Buffalo Bills

2026-27 NFL Preview & Prognostications

During a recent lazy weekend I was scrolling thru the guide on my television, and the sports options available included lacrosse and something called the Grid League, which apparently is “a fast-paced, co-ed professional team sport centered around high-intensity fitness racing”. I have no idea what that means, and don’t care to find out. What it indicated to me is that it’s time for football season. As always, there has been plenty of offseason action…the draft, trades, free agency, the coaching carousel. All of that is great. It gives ESPN things to talk about. However, when it comes to the NFL, there is nothing I enjoy more than tuning into RedZone and enjoying seven solid hours of gridiron action, with my man Scott Hanson directing the chaos. I’ll spare y’all the details, but my summer…actually most of the year thus far…has been a fiasco, yet I am blessed to be easily entertained and have outlets that allow me to escape reality for awhile. That doesn’t mean that one should ignore their problems or not appropriately address issues. By all means…TCB. Occasionally though, it is nice to tune out the noise and enjoy simple pleasures. At any rate, we’ve been doing this little preview for nearly two decades, and I feel compelled to offer a few reminders. Please, don’t wager your rent or gas money based on my thoughts. I am just a somewhat knowledgeable, lifelong fan. I do this for fun and receive no compensation from anyone. I don’t do a bunch of deep research or statistical analysis. My opinions are based mostly on vibes & common sense, but especially when it comes to the NFL those barometers can prove wildly inaccurate. Also, injuries can change everything, and there’s no way to forecast such calamities. That being said, please enjoy my snarky wit & keen insight, and Here We Go Steelers!!

East

Philadelphia Eagles  (11-6) 10-7

Dallas Cowboys  (7-9-1) 9-8

New York Giants  (4-13) 9-8

Washington Redskins  (5-12) 8-9

Is it possible that receiver AJ Brown leaving Philly for the New England Patriots is a net gain for the Eagles?? I realize that sounds crazy, but apparently there was drama in the locker room surrounding Brown. If rookie Makai Lemon & former first round pick Devonta Smith rise to the occasion perhaps there won’t be a decline in offensive production. I believe we’ll see a significant improvement from the Cowboys as long as their revamped defense, led by newly acquired defensive tackle Rashan Gary & rookie safety Caleb Downs, upgrades that group’s 30th rank from a season ago. The Giants had their season torpedoed by injuries to receiver Malik Nabers & running back Cam Skattebo, but with both young men back on the field and QB Jaxson Dart having a year of experience under his belt, The G-Men could find themselves in playoff contention under the leadership of new head coach John Harbaugh. That leaves the Commanders. I have really liked QB Jayden Daniels until all of this LSU/jersey # silliness, but the bigger issue is that the former Heisman Trophy winner & Offensive Rookie of the Year only played in seven games last year due to injuries. Perhaps he’ll be dominant…or he might miss half the season again. Even if Daniels stays healthy I’m not that impressed with his supporting cast, with the possible exception of newly acquired WR Stefon Diggs, who’ll be playing for his fifth team in a decade. The receiving tandem of Diggs & Terry McClaurin could vault the team above my low bar. Washington’s defense has potential, but they were at the bottom of the league last year and probably need another season or two of tweaking. It feels like Philly’s division to lose, but keep an eye on the Giants.

West

Los Angeles Rams  (12-5) 15-2

San Francisco 49ers  (12-5) 10-7  

Seattle Seahawks  (14-3) 9-8

Arizona Cardinals  (3-14) 3-14

Everything seems to be falling into place for the Rams to make a serious Super Bowl push. At age 38 quarterback Matthew Stafford has shown no significant signs of decline. He has a solid offensive line and an impressive group of skill players to score points & control the ball. The defense added defensive end Myles Garrett & cornerback Trent McDuffie to improve a group that was middle-of-the-pack. Winning the division is only the first goal for the Rams. The defending champion Seahawks are likely to experience a notable regression after losing Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker as well as a few pieces from their Top Ten defense. They won’t be terrible, but it’ll be challenging for Seattle to earn a playoff berth. The Niners are a playoff team, but not an elite contender. They made a splash by adding receiver Mike Evans, but he’s 32 years old and it feels like a move that would’ve been more impactful a couple seasons ago. Running back Christian McCaffrey just turned 30, so he might continue to be great…or he might fall off a cliff. Their defense is good but not great, and injuries seem to befall the whole team every year. The Cardinals made some pretty big changes in the offseason, but, with the exception of rookie RB Jeremiyah Love, I don’t know if those changes move the needle all that much. Former Rams offensive coordinator Mike LeFleur is the new head coach. Kyler Murray is out at QB, Jacoby Brissett is in, with rookie Carson Beck the potential future. Love joins a crowded backfield that includes James Conner & Tyler Allgeier. There were a few other losses & additions in free agency, but nothing noteworthy. 

South

Tampa Bay Buccaneers  (8-9) 9-8

New Orleans Saints  (6-11) 8-9

Carolina Panthers  (8-9) 6-11

Atlanta Falcons  (8-9) 5-12

As always it’ll be an entertaining division from week to week, but I view Tampa as clear favorites despite the departures of veteran receiver Mike Evans & linebacker Lavonte David. They drafted for defense and added some depth in free agency. The Saints are making strides. I expect good things from second year QB Tyler Shough, and he has solid skill players to whom he can distribute the ball. They had a Top Ten defense last season and will need that to continue. I’m still not a fan of QB Bryce Young, despite him leading the Panthers into the postseason last year. Sneaking into the playoffs at 8-9 because the division is terrible is a dubious accomplishment. They’ve tweaked the roster here & there, especially the offensive line & a mediocre defense, but the folks in Charlotte shouldn’t anticipate much. I feel like the Falcons are taking one step forward & two steps back, although I do like new head coach Kevin Stefanski. The quarterback competition between Michael Penix Jr. & newly acquired Tua Tagovailoa won’t be won with talent, but by whoever can stay off the injured list. Those QBs do have an impressive trio of weapons with RB Bijan Robinson, tight end Kyle Pitts, and receiver Drake London. If Atlanta’s mediocre defense can exceed expectations the team could possibly prove me wrong.

North

Green Bay Packers   (9-7-1) 10-7

Chicago Bears  (11-6) 9-8

Detroit Lions  (9-8) 7-10 

Minnesota Vikings  (9-8) 6-11

Alright, alright…perhaps I’ve been overly harsh with Bears QB Caleb Williams. There’s just something about the dude I don’t like, but the fact that he led the team to a division title and a complete 180 (5-12 in 2024 to 11-6 last season) can’t be denied. Young receivers Luther Burden & Rome Odunze will have to step up after the trade of DJ Moore to Buffalo. The Bears defense ranked near the bottom of the league a season ago, and I don’t think they did enough to fix it. That makes the Packers slight favorites in the division, although they didn’t dramatically improve their roster in the offseason. The defense was just outside the Top Ten in 2025, and I think it could be slightly better now. I really like QB Jordan Love, and he has an impressive array of weapons, especially if tight end Tucker Kraft returns from an ACL injury he suffered midway thru last season. It seems like just yesterday when we were excited about the Detroit Lions, but they took a huge step backward last year and it feels like the window might’ve already closed. The Vikings are excited to have QB Kyler Murray and have seemingly given up on JJ McCarthy. Murray will need every bit of that 4.4/40 speed to run for his life unless the offensive line has gotten much better. It seems like the offseason was focused on tweaking their Top 5 defense, but I think they may actually regress. I wonder how much receiver Justin Jefferson regrets signing that contract extension a couple years ago??

