The Betting Men are off to a rough start, and our editor here on these pages have threatened to pit our picks up against a small child in the future. Replacement refs? We might be replaced ourselves.

But this week’s matchups should right the ship as Vegas is having a rough time figuring out which teams are truly contenders. With our abacus in hand, we have devised an algorithm to earn your trust back. The Patriots try to avoid a three-game losing streak, while the Jets attempt to prove that they belong with the top dogs as the 49ers roll into MetLife Stadium.

The afternoon games, blah, you can fall asleep in an Italian beef-induced coma with just enough time to wake up for the Giants showdown against the Eagles in Philly. And get your popcorn ready for the Monday Night Football showdown between the Bears and Cowboys — both teams have had struggles with their offensive lines, and it would amaze us if Jay Cutler and Tony Romo finish the game without the assistance of a wheelchair.

Week 3 Total: Ross 6-9-1 ATS, Russell 6-9-1 ATS

Season Total: Ross 24-21-3 ATS, Russell 19-26-3

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens (-12.5)

Russell’s Pick: Difficult to imagine Trent Richardson being a factor in this ball game against the Ravens’ defense as he is averaging a mere 3.5 yds./carry. And with the Ravens winning 8 straight contests against the lowly Browns it is just a matter of how many points they win by. I will take the Ravens at home to cover in the short week.

Final Score: Ravens 27-10 (LOSS)

Ross’ Pick: Baltimore isn’t going to stumble in this one…and even if they do, it’s pretty clear that Cleveland is the worst team in the NFL right now. Baltimore is averaging 32 points per game, Cleveland just 19. Add a TD for Baltimore off a Brandon Weeden mistake.

Final Score: Ravens 39-19 (LOSS)

Sunday, September 30, 2012

New England Patriots @ Buffalo Bills (+4)

Russell’s Pick: There is talk that Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller could suit up this weekend for the Bills, but both are nursing injuries that limit running back production (knee and shoulder respectively). Look for the Patriots to get some timely sacks and turnovers as the Bills will be forced into a pass happy Sunday.

Final Score: Patriots 31-17

Ross’ Pick: This game is sort of like the Packer-Seahawk matchup from Monday night: a team with a great reputation that isn’t looking so hot against a team on the rise that’s rebounded from a week 1 loss. I’m concerned about the running back situation in Buffalo, but those Pats DBs were dreadful. Too dreadful to lay more than a FG on the road.

Final Score: Patriots 24-21

Minnesota Vikings @ Detroit Lions (-4.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Lions are 0-3 ATS this season and their defense has been non-existent. Although the Vikings are coming off an emotional high in their upset win against the Niners it is hard to imagine that Kyle Rudolph and Percy Harvin will not maintain their offensive momentum against a very weak Lions secondary.

Final Score: Lions 23-20

Ross’ Pick: Matthew Stafford and the Lions have a lot to prove in this one. They’ve been shaky all season, and last week’s embarrassing loss will have them fired up. The offense may have found a legit running back in Mikel Leshoure. Minnesota played well vs. SF, but I’m not believing in them quite yet.

Final Score: Lions 31-21

Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons (-7)

Russell’s Pick: The Falcons are 3-0 ATS this year and their defense has been flying to the ball. They spanked the Chargers last week while limiting Rivers to 173 yards as he had zero time to throw the football. Based on Newton’s performance against the Giants it is difficult for me to see improvement against the Dirty Birds.

Final Score: Falcons 31-21

Ross’ Pick: Why is this line only 7 points? It makes me wonder what Vegas knows that I don’t. However, I can’t imagine a red hot Matt Ryan slowing down at home against a Carolina defense that isn’t exactly playing inspiring football. Expect the dynamic Jacquizz Rodgers to get involved for the Birds.

Final Score: Falcons 34-23

San Francisco 49ers @ New York Jets (+4)

Russell’s Pick: The Jets could barely move the ball in the red zone against the Dolphins and their gimmicks with Tim Tebow are a complete joke. Revis’ ACL tear absolutely devastates this team and their chances to win this game.

Final Score: Niners 20-13

Ross’ Pick: This promises to be a low-scoring game and San Francisco needs to rebound from last week’s loss if they’re going to be taken seriously as Super Bowl contenders. However, I don’t believe they are contenders. The Jets lost Darrelle Revis and looked poor on offense…but they’ll be at home, fired up, and will keep it close.

Final Score: Niners 20-17

San Diego Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs (-1)

Russell’s Pick: San Diego’s rushing defense is vastly improved from last season and they are more than capable of shutting down Jamaal Charles. Yeah, they were gashed by the Falcons, but is there any team playing better right now in the NFC than the Falcons?

Final Score: Chargers 28-20

Ross’ Pick: Shame on me for believing in the Chargers last week. They reverted to maddening form last week and were blown out by Atlanta. Now they go on the road, to a place that hasn’t been too friendly to them in recent years. No thanks.

Final Score: Chiefs 27-24

Tennessee Titans @ Houston Texans (-12)

Russell’s Pick: The Titans proved that they can put points up on the board, but that was against the porous Lions’ defense. As importantly, their own defense is giving up a staggering 37.7 pts./game and the Texans have been nothing short of consistent averaging 29.3 pts./game on offense. And how about a big middle finger for Chris Johnson whom has ruined my fantasy football season with 33 carries for a paltry 45 yards.

Final Score: Texans 30-14

Ross’ Pick: All the long TDs Tennessee had last week? They won’t be getting such red carpet treatment from the competent defense in Houston. Too much firepower on both sides of the ball for Jake Locker and the Titans here.

Final Score: Texans 38-20

Seattle Seahawks @ St. Louis Rams (+2.5)

Russell’s Pick: With victories against the Packers and Cowboys and a loss against the undefeated Cardinals, the Seahawks are compiling an impressive resume. Their defense is nasty (8 sacks against the Packers on Monday night) and they lay the wood on their opponents. Good luck Sam Bradford.

Final Score: Seahawks 20-17

Ross’ Pick: Part of me thinks the Sports Gods will make Seattle pay for the win they didn’t earn Monday night. But the other part saw them play defense and remembers how they’ve handled the Rams easily in recent seasons. Both teams are vastly improved this year, but Seattle more so.

Final Score: Seahawks 26-20

Miami Dolphins @ Arizona Cardinals (-6.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Dolphins’ defense will do everything they can to keep this game close, but with Reggie Bush questionable with a knee injury it is difficult for me to trust Ryan Tannehill against a Cards team that shut down Tom Brady and Michael Vick.

Final Score: Cardinals 24-16

Ross’ Pick: Arizona has played well as underdogs this season. How will they fare as a clear favorite? They’ve beaten better foes than the weak Miami team they’ll face at home this week. They’re looking a lot like their division rival 49ers with the great D and good-enough offense.

Final Score: Cardinals 23-9

Oakland Raiders @ Denver Broncos (-6.5)

Russell’s Pick: Tough for me to pick the Broncos to cover when they have trailed in every game this season (double digits in the last two games). I cannot believe I am saying this following their loss to the Dolphins, but I am throwing down on the Raiders.

Final Score: Broncos 27-24

Ross’ Pick: I’m still not sold on the Peyton Manning signing, and I don’t know how much better he is than Carson Palmer at this point. Oakland’s defense is strong up front and Darren McFadden was impressive last week, but can they play well two weeks in a row? I doubt it. Short passes and Manning savvy get the job done at home.

Final Score: Broncos 31-23

Cincinnati Bengals @ Jacksonville Jaguars (+2.5)

Russell’s Pick: Give the Bengals credit; they have beaten up on the teams with losing records. The Jaguars are another one of those teams and their last minute touchdown against the Colts is not enough to scare me into thinking they are a good football team.

Final Score: Bengals 24-13

Ross’ Pick: Cincinnati doesn’t handle prosperity very well; letdowns following nice wins are the norm for them. With Maurice Jones-Drew looking as good as ever and the Bengals D in disarray (34 ppg), I’ll take the home team in an upset.

Final Score: Jaguars 23-20

New Orleans Saints @ Green Bay Packers (-7.5)

Russell’s Pick: Aaron Rodgers & Co. are licking their chops at a chance to get out of their offensive funk against a Saints’ defense that is allowing 34 points/game. After leaving Monday night’s game in the hands of the officials you better believe the Packers will go for the jugular early in this affair.

Final Score: Packers 34-21

Ross’ Pick: Even though Green Bay clearly isn’t as good as expected, they’re good enough to defeat the train wreck that is New Orleans. You can’t walk into Lambeau with an erratic offense and the league’s 31^st ranked defense and expect to hang in the game.

Final Score: Packers 41-24

Washington Redskins @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3)

Russell’s Pick: The two worst passing defenses square off against each other, but the Bucs are dead last in total yards, yards per play, and 3^rd down conversions.

Final Score: Redskins 23-20

Ross’ Pick: Each of these teams fooled us in week 1. Tampa beat Carolina, but the Panthers have turned out to be pretty poor. Similarly, the Skins beat the Saints, and we know the story there. In this type of game, I’ll take the team with the better defense and running game. With key members of the ‘Skins D out, that’s the home team.

Final Score: Bucs 23-17 

New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles (-2)

Russell’s Pick: I hate to break it to Eagles fans, but Nnamdi Asomugha has been turned around more times than a carousel and against the Giants’ WR corps it is going to get ugly. The Eagles cannot hold onto the football through 3 games and another bout with turnoveritis will be too much to overcome.

Final Score: Giants 23-17

Ross’ Pick: Vick is a turnover machine and the Giants play very well on the road. Hakeem Nicks is likely to play, which will help the league’s 3^rd best offense. No one is discussing it, but Philly is last in points scored through 3 games. Do they have the firepower to hang with Eli and the boys? I don’t think so.

Final Score: Giants 28-20

Monday, October 1, 2012

Chicago Bears @ Dallas Cowboys (-3)

Russell’s Pick: Both teams have stout defenses and awful offensive lines so take the under (41.5) on Monday night. If I have to point out one distinct advantage it falls in favor of the Cowboys’ running game as DeMarco Murray is much better than the Forte-less Bears.

Final Score: Cowboys 17-13

Ross’ Pick: Interesting. Two 2-1 teams that have somehow disappointed offensively. Cutler vs. Romo! Two QBs that people just can’t get behind, and for good reason. However, look for Dallas to get the offense going at home in a big-time match up, the type of game that seems to flip the “on” switch for the Cowboys.

Final Score: Cowboys 23-17

Agree or disagree with our Betting Men? Weigh in below.

The post Betting Men: Week 4 NFL Picks appeared first on HyperVocal.

Rob Carr/Getty Images North America

Week 3 has some intriguing match-ups, none bigger than the Sunday night game between the Patriots and Ravens. Both teams are coming off tough losses, and one of these top-tier teams will surprisingly fall to 1-2 (barring an unforeseen, McNabb-esque tie). And don’t forget about the game in Arizona — the (whaaa?) 2-0 Cardinals face off against the Eagles, who have won both of their games by one point. Peyton and the Broncos face another tough test as the undefeated Texans come to town. Which Peyton will show up? The one who threw 3 picks in the first quarter against the Falcons or the field general that picked apart the Steelers’ defense in Week 1.

Week 2 Total: Ross 10-4-2 ATS, Russell 6-8-2 ATS

Season Total: Ross 18-12-2 ATS, Russell 13-17-2

Thursday, September 20, 2012

New York Giants @ Carolina Panthers (-1)

Russell’s Pick: The Giants are poised to win this game following an amazing comeback win against the Buccaneers. And after the cheap shot the Bucs took on Eli Manning during the final play of the game, you better believe this team will play with a chip on its shoulder despite their rash of injuries.

Final Score: Giants 23-20

Ross’ Pick: I’ve been watching both of these teams and the bottom line is, the Panthers are playing more consistently on both sides of the ball. The Giants have no cornerbacks and Hakeem Nicks is out. I don’t like it.

Final Score: Panthers 31-26

Sunday, September 23, 2012

St. Louis Rams @ Chicago Bears (-7.5)

Russell’s Pick: If Cutler wants to be considered a great player then he better start acting like one because the crap he pulled last week by shoving his left tackle, J’Marcus Webb, was completely uncalled for. Grow up buddy.

Final Score: Bears 24-17

Ross’ Pick: I don’t get it. In what way have the Bears earned a line that’s more than a TD? The Rams aren’t doormats and Chicago isn’t that good. Coach Fisher will have his team ready to play. Will the Bears be focused on the game, or waiting for their QB to have another tantrum? Without Forte at 100%, I don’t trust the Chicago offense. UPSET!

Final Score: Rams 24-21

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Dallas Cowboys (-7)

Russell’s Pick: Yes, I bet foolishly on the Cowboys to win in Seattle this past weekend, but the Cowboys will prove their doubters wrong with a bounce back win. Stat: Cowboys D allows 160 passing yds./game while the Bucs O throws for 178 passing yds./game. Advantage falls to the Cowboys.

Final Score: Cowboys 30-20

Ross’ Pick: Stats? Here’s one that sums up the Cowboys perfectly: Dallas is 29^th in the league in points scored through 2 games, and they’re 11^th in yards gained. The offense has moved the ball, but failed to score. From what I saw of the Tampa corners, that’ll change this week as Tampa plays the 2^nd of back to back roadies.

Final Score: Cowboys 31-13

San Francisco 49ers @ Minnesota Vikings (+7)

Russell’s Pick: Stranger things have happened already this season, but nothing out of the ordinary will come from this game. The Vikings are 0-2 ATS this season against the Jags and Colts so take the Niners.

Final Score: 49ers 23-13

Ross’ Pick: San Francisco is the best team in the NFL right now. Minnesota…isn’t. With the Niner D playing so well, I don’t see Minnesota scoring a TD in this one. Cruise control for the road team here.

Final Score: 49ers 24-9

Detroit Lions @ Tennessee Titans (+3)

Russell’s Pick: The Lions are a very similar team in structure to the San Diego Chargers which absolutely destroyed the Titans over the middle of the field (see Dante Rosario). If the Titans fall behind again quickly in this game and abandon their game plan to run Chris Johnson then this game will get ugly.

Final Score: Lions 31-27

Ross’ Pick: I like this matchup for the Titans. Detroit hasn’t stopped the run and Chris Johnson needs to get going. Detroit’s secondary is awful AND banged up, and Kenny Britt is going to be a factor after coming through week 2 unscathed. The Lions’ pass rush will be somewhat curtailed by Jake Locker’s scrambling ability.

