It was a tough week for Ernesto the Prediction Iguana, as the Steelers erupted, the Dolphins imploded, and the Rams left their offense home. His 3-3 week leaves him 31-11 on the season, 12-9 in teasers.
It’s time for Ernesto’s annual Thanksgiving vacation, so Faith the Prediction Cat takes the reins for the next three weeks. She had a spectacular relief appearance last year, going 20-5-1, so we’re brimming with both confidence and coffee that she’ll ignite a furious rally after last week’s debacle. As always we do 2-team teasers here, so we can move the line 6 points either way. We use the lines from Vegas Insider, HOME TEAM IN CAPS.
OVER EASY!
LIONS-Vikings OVER 38
STEELERS-Packers OVER 35.5
The Lions love Thanksgiving day games and the Vikings have been a force this season in the NFC. While it might not be a track meet, 38 is low. Meanwhile Pittsburgh loves prime time, and even if they somehow go back to the anemic Steelers that fizzle in the Red Zone, 35.5 is one of the lowest numbers we’ve seen this season.
BARKIN’ DOGS!
Panthers (+1.5) at JETS
Texans (+13) at RAVENS
The Panthers O-line will push the Jets around just enough for Cam Newton to connect on game-clinching big plays. The Panthers D-line will finish the job with a turnover. 13 is a lot to ask of a Ravens defense that only just found its stride last week against a flailing Packers team that looks lost without Rogers.
MOVE THE LINE, TAKE THE POINTS
CARDINALS-Jaguars OVER 32
COWBOYS (+6) vs. Chargers
The CARDS-Jags game is in Arizona, so weather won’t be a factor. The Jags offense is finding its stride well. The Cards can score, but may have their hands full with the feel-good story of the AFC coming to town. Dallas is tough on Thanksgiving and the Chargers aren’t used to playing in Dallas or on T-day. Plus Dallas will be angry after that Philly beatdown.
BONUS! THINGS TO WATCH FOR THIS WEEK (FOR DEGENERATES ONLY)
Seahawks (-1) at 49ers
Dolphins (+22.5)
I know we’re breaking the rule of “Never pick NFC West divisional match-ups,” but if the Seahawks lose to the Niners, the fans should tell them, “Don’t come home.” Meanwhile in the entire time this column has run a team getting 20 points or more ha lost exactly ONE time. Still – and especially after last week’s travesty at the end of the game – be careful picking the Dolphins – and especially not against the Pats in Foxboro.