Playoffs: Rams, Eagles, Packers, Bucs, Niners, Bears, Cowboys

NFC Title: Rams vs. Packers

East

New England Patriots  (14-3) 12-5

Buffalo Bills  (12-5) 10-7

New York Jets  (3-14) 5-12

Miami Dolphins  (7-10) 5-12

Firing head coach Sean McDermott was a huge mistake for Buffalo. He was 98-50 in nine seasons, including 12+ wins four times. I understand that everyone had become impatient after seven straight disappointing playoff exits, but the move feels shortsighted. New coach Joe Brady might prove to be a terrific replacement, but I still think the Bills will regress a bit. That means the Patriots are in line for another division title. Adding receiver AJ Brown to a Super Bowl team is almost unfair. The Jets brought back QB Geno Smith, but at age 35, and with 4th round pick Cade Klubnik waiting in the wings, that situation is murky at best. Their defense was in the bottom third of the NFL last year and I don’t foresee much improvement. I am intrigued by new Dolphins’ QB Malik Willis, but unless he’s able to carry the entire offense on his back expectations should be low, and the defense isn’t good enough to win games themselves. New head coach Jeff Hafley used to be the Packers defensive coordinator though, so he might have some tricks up his sleeve.

West

Denver Broncos  (14-3) 12-5 

Los Angeles Chargers  (11-6) 10-7

Kansas City Chiefs  (6-11) 10-7

Las Vegas Raiders  (3-14) 6-11

I undervalued the Broncos a year ago, as they ended up winning the division. If QB Bo Nix hadn’t suffered a broken ankle in a playoff victory over Buffalo I feel like it might’ve been Denver representing the AFC in the Super Bowl instead of New England. If Nix remains healthy & establishes a rapport with newly acquired receiver Jaylen Waddle, and their second ranked defense from last season remains stout, good things could be in store. The Chiefs missed the playoffs in 2025 for the first time in a decade, and that was compounded by the loss of QB Patrick Mahomes with a torn ACL in December. Kansas City lost eight of their final ten games. I’m no medical expert, but the fact that Mahomes is attempting to return just eight months later is dubious at best. Despite the addition of Super Bowl MVP running Kenneth Walker III & a Top Ten defense, a postseason return might prove difficult. That could open the door for the Chargers, who have a Top 5 defense and Justin Herbert, one of the best signal callers in the NFL. They did lose both coordinators though, which is something to keep in mind. Raider Nation seems to be encouraged after drafting QB Fernando Mendoza with the #1 overall pick, but whether that optimism is warranted remains to be seen. Even if Mendoza is the real deal it’ll still take new head coach Klint Kubiak a couple of years to rebuild a broken franchise.

South

Houston Texans  (12-5) 11-6 

Jacksonville Jaguars  (13-4) 11-6

Indianapolis Colts  (8-9) 9-8

Tennessee Titans  (3-14) 6-11

Much like last season, the battle between Houston & Jacksonville for divisional supremacy should be entertaining. The Texans might be even better after fine tuning their offensive line and adding some pieces to the best defense in the league. Meanwhile, the Jags didn’t seem to make any impactful offseason moves. QB Trevor Lawrence enters his sixth NFL season, but after being the first overall pick and drawing comparisons to John Elway & Peyton Manning, it feels like he has underachieved. The Jags’ defense hovered just outside the league’s Top Ten last season, and they’ll need to be atleast as good, if not better. Keep an eye on the Jags/Texans contest in Houston about a week before Christmas…the winner could clinch a division title. As far as the other half of the division, my vibe is that Indy & Tennessee are teams in flux, and we’ll have more of an indication about their future by mid-season. Titans’ QB Cam Ward has potential, and new offensive coordinator Brian Daboll (the former Giants head coach) just might be the guy to help him take full advantage of it. Robert Saleh is Tennessee’s new head coach, and this is an opportunity to prove he’s better than a 20-36 record in three+ seasons with the Jets might indicate. The Colts looked pretty good last year until the wheels fell off in the latter half of the season, a skid that had already begun when QB Daniel Jones suffered an Achille’s injury in December. Even if Jones is healthy I don’t think he is the long term answer, and Indy simply MUST get more out of their mediocre defense.

North

Cincinnati Bengals  (6-11) 10-7

Pittsburgh Steelers  (10-7) 9-8

Baltimore Ravens   (8-9) 7-10

Cleveland Browns  (5-12) 6-11

No one is expecting much from my Steelers, especially after the long overdue departure of head coach Mike Tomlin and the uninspiring hire of Mike McCarthy. The one thing that intrigues me is that McCarthy is an offensive minded guy, which might open things up a little as long as 42 year old quarterback Aaron Rodgers still plays at a reasonably high level. Pittsburgh has the highest paid defense in the NFL, but ranked 26th last season. That simply isn’t going to cut it. The Ravens made the stunning move to fire head coach John Harbaugh, so we’ll see how it works out for them. I get it…he’d been there a long time and hadn’t gotten to the Super Bowl since 2012. One could compare the situation in Baltimore to the Steelers & Mike Tomlin as well as Buffalo & Sean McDermott. Successful, but not as successful as they could’ve or should’ve been. Perhaps the Ravens don’t miss a beat with talented QB Lamar Jackson, battering ram RB Derrick Henry, and a defense that added Trey Hendrickson in free agency. However, Jackson & Henry haven’t led them to the Promised Land yet, and their once mighty defense was ranked in the bottom third of the league. Hendrickson is a nice get, but it isn’t enough. Meanwhile, not to beat an annual dead horse, but the Browns are the Browns. They have yet another head coach (their fifth in the last decade). The QB room includes noted massage enthusiast Deshaun Watson, nepo baby Shedeur Sanders, hobbit Dillon Gabriel, and rookie Taylen Green, who is a long term project at best. They had a Top 5 defense but traded Myles Garrett. That leaves the Bengals, who went from Super Bowl contenders to mediocre to terrible in less than five years, thanks in part to injuries suffered by QB Joe Burrow. He must remain healthy for the team to succeed. They renovated the defense to the point that losing Hendrickson may not even matter. Ja’marr Chase & Tee Higgins might be the best receiver tandem in the NFL. Cincy wins the division almost by default, and it’s possible they surprise everyone…including me…by doing so in dominating fashion. I tend to be a bit conservative though.

Playoffs: Broncos, Patriots, Texans, Bengals, Jaguars, Bills, Chargers

AFC Title: Broncos vs. Texans

Green Bay Packers   24

Denver Broncos         27

Top 5 Picks in 2027 NFL Draft

1 Arizona

2 NY Jets

3 Atlanta

4 Miami

5 Vegas

2025 Pigskin Picks of Profundity…Week 18

Merry Christmas Manoverse!! I have to believe there are some seriously hardcore fans that have been watching Christmas Day NFL games the past couple of years, because there are THREE of them this year. Now, I don’t mind, because we did our family thing last week so my yuletide clam bake will be spent in solitude, firmly ensconced in my humble yet cozy abode. Three football games interspersed with Ralphie Parker and whatever other movies might be on will help me quell loneliness, despair, and memories of what I’ve lost, but surely not everyone’s life is so empty & meaningless?? Are the NFL & their television partners taking a serious gamble?? We’ll see. At any rate, for those who will be making merry with a house full of people, please enjoy every second and take nothing for granted. To the ones who understand my perspective, just know that you are seen. Other folks do get it. Never forget the real Reason for the Season, which should provide even the most melancholy a measure of joy.

Observations from Last Week:

  • I wonder how much of Alabama’s athletic budget goes to officiating crews 🤔.
  • Can we dispense with whole idiotic idea of gifting Group of Five teams a spot in the CFP…please?? Notre Dame, Texas, BYU, and Vanderbilt all would’ve put up a better first round fight.
  • I should’ve known Oregon would take their foot off the gas in the 4th quarter 🙄. They certainly made alot of folks quite happy, while screwing over a bunch of others. IYKYK.
  • Packers backup QB Malik Willis could be an intriguing option for quarterback needy teams this offseason.
  • Am I imagining it, or are more players going down with torn ACLs & other similar injuries than ever before??