Final Score: Titans 28-27

Cincinnati Bengals @ Washington Redskins (-3.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Redskins lost Adam Carriker and Brian Orakpo to season ending injuries last week and were simply dominated by the Rams from the 2^nd quarter on. RG III has plenty of weapons on offense to keep this close, but the Bengals balanced attack will be enough to pull off the upset.

Final Score: Bengals 27-21

Ross’ Pick: This is going to be a track meet. Neither team has impressed defensively and Washington is missing Brian Orakpo and Adam Carriker, both gone for the season. It’s the home opener for the ‘Skins, but I can’t help asking: If Danny Amendola went nuts on them, how is Washington going to stop A.J. Green? They’re not.

Final Score: Bengals 35-31

New York Jets @ Miami Dolphins (+3)

Russell’s Pick: The Raiders could have easily won that game against the Fins, but decided that bouncing off of Reggie Bush rather than tackling him was the way to go. The Jets will not make the same mistake.

Final Score: Jets 20-10

Ross’ Pick: Miami has been surprisingly stout versus the run so far (2.2 ypc/53 ypg), but I’m not sure that works in their favor here. The Jets look best when they take shots downfield, something they didn’t do last week but will be forced to do here. With Miami’s awful pass defense (313.5 ypg), I anticipate a nice day for Jet WRs and Sanchez.

Final Score: Jets 31-20

Kansas City Chiefs @ New Orleans Saints (-9)

Russell’s Pick: The old saying goes that if it looks, smells, and taste like crap then it must be crap. In the case of the Chiefs, they simply are the bigger piece of crap in this matchup.

Final Score: Saints 41-23

Ross’ Pick: Here’s the deal—both teams are going to give up 30+ points per game (they’ve averaged 37.5 so far), so something truly outstanding will have to happen for New Orleans to cover. I just don’t see it happening; bad mojo in the Big Easy.

Final Score: Saints 38-31

Buffalo Bills @ Cleveland Browns (+3)

Russell’s Pick: No real analysis here, just a gut feeling. Brownies have to prove to me that last week’s offensive showing against the Bengals was not a fluke.

Final Score: Bills 30-23

Ross’ Pick: This game will determine whether week 1 was a toss out game for the Buffalo defense. They were a totally different team in week 2 on that side of the ball, and I expect them to limit Trent Richardson and force Brandon Weeden into enough mistakes to win a low-scoring affair.

Final Score: Bills 20-13

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Indianapolis Colts (-3)

Russell’s Pick: Blaine Gabbert is like the really heavy girl at the night club; 10 beers and 3 shots is still not enough to take her home.

Final Score: Colts 24-17

Ross’ Pick: Two bad teams, one has a better QB and home field. That’s enough for me here, especially when Maurice Jones-Drew isn’t game fit.

Final Score: Colts 23-13

Philadelphia Eagles @ Arizona Cardinals (+4)

Russell’s Pick: With a win on the road against the defending AFC champs the Cards now have a believer…in their defense that is. Kolb will have his hands full with the Philly pass rush, but will put enough points on the board for the Cards’ defense to keep them in the ball game.

Final Score: Cardinals 20-17

Ross’ Pick: The Arizona defense has played well so far, but the emotional letdown after the upset in New England is inevitable, and Kevin Kolb will be facing a much better defense this week…one that will force him to be the real Kevin Kolb.

Final Score: Eagles 26-17

Atlanta Falcons @ San Diego (-3)

Russell’s Pick: Since 2010, Philip Rivers has thrown one or less interceptions in 24 games. In those 24 games, the Chargers are 16-8 and 2-0 this season. With the Chargers’ offensive captain playing efficient football another win at home seems likely.

Final Score: Chargers 31-30

Ross’ Pick: Flying cross-country on a short week is never a good thing, and that’s just what Atlanta has to do. I wasn’t that impressed with the Falcons, who barely hung on after getting 3 INTs in the 1^st quarter at home. San Diego’s defense has impressed thus far, and they’re getting Ryan Mathews back to gash the ATL run D (135 ypg).

Final Score: Chargers 27-20

Houston Texans @ Denver Broncos (+2)

Russell’s Pick: Rolling with the battle tested team with the battle tested quarterback. Oh, and the mile high atmosphere at Sports Authority Field won’t hurt my case either.

Final Score: Broncos 30-21

Ross’ Pick: No, Peyton Manning won’t throw 3 picks in a quarter in this one, but the Broncos are being overrated because of his presence. Houston is simply a better team, in every area, and will put forth their best effort of the young season in this big-time game.

Final Score: Texans 27-23

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Oakland Raiders (+4)

Russell’s Pick: So let me get this straight, the Raiders have looked like shit against the Chargers and Dolphins and I only have to give 4 points? Taking my money to the bank just like Montel Williams in his Money Mutual commercials.

Final Score: Steelers 24-16                 

Ross’ Pick: Yeah, I’m not touching the Raiders until they show me they’re a pro football team and get Darren McFadden (27 ypg/2.1 ypc) going. They’ve been embarrassing through 2 games and now have to face a Steelers team that’s always ready to play hard. Pros vs. Amateurs in the Black Hole. Lay the points.

Final Score: Steelers 31-17

New England Patriots @ Baltimore Ravens (-3)

Russell’s Pick: Joe Flacco drops back, passes it to Lee Evans, and Evans drops a game winning touchdown. Bye bye Super Bowl berth. Those chain of events haunt the Ravens to this day and they will get their payback in a close victory.

Final Score: Ravens 28-27

Ross’ Pick: Juicy! Both teams are quality and coming off losses. New England’s offensive line has allowed too much pressure on Tom Brady, and that’s not going to get fixed on the road against this team. The Ravens played decently in defeat on the road in Philly last week. They need to give Ray Rice more than 16 carries to win this one, and they will.

Final Score: Ravens 28-24

Monday, September 24, 2012

Green Bay Packers @ Seattle Seahawks (+3)

Russell’s Pick: Unlike the Cowboys, the Packers have a quarterback that can step up and win big games on the road in front of a hostile crowd.

Final Score: Packers 34-27

Ross’ Pick: Green Bay hits the road and plays in one of the toughest places in the league on Monday night. I’m going by what I see, and what I see is a really good Seattle defense against a Green Bay team that can’t run the ball at all. I see Beast Mode Lynch running wild like Hulkamania through the Green Bay’s weak run D (140 ypg). Reputation won’t win this one for the Packers.

Final Score: Seahawks 28-27

The post The Betting Men: NFL Week 3 Picks appeared first on HyperVocal.

Week 1 of the NFL season lived up to the hype by providing upsets all across the board. How will the expected NFL elite rebound from their poor performances? Can the Giants rebound against the resurgent Bucs and defend their title with honor, or will they fall to the dreaded 0-2? The same predicament faces the Saints, Bills, Steelers and Bengals, all of which had playoff hopes before this season began.

Bad Week 1 Totals: Ross 8-8 ATS, Russell 7-9 ATS

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Chicago Bears @ Green Bays Packers (-5)

Russell’s Pick: Packers 27-17 (Win)

Ross’ Pick: Packers 37-31 (Win)

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New York Giants (-7)

Russell’s Pick: The Giants received a wakeup call from the Cowboys making this game a must win. I also ran a simulation on Madden 2013 and the Giants won by two touchdowns. How can you not trust Madden?

Final Score: Giants 30-16

Ross’ Pick: Tampa held the ball for over 37 minutes against Carolina, while the Giants had the ball for fewer than 26 minutes versus Dallas. Tampa wants to run the ball (36 attempts). The Giants cannot run the ball (just 82 yards). To me, that means a close game.

Final Score: Giants 23-20

Arizona Cardinals @ New England Patriots (-13.5)

Russell’s Pick: Steven Ridley and his 125 yards rushing against the Titans provided Tom Brady with some much needed balance to their potent offense. And if he can continue with his contributions then Tom may even set him up with a Victoria Secret model.

Final Score: Patriots 34-13

Ross’ Pick: Arizona rushed for 43 yards last week. New England’s defense yielded just 20 yards on the ground. That doesn’t bode well for your team if Kevin Kolb is playing quarterback. Arizona’s underrated D will keep it close for a while, but in the end they’ll wear down.

Final Score: Patriots 31-16

Minnesota Vikings @ Indianapolis Colts (+1.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Vikes will take advantage of the Colts’ offensive line that may feature Tampa Bay practice squad tackle, Bradley Sowell. Mix in an injury to Dwight Freeney and their odds begin to dwindle. And let’s congratulate Adrian Peterson for passing Robert Smith on the franchise’s all-time rushing list with 6,836 yards.

Final Score: Vikings 23-19

Ross’ Pick: Andrew Luck will find it a great deal easier this week, at home against the Vikings, than he did last week at Soldier field. Even if AD runs wild, he won’t have more than 20 carries so the damage will be limited. I’ll take the home team here in a battle of 2 poor teams.

Final Score: Colts 24-21

New Orleans Saints @ Carolina Panthers (+2.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Saints came out flat against the Redskins last week, but there is no reason they should not be favored by at least 7 points against a Panthers team that lost to the Bucs.

Final Score: Saints 31-21

Ross’ Pick: Sorry, but this is exactly what I thought the Saints would be. They’re simply not that good. Not that Carolina is, but they will be at home and feature a dual-threat QB; that’s not something the Saints dealt with very well last week.

Final Score: Panthers 31-28

Kansas City Chiefs @ Buffalo Bills (-3)

Russell’s Pick: C’mon football gods, first the Bills lose Fred Jackson for at least a month and then David Nelson leaves with a season ending injury. Don’t fret Buffalo; I am still riding your bandwagon as long as C.J. Spiller and Steve Johnson remain healthy.

Final Score: Bills 24-20

Ross’ Pick: I’m willing to give Buffalo a mulligan for last week’s debacle, especially on defense. I’ve never been a Matt Cassel believer—this Sunday, you’ll see why.

Final Score: Bills 27-14

Baltimore Ravens @ Philadelphia Eagles (-2.5)

Russell’s Pick: Hmmmm…Ravens wax the Bengals while the Eagles squeak out a last minute victory over the lowly Browns. Yet the Eagles are favored? Too bad Michael Vick may leave this game in a body bag.

Final Score: Ravens 26-17

Ross’ Pick: For all the plaudits the Ravens are receiving, one little fact has gone unnoticed: they can be run on (129 yards/4.6 avg for Cincy). Without Mr. Suggs in the lineup, Shady McCoy will gain his yards. Unfortunately for the Eagles, that’s the extent of their offense. Maclin and D-Jax are banged up and Vick…well, Vick is Vick. I’ll roll with the hot here.

Final Score: Ravens 27-23

Oakland Raiders @ Miami Dolphins (+2.5)

Russell’s Pick: Oakland had their chances on Monday night until their long snapper decided he needed to get hurt. From then on their special teams were a complete disaster. How do they recover from their huge letdown? Simple, play the Dolphins.

Final Score: Raiders 19-14

Ross’ Pick: Is it really that difficult to snap a ball 15 yards? Apparently, although I still don’t buy it. It won’t matter here—Miami simply doesn’t have enough talent. At least the Raiders have McFadden and a solid D-line that can stuff the run. That means more of Tannehill throwing to…um…exactly. Oakland travels across the country on a short week and still has enough.

Final Score: Raiders 20-12

Cleveland Browns @ Cincinnati Bengals (-7)

Russell’s Pick: Brandon Weeden had a QB rating against the Eagles that matched the number of fingers on my right hand. Combine that with a heavy dose of the Law Firm and this game has double digit margin written all over it.

Final Score: Bengals 23-13

Ross’ Pick: I was hoping the overreaction factor from week 1 would have this below a TD, but I’ll still take Cincy. Brandon Weeden isn’t going to learn how to play quarterback in a week, and the Bengals are a  decent team that’s dying to show the world they aren’t as bad as week 1.

Final Score: Bengals 24-13

Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars (+7)

Russell’s Pick: Keys to a Jags victory, 1) stop Arian Foster, 2) shutdown Andre Johnson, 3) protect Blaine Gabbert, and 4) convince Jags fans to support their team. And if you are keeping score at home, none of these four will happen.

Final Score: Texans 24-7

Ross’ Pick: Houston is 10-3 against the number in their last 13 games, 6-3 against the Jags in that department. The Texans are also 8-2 in their last 10 games on a grass surface. The Jags, on the other hand, are 3-7 on the natural surface and 3-7 in their last 10 September games. Oh, and Houston has a massive talent edge.

Final Score: Texans 31-21

Dallas Cowboys @ Seattle Seahawks (+3)

Russell’s Pick: Feels like a trap game because Seattle has a historical home field advantage, but the Cowboys are simply a better team. Furthermore, DeMarcus Ware will wreak havoc on Russell Wilson and disrupt his timing all day long in the form of at least 3 sacks.

Final Score: Cowboys 28-17

Ross’ Pick: Dallas might be a better team…might be. However, the edge Seattle has at home is a large one. They’re 13-3-1 against the spread in their last 17 September home games. Dallas doesn’t travel well as a favorite, going 3-9-1 in their last 13 as the road choice. I see this as an overreaction line; Dallas isn’t as good as people think.

Final Score: Seahawks 23-20

Washington Redskins @ St. Louis Rams (+3)

Russell’s Pick: Redskin fans have a lot to be excited about following RG3’s performance in game one. RG3 lit up the Saints to become the first ever rookie to throw for 300+ yards, 2 TDs, and zero interceptions in their debut. Looks like he was wearing his Superman socks last week.

Final Score: Redskins 28-21

Ross’ Pick: This will be an interesting contrast in offensive styles. The Redskins can bring pressure and the Rams can’t have Sam Bradford knocked around all day. So, short passing and running for the STL offense. After starting conservatively, Washington opened it up with RG III. Expect more of the same, regardless of (the overrated) Cortland Finnegan’s presence. I always take the team that can gain yards quickly over a team that can’t.

Final Score: Redskins 27-21

New York Jets @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-5)

Russell’s Pick: I was completely caught off guard by the Jets’ onslaught of offense last week, but none of it will fly this week against the Steelers. The return of Clark and Harrison to the lineup will help the Steelers win this defensive battle.

Final Score: Steelers 23-13

Ross’ Pick: Another overreaction line. Pittsburgh won’t pull another no-show, at home, in a game they really need. Plus there’s the huge net gain in the secondary department: Ryan Clark is back for the Steelers and Darrelle Revis is OUT for the Jets. Let’s see the Jets deal with Wallace and Brown. James Harrison’s return will inspire his teammates, and I’m not buying the Jets offense yet.

