per game (34.2) and points scored. This is the same type of offense that gave New Orleans their first ever Super Bowl. Unfortunately, they were unable to get a first round bye, making their road to Indianapolis harder. As for Detroit, four years after their disastrous 0-16 record, the team finally made the playoff for the first time since 1999. Since their 31-17 loss to New Orleans in week 12, the Lions won three straight and squeezed into the playoffs as a wild card. The key to their success will be stopping the Saints high octane passing attack.

Smooth’s Pick – New Orleans (34-16)


Sunday, January 8th


Atlanta (10-6) at NY Giants (9-7)
Line: Giants by 3

No one knows which Giants team will show up this Sunday. Will it be the one who laid an egg against Washington and Seattle, or will it be the one that made thrilling come-from-behind victories against New England and Dallas? The season was saved by Eli Manning’s stellar play and Victor Cruz’ breakout year. The emergence of defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul was also key to the Giants success. As for Atlanta, last year’s frustrating loss at home against Green Bay will be on their minds. They get another chance to prove they’re not playoff pretenders. Matt Ryan threw for 29 yards and his playmakers Julio Jones and Roddy White were his main targets. Look for both QB’s to throw for plenty of yards and lots of scoring. Don’t be surprise if it comes down to the last scoring drive being the difference maker.

Smooth’s Pick – NY Giants (37-34)



Pittsburgh (12-4) at Denver (8-8)
Line: Steelers by 8

Pittsburgh came up short for the top seed, so they’ll have to settle for a playoff game on the roadthis weekend. But they’ll have to do it without running back Rashad Mendenhall, who tore his ACL during last weekend game. Ben Rothlisberger is also still nursing his severely sprained ankle. Ad for Denver, their miraculous season continues. However, the Broncos have some key injuries to deal with on their offense. Couple that with the overall problems scoring, period. Their only hope is for Rothlisberger to throw the football. With a hobbled ankle, the Broncos have a chance to limit his mobility and keep the game score low. This could be rough-going for fans of offensive minded games.

Smooth’s Pick – Pittsburgh (13-6)