My Season: 50-61

Zach’s Season: 53-58

Detroit (-6) at Minnesota

Even as a Steelers fan I can admit that had to be a tough loss to swallow for Detroit. At 8-7 the Lions are hanging by a thread as far the playoffs go. Needless to say this is a must win. Conversely, the 7-8 Vikings might be experiencing a bit of buyer’s remorse when it comes to quarterback JJ McCarthy, their first round pick in the 2024 Draft. The kid might have the potential to be good if he could ever stay on the field. He’s injured…again…which means Minnesota isn’t winning the game. It’s a 4:30pm kick on Thursday, which is probably right around the time most happy families will be eating their Christmas dinner. But don’t worry Netflix…I’ll be watching. Zach agrees with my assessment.

My Pick: Detroit 

Zach’s Pick: Detroit

Denver (-13) at Kansas City 

This game probably looked really good to the folks at Amazon Video not too long ago, but unfortunately for them alot of things can go straight to Hell in a month. Despite their loss to Jacksonville, the 12-3 Broncos are still looking to be the AFC’s top seed and get that first round bye. Conversely, Andy Reid’s Chiefs will miss the postseason for the first time in a decade, and they’ll be starting someone named Chris Oladokun at quarterback. I wish TBS/TNT could add another couple of hours onto their A Christmas Story marathon. Zach understands that KC is a dumpster fire, but believes they’ll find a way to remain competitive.

My Pick: Denver 

Zach’s Pick: Kansas City

Jacksonville (-6.5) at Indianapolis 

The fickle hand of fate has really bent the NFL over and violated it this season. The Colts were going to win their division easily, but then they had to raid an orphanage and take two dozen kids’ elderly Daddy away from them during the holidays to solve a quarterback dilemma, losing six of the last seven games in the process. Meanwhile, the 11-4 Jags have quietly snuck down the chimney and stolen the AFC South. They’re still in the mix for the #1 seed & first round bye, but some things have to fall their way. Thankfully this is just a prosaic 1pm Sunday kickoff, because it probably won’t be much fun to watch if you don’t have RedZone. Zach appreciates what Philip Rivers has tried to do for Indy, but he believes the favorites will get the job done.

My Pick: Jacksonville 

Zach’s Pick: Jacksonville 

Philadelphia at Buffalo (-2)

This was my preseason Super Bowl matchup, and it could still happen. The 11-4 Bills are in a battle with the surprising New England Patriots for the AFC East, and probably need to win both of their final two games. Philly’s road has been bumpy at times, but at 10-5 they’ve already wrapped up their division and would need too many dominoes to align perfectly to grab the NFC’s top seed, which seems unlikely. Essentially, all of the pressure is on Buffalo, especially with the home field. I think it’ll be tight, but with high expectations I believe in Josh Allen to get the job done…for now. Zach concurs.

My Pick: Buffalo 

Zach’s Pick: Buffalo

LA Rams (-8.5) at Atlanta

Are the 11-4 Rams the most overlooked team in the league?? Shockingly, the answer might be yes. Despite a heartbreaking overtime loss in Seattle last week, Los Angeles still has a path to the division title and the conference’s top seed, although I don’t expect that to happen. On the other end of the spectrum, the 6-9 Falcons are the football equivalent of Bull Durham’s Crash Davis, when it is said “you have to respect a ballplayer who’s just trying to finish the season”. Atlanta has won two in a row, and they won’t go away quietly on Monday night. Can they play the spoiler role?? I think they’ll give it a damn fine try,  which means that m-a-y-b-e they lose by 7-ish points. Zach doesn’t have as much faith in the home team as I do and foresees a big win for the Rams.

My Pick: Atlanta 

Zach’s Pick: LA Rams

2025 Pigskin Picks of Profundity…Week 16

Our picks will focus on the NFL this week, but before we get to that let us contemplate the College Football Playoff since the field has now been set.

Imagine if a bunch of suits were to sit in a room and decide whether the Green Bay Packers were worthy of being in the playoffs, or if the berth should be awarded to the Los Angeles Rams. Ponder the possibility of the New England Patriots winning their division but being left out of the postseason while the Buffalo Bills are invited to the party. Laughable, right?? So why is it okay in college football?? Look, this isn’t the time to address all of the issues, but let’s consider a few things. 

First & foremost, there is a clear separation, both in perception and reality, between the “Power Four” & “Group of Five” conferences. While it is a nice story that Tulane & James Madison made the CFP, no one will be surprised when they are obliterated in the first round. It’s way past time for FBS to be divided into two divisions, each with their own national championship. Secondly, what is the point of conference title games when a team can win the championship (Duke) but not be in the playoff, while a team that didn’t even play in that game (Miami) still gets into the playoff?? Make it make sense. How can a team like Alabama that has three losses & were dominated in their conference title game receive a bid, while Virginia, who has the same record and lost their title game in OT, is left out?? 

The NFL is a meritocracy. On the field results…wins & losses…decisive, unemotional, indisputable facts are the only things that matter. Conversely, college football is a beauty contest where brand names, pedigree, money, and PR become deciding factors in important decisions, and it doesn’t matter whether it is two teams (remember the BCS?? 🙄), four teams, 12 teams, or inevitably 16 teams, because the powers-that-be (mainly ESPN) LOVE the debate. It is utterly ridiculous.

Observations from Last Week:

  • “Snow Globe games” (shoutout Scott Hanson) are fun to watch on TV, but there is no way in Hell I’d attend one in person ❄️.
  • I don’t possess enough expertise to analyze what has gone sideways with the Kansas City Chiefs, so let’s just blame their downfall on Taylor Swift.
  • Six months ago no one would’ve said a team is cooked without QB Daniel Jones, but after beginning the season 7-1 the Colts have lost four of the last five games, all while the Jacksonville Jaguars have won 5 of their last 6. Now Indy has to make their playoff push with rookie Riley Leonard, MAYBE Anthony Richardson, or possibly…*checks notes*…Philip Rivers, who is 44 years old & hasn’t played in the NFL since President Trump’s first term. Good luck 👀.
  • Well, two of my six fantasy teams are playoff bound, so atleast I got that going for me, which is nice.
  • The Steelers obviously heard all the criticism concerning receiver DK Metcalf’s lack of involvement in the offense. Keep it up yinzers…apparently it takes a ton of public scrutiny for Pittsburgh’s braintrust to do what should’ve been done in the first place 👊🏻.

My Season: 47-51

Zach’s Season: 44-54

Baltimore (-2.5) at Cincinnati

As a Steelers fan I have no problem opining that yes…that was a touchdown. IYKYK. However, as many times as the Steelers have been screwed over by poor officiating in the past…well, let’s just say I didn’t lose any sleep over this particular questionable call. At any rate, coming into the season the Ravens were amongst the favorites to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl, but right now, at 6-7, they need to figure things out quickly just to make the playoffs. Meanwhile, the 4-9 Bengals have looked much better since the return of QB Joe Burrow, but still pissed away a victory in Buffalo last weekend. It’s almost as if we’ve yet to see who either of these teams really are this year, or perhaps what they are and what they were supposed to be are vastly different. With the home field I like Burrow to connect with his elite receiving corps on enough big plays to pull off a slightly surprising upset. Zach points out that the Bengals won the Thanksgiving meeting between these two in Baltimore, but doesn’t think they can do it twice. He agrees that the Ravens were unlucky last week, but still believes they are a superior team.