Final Score: Steelers 30-17

Tennessee Titans @ San Diego Chargers (-6)

Russell’s Pick: The Chargers inability to put the ball into the end zone against the Raiders really worries me in this game. And who in the San Diego backfield (20 rushes, 32 yards in Week 1) is supposed to strike fear in the hearts of the Titans?

Final Score: Titans 20-17

Ross’ Pick: Jake Locker will play, and he’ll face a pretty banged up Chargers secondary. This line should be 3, but since Tennessee got waxed against New England, it’s a field goal too high. These are 2 mediocre teams; no way one should be favored by 6 points. Take the gift.

Final Score: Chargers 24-21

Detroit Lions @ San Francisco 49ers (-6.5)

Russell’s Pick: You better believe Harbaugh and Schwartz will have something to say about each other’s firm handshake. Prediction; Lions down by 7 with 4 minutes to play, Stafford forces ball into triple coverage and throws pick, Akers ices the game with a minute left on the clock. Harbaugh slaps Schwartz on the ass and says, “better luck next year bitch.”

Final Score: 49ers 23-13

Ross’ Pick: I’m still not a Niner believer, but they’re going to win this game easily. Detroit lacks the necessary discipline to win a road game against a team that has its act together. Add to that the fact that the usually reliable Matthew Stafford was giving the ball away all over the field last week and I worry about the Lions here.

Final Score: 49ers 31-20

Monday, September 17, 2012

Denver Broncos @ Atlanta Falcons (-3)

Russell’s Pick: Falcons come out the first week and put an ass whooping on the Chiefs. However, with Brent Grimes out for the season with an Achilles injury those memories will begin to fade away.

Final Score: Broncos 31-27

Ross’ Pick: Matt Ryan will see this as a turning point game for the Atlanta offense, and he should. White and Jones are as explosive as their names are boring. Those names will be called an awful lot on Monday night in the dome. Losing Brent Grimes hurts the Birds, but Asante Samuel will step in and lessen the blow.

Final Score: Falcons 27-23

Agree or disagree with our experts? Weigh in below …

The post The Betting Men: NFL Week 2 Picks appeared first on HyperVocal.

Big Blue View

The Betting Men are back for Year 2, and we vow to put some money in your pockets this season. We won’t bore you with a boring intro this week because the boring Giants already began the season by kicking us square in the junk with their stinkbomb at home against the Cowboys. But chew on this: 5 rookie quarterbacks will be making their NFL debut in Week 1 (Luck, RG3, Weeden, Wilson & Tannehill). Are you bold enough to bet on them this weekend?

2011 Season Totals: Ross 137-123-7 ATS, Russell 130-130-7

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Indianapolis Colts @ Chicago Bears (-10)

Russell’s Pick: For the first time in 15 years, Peyton Manning will not be sporting the blue and white of the Colts’ uniform. Luck will be a fine pro, but he faces a major test against the Bears defense at Soldier Field.

Final Score: Bears 24-13

Ross’ Pick: I’m just not sold on the Bears as a playoff team. That offensive line will leak against the pass rushers of Indy, and their D isn’t gonna scare Andrew Luck.

Final Score: Bears 27-21

Philadelphia Eagles @ Cleveland Browns (+9)

Russell’s Pick: Rookie running back and 28 year old rookie quarterback; add those two together against the Eagles and you get a blowout.

Final Score: Eagles 30-10

Ross’ Pick: Brandon Weeden shouldn’t be starting. Shady McCoy is gonna lead the league in rushing, and this game will get him off to a terrific start.

Final Score: Eagles 31-16

Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets (-3)

Russell’s Pick: Cornerback Antonio Cromartie put it bluntly when he stated that he was the second best receiver on the team. How can you possibly argue with a man who has 37 children? Take the Bills at +120, you will thank me later.

Final Score: Bills 21-14

Ross’ Pick: I just have a weird feeling about the Jets in week 1. I believe they’re going to come out and perform well, especially defensively, proving once again: the preseason is a joke.

Final Score: Jets 24-17

Washington Redskins @ New Orleans Saints (-7)

Russell’s Pick: RG3 better be wearing his Superman socks because he is going to need all the help he can get.

Final Score: Saints 31-17

Ross’ Pick: New Orleans will be up for this, bolstered by the overturning of Dictator Goodell’s bogus suspensions. Brees lights it up.

Final Score: Saints 38-21

New England Patriots @ Tennessee Titans (+5.5)

Russell’s Pick: Even though Jake Locker is a second year player, he has the experience of a rookie. The trend is your friend, take the Pats.

Final Score: Patriots 28-14

Ross’ Pick: Brady’s offense might be better this season with the addition of Brandon Lloyd. Jake Locker isn’t ready. Talk about bringing a knife to a gun fight…

Final Score: Patriots 35-20

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Minnesota Vikings (-3.5)

Russell’s Pick: Maurice Jones-Drew followed through with his lengthy holdout when he had zero leverage. End result, still getting paid the same salary. Too bad for him.

Final Score: Vikings 20-14

Ross’ Pick: I don’t care if the game is in Percy Harvin’s living room—no way the Vikings should be favored by more than a FG against anyone.

Final Score: Jacksonville 23-20

Miami Dolphins @ Houston Texans (-12)

Russell’s Pick: Watching HBO’s Hard Knocks helped me realize that the Dolphins will be the worst team in the NFL this season.

Final Score: Texans 28-7

Ross’ Pick: Houston has talent on both sides of the ball. Miami has…nice weather. This will get ugly in a hurry.

Final Score: Texans 38-13

St. Louis Rams @ Detroit Lions (-7.5)

Russell’s Pick: Hard to envision the Rams keeping up with the Lions during a shootout… and Megatron will reverse the Madden Curse.

Final Score: Lions 34-20

Ross’ Pick: The Rams actually have a decent front line, which will keep it close…for a while. Just too many weapons for Stafford here. The world will meet Titus Young in this one.

Final Score: Lions 31-17

Atlanta Falcons @ Kansas City Chiefs (+3)

Russell’s Pick: Injuries along with the suspension of Tamba Hali leave the Chiefs’ defense in a depleted state.

Final Score: Falcons 27-16

Ross’ Pick: I believe in the Falcons this season—they’re going to move away from the aging Michael Turner, and why not? Julio Jones and Roddy White are the best duo in the league.

Final Score: Falcons 31-24

San Francisco 49ers @ Green Bay Packers (-4.5)

Russell’s Pick: Justin Smith of the 49ers is going to absolutely abuse LT Marshall Newhouse. Aaron Rodgers better wear his flak jacket.

Final Score: Packers 24-21

Ross’ Pick: I believe the Niners are vastly overrated. This game will begin to prove that theory. Green Bay is simply in a different class.

Final Score: Packers 34-21

Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+2.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Buccaneers will be the surprise team of 2013, not 2012.

Final Score: Panthers 27-23

Ross’ Pick: Tampa is going to come out fighting for their new HC. Carolina has a bit of undeserved swagger about them. Cam may make some plays, but Tampa does enough to pull it out at home.

Final Score: Bucs 23-20

Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals (+2.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Seahawks signed Matt Flynn to hold a clipboard for 3-years and $26M. Wait a second, is Russell Wilson’s girlfriend trying to swallow that mug? How weird is it that the old man behind her is caressing her during her futile attempt?

Final Score: Seahawks 17-13

Ross’ Pick: Seattle is quietly putting together a solid team, while the Cardinals keep spinning their wheels. Poor Larry Fitz. Another season of great talent wasted with weak QB play.

Final Score: Seahawks 23-12

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Denver Broncos (-1.5)

Russell’s Pick: Peyton Manning avoids serious injury for at least one game. Not wishing this on him at all, but I think it is bound to happen this season. I hope I am wrong.

Final Score: Broncos 24-20

Ross’ Pick: Prime time and Peyton Manning go together well. Pittsburgh is aging and their offensive line has issues. Manning gets initiated into the Mile High Club. No, not that one. Not until he wins a title.

Final Score: Broncos 23-17

Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens (-6)

Russell’s Pick: There will be a somber mood hovering over Baltimore after the passing of the legendary Art Modell, but a Ravens victory will help to ease the pain.

Final Score: Ravens 21-14

Ross’ Pick: Art Modell got a bad rap. The man was a pioneer (sorry, Cleveland) and deserves respect. So do both of these teams. It’ll be a good one, but Baltimore will once again prove that Cincy is a notch below the leaders in the AFC North.

Final Score: Ravens 27-20

Monday, September 10, 2012

San Diego Chargers @ Oakland Raiders (-1)

Russell’s Pick: Might as well bet on the Raiders while Darren McFadden is healthy.

Final Score: Raiders 26-24

Ross’ Pick: Oakland will win this, but it’ll be one of their few victories of the season. In week 10, you’re gonna say, “Wow…remember opening night, when the Raiders looked so good?”

Final Score: Raiders 23-21

Agree or disagree with our experts? Weigh in below …

The post The Betting Men: NFL Week 1 appeared first on HyperVocal.

Finally, the Super Bowl has arrived. Hopefully it’ll be better than the Pro Bowl. After that half-speed all-star game, it feels like months have passed since we have seen some competitive football. Fortunately, America does not have to struggle through another battle of the Harbaughs, which easily could have produced the worst ratings in the Super Bowl history.

The New York Football Giants and the New England Patriots face off in what should be a great game. Can the Patriots avenge their Week 9 loss to the Giants, who were without Hakeem Nicks and Ahmad Bradshaw? Can the Patriots avenge their Super Bowl XLII loss and erase the pain from the David Tyree helmet catch? Has Rob Gronkowski’s ankle healed enough for him to be a factor? Will Eli Manning surpass Peyton by collecting his second Super Bowl ring?

Feel free to follow the Betting Men on Twitter during the game for live insight — Russell will be reporting from the Super Bowl in Indianapolis (Follow: @Sportsnschmutz) and Ross will be popping pills to prevent an ulcer while rooting for his Giants (Follow: @RosstradamusNFL).

Playoff Totals: Ross 7-3 ATS, Russell 5-5 ATS

Sunday, February 5, 2012

NY Giants vs. New England Patriots (-3 and O/U 54.5)

Russell’s Pick:  Both teams deserve to be here, but the Giants seem to be a slightly better team at the moment following their five straight elimination game victories. I am not discounting the Patriots current 10 game win streak, but their only win against a quality team with a winning record during that span came against the Ravens last week.

Brady will find a way to put up great stats against the Giants, but he is going to need some help from the running game to keep the Giants from pinning their ears back and flattening him. The Giants have had their number recently because they can rush the passer with just their down linemen. I have said this numerous times over the weeks, but it cannot be ignored. On the flip side, the Giants have a well balanced offense and their receivers hold a huge advantage against the New England secondary. The Julian Edelman experiment is about to implode and Mario Manningham will be a huge benefactor.

Prop Bets: First kickoff will result in a touchback. (-130) Why? Because the game is indoors and they kick from two feet away. And as I alluded to earlier, I am taking Mario Manningham to have more than 42.5 receiving yards (-110).

Final Score: Giants 27-24

Ross’ Pick: Walking out of MetLife Stadium following the Giants’ 23-10 home defeat to the Redskins way back in week 15, there’s no way I ever thought this team would be playing in this game. It’s still a bit surreal. The defense has gotten healthy, the offense has taken care of the football, a couple of bounces have gone the right way, and here we are—set for a rematch. The Pats haven’t impressed me much this post season, but there’s always the Brady factor. If the Giants are unable to disturb his rhythm, they’ll lose this game. It’s really that simple as far as I’m concerned.

New England will scheme for max protection and utilize their short passing game, taking the occasional shot down the middle with one of their two terrific tight ends. And they’ll need to connect on more than a couple of those pass plays, because Eli Manning is going to light them up. Unlike Joe Flacco, Manning has the savvy and reading skills to exploit the dreadful Patriot secondary—it won’t take him four quarters to realize a wide receiver is covering his best weapon. Between Cruz, Nicks, and Manningham, the Giants present an unsolvable problem for New England.

Prop Bets: Will the Patriots convert a 4th down? (Yes, +105). If they’re behind, it’ll happen more than once. If not, they’ll be in no-man’s land (the 35-40) at least a couple of times. Also, take a stab at Brandon Jacobs to score the game’s first TD. At 12-1, that’s a pretty good value.

Final Score: Giants 31-21

ALSO ON THE SUPER BOWL:

• Everything You Need to Know About Super Bowl XLVI
• Super Bowl Prop Bet Bonanza: Clarkson, Ben Brady, Peyton, Madonna, Gisele & Gatorade
• How Not to Be ‘That Guy’ at Your Super Bowl Party
• Watch the Leaked Super Bowl Ads Here — VW, Ferris, Seinfeld & More

The post Where to Put Your Money for Super Bowl XLVI appeared first on HyperVocal.

Last weekend’s divisional playoff round was full of excitement. Best of all, 49ers QB Alex Smith grew up before our eyes with an amazing fourth-quarter TD run and the game-winning TD pass to Vernon Davis. The TE was so ecstatic following his game winning grab that it brought him to tears — we applaud a grown ass man shedding a tear after pouring his heart and soul into a game.

The Conference Championship games offer some titillating match-ups. In the AFC, the aging Ravens defense looks to capitalize on their recent playoff success against the New England Patriots. Can Ray Lewis and Ed Reed will their team to victory and possibly make the Super Bowl for the first time since Trent Dilfer lead them to the 2001 crown? Or will Tom Brady & Co. take the elder defensive statesmen to the football retirement community? Out west, San Francisco hosts its second playoff game in as many weeks against a team unnervingly similar to them in style and prowess. Will the home favorites edge the Giants again as they did back in Week 10? Let’s break down the games…

Playoff Totals: Ross 6-2 ATS, Russell 4-4 ATS

Sunday, January 22, 2012

Baltimore Ravens @ New England (-7)

Russell’s Pick: Following Baltimore’s performance at home last weekend against a beleaguered Texans squad, it is hard to find the positives in their match-up against the Patriots. Joe Flacco has completely regressed as a quarterback and is now consistently throwing inaccurate passes with little zip on the ball. The Patriots will key in on Ray Rice in the ground and short passing game and force Flacco to beat them. If they can keep Rice in check, then the Ravens have no chance in this game.