My Pick: Cincinnati 

Zach’s Pick: Baltimore

 

LA Chargers at Kansas City (-4.5)

The 6-7 Chiefs aren’t winning their division, and though they aren’t mathematically eliminated from the playoffs yet, ALOT has to go their way in the final month of the season. Conversely, the 9-4 Chargers, who aren’t winning the division either, sit in a rather comfortable wildcard spot if they don’t implode in the next few weeks. It would undoubtedly thrill the folks out in Los Angeles to put the final nail in KC’s coffin, but where is the drama in that?? Depending upon one’s level of cynicism, you have to believe that it’d be far more interesting for the Chiefs to retain a shred of hope while casting doubt on the Chargers’ postseason aspirations. Zach is simply looking at the fact that the Chargers are a better team that is peaking at the right time.

My Pick: Kansas City 

Zach’s Pick: LA Chargers

Buffalo (-1.5) at New England

The 8-4 Bills haven’t been quite the juggernaut many might’ve expected this season, but after an epic 4th quarter comeback last weekend they remain in the thick of the fight. Their biggest adversary?? The surprising Patriots. At 11-2 there is no shadow of nefarious tactics or propping of alleged icons. This team is legit. I don’t think there is any chance that Buffalo can overcome the numbers and win the AFC East. However, I do think they’ll avenge an October loss and remind everyone who they are. New England has had a great season and will be crowned division champions, but they are still a young team with lessons to learn. Zach concurs, believing that Buffalo’s recent experience in big games gives them the edge.

My Pick: Buffalo

Zach’s Pick: Buffalo

Green Bay (-2.5) at Denver

The 11-2 Broncos have already exceeded expectations and have a firm grasp on their division, although there is certainly work left to be done. They have won ten games in a row, and I am the type of guy who is less surprised by a bubble bursting than good fortune continuing in perpetuity. The Packers sit at 9-3-1 and are riding a four game winning streak, but they’re in a hell of a dogfight in their division. Can the NFC North put three teams in the playoffs?? Even if that happens, there is a huge difference between a division champion and a wildcard, which could be the 7th seed in the conference. That means this is a HUGE game. As mentioned, I believe bubbles are meant to burst, so I think Denver’s run ends at ten games, but it won’t have much of a negative impact. I predict The Pack & the Detroit Lions will both overcome the Chicago Bears and have an opportunity to be the NFC’s top seed. Zach foresees a high scoring affair, but thinks the Packers will struggle a bit in elevated mountain air.

My Pick: Green Bay

Zach’s Pick: Denver

Indianapolis at Seattle (-11.5)

Good Lord, what is happening in Indianapolis?!?!?? They’ve lost 3 of the past 4 games, now sit behind Jacksonville & Houston in the AFC South, could miss out on a wildcard berth, and won’t have the services of starting QB Daniel Jones down the stretch due to an achilles injury. It probably can’t get much worse for the Colts. Conversely, the 10-3 Seahawks have won six of their last seven games and sit atop the NFC West alongside the L.A. Rams. The  conference’s top seed remains very much in their grasp. This would’ve been a far more entertaining contest a month ago, but now it seems like a foregone conclusion, with only the margin of victory in question. Can Seattle cover the points?? With one of the league’s best home fields I believe they will. Zach agrees that Indy is a dumpster fire, but the points are just too much.

My Pick: Seattle

Zach’s Pick: Indianapolis

 

2025 Pigskin Picks of Profundity…Week 10

Happy Halloween Manoverse!! Okay okay…to be fair, by the time these games kick off we’ll be past Halloween, but right now, in this moment, it is still on the horizon. So what does Fright Night look like at The Bachelor Palace?? Full disclosure, it isn’t much more exciting than any other night. My secure location precludes me from hosting trick or treaters, which is unfortunate because once upon a time I rather enjoyed handing out candy to neighborhood crumb crunchers. I’m not much of a horror movie fan, although I do enjoy John Carpenter’s original 1978 Halloween. I will absolutely be snacking on candy corn (don’t come at me!) while choosing amongst other spooky-esque entertainment like Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein, Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein, and of course the classic It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. I am also planning a reread of Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Then, once I get all of that out of my system, it’ll be back to football. Your mileage may vary, and that’s okay.

Observations from Last Week:

  • Yes, I gave us both a win for Boise’s 21 point victory over Nevada. That’s just how I roll.
  • Announcers really can make a difference. I was flipping back & forth between Indiana/UCLA with my favorite duo of Gus Johnson & Joel Klatt on the call, and Kansas/Kansas St. that had Mike Golic Jr. as the color analyst. I adore Golic Sr., but his kid strikes me as kind of a douchenozzle. Any football guy that enthusiastically drops Taylor Swift trivia into a broadcast probably needs to find a new gig.
  • With all due respect, I always thought it was odd that Brian Kelly would leave Notre Dame for LSU, especially after winning 10+ games in each of his final five seasons in South Bend. The grass usually isn’t greener elsewhere. Perhaps Kelly will end up at Penn State, Florida, Oklahoma State, Arkansas, or Virginia Tech.
  • RIP Nick Mangold, former NY Jets center. 41 years old. Kidney disease. Damn.
  • Some lucky coach is going to benefit from the NY Giants core of QB Jaxson Dart, RB Cam Skattebo, and WR Malik Nabors, but due to unfortunate injuries it probably won’t be Brian Daboll.

My Season: 27-24

Zach’s Season: 17-34

Arizona State at Iowa State (-5.5)

My boy Rocco Becht has had a rough go of it lately. After getting out of the gate 5-0 the Cyclones have dropped three straight games. They’re a middle of the pack Big 12 team when I thought they’d be serious contenders for the conference title. The Sun Devils are also 5-3 and have virtually no opportunity to win the conference either. So essentially, these teams are playing for pride and bowl positioning. I’m not going to jump off the Becht Bandwagon, and I think we’ll see his team rebound with a 7-10 point victory. Zach doesn’t view Iowa St. thru my prism. He believes this is a bounce back week for Arizona St.

My Pick: Iowa St.

Zach’s Pick: Arizona St.

Penn State at Ohio State (-20.5)

It felt like a much bigger game a month ago. That was before the Nittany Lions lost four consecutive games, had their starting QB go down with a season ending injury, and fired their head coach amidst that implosion. Meanwhile, the unbeaten Buckeyes haven’t really been challenged by anyone. They’ve only let one opponent even get to double digit points. Perhaps if the game were in Happy Valley I might give the underdogs a puncher’s chance, but the favorites look like a well oiled machine that’ll cruise into the CFP. Zach begrudgingly concedes that Ohio St. has been the best team in the nation. However, he is critical of their fairly weak schedule. He isn’t predicting an upset, but hopes that, somehow some way, it’s a closer game than the oddsmakers think it’ll be.

My Pick: Ohio St.

Zach’s Pick: Penn St.

Arizona (-4.5) at Colorado 

Are the folks in Boulder tired of Coach Prime’s BS yet?? Sure they were 9-4 a season ago, but losing a Heisman Trophy winner to the NFL will negatively affect any team. Neon Deion can recruit talent, but can he coach players who don’t happen to be five star prodigies?? The 4-3 Wildcats have shown some improvement but are too inconsistent. I’d definitely take the over because I don’t believe we’ll see stellar defense, and I think the ‘Cats will win by 5-7 points. Zach wonders if Sanders might receive an opportunity elsewhere on the very active coaching carousel despite the fact he is way overrated. He doesn’t believe Colorado will get their ass kicked as bad as they did last week at Utah, but then again Arizona doesn’t need to beat them that bad.

My Pick: Arizona

Zach’s Pick: Arizona 

Vanderbilt at Texas (-1.5)

I never thought I’d see the day when this matchup would be so highly anticipated. Indiana is getting alot of attention, and they deserve it, but let’s not overlook what the 7-1 Commodores have accomplished. However, they know that any positive mojo that has been built thus far will disappear in a nanosecond if they’re embarrassed by the Longhorns. While there is no shame in losing to Ohio St., I’m pretty sure the folks in Austin are still scratching their heads in confusion after being defeated in The Swamp by the Florida Gators a few weeks ago. This is one of those head vs. heart situations. I’d love to see Vandy silence their doubters and be validated by a win over a blueblood program, but despite the surprising odds I don’t believe it’ll be that close. Games are won in the trenches, and I think the home team will simply wear down their opponents in the 4th quarter. Zach has faith in Vandy’s defense and thinks Texas has been overrated all season.

My Pick: Texas

Zach’s Pick: Vanderbilt

Kansas City (-1.5) at Buffalo 

The Chiefs are back…I guess. After starting the season 2-3 KC has won three in a row. Meanwhile, the 5-2 Bills have lost two of their last three games. Don’t forget, that #1 seed in the conference is extremely important, as the top team receives a first round bye in the playoffs. It’s probably a bit premature to be discussing such things, especially with the Colts, Patriots, and Broncos all looking like serious contenders, but we cannot overlook the pedigree of these two teams. Momentum seems to be on the side of the favorites, but perhaps being underdogs in their own stadium will wake a sleeping giant in Buffalo. Zach loves Andy Reid, but he predicts the Bills will defend their turf in a close game…perhaps even overtime.

My Pick: Buffalo 

Zach’s Pick: Buffalo

2025 Pigskin Picks of Profundity…Week 2

I suppose it’s more of a postscript than a tribute, but a fond farewell to Lee Corso, whose final appearance on College Gameday occurred last weekend. Perhaps ESPN laid it on a little thick, but Corso’s swan song was well done, and all of the kind words heaped on him by everyone from Matthew McConaughey & Will Ferrell to various coaches, players, and talking heads felt genuine and well-earned. Gameday has been a part of my autumn Saturday morning routine for nearly four decades, which will continue, although it’ll be just a bit different without Corso. I’ve always embraced nostalgia and lived long enough to see many longstanding traditions slip into the ether. Life moves forward, but a tip o’ the cap to those rituals that make moments memorable for as long as they do. Godspeed Coach Corso…may you enjoy the winter of your days with happiness & peace. 

Observations from Last Week:

  • Quite surprised by upsets of Boise St. & Alabama. I had no idea former Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn is now Florida St.’s offensive coordinator.
  • Notre Dame was my preseason #1 👀🤦🏻‍♂️😂.
  • Atleast in college football, defense can still win championships. 
  • I have officially entered the stage of life when I can no longer hang until the west coast games end on Saturday night 😴.
  • LaNorris Sellers would look great in a Pittsburgh Steelers uniform.

My Season: 3-2

Zach’s Season: 1-4

Baylor at SMU (-4)

The Bears were beaten convincingly by Auburn last weekend, while the Mustangs had no problem easily dispatching an FCS opponent. I don’t think much will change this week. Zach doesn’t trust Baylor’s defense and believes the home team will win a high scoring contest.

My Pick: SMU

Zach’s Pick: SMU

Iowa at Iowa State (-3.5)

The Battle of Iowa is a hidden gem amongst collegiate rivalries. The Hawkeyes lead the series, which dates back to 1894, 47-24. However, the Cyclones have won two of the past three games. State is already 2-0, while their Big Ten counterparts whipped up on an FCS opponent last week. My high hopes for the home team remain intact, and I believe they’ll win by a touchdown. Zach foresees a low scoring defensive struggle, with the home field tipping the scales.

My Pick: Iowa St.

Zach’s Pick: Iowa St.

Michigan at Oklahoma (-5.5)

The Wolverines dominated New Mexico in their season opener, while the Sooners are another team that got things started by defeating an FCS foe. There’s been alot of behind the scenes turmoil in Ann Arbor, but I don’t believe it will significantly impact their season. Oklahoma has been a model of inconsistency for the past few years, but there seems to be renewed optimism in Norman. I don’t know who will ultimately win the game, but I think it’ll be decided one way or another by a field goal, perhaps in overtime. Zach, on the other hand, is utilizing reverse psychology from the jump, opining that he is concerned about Michigan’s defense and an uninspiring performance last weekend.

My Pick: Michigan

Zach’s Pick: Oklahoma 

Dallas at Philadelphia (-7.5)

Hey y’all, the NFL is back!! The season kicks off Thursday night in Philly, and of course we all know there’s been alot going on with the Cowboys. I did not see the Micah Parsons trade coming, which considerably alters my outlook for Dallas and Green Bay. For this game specifically, I don’t foresee a path to victory for the visitors, although the points concern me a bit. Can the defending Super Bowl Champions Tush Push their way to a TD+ win?? I think they can. Zach isn’t concerned at all and thinks the home team wins easily.

My Pick: Philadelphia 

Zach’s Pick: Philadelphia 

Kansas City (-3) vs. LA Chargers

Keep an eye on the AFC West this season. The Chargers could mount a legit challenge to the Chiefs, and obviously a victory right out of the gate would help their cause. This is a Friday night game emanating from Brazil. It’ll be broadcast on YouTube, with kickoff set for 8pm EST (it’ll be 9pm in Sao Paulo, which could affect the players). My gut tells me that the crowd will be in KC’s corner because they’re a better known international brand. I also have more faith in head coach Andy Reid to navigate the unique circumstances and have his team prepared. Zach believes tight end Travis Kelce has been distracted and not focused on football. He also has positive vibes about the long term success of the Chargers. However, he can’t go against the Chiefs in this particular situation.

My Pick: Kansas City 

Zach’s Pick: Kansas City 

Detroit at Green Bay (-2.5)

As mentioned, the addition of pass rusher Micah Parsons to the Packers defense improves their outlook tremendously, perhaps making them clear favorites in the NFC North. Green Bay also has the home field, which could be important in a tight game. I haven’t lost faith in the Lions, but I believe they’ll begin the season with a loss. Zach feels that Detroit is still a better team and will win a close game.

My Pick: Green Bay

Zach’s Pick: Detroit

Baltimore at Buffalo (-1.5)

It’s the Sunday night game on NBC. The Bills are my pick to win the Super Bowl, but I have seen “experts” predict they won’t even win their division. Conversely, the Ravens are favored by almost everyone whose opinion you’d trust to win theirs and make a serious Super Bowl run. It might not be the smart choice, but I’m sticking with my preseason thoughts and pulling for Josh Allen to matriculate down the field deep into the 4th quarter to defend his home turf. Zach concurs.

My Pick: Buffalo

Zach’s Pick: Buffalo

2025-26 NFL Preview & Prognostications 

Just when I was kinda sorta almost getting amped up for the return of football, news emerged of ESPN gobbling up the NFL Network & RedZone. I was upset last year when RedZone abandoned their “seven hours of commercial free football” tradition, although if I’m being honest the commercials were sprinkled in unobtrusively. However, ESPN (or, if we’re keeping it 100, Disney) tends to ruin perfectly great things with their meddling. I still haven’t forgiven them for canceling Mike & Mike in the Morning eight years ago. Disney…which is also now in bed with WWE…has become a greedy monster gobbling up everything in sight, and the fans pay the price. Anyway, I suppose further changes won’t occur until next season, so we’ll forge ahead as usual for now. As always, I’ll remind you that I really don’t know what the hell I’m talking about sometimes, so please…no wagering.