The Ravens have played great team defense during the course of the season, but they were giving up chunks of yardage to Arian Foster last week. The Patriots do not have any players at running back that are the equivalent caliber of Foster, but the combination of size and speed with Green-Ellis, Ridley and Woodhead will pose a problem for the Ravens. First ballot Hall of Famer, Ed Reed, played out of his mind last week, but he looks extremely banged up at this stage of the season. With Reed not at 100%, Bernard Pollard will be completely exposed against Gronkowski and Hernandez.

Final Score: Patriots 27-17
Prop Bet: Any UNDER bet that involves Joe Flacco and the passing game (odds vary)

Ross’ Pick: I’m just not a Ravens believer, folks. They were outplayed at home by a team using its third-string QB last week and were fortunate to emerge victorious; what’s going to happen when they take their show on the road to face a red hot Tom Brady & Co.? I’ll tell you what—a beat down. Ray Rice will be more effective this week, but it always comes down to the quarterback, and Joe Flacco doesn’t have what it takes to out-duel Brady. The Patriots will force mistakes out of Flacco and they’ll be able to capitalize on those errors, which is something the Ravens’ last opponent was unable to do. New England’s offense won’t be stopped by the overrated Baltimore defense—come on, people—did you SEE Arian Foster last week? He got that done against a team that was completely geared to stop him and force T.J. Yates to beat them. Foster still went off. New England obviously doesn’t have a Foster on its roster, but they’ll run it enough and Brady will lure the over-aggressive Baltimore defense into making mistakes. Unlike last week, those mistakes will result in points. Who’s going to cover Gronk and Hernandez? No one.

Final Score: Patriots 35-21
Prop Bet: Will Aaron Hernandez score a TD? Yes (+115)

NY Giants @ San Francisco 49ers (-2.5)

Russell’s Pick: Niner fans, I have nothing against your squad, but I cannot foresee them beating the Giants following their victory against the Saints. No way to skirt around it, this game has emotional letdown written all over it. Frank Gore has not rushed for more than 100 yards since Week 9 against the Washington Redskins and if that trend continues then the Niners will find themselves on the losing end of this game.

Simply put, Alex Smith cannot be expected to carry his team into the Super Bowl with back-to-back stellar performances. It goes against his DNA makeup. Besides, the Giants and Eli Manning are on fire right now and Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz will get the job done this weekend against the slightly above average San Francisco secondary.

Final Score: Giants 23-20
Prop bet: Victor Cruz scores a TD in this game (+125)

Ross’ Pick: The 49ers beat the Giants 27-20 back in week 10. It was an entertaining game that proved, to me, that the teams were essentially equally matched at that time. Frank Gore was banged up and Ahmad Bradshaw didn’t play at all back in November. You can expect Gore to play a leading role in the Niner offense and put up solid numbers. Bradshaw will be held in check, rushing-wise, by the awesome San Francisco run defense—the one unit on that team that’s actually as good as advertised. However, as we saw last week with Darren Sproles, the 49ers are quite vulnerable to backs when they’re used as receivers. This is especially the case when the opposition has wide outs that command attention, and I think we can say Nicks and Cruz qualify in that regard. The Giants would be wise to involve Bradshaw in the passing game more than they have in the past.

Michael Boley was injured and Justin Tuck was still bothered by neck and groin injuries when the teams played in week 10. They’re back for this one, and the Giants’ defense is playing with confidence, health, and purpose. With Big Blue looking strong on both sides of the ball right now, there’s no way I’m going against them. You wanna press the bet with Alex Smith when he’s going against that pass rush?

Final Score: Giants 27-21
Prop Bet: Will Frank Gore score a TD? Yes (-110)

What do you think? Where’s your money going this weekend? Weigh in below…

The post Betting Men: Who’s Going to the Super Bowl? appeared first on HyperVocal.

Holy garbanzo beans, last weekend’s Wild Card games finished off with a fireworks show in Denver. If you live without basic cable then you missed one of the most memorable playoff games in history as the Denver Tebows topped the defending AFC Champion Steelers in overtime. Tebow finished with an eerie 3:16 passing yards, and Demaryius Thomas burned Ike Taylor for 204 yards and the game-winning score. Down in Cajun country, the Saints blew the top off of the Superdome by scoring a touchdown on all five of their second half possessions. And in games not so exciting, the Texans trounced the Bengals while the Giants did not give up an offensive score to the players posing as Atlanta Falcons.

The Divisional Round offers up some fascinating match-ups, including the Saints flying out west to tangle with a determined 49ers defense. Will the wind, soft natural turf and the occasional three seconds of fog trip up the high flying Saints offense? In Saturday night’s showdown, the Tebows try to inflict revenge upon on the Patriots who spanked them in Week 15. Tebow will need to replicate his near perfect performance from last weekend if the Broncos are going to stand a chance in Foxboro. And the game guaranteed to have the lowest ratings of the weekend will take place on Sunday morning when the Texans take on the Ravens in Baltimore. Can T.J. Yates steal the playoff headlines from Tim Tebow with a miracle victory? The most anticipated match-up culminates this weekend’s slate as the New York Football Giants travel to the hallowed grounds of Lambeau Field. Packer fans hope to erase the memories of their home loss in the 2007 NFC Championship Game when Corey Webster intercepted Brett Favre in OT to setup a Lawrence Tynes game-winning field goal. The Giants come into the game with all of the momentum on their side, but Aaron Rodgers and Jordy Nelson will not yield without a fight.

Playoff Totals: Ross 4-0 ATS, Russell 2-2 ATS

Saturday, January 14, 2012

New Orleans Saints @ San Francisco 49ers (+4)

Russell’s Pick: The Niners have beaten some quality teams this season, but none have had the arsenal that Drew Brees has at his disposal. I fully understand that the Saints score about 2 touchdowns less on the road, but the points that they put up in this game will be enough for victory. Let’s face it, can you really put your money behind Alex Smith in a playoff game? The Niners defense will keep this game interesting for about 3 quarters, but sooner or later Alex Smith will have to make a play for his team and the odds are that he will fail miserably. Prop bet of this game is Jimmy Graham scoring a TD (-130).

Final Score: Saints 27-20

Ross’ Pick: I’ve never been a believer in the Niners. I mean, I think they’re a fine team, but they haven’t had to match points with any elite offenses (GB, NE, NO) and averaged around 23 points given up when they played Dallas, Philly, the Giants, and Detroit. That ain’t scaring the Saints, who will certainly score over 20 points in this game. It’s a poor match-up for the home side; they’d rather face a team that needs to run the ball. Unfortunately for San Francisco, Brees can survive without a ground game. Alex Smith is essentially bringing a knife to a gunfight and although I believe it’ll be close for the first three quarters, ultimately New Orleans’ offense will hit enough plays through the air against the league’s 16^th-ranked pass defense. Prop bet: Darren Sproles OVER 45.5 yards receiving (-115).

Final Score: Saints 31-17

Denver Broncos @ New England Patriots (-13.5)

Russell’s Pick: In their Week 15, the Broncos jumped out to an early 16-7 lead. Every Bronco fan was shaking their head in satisfaction because that was their game plan and they executed it perfectly. But then reality set in and the better team began to make plays, that being the Patriots. I see nothing changing in this weekend’s game and both TEs, Gronkowski and Hernandez, will have monster games because you simply cannot cover them both at the same time. Sorry Bronco fans, your Cinderella story ends here. Hernandez will not have another 129 yard performance, but he will certainly gain more than 62.5 yards in the air (-125).

Final Score: Patriots 31-14

Ross’ Pick: Yeah, it’s over Timmy. I loved Denver last week but that was at home against a struggling and banged-up Pittsburgh team. This week it’s a trip to Bradyville and the ending will not be as dramatic. The Pats’ defense might have been garbage in the regular season, but they won’t be as arrogant as Pittsburgh was last week. New England will respect Tebow’s ability to throw the deep ball. They’ll also encourage him to throw shorter passes, which he simply cannot do. On the other side, there’s no way Denver can slow Brady down. Sure, Champ Bailey may be able to limit Welker, but the tight ends of the Pats will be running free all day. There’s simply too much offense on the New England side of the ball and the defense will have learned from the 1^st time the teams played. Prop bet: BenJarvus Green-Ellis to score the 1^st TD of the game (+800).

Final Score: Patriots 38-23

Sunday, January 15, 2012

Houston Texans @ Baltimore Ravens (-7.5)

Russell’s Pick: In Week 5, the Ravens dismantled the Texans 29-14 in Baltimore. During that game, Matt Schaub was still the quarterback of the Texans, Matt Leinart was still his grizzly faced backup and T.J. Yates never dreamt that he would see the field at any point of his career. Continuing with my rewind, Arian Foster was essentially a non-factor on the ground (although he had 52 yards receiving) while Ray Rice was a man that could not be stopped (finishing with 161 total yards). Although past results are not guaranteed to produce future results, it is difficult for me to see the Texans sniffing out a victory in B-Town. Interesting prop to consider is what will T.J. Yates have more of, TD passes or interceptions. I will take interceptions and the +200 payout that comes with it.

Final Score: Ravens 20-10

Ross’ Pick: I really wanted to find a way for the Texans to win this game. I couldn’t. T.J. Yates has done an admirable job filling in at QB for Houston, but this is too big an ask, even with Andre Johnson back in the fold. Baltimore is unbeaten at home this season, and they’re not winning by 2 or 3 points a game. I don’t trust Joe Flacco on a week to week basis, but I don’t think he’ll crap the bed at home. The Texans will hang in this game, more due to Baltimore’s “If we don’t screw this up with turnovers, we’ll win” offensive mentality, but in the end, Yates will be Yates and the sharks will feast. Prop bet: T.J. Yates will have more INTs than TDs (+200)

Final Score: Ravens 23-14

NY Giants @ Green Bay Packers (-7.5)

Russell’s Pick: Full Disclosure: I am a Packers fan and Ross just happens to be a Giants fan. And since Ross beat me head-to-head this season in our weekly picks I would love nothing more than to have the Packers end the Giants season. Everyone in America knows that this is going to be a high flying show. The Packers have Rodgers, Jennings, Nelson and Finley while the Giants have E. Manning, Cruz and Nicks. Both defenses have had their lapses in the secondary, but in the end the G-Men have the better defensive front that can apply pressure without blitzing. Their Achilles heel? Defending the short and quick passes which the Packers excel in. Two props to consider here, Jordy Nelson above 70.5 receiving yards (-120) and Jermichael Finley above 50.5 yards (-115).

Final Score: Packers 31-28

Ross’ Pick: I’m sticking with my GMen here, and it’s all because they’ll control the line of scrimmage on defense. Sure, Rodgers can move, which will help him, but the Giants will contain him with their dominant front. Eli Manning, on the other hand, will have no such issues. He’s going to feel very comfortable in the pocket and when that happens, he picks apart even the best of pass defenses. Green Bay’s is hardly that, and the NYG ground game will feed off that ability to pass. I don’t see this game being as high scoring as most, but I do see the Giants winning the game behind Eli and the pass rush. Prop bet: NY Giants to rush for more yards (-5.5 yards, -110)

Final Score: Giants 27-24

How do you see this weekend’s games playing out? Leave us a comment below…

The post Betting Men: How to Bet the Divisional Round Games appeared first on HyperVocal.

Wild Card Weekend is stacked with highly competitive match-ups that are sure to get the money flowing in Vegas. The Bengals travel down to Houston for the Texans’ first playoff game in franchise history. This game also features the first time in NFL playoff history where two rookie quarterbacks will face off against each other. Which quarterback do you have more faith in? Another first features two quarterbacks who have thrown for more than 5,000 yards (Drew Brees & Matthew Stafford). As it stands the over/under is sitting at an all-time high for a wild card game, 59 points, and it could creep up to 60 points by game time.

On Sunday, the Falcons travel away from the friendly confines of the Georgia Dome and head up north to the frigid air of MetLife Stadium. The Giants seem to be on a roll, and the Falcons have never quite figured out how to win on the road in big games. And the classic David vs. Goliath match-up concludes the weekend set with the Steelers flying up to the thin air of Denver. Will Jesus himself lead the Denver Tebows to the second round and upset the reigning AFC conference champions?

Week 17 Totals: Ross 7-9 ATS, Russell 7-9 ATS
Season Totals: Ross 129-120-7 ATS, Russell 124-125-7

Saturday, January 7, 2012

Cincinnati Bengals @ Houston Texans (-3)

Russell’s Pick: The Bengals beat one team with a winning record (the Titans) and none that made the playoffs. And I’m supposed to pick them on the road with a rookie quarterback? Yates is obviously not a veteran quarterback, but he will have the home crowd behind him, Andre Johnson to catch passes, and Foster to run for more than 80 yards. Prop bet to look at is total rushing attempts for Cedric Benson which currently sits at 19.5 (-115). Benson ran the ball 21 times in their first matchup and he should see the same if not more carries in this close affair.

Final Score: Texans 20-16

Ross’ Pick: Cincy will stack the line in an effort to take away the run and put the pressure on T.J. Yates, who has played poorly of late. That strategy will work, but not enough to win the game for the Bengals. Andy Dalton and A. J. Green will make a few plays but the Texans’ defense is no joke. I worry about Andre Johnson’s health—can he play more than a couple of series?—but Gary Kubiak’s offense is creative enough to put a couple of touchdowns on the board, and that’ll be enough to defeat the punchless Bengals. Prop bet: A.J. Green under 67.5 yards (-105). He had 59 yards the first time the teams played; the Texans have the secondary to limit him and the Cincy offense will play it close to the vest as they seek to avoid momentum-changing sacks/turnovers.

Final Score: Texans 17-13

Detroit Lions @ New Orleans Saints (-10.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Lions eclipsed the 34-point mark eight times this season so we obviously know they can score some points. And if they can cut down on the 107 penalty yards that they gave to the Saints in Week 13 then they stand to keep this game interesting in the final minutes. Also keep an eye on the over/under of this game. If it creeps up to 60 or 61 points then look to take the under as playoff games rarely result in shootouts unless you are the Cardinals and Pack from two years ago.

Final Score: Saints 31-24

Ross’ Pick: This game is going to be a tennis match—back and forth all day long. The Saints, however, are better offensively and will win this game at home. It’s easy to say that the Lions handed the game to the Saints when the teams played earlier this season, but the bottom line is that’s the Lions. They don’t play a clean game. They will stub their toe a couple of times in the Dome, committing penalties, turning the ball over…something. Brees’ Saints will be happy to turn those blunders into more points. Prop bet: Will Ndamukong Suh commit a 15-yard penalty? “Yes” (+200). With the refs on Brees and playoff alert, Suh is sure to draw extra attention…and a personal foul flag.