North

Detroit Lions (15-2) 11-6

Green Bay Packers (11-6) 10-7

Minnesota Vikings (14-3) 9-8

Chicago Bears (5-12) 8-9

I’m so tired of talking heads slobbering all over Bears’ QB Caleb Williams, using words like “generational”. No, he’s not. He’s just another guy. In three years, if I am wrong, I will admit my error and ask for mercy. At this point though, I don’t believe Williams will be much more successful than predecessors like Rex Grossman, Kyle Orton, or Jay Cutler. Chicago does have a new head coach though. Former Lions’ offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is getting his crack at a top job, and if anyone can prove me wrong about Williams it’s probably him. I like Vikings’ QB JJ McCarthy, but he is essentially a rookie after missing all of last season with a knee injury. The Vikes added some pieces on defense & bolstered their offensive line. Having said that, we probably need to show a bit of grace while McCarthy becomes acclimated to the NFL. Despite the presence of elite receiver Justin Jefferson, a solid running back group, and one of the best tight ends in the league in TJ Hockenson, I foresee a significant dropoff from a year ago. The Packers are being overlooked a bit, which might work in their favor. Jordan Love enters his third year as the starting quarterback, but he’s going to need more consistency from a deep & talented group of receivers, and their Top 5 defense has to maintain that level of intensity. Detroit’s defense was ravaged by injuries last year, and former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn has moved on to be the head coach of the NY Jets. How will their offense adjust after the departure of Ben Johnson?? That’ll be the key to the entire season. I expect a small regression, but it’ll be worth it if they have a deeper playoff run.

South 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7) 9-8

Atlanta Falcons (8-9) 9-8

Carolina Panthers (5-12) 6-11

New Orleans Saints (5–12) 6-11

While I don’t believe Bucs’ QB Baker Mayfield is worthy of being discussed alongside the league’s elite signal callers, I do think he has earned a spot on the second tier. A season ago that translated into a division title & a first round postseason exit, which is probably their ceiling once again. All eyes will be on Michael Penix Jr., now entrenched as the Falcons’ quarterback. Of course they also retained Kirk Cousins, whose services weren’t sought by any other team given his robust salary. Tight end Kyle Pitts has got to live up to his potential, and Atlanta’s defense, which ranked in the bottom third of the NFL last season, must kick it up a notch. The Panthers & Saints are spinning their wheels. New Orleans hired Kellen Moore to be their head coach, which may pay dividends in the future, but right now they simply have too many holes on the roster. I have come to the conclusion that the Panthers are football’s version of the Pittsburgh Pirates. They hire the wrong people, make bad decisions, and can’t evaluate talent properly. Their biggest issue is likely ownership, which won’t change until it does.

East

Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) 12-5

Dallas Cowboys (7-10) 10-7

Washington Commanders (12-5) 10-7

New York Giants (3-14) 6-11

Winning back-to-back Super Bowls is rare, but has been done as recently as the year before last. The Eagles have appeared in three Super Bowls since 2017, winning two. There has been some turnover on defense, but getting younger might not be a bad thing. Key free agents departed on both sides of the ball, yet, as long as Jalen Hurts is under center, he has his full complement of receivers, and Saquon Barkley is toting the rock, I see no reason to doubt Philly just yet. Brian Schottenheimer is now the head coach in Dallas, a change I’ve been predicting for a couple of years. Expect the Cowboys to rebound from a disappointing season and challenge Philadelphia for the division crown…assuming sack monster Micah Parsons gets paid. The Commanders will be right there in the mix as well, although QB Jayden Daniels won’t be sneaking up on anyone anymore. Does that mean Washington won’t be successful?? No…but I believe they’ll take a step back for now, especially if issues with receiver Terry McLaurin aren’t resolved satisfactorily. I actually like some of the things the Giants have done, but until Jaxon Dart supplants Russell Wilson behind center and young studs on defense gain experience there won’t be any postseason games at MetLife Stadium. 

West

Los Angeles Rams (10-7) 10-7

Arizona Cardinals (8-9) 9-8

San Francisco 49ers (6-11) 9-8

Seattle Seahawks (10-7) 8-9

The Seahawks are almost unrecognizable. There’s a whole new offensive coaching staff, and Sam Darnold replaces Geno Smith at quarterback. Many will view that as an upgrade, but I’m not so sure. Receivers DK Metcalf & Tyler Lockett are gone, with former Ram Cooper Kupp stepping in as the new second receiver behind Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Seattle was a middle-of-the-pack defense last year, but with so many changes no one knows what to expect now. I don’t think the NIners will be as terrible as they were a year ago, but their defense was certainly impacted in free agency. Time will tell if draft picks pan out, and in the meantime alot is riding on the further development of QB Brock Purdy & the always unstable health of RB Christian McCaffrey. I don’t have much more faith in Cards’ QB Kyler Murray than I do Caleb Williams, but if receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. continues his ascent that’ll help. Arizona’s braintrust seemed to focus on a defensive rebuild this offseason, so we’ll see how that works out. I don’t think winning their second consecutive division title will be easy for the Rams, and I’m a little concerned about the health of QB Matthew Stafford, but the defense should be sneaky good enough to narrowly win the division.

Playoffs: Eagles, Rams, Lions, Bucs, Packers, Cowboys, Commanders

NFC Title: Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys

North

Baltimore Ravens (12-5) 11-6

Cincinnati Bengals (9-8) 9-8

Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7) 9-8

Cleveland Browns (3-14) 5-12

My Steelers have been the talk of the offseason. Will they be terrible or will they be mediocre?? I believe that’s called damning with faint praise. Enigmatic Aaron Rodgers will be the quarterback, and he’ll be throwing mostly to DK Metcalf, who I see as an upgrade after George Pickens yapped his way out of town. He’s Jerry Jones’ problem now. Pass rusher TJ Watt got paid, and I have no doubt he’ll earn it. The running game looks different with rookie Kaleb Johnson & Jaylen Warren sharing duties after the departure of former first round bust Najee Harris. For the first time in several years I have good vibes about the offensive line & secondary. Everything seems to be held together by duct tape & prayer in Pittsburgh, which won’t get them to the Super Bowl but also hopefully means I won’t spend the next several months curled up in a dark room muttering to myself, as I assume Browns fans have been doing for decades. First of all, Cleveland’s quarterback room is unintentionally hilarious. Secondly, Myles Garrett is not the best defensive player in the NFL. Look on the bright side though…the Cavaliers are pretty good, and the Guardians ain’t half bad either. The division belongs to Baltimore, who’ve become the AFC’s Dallas Cowboys tribute band. No one doubts they’ll be successful in the regular season, but everyone assumes they’ll screw the pooch in the playoffs. Can the Bengals be a fly in the ointment?? Joe Burrow is a top notch quarterback. He has solid weapons, although if I were the GM I’d be looking for upgrades in the backfield & at tight end in the next draft. However, Cincy’s defense ranked in the bottom third of the league last season, and that was with pass rusher Trey Hendrickson in the lineup. If his holdout continues it’s a huge problem, and even if he plays there are other issues. 

South 

Houston Texans (10-7) 9-8

Jacksonville Jaguars (4-13) 8-9

Indianapolis Colts (8-9) 7-10

Tennessee Titans (3-14) 6-11

Which teams will improve and which teams will regress?? The Texans have a target on their back and tweaked their team just a bit. There are some new coaches on offense and a revamped offensive line. Quarterback CJ Stroud’s QBR dropped from 53.2 during his rookie season to 50.2 last year, while his passer rating dropped from 100.8 to 87. He has to be better. The Colts will choose between QBs Anthony Richardson & Daniel Jones, which is like having drunk munchies at 3am and your best options are the container of Chinese food that’s been in your fridge for a week or risking a DUI to grab some Taco Bell. Jonathan Taylor is only 26 years old & one of the best RBs in football when healthy, and I really like first round draft pick Tyler Warren, who has elite tight end potential. Indy ranked 29th in total defense a season ago, and I don’t know if they did enough to improve significantly. #1 overall pick Cam Ward has an opportunity to be a special QB for the Titans, but it’ll take a couple of years to build a competitive roster around him. The Jags brought in former Tampa Bay offensive coordinator Liam Coen to be their new head coach and drafted unicorn Travis Hunter, who will allegedly play WR & CB. I like receiver Brian Thomas, and there are some dawgs on defense, but everything in Jacksonville is contingent upon QB Trevor Lawrence rebounding from an injury plagued season during which he only played in ten games. 