Final Score: Saints 42-28

Sunday, January 8, 2012

Atlanta Falcons @ New York Giants (-3)

Russell’s Pick: The Giants luck out with this matchup as the Falcons are not a very good road team (4-4 on the season) and in my opinion only thrive against subpar opponents. Further, the wind, cold, and the natural turf will also slow down Julio Jones, White and Turner. As for the Giants, they are dangerous come playoff time because they can rush the passer with only their down lineman and Eli Manning has thrown an NFL record, 15 4^th quarter touchdowns this season. Too bad he can’t play secondary for them. The prop bet that seems too good to be true is Eli throwing more than 1.5 touchdowns (-190) as he threw for 2 or more TDs in 11 of the 16 games this season.

Final Score: Giants 27-21

Ross’ Pick: The Giants play well against quality opponents. Atlanta plays well against the minnows of the NFL. I have zero faith in Matt Ryan outside, in the cold, against a fearsome pass rush. The Giants will be able to hide their flawed secondary because of that pass rush. If you want to stop Eli Manning, you must pressure him. Atlanta doesn’t rush the passer well and cannot figure out what they are on offense. The playoffs are not the time to form your identity. Prop bet: Total number of sacks in the game, over 4 (-110). I know these teams haven’t yielded a lot of sacks on the season, but the Giants are healthy along the front—they’ll get to Ryan.

Final Score: Giants 28-23

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Denver Broncos (+8.5)

Russell’s Pick: Something has to give here since the Steelers are 2-6 ATS on the road while the Broncos are 1-7 ATS at home. Bronco betters may be leaning to Ryan Clark sitting out, Mendenhall’s torn ACL and Big Ben’s bum ankle, but what do the Broncos bring to the table? Tim Tebow held his own during the Broncos 5-game win streak, but he only put up 1 TD and an avg. of 146 passing yards during their current 3-game slide. If Tebow plays like he has in the past three games then the Broncos could be looking at getting shut out at home. If I had a gun to my head, I would take the under for Tebow’s total passing yards at 149.5 (-115).

Final Score: Steelers 20-7

Ross’ Pick: I’m in the minority here—I think Tebow has a solid game. The Steelers defense can be beaten through the air, and although the reins have been pretty tightly held on Tebow over the past few weeks, I believe he’ll come out firing Sunday. If Denver throws when they don’t have to (first down, second and short) they can hang in this game at home. I do not like what I’ve seen from the Pittsburgh offense of late, and we all know Roethlisberger is hurt. 8.5 points is too much to give when an offense can’t score, plus Elvis Dumervil will be in the Pittsburgh backfield all day. Expect a close game and a near upset. Prop bet: Tim Tebow rushing yards, over 45.5 (-110). There will be a couple of plays where Pittsburgh’s defensive aggressiveness leads to a long Tebow scramble.

Final Score: Steelers 21-17

Who do you think is going to win this weekend against the spread…leave your picks here.

The post Betting Men: Sizing Up NFL’s Wild Card Weekend appeared first on HyperVocal.

The Betting Men would personally like to thank each and every one of our readers for sticking with us throughout our inaugural season. Your support has been well received and we hope to provide you with the winning recipe for many more years to come, including the 2012 playoff schedule. Hopefully you have taken some of our advice and walked away from Vegas with suitcases full of cash. If you have lost your house, wife and kids, then we can only say that you should have picked our winners.

As we look back on Week 16, many games went by the wayside, including the Broncos getting smashed at home by the Buffalo Bills. I guess it is true that Tebow and the Broncos can only be supported by Jesus in the 4th quarter. And let’s not forget about the Jets losing at Jetlife Stadium to the roller-coaster Giants. According to Rex Ryan, the Jets were supposed to be the best team in New York. Oh, were we sorry that we actually listened to him run his mouth off. And who would have thought that Charlie Batch, a.k.a. Mr. Potato Head, would help lead the Steelers to a decisive 27-point victory over the lowly Rams?

The final week of the season has left us with the Giants and the Cowboys battling for NFC East supremacy on Sunday Night Football. Can Tony Romo finally shake of the demons that have haunted him in big games of the past? Can the Giants save Tom Coughlin’s job for one last time or will Bill Cowher’s chin roam the sidelines of New York next season? The Broncos hold the keys to their own destiny in the AFC West, but the ghost of Al Davis may have something to say about that. The Bengals also control their own fate for the remaining Wild Card slot, but they face a tough Ravens team looking forward to a first round bye.  The Titans and Jets both have a chance at the final Wild Card bid if the Bengals should falter in this game of playoff musical chairs.

Week 16 Totals: Ross 6-10 ATS, Russell 7-9 ATS
Season Totals: Ross 122-111-7 ATS, Russell 117-116-7

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Washington Redskins @ Philadelphia Eagles (-8)

Russell’s Pick: The Eagles are on a late season surge that will save Andy Reid’s job. With another win on Sunday, they will finish this rollercoaster ride at .500, which is a far cry from their Super Bowl expectations.

Final Score: Eagles 27-17

Ross’ Pick: Too many points for a division rivalry game. Rex Grossman may throw picks but he’ll move the ball as well. This one’s gonna be close.

Final Score: Eagles 28-23

San Francisco 49ers @ St. Louis Rams (+10.5)

Russell’s Pick: If the Steelers can beat the Rams by 27 with Charlie Batch at the helm then Alex Smith and the Niners should be able to edge out the Rams by 10.5. Let’s hope that Niners come to play with the 2-seed in the NFC on the line.

Final Score: Niners 20-7

Ross’ Pick: The Rams simply can’t score, so it’s a matter of how many points the Niners put up in an effort to secure the two seed. It’ll be more than 10.

Final Score: Niners 22-3

Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings (-1)

Russell’s Pick: Everyone’s wildest dreams have been fulfilled with the quarterback matchup between Josh McCown and Christian Ponder. I am hoping you caught my sarcasm there. Anyway, I believe that Gerhart, Webb and Harvin will get enough done in this game to pull out the victory.

Final Score: Vikings 20-17

Ross’ Pick: No idea what to expect from these two offenses, but I do know that defensively the advantage goes to the Bears. I’ll take my chances with the only competent defense here.

Final Score: Bears 23-13

Detroit Lions @ Green Bay Packers (+3.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Lions need to win this game in order to hold onto the 5^th spot in the NFC which will allow them to play the winner of the Giants/Cowboys game. If they lose and Falcons win then they play the Saints in round 1. Lions will come out roaring against a Packers team with nothing to play for.

Final Score: Lions 27-17

Ross’ Pick: Detroit is going to be fired up for this one. While I actually think Matt Flynn will be able to move the ball, the Green Bay defense simply won’t be able to contain Stafford and company.

Final Score: Lions 31-24

Carolina Panthers @ New Orleans Saints (-8)

Russell’s Pick: Will Drew Brees be allowed to play the whole game knowing that the Niners will likely lock up the 2-seed by halftime? This is one of those Week 17 games that everyone hates because of the uncertainty.

Final Score: Panthers 27-24

Ross’ Pick: I think Brees plays more than people expect. New Orleans’ offense will score at will while he’s in there and the defense will turn Cam Newton over just enough. The Panthers need another WR and major help on D, but they have reason to be excited over the guy wearing #1 and the future of excitement he promises.

Final Score: Saints 31-30

Tennessee Titans @ Houston Texans (+3)

Russell’s Pick: I will be happy to grab the points when the home team has the better defense and rushing attack. Although the Texans having nothing to gain from this game, it is difficult for me to see them lay down against a division opponent when they need to build upon momentum for their first playoff run.

Final Score: Texans 14-10

Ross’ Pick: I’m not a believer in the Texans right now; they are one-and-done in the playoffs. Tennessee will move the ball through the air and do what they can to gain a playoff berth.

Final Score: Titans 21-16

Indianapolis Colts @ Jacksonville Jaguars (-3.5)

Russell’s Pick: I really like the Colts and Donald Brown in this game against the replacement players the Jags are running out on defense. The Colts may look back on this game an wonder how they let Luck slip away these past three weeks.

Final Score: Colts 16-13

Ross’ Pick: Not sure how the Jags are favored by over a FG here, but thanks for the points. Indy has showed some heart and frankly, Orlovsky is better than Gabbert at this point. Jones-Drew will get his, but a one-man show ain’t enough.

Final Score: Colts 20-16

NY Jets @ Miami Dolphins (-2.5)

Russell’s Pick: Rex Ryan will rally the troops when he addresses his team with a Braveheart-like speech with coleslaw dripping down his face. The Jets need another win before their fans set their 2012 season tickets on fire.

Final Score: Jets 17-13

Ross’ Pick: A win isn’t likely to be enough for a Jets playoff berth, but the team will be highly motivated nonetheless. Miami has played hard all season, and this will certainly be no exception. I expect the Jets to make a play on special teams or defense to pull this one out.

Final Score: Jets 20-17

Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots (-10.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Pats will take the Bills to the woodshed as they lock up home-field advantage in the AFC playoffs. Hoyer is more than capable of maintaining or extending any lead if he happens to replace Brady in the second half.

Final Score: Patriots 30-13

Ross’ Pick: Brady’s fine. The offense is nearly unstoppable. Buffalo got their win last week against Tebow, and they have no one to play pass defense. This one’s ugly at halftime.

Final Score: Patriots 38-20

Click Page 2 below for the rest of the Betting Men’s Week 17 picks…

The post Betting Men: Where to Put Your Week 17 Money appeared first on HyperVocal.

As we looked ahead to this weekend’s games, look no further than the Broncos at Bills, Raiders at Chiefs, and the Chargers at Lions. The AFC West is only separated by 2 games top to bottom and a win for each of these teams is essential as they all are still eligible for the division crown. Yes, even the Chiefs have a chance for a playoff berth following the failed Tyler Palko experiment. And the battle of New York hits MetLife Stadium with the Jets sporting the home jerseys. A loss by either team all but eliminates them from a playoff berth as this is a MUST win for both squads (less so for the 8-6 Jets, but you get the point). The Eagles travel to play the Cowboys in a game that two weeks ago seemed like a bust. With back-to-back victories over the Dolphins and Jets, the Eagles can still win the NFC East crown with 8 wins if the cards fall their way. Can Michael Vick lead the once 4-8 Eagles to the promised land?

Week 15 Totals: Ross 7-8-1 ATS, Russell 7-8-1 ATS
Season Totals: Ross 116-101-7 ATS, Russell 110-107-7

Thursday, December 12, 2011

Houston Texans @ Indianapolis Colts (+6)

Russell’s Pick: The Texans were caught off guard last week against a very good Panthers offense while the Colts caught the snoozing and no longer playoff bound Titans. So logic would say that the Colts will cover here, but I am putting my doll hairs on the Texans and their potent ground game. I do not feel great about my pick, but I have to choose a side and that side does not include Dan Orlovsky.

Final Score: Texans 20-10

Ross’ Pick: Houston will be angry after they let a winnable game slip by them, and the Colts will be on an emotional letdown after finally winning a game. Houston is 3-0 on the road as favorites this season and Indy is dreadful against the run. Lay the points.

Final Score: Texans 24-13

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs (-2.5)

Russell’s Pick: Everyone loves the beard of Kyle Orton, especially after last week’s heroics, but I have a gut feeling that he has had enough success for this season. Michael Bush has shown up on the injury report, but he will play and end up having a big day.

Final Score: Raiders 23-20

Ross’ Pick: The Raiders just make too many mistakes for me. I can’t trust them in a must-win situation, on the road, against a team that’s playing some intense football.

Final Score: Chiefs 20-17

Denver Broncos @ Buffalo Bills (+2.5)

Russell’s Pick: Ryan Fitzpatrick has been sucking chocolate salty balls lately and the Broncos defense could not show up at a worse time for him. Sprinkle in some Willis McGahee and Demaryius Thomas magic (yes, there are other members of the 2011 Broncos) and we have ourselves a Broncos victory.

Final Score: Broncos 21-13

Ross’ Pick: Hmmm. The league’s best rushing offense against its 5th-worst rushing defense? Buffalo isn’t fading; they’ve faded. Give me Denver and that rushing attack.

Final Score: Broncos 24-17

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tennessee Titans (-7.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Titans were embarrassed last week by the Colts and you better believe that Mike Munchak will have his team focused on the Jaguars. The Jaguars having nothing to offer on the road and they should even consider drafting another QB in the first round because Blaine Gabbert is a BUST.

Final Score: Titans 23-14

Ross’ Pick: These are two of the poorer offensive teams in the NFL. Jacksonville scores fewer than 15 a game, while Tennessee manages fewer than 20. For a team that scores that little, a spread of more than a TD is a lot to ask, regardless of the playoff implications.

Final Score: Titans 17-13

Arizona Cardinals @ Cincinnati Bengals (-4)

Russell’s Pick: I will be happy to grab 4 points here because I feel that the Cardinals will win this game outright. The Cardinals have strong safety play that will limit Cedric Benson’s production and I think A.J. Green’s shoulder injury is worse than we are being lead to believe.

Final Score: Cardinals 19-16

Ross’ Pick: I think A.J. Green will play, which will allow the Bengals to win this game. However, the way each team struggles to score, I see this one being a close one.

Final Score: Bengals 17-16

Miami Dolphins @ New England Patriots (-9.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Dolphins traditionally play the Patriots tough and this game will follow that trend. Furthermore, the Fins have the defense and the rejuvenated Reggie Bush to keep the score within single digits.

Final Score: Patriots 28-21

Ross’ Pick: The Pats have won 6 straight and rarely lose at home. Their offense will be too much for Miami, who needs to keep the game low-scoring to stay within range. I don’t see that happening on the road against this team.

Final Score: Patriots 34-20

Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens (-12.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Ravens did not need Anquan Boldin in their first matchup with the Browns (2 catches, 32 yards), but it will be difficult for Ray Rice to replicate his 204 yard rushing performance. Side note, when the Ravens are home and laying 10+ they are 0-2 this season. The trend is your friend.

Final Score: Ravens 24-14

Ross’ Pick: Baltimore has much to prove after last weekend’s steamcake in San Diego. At home, against an offensively-challenged Cleveland team, they’ll do just that. Ray Rice will lead the way.