East

Buffalo Bills (13-4) 14-3

Miami Dolphins (8-9) 9-8

New England Patriots (4-13) 7-10

New York Jets (5-12) 7-10

There is no question that the Bills will win the division easily. Their focus is solely on solving recent playoff woes & playing in February. The Dolphins moved some chess pieces around, but I don’t believe their team is any better or worse than last season. QB Tua Tagovailoa only played in 11 games a year ago, and it seems like further concussion issues could seriously jeopardize his career. Patriots QB Drake Maye comes into his second season surrounded by a team that has undergone a significant transformation. Former linebacker & Titans head coach Mike Vrabel now runs the show for the franchise he won three Super Bowls with, and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels returns home after realizing he’s not really cut out to be a head coach. Things are looking up in New England, but let’s give them another year before raising expectations. The Jets are the Jets. I know there is some buzz around new quarterback Justin Fields, but I’ve never understood the hype. Former cornerback Aaron Glenn is the Jets’ fifth head coach in the past decade, and unfortunately I don’t think he’ll achieve much more than his last few predecessors.

West

Kansas City Chiefs (15-2) 12-5

Los Angeles Chargers (11-6) 10-7

Denver Broncos (10-7) 10-7

Las Vegas Raiders (4-13) 7-10

Have the Chiefs plateaued?? Can they make a fourth consecutive Super Bowl appearance?? I don’t believe it’ll be easy, but as long as Andy Reid is coaching and QB Patrick Mahomes remains healthy with no prominent erosion of his skills it’s too soon to dismiss KC. Having said that, I do think Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers will make things interesting. RB Najee Harris was a bust in Pittsburgh, and he’ll probably cede the starting gig to first rounder Omarion Hampton, but together they could be a formidable duo. A couple of receivers really need to step up for QB Justin Herbert, and the 11th ranked defense has to keep improving. A year ago I underestimated the skills of QB Bo Nix, but he showed alot of potential while leading the Broncos to the playoffs. Denver is probably looking at a very similar season in a really competitive division. I really like the Raiders trading for QB Geno Smith, who should be a significant upgrade over the potpourri of mediocrity that held the job the past couple of years. Super Bowl winning head coach Pete Carroll has also come out of retirement to lead the charge, which is oddly encouraging. With the addition of first round RB Ashton Jeanty & continued growth of tight end Brock Bowers there are signs of hope in Vegas, but their middle of the pack defense has to improve or they’ll continue to lose more games than they win.

Playoffs: Bills, Chiefs, Ravens, Texans, Chargers, Broncos, Bengals

AFC Title: Buffalo Bills vs. Baltimore Ravens 

Philadelphia Eagles  24

Buffalo Bills    27

Top 5 Picks in the 2026 NFL Draft

1 Cleveland Browns

2 New York Giants

3 Carolina Panthers 

4 New Orleans Saints 

5 Tennessee Titans

2024 Pigskin Picks of Profundity…Week 16

College football’s conference championships were a bit kinder to Zach (5-4) than me (3-6), meaning that I have fallen to .500 for the season. Can I keep my head above water, or will Zach continue to cut into my lead?? We’re riding with the NFL this week, as division races and playoff battles begin to come into focus down the stretch. 

My Season: 47-47

Zach’s Season: 42-52

Miami at Houston (-3)

The 8-5 Texans seem to have the AFC South well in hand, with a two game lead and four games remaining. However, we never know who might get hot at the right time or which teams could implode. The 6-7 Dolphins aren’t winning the AFC East, but remain mathematically in the wild card chase. Every game is a must win for them. Miami is playing better in the back half of the schedule, while Houston was more effective early on, so I’m leaning toward a mild upset. Zach understands the momentum factor, but simply feels as though Houston is the better team.

My Pick: Miami

Zach’s Pick: Houston 

Buffalo at Detroit (-1.5)

The 10-3 Bills will win their division, but still have work to do to earn a first round bye, which is possible if they keep winning and the KC Chiefs falter a bit. Meanwhile, the 12-1 Lions are in the driver’s seat for the NFC’s first round bye, but the Philadelphia Eagles are hot on their heels. This very well could be a Super Bowl preview. I think the home field is huge, because if Detroit had to visit ice cold & snowy Buffalo the outcome wouldn’t be in much doubt. However, in the cozy confines of domed Ford Field I like the Lions to come out on top. Zach concurs.

My Pick: Detroit

Zach’s Pick: Detroit 

Tampa Bay at LA Chargers (-3)

Credit where it is due…QB Baker Mayfield is finally living up to the hype that accompanied him winning the 2017 Heisman Trophy and being the #1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He has the 7-6 Bucs atop the NFC South, although let’s be honest…they are a level below the top 2 or 3 teams in the conference. A step below is also where the 8-5 Chargers find themselves, although I assume most everyone connected to the organization is happy to be in that spot. They have a firm grasp on a wildcard berth, but also need to keep on winning. This might be one of the best battles of the weekend, and my money is on the home team getting the job done.  Zach is all in on head coach Jim Harbaugh.

My Pick: LA Chargers 

Zach’s Pick: LA Chargers

Indianapolis at Denver (-4)

The 8-5 Broncos are one of the most surprising stories in the league, atleast for me. Rookie QB Bo Nix has exceeded all expectations and has his team poised to claim a wildcard spot. Conversely, the 6-7 Colts have been a model of inconsistency. Injuries have been part of that equation, but frankly it just seems like they are a team in flux, hoping for the pieces to fall into place someday. Obviously that could happen, especially if QB Anthony Richardson eventually fulfill’s his potential. As for this game, I foresee the underdogs putting up a hell of a fight, but the home team is likely to win rather easily. Zach agrees.

My Pick: Denver

Zach’s Pick: Denver

Green Bay (-3) at Seattle

The Sunday night games have been hit or miss this season, and especially this time of year, after enjoying RedZone all day, I am inclined to watch an old Christmas movie rather than more football. However, I’ll probably be watching this game. Packers’ QB Jordan Love is a great example of someone raising the bar and fulfilling expectations in his fifth year in the league. Having said that, even at 9-4, Green Bay is in third place in their division. They’ll need to stay on their toes to secure a playoff berth. The same goes for the 8-5 Seahawks, who are in a dogfight for the NFC West crown. Will they win the division?? Earn a wild card?? Miss the playoffs altogether?? With one of the most significant home field advantages in the NFL I believe Seattle will remain on the positive side of that discussion for now. Conversely, Zach really likes Love to lead his team to a solid victory.

My Pick: Seattle 

Zach’s Pick: Green Bay

2024 Pigskin Picks of Profundity…Week 12

Kudos to Zach for the win a week ago after picking Alabama over LSU. I did not see that particular beatdown coming. This week is a bit unusual, as we’re only picking one college game. The schedule just didn’t seem that appealing, which is odd considering those teams are coming down the stretch with conference titles & playoff berths still up for grabs. At any rate, we’ll pick up the slack with NFL matchups that will ultimately make a difference in division races & playoff seeding.