Final Score: Ravens 27-12

NY Giants @ NY Jets (-3)

Russell’s Pick: Both of these teams are playing worse than your neighborhood Pop Warner champion, but somebody has to finally win a big game. Since JetLife Stadium is going to be rocking I will take Jets and lay the three. Honestly, how can you trust Eli after his three interceptions to the Redskins?

Final Score: Jets 27-23

Ross’ Pick: It’s difficult to pick this game after watching each team self-destruct last week. But the Jets have the matchup advantage here. Their running game and the Giants’ inability to stop anyone through the air will turn New York green, at least for a week.

Final Score: Jets 26-17

Minnesota Vikings @ Washington Redskins (-6.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Vikings have the physical presence and the ground game to keep the aerial assault of Rex Grossman off the field. And who knows, maybe Percy Harvin will add in a punt return for a touchdown to keep this game interesting.

Final Score: Redskins 20-19

Ross’ Pick: The Vikings are simply awful. They have less talent than any roster in the NFL. Washington may have glaring holes, but they do have some solid players in key spots. Look for a mistake-riddled game, but one which will see Rex Grossman shred the hapless Viking secondary.

Final Score: Redskins 24-13

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Carolina Panthers (-7.5)

Russell’s Pick: Just sitting by the pool, drinking margaritas and counting my hundos after this game. Why? Because the Bucs are complete S&*t and the Panthers have a nasty offense.

Final Score: Panthers 34-17

Ross’ Pick: Cam Newton and the Panthers’ ground game will be enough to win. Add in some Steve Smith and you have the makings of a blowout.

Final Score: Panthers 31-14

St. Louis Rams @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-16)

Russell’s Pick: Big Ben is extremely doubtful with his lingering ankle injury and Charlie Batch (his backup) is the modern day Mr. Potato Head. Seriously, how does his head fit in that tiny helmet?

Final Score: Steelers 17-10

Ross’ Pick: Sorry, can’t take the Steelers with Charlie Batch. They’ll likely win, but it’ll be ugly. Look for Pittsburgh to take advantage of the Rams’ abysmal run defense all day long.

Final Score: Steelers 20-9

San Diego Chargers @ Detroit Lions (-2.5)

Russell’s Pick: The battle of the socially awkward coaches can be seen in Detroit this weekend. One coach constantly chews gum, has bad acne scars and looks like he was struck over the head with a hammer (Turner), whereas the other yells and screams while chasing other coaches around with furious chest bumps (Schwartz).

Final Score: Chargers 35-31

Ross’ Pick: You want mistakes and undisciplined play? Here ya go. San Diego has been playing well, but I can’t rely on them to play a solid road game here, against a dynamic offense. Kevin Smith’s health seems to be fine, and Vincent Jackson’s does not. That’s a big deal.

Final Score: Lions 31-26

San Francisco 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks (+2.5)

Russell’s Pick: David Akers set the 49ers’ single season point record (formerly held by Jerry Rice) last week because the Niners are completely inept at scoring touchdowns in the redzone. This may work in the regular season because their D is playing out of their minds, but the Niners better get their act together if they want to win playoff games.

Final Score: 49ers 17-13

Ross’ Pick: The Niners’ D is just too much. Seattle’s had a nice season, and they’re tough at home…but this is too much to ask for Tarvaris Jackson and Co. In the loss, Marshawn Lynch will score the first rushing TD of the season against the 49ers.

Final Score: 49ers 20-14

Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas Cowboys (-1.5)

Russell’s Pick: Taking Philly after they made me look foolish last week when I picked them to lose to the Jets. This team is finally where we thought they would be, but it may be too little too late.

Final Score: Eagles 31-24

Ross’ Pick: No way I’m taking Dallas. They’re home and that means more pressure. Pressure hasn’t been good for this team, has it? Step one of Philly winning the NFC East will be accomplished here. Too much Shady.

Final Score: Eagles 28-23

Sunday, December 25, 2011

Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers (-12)

Russell’s Pick: The Bears could really use Jay Cutler and Matt Forte at this point because they have zero offense without them. However, their defense will bring the wood on Sunday night against an injury ravaged Packer offensive line.

Final Score: Packers 21-10

Ross’ Pick: Name your score here. The Bears can’t score and the Packers will take out some offensive angst on their rivals. Rodgers’ mobility will allow him to compensate for the injuries on the offensive line. This isn’t the ’86 Bears D. Cruise control.

Final Score: Packers 31-6

Monday, December 26, 2011

Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints (-6.5)

Russell’s Pick: The champagne will be popping in the Saints locker room following their victory of the Falcons in which Drew Brees breaks Dan Marino’s single-season passing record of 5,084 yards. Kudos to Brees for having such a successful season and being part of the scariest team come playoff time.

Final Score: Saints 33-21

Ross’ Pick: Drew Brees is going to light up the scoreboard, we all know that. However, Matt Ryan has come on of late and I think he’s going to be able to keep the Birds in this game until the end. Finally, a watchable Monday night affair!

Final Score: Saints 38-34

The post Betting Men: Where to Put Your Week 16 Money appeared first on HyperVocal.

This week offers dreadful Thursday and Saturday night matchups, but at least there is some form of football to be seen. The game of the week features the Denver Tebows vs. the New England Tom Bradys. As women salivate over which QB they would rather marry, gamblers across this great nation face the quandary of laying 7 points to the Broncos and the mystique of Tim Tebow. Who dares to challenge his growing legend? Two West Coast matchups are also intriguing heading into Sunday and Monday night football. Can the Chargers sneak back into the playoff race with a win over the Ravens? And can the Niners shrug off their doubters by beating the streaking Steelers? Answers to these questions lie within the great minds of the Betting Men.

Take a listen.

Week 14 Totals: Ross 7-9 ATS, Russell 7-9 ATS
Season Totals: Ross 109-93-6 ATS, Russell 103-99-6

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Atlanta Falcons (-12)

Russell’s Pick: Don’t be fooled by the Jaguars throwing up 41 points against the Bucs last weekend. Everyone who has been watching games this season has now come to the realization that the Bucs are the third worst team behind the Colts and Rams. Lay the 12 points here and feel worry free.

Final Score: Falcons 27-10

Ross’ Pick: Atlanta is starting to play some pretty solid all-around football at the right time of the season. Matt Ryan looked terrific last week, and it was on the road, which was a bit surprising. Now he returns to the friendly confines of the ATL. With his arm, Julio Jones busting big plays, Michael Turner running hard, and the Falcons’ run D limiting MJD, this one shouldn’t be close.

Final Score: Falcons 31-13

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Dallas Cowboys @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+6.5)

Russell’s Pick: Count on this game being a blowout. The Buccaneers cannot stop anyone on defense and that will includes Romo & Co. The Josh Freeman bandwagon has officially left the building and no one was seen riding on it.

Final Score: Cowboys 34-14

Ross’ Pick: I hate lines/games like this. We have two wildly inconsistent teams and no way to determine which version will show up on either side. Dallas has more talent and Romo has been better than Freeman when it comes to taking care of the ball. I’ll lay the points, but I don’t feel great about it.

Final Score: Cowboys 27-20

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Washington Redskins @ NY Giants (-6.5)

Russell’s Pick: I love the Giants at home in another must win game against the Redskins. Eli Manning came through in the clutch to lead his team from behind against the Cowboys and there is no reason to think that momentum will fade.

Final Score: Giants 27-17

Ross’ Pick: I don’t like the smell of this one. The Giants struggle at home against mediocre teams, and it’s usually right after they make you think, “Wow. The Giants are about to go on a roll!” They’ll win, but it won’t be pretty.

Final Score: Giants 24-20

Green Bay Packers @ Kansas City Chiefs (+13.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Chiefs were kicked in the nuts by the Jets and then they have to turn around and play the defending champions. Talk about an unfavorable schedule. Good luck taking the Chiefs here when they could easily give up 40+ points.

Final Score: Packers 37-17

Ross’ Pick: KC has lost their motivation and their head coach. Now they will lose (more of) their dignity. Green Bay will put it in cruise control and still win by at least three scores. Why this line isn’t higher is a mystery to me.

Final Score: Packers 41-10

New Orleans Saints @ Minnesota Vikings (+6.5)

Russell’s Pick: Whether it is Christian Ponder or Joe Webb behind center the question you have to ask yourself is can either of them help their team score 30 or more points? Obviously the answer is “no” so you have to lay the points in favor of the Saints.

Final Score: Saints 41-24

Ross’ Pick: Another line that’s far too low and it’s because the Saints are on the road. However, they’re indoors and playing against a dreadful secondary. Peterson or no Peterson, this one isn’t close.

Final Score: Saints 42-21

Seattle Seahawks @ Chicago Bears (-3.5)

Russell’s Pick: Marshawn Lynch has the most rushing yards in the NFL since Week 9. Meanwhile, the Bears start Marion Barber whom forgets to stay in bounds on key 4th quarter drives and fumbles away overtime possessions. Edge goes to the Seahawks.

Final Score: Seahawks 17-13

Ross’ Pick: Meh. This one’s gonna be ugly. Seattle has played better than expected during a rebuilding year and the Bears are reeling due to injuries. In a game that won’t feature a lot of scoring, taking the points seems wise, especially when it’s more than a FG.

Final Score: Bears 16-14

Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills (PK)

Russell’s Pick: Now that the cloud of Tony Sporano’s mustache has vanished, I believe the Dolphins will play rejuvenated ball this weekend in Buffalo. The Dolphins offense is more balanced than the Bills (without Jackson) and Brandon Marshall will have a huge day against the Bills’ secondary.

Final Score: Dolphins 23-21

Ross’ Pick: I’ll go with the home team that hasn’t had a week of distractions due to their coach being canned. Although Reggie Bush will run wild, Ryan Fitzpatrick will get the Bills get back in the win column.

Final Score: Bills 24-20

Carolina Panthers @ Houston Texans (-6)

Russell’s Pick: This game will hover right around the spread all afternoon because both teams will try to establish the run. But the Panthers run defense is suspect at best and they will give up plenty of yards on the ground to Foster and Tate.

Final Score: Texans 23-16

Ross’ Pick: Carolina’s defense won’t be able to stop the Houston running attack and T.J. Yates will hit a couple of deep passes off play action as a result. Houston might be in for a minor emotional letdown, but against this defense it won’t matter.

Final Score: Texans 31-21

Tennessee Titans @ Indianapolis Colts (+6.5)

Russell’s Pick: Dan Orvlosky will have a difficult time keeping the Colts in this ballgame mainly because he still plays like a college quarterback. Maybe Peyton has another little brother that we don’t know about. If he does, find him and suit him up.

Final Score: Titans 24-10

Ross’ Pick: Chris Johnson is going to run all over Indy, but with the QB issues in Tennessee (not that there aren’t QB issues for Indy!) I just think this is too many points to lay on the road.

Final Score: Titans 23-20

Cincinnati Bengals @ St. Louis Rams (+6.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Bengals defense is holding their opponents to 3.5 yards/rush and that spells trouble for the Rams and Steven Jackson. Another problem facing the Rams is that they have no one else on the team to throw the ball to besides Brandon Lloyd. Memo to Rams GM; draft some freakin WRs so Sam Bradford can actually develop as a QB.

Final Score: Bengals 23-13

Ross’ Pick: Another case of a bad run defense against a team that can run the ball. Cedric Benson is going to have a field day. St. Louis is disgraceful offensively and won’t keep up.

Final Score: Bengals 27-10

Detroit Lions @ Oakland Raiders (+1)

Russell’s Pick: The Carson Palmer trade is looking uglier and uglier each week as the Broncos continue to win ballgames. Has anyone seen or heard from Darren McFadden lately?

Final Score: Lions 27-24

Ross’ Pick: Interesting game. I think the return of Denarius Moore will make a difference to the Oakland offense. This one could set a record for penalties, but in the end the Raiders’ ability to run the ball will see them through.

Final Score: Raiders 28-24

New England Patriots @ Denver Broncos (+7)

Russell’s Pick: The Denver Tebows need some more offensive fire power to keep up with the likes of the Patriots. Unfortunately, the Broncos will have wait until the 2012 draft for that talent to appear on their roster.

Final Score: Patriots 26-17

Ross’ Pick: I can’t lay 7 points with New England on the road against a red hot team, not when the Pats have that pass defense on the field. I wouldn’t be shocked if Denver won this game outright, but something tells me Brady will pull it out.

Final Score: Patriots 34-31

NY Jets @ Philadelphia Eagles (-2.5)

Russell’s Pick: Are my morning eye goopers impairing my vision? How in the world is Vegas still giving the Eagles respect given their awful play this season? Shonne Green has been on an absolute tear lately and there is nothing in the Eagles’ linebacking corps can do to prevent him from ruining their day.

Final Score: Jets 21-17

Ross’ Pick: One win and suddenly Philly deserves to be favored over the Jets, who are playing pretty good football? I don’t think so. Home field disadvantage is in store for the Iggles as chants of “Fire Andy!” will cascade down in the third quarter.

Final Score: Jets 27-16

Cleveland Browns @ Arizona Cardinals (-6.5)

Russell’s Pick: Make this money, take this money. The Cardinals have been red hot and they face a Browns team that is Vanilla Ice cold. Colt McCoy suffering from post-concussion symptoms makes this game even easier to pick.

Final Score: Cardinals 20-10

Ross’ Pick: Arizona is hot, especially on defense. That isn’t good news for the offensively-challenged Browns, who may have to turn to Seneca Wallace at QB. It’s a lot of points, but I’m confident in Cleveland’s awful-ness.

Final Score: Cardinals 24-9

Baltimore Ravens @ San Diego Chargers (+2.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Chargers have played and beaten the Jags and Bills in consecutive weeks. Is that supposed to convince me that they are a legitimate football that can play black and blue football with the Ravens?

Final Score: Ravens 27-21

Ross’ Pick: The Ravens will do whatever it takes to knock Philip Rivers on his ass. Once that happens, the Ravens can play ball control with Ray Rice against a pretty weak SD run D.

Final Score: Ravens 28-17

Monday, December 19, 2011

Pittsburgh Steelers @ San Francisco 49ers (No Line)

Currently no line on this game. Check back with us on Sunday for our predictions.

The post Betting Men: Where to Put Your NFL Week 15 Money appeared first on HyperVocal.

The 13th week of the NFL season began the separation of the contenders from the pretenders. The 49ers, Steelers, Ravens and Saints all won in convincing fashion, while the Packers and Patriots held onto victories over inferior opponents. Each of these teams look poised for the playoffs, and the last month of the season will help mold the uncertain playoff picture. Meanwhile, the Texans continue to add to their win total following an impressive road victory in Atlanta. How many injuries can this team possibly endure? And don’t tell anyone, but look who is tied for first place in the AFC West with the Oakland Raiders. That’s right, America, the Denver Tebows now own a 7-5 record following their fifth straight victory. Can this continue, or will the Broncos fall back to earth following their Cinderella run?

This week’s games offer some captivating match-ups, with none bigger than Giants visiting the Cowboys on Sunday night. The Cowboys are coming off an embarrassing loss to the Cardinals where their head coach iced their own kicker on the potential game-winning field goal, while the Giants lost their fourth straight game during a stunning freefall. The Cowboys currently sit one game ahead of the Giants in the NFC East with both teams set to square off two more times before season’s end. Who will finally emerge as the team to beat as the other possibly misses the playoffs completely? The Bengals host a potential first-round AFC matchup when the Texans roll into town with their dual-threat running attack. And down in Tennessee, the Titans face the red-hot Saints. If the Titans can cool down the high flying Saints’ arsenal they could find themselves only one game back with three to play in the AFC South.

Week 13 Totals: Ross 7-9 ATS, Russell 10-6
Season Totals: Ross 102-84-6 ATS, Russell 96-90-6

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-14)

Russell’s Pick: Last week, the Steelers rolled the Bengals while the Browns were handled by the Ravens. The Browns simply lack the playmakers on offense to strike any fear into the hearts of the Steelers’ defense. The Browns only chance of covering is if Joshua Cribbs returns a kick for a touchdown.

Final Score: Steelers 28-10

Ross’ Pick: It’s time for the title contenders to kick it into another gear, and clearly the Steelers are capable. Cleveland, on the other hand, is not capable of scoring more than 10 points in this game.

Final Score: Steelers 27-7

Not a great start! Here’s the rest of the week’s NFL slate for Sunday…

Indianapolis Colts @ Baltimore Ravens (-16.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Ravens will pound the ball on the ground against a weak Colts rushing attack. And unlike the Patriots, the Ravens have the defense to cover a big spread at home.

Final Score: Ravens 27-7

Ross’ Pick: I just can’t lay this many points on the Ravens offense. I think they’ll run Ray Rice all day, which will shorten the game. Add to that Baltimore’s somewhat suspect performance against a few of the league’s poorer teams and I have to take the points.

Final Score: Ravens 24-10

Houston Texans @ Cincinnati Bengals (-3)

Russell’s Pick: No Andre Johnson (game-time decision), Matt Schaub, or Mario Williams means this one falls into the lap of the Bengals. Everything went right for the Texans last week and lightning has not struck twice for many teams in the NFL this season.

Final Score: Bengals 17-13

Ross’ Pick: Cincy’s underappreciated run defense will be the difference in this low-scoring affair. Sooner or later, these injuries have to catch up to Houston. Don’t they?

Final Score: Bengals 20-16

Kansas City Chiefs @ NY Jets (-10)

Russell’s Pick: Kyle Orton played for the Chiefs longer than Chris Paul was a Laker. Too bad for the Chiefs because they actually possess the defense and special teams to keep this game within 10.

Final Score: Jets 17-9

Ross’ Pick: You can’t stroll into MetLife Stadium with zero offense and expect to hang with the Jets. I expect a decent game from Mark Sanchez; this is the time of year that the Jets turn it up a notch.

Final Score: Jets 27-10

Minnesota Vikings @ Detroit Lions (-8)

Russell’s Pick: Simply said, Joe Webb is not a NFL quarterback and the Vikings do not currently possess any talent in their secondary. As such, Stafford will have a phenomenal football game and will lead the Lions right back into the NFC Wild Card race.

Final Score: Lions 30-16

Ross’ Pick: I was surprised this line wasn’t higher. Minnesota’s secondary is atrocious and Matt Stafford will take advantage of that fact, at home. I know Peterson is going to play, but he and all the Tebow-esque gimmicks Minny has created for Joe Webb aren’t going to be nearly enough.

Final Score: Lions 31-13

New Orleans Saints @ Tennessee Titans (+3.5)

Russell’s Pick: Every game for the Saints down the stretch could be the difference between a first-round bye and a Wild Card weekend matchup. Their offense remains scorching hot and they have too many weapons for the Titans to focus on.

Final Score: Saints 27-20

Ross’ Pick: Interesting game. With Chris Johnson running well, the Titans will try to keep the ball away from Drew Brees. Trouble is, Tennessee’s passing game and defense are too inconsistent to rely upon. It’s just too much Brees, even on the road.

Final Score: Saints 31-21

Philadelphia Eagles @ Miami Dolphins (-3)

Russell’s Pick: The Eagles will counter the Dolphins’ physical attack with speed and quickness. The potential return of Maclin will add another threat to the Eagles’ mold which will free up space for McCoy to roam free.

Final Score: Eagles 24-23

Ross’ Pick: Simply put, I won’t pick the Eagles until they show me they actually give a crap. Miami, on the other hand, has played hard in every game. I’ll take the red hot fish.

Final Score: Dolphins 23-17

New England Patriots @ Washington Redskins (+8)

Russell’s Pick: Mike Shanahan finally realized that Roy Helu was the best running back on his team. Standing ovation for him. However, Helu cannot score more points than the Patriots all by himself.

Final Score: Patriots 31-20

Ross’ Pick: New England’s defense is improving and Rex Grossman is a turnover waiting to happen. With the Pats up early, Rexy won’t be sexy throwing the ball all afternoon…mostly to New England.

Final Score: Patriots 38-23

Atlanta Falcons @ Carolina Panthers (+3)

Russell’s Pick: The three-headed monster of Cam Newton, Jonathan Stewart, and DeAngelo Williams are going to run wild on the Falcons this weekend. The end result may feature a few touchdown runs with Newton dawning his Superman sweater.

Final Score: Panthers 24-21

Ross’ Pick: Matt Ryan has played terribly of late. I know Michael Turner will run all over Carolina, but Cam Newton will outplay Ryan and the Panthers can run the ball against anyone, even the league’s third-best run D.

Final Score: Panthers 23-16

Click Page 2 below for our Betting Men’s picks for the rest of the weekend’s games…

The post Betting Men: Where to Put Your NFL Week 14 Money appeared first on HyperVocal.

Week 12 gave the Betting Men some problems following the trifecta of Turkey Day Football. The Green Bay Packers, expected to have a difficult time against the Lions in front of a rowdy crowd, simply slapped aside the Lions’ home hoopla and could very well become the 3rd team to walk through the regular season undefeated (’72 Dolphins and ’07 Patriots). Meanwhile, the Rams decided to give up their second punt return touchdown to Patrick Peterson in two games against the Cardinals, the Jets barely held onto victory against the steadily declining Bills, and the Bengals did some sleepwalking in an unspirited victory over the rival Browns. Sprinkle in some Josh Freeman 4th-quarter fumble-itis and the Steelers throwing up donut holes in the second half against the Chiefs, and you can begin to understand our frustrations.

But it’s a new dawn, a new day, and Week 13 promises to be fruitful with the Game of the Week featuring another AFC North slugfest between the Who Dey Bengals and the Stillers. Can Andy Dalton lead his young team to victory in front of a raucous Terrible Towel extravaganza? In Foxboro, the Patriots will host the winless Colts, who currently sit as 21 point underdogs. Per Bill Barnwell’s Vegas Piece, there have only been six games since 1978 that were played with a spread of 20+ points. Even if Bill B. sat Tom B. for the full game, it’s possible the Pats could still cover the huge spread. Down in Houston, the Texans host the Atlanta Falcons with a new rookie starter at the helm, T.J. Yates. How many more injuries to key players can this team endure before they begin to fall apart?

Week 12 Totals: Ross 8-8 ATS, Russell 6-10
Season Totals: Ross 95-75-6 ATS, Russell 86-84-6

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Philadelphia Eagles @ Seattle Seahawks (+3)

Russell’s Pick: I’ll take some home cooking since the Seahawks have the 4^th best rushing defense. On the flip side, I expect Marshawn Lynch and his 28 carries and 103 yards/game average over the past three affairs to run for big yardage against the wide nine techniques of the Eagles.

Final Score: Seahawks 27-23

Ross’ Pick: The fact that the Eagles are traveling cross-country is negated by the fact that they are—especially with chants of “Fire Andy” cascading down in Philly—a better team on the road at this point. Combine that with a talent discrepancy (even with the injuries to Vick and Maclin) and no Sidney Rice for Seattle and I’ll lay the 3.

Final Score: Eagles 21-16

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Tennessee Titans @ Buffalo Bills (-1.5)

Russell’s Pick: Chris Johnson is alive!!! It only took him 70% of the season to wake up, but he finally did in a big way when he posted 190 yards against the hopeless Bucs. Look for a repeat performance this week against a very weak Buffalo run defense.

Final Score: Titans 27-20

Ross’ Pick: Chris Johnson is going to run for over 100 yards, but the Bills will overcome it at home. I believe they’ll be able to pass the ball effectively enough to pull out a close one.

Final Score: Bills 23-20

Kansas City Chiefs @ Chicago Bears (-7)

Russell’s Pick: Tyler Palko may get the start for the Chiefs, but we could see Kyle Orton to the rescue come the 3^rd quarter. This is a great opportunity for the Bears to distance themselves from the Lions and the Giants for the 6^th playoff spot in the NFC.

Final Score: Bears 21-10

Ross’ Pick: I know he threw a few interceptions, but I believe Caleb Hanie has the ability to rebound; Ty Palko…not so much. Plus, there’s always Matt Forte. By the way, are these the same Bear fans bemoaning the loss of Jay Cutler as the ones who called him out for feigning an injury in last year’s playoff game? I’m just askin’.

Final Score: Bears 24-14

Oakland Raiders @ Miami Dolphins (-3)

Russell’s Pick: The Raiders are a mean running team, but they are facing off against a meaner rush defense. Matt Moore and Reggie Bush have strung together some nice games recently and those two will be the difference in this one. Never thought I would say that after their 0-7 start.

Final Score: Dolphins 23-17

Ross’ Pick: The Raiders are banged up and they’re making a long trip to play an early game. Avoid. Miami’s run D is solid and I like what Matt Moore’s been doing lately (112.7 QB rating, 7 TDs, 1 INT over his last 4 games).

Final Score: Dolphins 24-20

Cincinnati Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-7)

Russell’s Pick: The Steelers’ speed on the outside will eventually wear down the Bengals defense opening up running lanes for Mendenhall who has looked like S&%t this season. Yep, the pass will open up the run, reverse psychology at its finest.

Final Score: Steelers 28-17

Ross’ Pick: Pittsburgh will win, but it won’t be easy. Andy Dalton is a gamer and with the way the Steelers played on offense in KC, I can’t see laying a full 7 here.

Final Score: Steelers 26-21

NY Jets @ Washington Redskins (+3)

Russell’s Pick: Mark Sanchez will come back to earth following his 4 touchdown performance from last week. And Roy Helu in the starting lineup will single handedly keep this game close while Grossman will do his best to impersonate Jeff George.

Final Score: Jets 24-23

Ross’ Pick: Two teams that play messy games. The Jets just do it more successfully. It’ll be low scoring and tight, but I think the Jets squeak one out on the road by running effectively in the 2^nd half.

Final Score: Jets 20-16

Atlanta Falcons @ Houston Texans (+2.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Texans will suit up the Reliant Stadium janitor at quarterback following the injury to Matt Leinart. Arian Foster and Brandon Tate will get plenty of carries, but I am not sure it will be enough to hold off Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez from putting up points. The Birds are Mila Kunis hot right now.

Final Score: Falcons 20-14

Ross’ Pick: Atlanta’s won 5 of 6 and Houston actually called ME to be a backup QB this week. OK, they didn’t. But T.J. Yates isn’t going to be enough against a surging Falcon unit. The Houston defense can only do so much.

Final Score: Falcons 23-17

Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3)

Russell’s Pick: The only tackles made in this game will be by the sprinkler system controlled by the Buffalo Wild Wings OT controller. I pray that you have seen that commercial. Anyway, take the over which is currently sitting at 47.5 points.

Final Score: Panthers 30-27

Ross’ Pick: Neither team can stop the run, but Carolina has 3 running threats to just a lone Blount instrument possessed by Tampa. Throw in a dash of Steve Smith and I’ll thank you for the points.

Final Score: Panthers 28-23

Click Page 2 below for the rest of the NFL slate…will the Betting Men pick with or against the Lord and Savior Tim Tebow? What about the Pats laying 20 to the Colts?

The post Betting Men: Where to Put Your NFL Week 13 Money appeared first on HyperVocal.

Tim “Son of Jor-El God” Tebow came through in the clutch once again to surprise everyone in America in Week 11. The Betting Men are still befuddled by his ability to win football games despite the fact that he plays like a running back with a gimp arm. Meanwhile, the other New York football team managed to score just 10 points against the Eagles without the presence of Michael Vick and Jeremy Maclin. The Giants will look back on this game and wonder what happened to their NFC East title. Maybe Eli Manning should reattach his brain before his Monday Night date with the New Orleans Saints in Week 12. And let’s give a standing ovation to the Ravens and Falcons for blowing huge 4th quarter leads and giving our Betting Men a big fat PUSH in the record books.

Turkey Day football brings us some pretty intriguing match-ups, which include the Lions hosting their first relevant game since Barry Sanders roamed the backfield. The Dolphins fly into Dallas on a three-game winning streak and could sneak up on the Cowboys, who are recovering from a near-loss to the Redskins. And the Brothers Harbaugh fill out the nightcap — ESPN simply cannot get enough of this charade. Another can’t-miss game this Sunday finds the Cutler-less Bears traveling to the Black Hole of Oakland. Can Caleb Hanie hold down the fort long enough for the Bears to sneak into the playoffs?

Week 11 Totals: Ross 5-7-2 ATS, Russell 7-5-2
Season Totals: Ross 87-67-6 ATS, Russell 80-74-6

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Green Bay Packers @ Detroit Lions (+6.5)

Russell’s Pick: The resurrection of Kevin Smith has given life to the Lions’ running game. His presence supplies the Lions with a balanced attack that can expose the Packers’ defensive weakness on the edges. However, Aaron Rodgers will be too much for the Lions’ defense to handle and he will lead the Pack to a game winning touchdown drive.

Final Score: Packers 31-27

Ross’ Pick: I’m taking Detroit. I saw a crack in the undefeated armor last week when Tampa put a scare into Green Bay. I’ll take a fired up Lions team who WILL get to Rodgers (even if it costs them 15 yards) and pass the ball well enough to actually pull off the upset.

Final Score: Lions 31-28

Miami Dolphins @ Dallas Cowboys (-7)

Russell’s Pick: The Dolphins have won three straight against the Chiefs, Redskins, and Bills. All three were overachieving teams for the first half of the season. Well, the Cowboys are a legitimate team and were given a scare in Washington last week. Look for the Cowboys to take advantage of the Giants slipping back in the standings.

Final Score: Cowboys 30-21

Ross’ Pick: This is going to be close and the spread is way inflated; Dallas is overrated and Miami underrated. Miami’s defense has been terrific over the past month, as has Matt Moore. They’ll be enough to keep this one within a touchdown.

Final Score: Cowboys 24-20

San Francisco 49ers @ Baltimore Ravens (-3.5)

Russell’s Pick: Jim Harbaugh’s Niners are 4-0 on the road this season while John Harbaugh’s Ravens are 5-0 at home. Something has to give and it will be the Raven’s home winning streak.

Final Score: Niners 17-14

Ross’ Pick: No way Alex Smith comes into Baltimore on a short week and leaves with a win. I just don’t believe. The Ravens will be up for this one and I wouldn’t be surprised if Ed Reed scored a touchdown. The Niners are good, but not that good.

Final Score: Ravens 24-14

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Arizona Cardinals @ St. Louis Rams (PK)

Russell’s Pick: Ok, I threw two pieces of paper up in the air, one with the Cardinals written on it and the other the Rams. I caught the Rams’ piece of paper therefore they have to win this game, by 30.

Final Score: Rams 15-14

Ross’ Pick: When two poor teams are evenly matched, I’ll always take the home team. Steven Jackson will be enough—he doesn’t need a QB to throw to him as Fitzgerald does.

Final Score: Rams 20-14

Buffalo Bills @ NY Jets (-9)

Russell’s Pick: Unfortunately for Bills fans, the Cinderella season has ended abruptly with Fred Jackson landing on IR with a broken leg. Without a running game, the Bills fall right into the hands of the Jets’ strength.

Final Score: Jets 28-10

Ross’ Pick: The Jets just throttled the Bills in Buffalo, and that was when Fred Jackson was playing. Buffalo is falling apart quicker than a Kardashian marriage—lay the 9.

Final Score: Jets 24-13

Cleveland Browns @ Cincinnati Bengals (-7)

Russell’s Pick: Although the Bengals did not win their last two games against the Steelers or Ravens, we have learned that they can play some competitive football against the big boys of the AFC. AJ Green is expected to return to take on Joe Haden, thus freeing up Jerome Simpson to run amok in the Cleveland secondary.

Final Score: Bengals 27-17

Ross’ Pick: Cleveland can’t get out of its own way offensively, which is the opposite of Cincy—the Bengals seem to find ways to succeed on that side of the ball regardless of who’s healthy. There’s just too much Cincinnati offense in this Battle of Ohio.

Final Score: Bengals 28-13

Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars (+4)

Russell’s Pick: The Texans have the defense to make this a competitive game with or without Matt Schaub at the helm, especially since the incompetent Blaine Gabbert is the opposing quarterback. The Texans will give the Jaguars a healthy dose of Arian Foster and Ben Tate on their way to victory.

Final Score: Texans 23-13

Ross’ Pick: This is a weird game. Matt Leinart gets (another) a chance at redemption, but will he throw more than 10 passes? He shouldn’t. Houston will keep it on the ground and run to victory on the road. Jacksonville will be lucky to score at all.

Final Score: Texans 24-9

Carolina Panthers @ Indianapolis Colts (+3)

Russell’s Pick: No analysis necessary. The Colts are well on their way to a winless season.

Final Score: Panthers 30-14

Ross’ Pick: Cam Newton will feast on this defense and it’s up in the air as to who finishes this game at QB for the Colts. Even Carolina will have a solid defensive day against this JV squad.

Final Score: Panthers 34-10

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Tennessee Titans (-3.5)

Russell’s Pick: The Bucs showed some life last week on the road in Green Bay. A healthy LeGarrette Blount will allow Josh Freeman to work Mike Williams back into the flow of the offense. And is Matt Hasselbeck going to last the whole game with a bum throwing elbow?

Final Score: Buccaneers 23-21

Ross’ Pick: This will be a close one. Both QBs are going to produce—I’m not scared by the Hasselbeck elbow. The difference here will be the resurgence of the Freeman-to-Williams combo for the Bucs. It’ll be a higher scoring affair than most think.

Final Score: Buccaneers 30-27

Minnesota Vikings @ Atlanta Falcons (-9.5)

Russell’s Pick: Hard to imagine that the Vikings jeopardize Adrian Peterson’s long term health (high ankle sprain) when they have zero chance of making the playoffs. With that in mind, the Falcons will cover because Toby Gerhart is simply not an NFL running back.

Final Score: Falcons 24-10

Ross’ Pick: If you can’t stop the pass in the Dome, you can’t hang. Matt Ryan will go off in this one as Julio Jones returns. With all the attention Minnesota will be paying to the WRs, expect Tony Gonzalez to have a big game.

Final Score: Falcons 30-19

Chicago Bears @ Oakland Raiders (-4)

Russell’s Pick: Caleb Hanie played great in last year’s NFC Championship Game, but he caught the Packers by surprise. With a week to prepare for Hanie, the Raiders will further solidify their stranglehold on the AFC West crown.

Final Score: Raiders 20-14

Ross’ Pick: I trust the Bears to play a solid game behind Caleb Hanie. Chicago is the sort of team that rallies around something like the Cutler injury. Sure, they’ll alter the game-plan, but that’s easy to do when you face a scatterbrained team like the Raiders. The Bears’ defense will set the tone, and the offense does just enough.

Final Score: Bears 23-20

Washington Redskins @ Seattle Seahawks (-3.5)

Russell’s Pick: Roy Helu Jr. deserves to start at running back, but Mike Shanahan is too stubborn to give him the rock after the opening kickoff. Seahawks have the greatest home-field advantage in the NFL and their fans will help them pull out this victory.

Final Score: Seahawks 23-17

Ross’ Pick: I told ya last week—that Seattle front 7 is no joke. They’ll beat up the ‘Skins in this game, while Marshawn Lynch enters full Beast Mode. It’s one more nail in the Shanahan coffin.

Final Score: Seahawks 27-20

New England Patriots @ Philadelphia Eagles (+3.5)

Russell’s Pick: Hard to imagine Vince Young pulling this game out of his ass. The Patriots defensive line has drastically improved the past two weeks and they will put Young in some precarious situations.

Final Score: Patriots 31-20

Ross’ Pick: Like Tim Tebow, folks seem to be forgetting the first three quarters of Vince Young’s game. He was awful. New England’s offense will put points up, which in turn puts more pressure on Young. That won’t be a good thing. Brady will make Philly pay—400 yards is not unrealistic here.

Final Score: Patriots 30-24

Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers (-6)

Russell’s Pick: The Tim Tebow juice is about to wear off. The Chargers have the quick strike offense that can counter the slow grinding offense of the Broncos.

Final Score: Chargers 28-12

Ross’ Pick: I simply cannot bet ON a team like San Diego and can’t bet AGAINST Timmy Touchdown’s guys at this point. Denver’s rapidly improving defense, which isn’t getting any credit with Tebow around, will be the difference here. How many crap games must Philip Rivers have before betting lines are adjusted?

Final Score: Broncos 24-21

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Kansas City Chiefs (+10.5)

Russell’s Pick: I love the reverse homecoming story of Palko facing the professional version of the Pitt Panthers. I must have blacked out last night on turkey thinking that this game was in Shitsburgh.

Final Score: Steelers 33-7

Ross’ Pick: We may see Kyle Orton in the second half. You can name the score—I don’t care that it’s in KC. Pittsburgh is well-rested and can score against anyone. Time of possession will be 40-20 in favor of the visitors

Final Score: Steelers 38-13

NY Giants @ New Orleans Saints (-7)

Russell’s Pick: Eli Manning’s awful performance (264 yds, 1TD, 54% completion rate) has left a terrible taste in my mouth. Can you really rely on him to match Brees pass for pass in the Superdome?

Final Score: Saints 31-21

Ross’ Pick: Two words: Darren Sproles. Even if the Giants can get a pass rush on Brees, he’ll have the best safety valve in the game to help him out of any tight spots. The Giants will continue to be exposed in the secondary, and the linebackers will be embarrassed when Jimmy Graham comes a-calling. After this one, everyone will be in agreement—it’s Dallas’ division.

Final Score: Saints 35-21

The post Betting Men: Where to Put Your NFL Week 12 Money appeared first on HyperVocal.

Week 10 of the NFL season brought us a few upsets in the form of the Cardinals over the Eagles and the Raiders upending the Chargers. The Betting Men predicted before the season in their NFL Preview that the Eagles would be taking home the NFC East crown. Well, you can throw that great idea out the window now that the Eagles have fallen to 3-6 while blowing an eye-popping FIVE 4th quarter leads. On the other hand, the Chargers lost their 4th straight game and could see their playoff chances beginning to evaporate with another potential loss in Chicago this week.

Week 11 offers an intriguing match-up between the Bengals and the Ravens. Which team will bounce back from Week 10 losses and reinsert themselves back into the AFC North discussion? Bills fans have a lot to be worried about following their embarrassing loss to the Cowboys — can the Buffalo find a way to win against a resurgent Dolphins team looking for their 3rd consecutive victory? And two-team teasers are looking great this week with the Cowboys giving up seven points on the road to the Redskins’ offensive skeleton crew. The Betting Men can all but guarantee the Cowboys (-1) and the Falcons (PK) would be a surefire way to make a mortgage payment. Get in on this early before the lines move.

Week 10 Totals: Ross 7-9 ATS, Russell 9-7
Season Totals: Ross 82-60-4 ATS, Russell 73-69-4

Thursday, November 17, 2011

NY Jets @ Denver Broncos (+6)

Russell’s Pick: Do the Broncos dare entrust Tebow to throw more than eight passes in this game? John Fox has come out and admitted that a college style offense is his only option at this juncture. The Jets and Rex Ryan will have no part of this dog and pony show when they unleash a physical beat down.

Final Score: Jets 20-13

Ross’ Pick: Well, now we’ll see what Mr. Miracle can do when he faces a real defense. Denver may run the ball all night, but they won’t amass enough yardage to stay close. Let’s not forget that Denver’s defense is ranked 29th in the league.

Final Score: Jets 27-10

Alright, so both of our Betting Men are 0-1 on the week. Here’s the rest:

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Buffalo Bills @ Miami Dolphins (-2)

Russell’s Pick: The Bills have lost 3 straight away from Buffalo and Fred Jackson is their only true weapon on offense. The Dolphins have the personnel on defense to limit Jackson from having an explosive game. As such, the Dolphins will pull this one out late with a Dan Carpenter field goal.

Final Score: Dolphins 23-20

Ross’ Pick: I know Miami has been playing well, but come on—they beat the QB-less Redskins and a KC team that was still patting itself on the back for a Monday Night win over the Chargers. Now they’re favored? At home, where they always stink? I’ll take the two points and Fred Jackson’s production, thanks.

Final Score: Bills 23-17

Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens (-7)

Russell’s Pick: Ravens will find a way to win this game as long as Ray Rice gets 25+ touches. Cincy may be without their best corner, Leon Hall, for the remainder of the season, but Joe Flacco has done little to prove he can be a consistent threat through the air.

Final Score: Ravens 27-17

Ross’ Pick: Baltimore will be without Ray Lewis, but Cincy might play without their main offensive weapon, A.J. Green. That’s a net win for the Ravens. Add to that Baltimore’s rebound ability and the absence of Leon Hall for the Bengals, and I like the home team to cover here with a steady diet of Rice.

Final Score: Ravens 24-13

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Cleveland Browns (PK)

Russell’s Pick: The Madden curse has officially cast its evil spell on Peyton Hillis. Hillis has been MIA (60 rushes for 211 yds) after his hissy fit, flu like symptoms, and bogus hamstring injury. Two horrific teams make for quite the horrific game.

Final Score: Jaguars 7-3

Ross’ Pick: Maurice Jones-Drew is the lone offensive stud in this game. It’ll be enough for Jacksonville in this snooze-fest. This is not one for the time capsule.

Final Score: Jaguars 13-10

Oakland Raiders @ Minnesota Vikings (+1)

Russell’s Pick: Sure, Adrian Peterson can go off for 150+ rushing yards in this game, but he simply cannot do everything for the putrid Vikings offense. Carson Palmer, Michael Bush, and Denarius Moore made quite the trio against the Chargers last Thursday evening and after a ten day rest expect some flashes of freshness.

Final Score: Raiders 24-16

Ross’ Pick: Minnesota gives up points in bunches and with the Oakland offense riding high, I feel fine taking the Raiders on the road. That Minny secondary just won’t keep up with Oaktown’s speed.

Final Score: Raiders 27-17

Carolina Panthers @ Detroit Lions (-7)

Russell’s Pick: Both teams come into this matchup struggling, but the Panthers seem completely lost, especially on the defensive side of the football. Everyone knows the Lions will be pass happy in this game without Best, but there may not be anything the Panthers secondary can do to stop them.

Final Score: Lions 28-17

Ross’ Pick: The perfect antidote for a struggling offense is a Carolina D that’s the 3^rd worst in the league. Some home cooking will serve Detroit well.

Final Score: Lions 31-20

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Green Bay Packers (-14)

Russell’s Pick: The line for this game should be in the 20s. The Bucs simply do not have the offensive tools to keep up with the high flying Packers’ offense. LaGarrett Blount is praying he can get 10 carries before the Packers blow this game open and Raheem Morris completely abandons the running game.

Final Score: Packers 36-14

Ross’ Pick: Tampa has been a disappointment. That won’t change here—no one can stop the Borg offense of Green Bay. Resistance is futile.

Final Score: Packers 41-21

Click Page 2 below for the rest of the weekend slate…

The post Betting Men: Where to Put Your NFL Week 11 Money appeared first on HyperVocal.