My Season: 35-32

Zach’s Season: 31-36

Tennessee at Georgia (-9.5)

The 8-1 Vols are leading the SEC and have two four game winning streaks this season, separated by one 4th quarter collapse at Arkansas. Meanwhile, the 7-2 Bulldogs, who have won two of the last three national championships, are fighting for their playoff lives. The margin for error is basically nonexistent for both teams, and what surprises me most are the points. Sure, they have the home field…but IF the Bulldogs win it won’t be by more than a touchdown. Conversely, Zach sees Tennessee as fool’s gold, while Georgia will be fighting mad with their backs against the wall. He doesn’t think they’ll lose two in a row.

My Pick: Tennessee 

Zach’s Pick: Georgia

Green Bay (-6.5) at Chicago

The NFC North, or what ESPN legend Chris Berman used to call the Norris Division, is up for grabs, with 6-3 Green Bay still in the hunt, although ultimately I believe the Detroit Lions Lions will prevail. At 4-5 the Bears seem to be just as bad as last season, with rookie QB Caleb Williams looking like the epic failure I knew he’d be. Don’t be surprised if the home team puts up a spirited fight for three quarters, but at the end of the day the Packers should win comfortably. Zach hasn’t given up on Williams yet, but understands the team overall just isn’t very good.

My Pick: Green Bay

Zach’s Pick: Green Bay

Atlanta at Denver (-2.5)

The 6-4 Falcons lead their division, which might surprise people, although it shouldn’t. I don’t believe they’re ready to pose a serious postseason threat to the better teams in the NFC, but progress is progress. Conversely, the 5-5 Broncos play in the same division as the only unbeaten team in the NFL (as well as back-to-back defending Super Bowl Champions), so they’ll need to be happy with whatever scraps of triumph they can snag here & there. Unfortunately for the home team I don’t think even the much ballyhooed high altitude of Denver will save them, and I don’t know what the hell the oddsmakers were smoking. Zach has a little more faith in the Broncos to remain competitive, but agrees that the visitors will walk away victorious.

My Pick: Atlanta

Zach’s Pick: Atlanta 

Seattle at San Francisco (-6.5)

It’s a bit of a shocker that both teams sit behind Arizona in their division, although I expect that’ll change soon enough. The 4-5 Seahawks have got to tighten things up on defense because they won’t defeat many opponents who score 25+ points. The 5-4 Niners are in slightly better shape and can blame alot of their problems on injuries. This feels like a must-win for both teams. Having said that, I will boldly predict that one of them will win the division instead of the Cardinals, and perhaps both end up in the playoffs…even the loser this week. I don’t know who comes out n top, but I believe it’ll be way closer than the “experts” indicate. Zach observes ‘Frisco getting healthy, which spells trouble for their opponents.

My Pick: Seattle

Zach’s Pick: San Francisco 

Kansas City at Buffalo (-2.5)

The best game of the week (probably) will be played in the late afternoon window on Sunday, which means I can skip Chris Collinsworth violating my ears Sunday night. The Chiefs are undefeated, with a variety of meaningless opinions being tossed around as to how that has occurred. The Bills are 8-2 and have essentially already won their otherwise putrid division. Look, we already know how this goes…both are playoff locks who are strong Super Bowl favorites no matter what happens this week. What matters is seeding and who will (potentially) host the AFC title game. The outcome may differ in that presumed future contest, but with the home field, and considering the fact that KC will be relying on a backup kicker after Harrison Butker suffered a knee injury, I foresee Buffalo winning. Zach believes Kansas City has been lucky to remain unbeaten, and in a last minute, game winning drive scenario predicts that QB Patrick Mahomes will keep them perfect for the time being.

My Pick: Buffalo 

Zach’s Pick: Kansas City 

2024 Pigskin Picks of Profundity…Week 10

Happy Halloween Manoverse!! My trick or treating days ended during the Carter Administration, and my faith precludes me from celebrating darkness, death, & evil, but at the same time I don’t view an occasion when small children dress up in costumes to beg for candy as all that sinister. Your mileage may vary and that’s okay. What could’ve been much more ominous were last week’s results, but kudos to rookie sensation Jayden Daniels for saving the weekend with his heroics. Enjoy whatever tomfoolery awaits on All Hallow’s Eve, whether it be popcorn & Charlie Brown, cheap beer & bobbing for apples, or fun size candy & slasher flicks. Just remember the words of Jesus in the 8th chapter of John: I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

My Season: 31-26

Zach’s Season: 26-31

Ohio State (-4) at Penn State

The 6-1 Buckeyes are ranked 4th in the nation with only a one point loss to #1 Oregon staining their record. The unbeaten Nittany Lions are 3rd in the polls and have the home field. I think Penn St.’s schedule has been a bit more challenging, so they have earned respect from everyone except, it seems, the oddsmakers. Will they use that as fuel?? Perhaps. However, at the end of the day I believe the visiting favorites are probably just a little faster & more athletic. It’ll be tight, but I give a touchdown edge to Ohio St. Zach is expecting a low scoring defensive struggle and is…surprisingly…picking Ohio St. 

My Pick: Ohio St.

Zach’s Pick: Ohio St.

Georgia (-16.5) vs. Florida

The NCAA schedule is rather prosaic this week, and we try to avoid games involving teams we just dealt with last week, so this mid-season “rivalry” game makes the cut. I put it like that because it hasn’t been much of a rivalry in recent years, with the 6-1 Bulldogs winning six of the last seven meetings. Meanwhile, the 4-3 Gators seem to be spinning their wheels until the powers-that-be pull the trigger on firing head coach Billy Napier. It’s a neutral site contest in Jacksonville, and I have no doubt Georgia will win, but can they cover?? Well, in those six games they won in the past seven years, their average margin of victory is 22 points…so I’m riding with the ‘Dawgs. Zach has observed improvement from Florida, but also feels as if Georgia is really hitting their stride.

My Pick: Georgia 

Zach’s Pick: Georgia

Denver at Baltimore (-9.5)

I freakin’ hate the Ravens, but I’ll give them credit for building a good team. They aren’t hesitant to pull the trigger on a trade or sign an impact free agent. As a die hard Steelers fan I can admit that my team is leading the division thru smoke & mirrors, which probably isn’t sustainable thru an entire season. The task at hand for Baltimore is taking care of business at home against the 5-3 Broncos, who have already been way more successful than I thought they’d be. I’d be pleasantly surprised if Denver pulled off a huge upset, but will settle for moderately satisfied if they keep it close. Zach concurs.

My Pick: Denver

Zach’s Pick: Denver

Miami at Buffalo (-5.5)

The 6-2 Bills have a stranglehold on the AFC East, while the 2-5 Dolphins are struggling to equal last season’s playoff qualifying success. I don’t know that Buffalo is a Super Bowl caliber team, but they are certainly capable of easily handling business at home. Zach agrees.

My Pick: Buffalo

Zach’s Pick: Buffalo

Detroit at Green Bay (-1)

Holy cow, the 6-1 Lions opened up a can o’ whoopass on the Titans last week. Meanwhile, the 6-2 Packers are on a four game win streak and sit only a half game behind Detroit in the division. We’ve been doing this long enough to know that the de facto home field bump in the NFL is three points, so the fact that Green Bay is only favored by one is a nod to Detroit’s success…but it still feels disrespectful to the visitors. I believe they’ll see it that way and respond accordingly. Zach is looking forward to the game and believes in Lions coach Dan Campbell.

My Pick: Detroit

Zach’s Pick: Detroit 

2024 PIGSKIN PICKS OF PROFUNDITY…WEEK 6

Baseball playoffs have arrived & the hockey season is starting, but we’re all about football here. However, since the subject came up, I will opine that a Yankees World Series against the Dodgers or Phillies holds absolutely zero interest for me. It’s probably too much to ask, but a Royals/Tigers vs. Padres Series would be palatable. We’ll see. In the meantime I’ll continue to happily spend most of my weekends…vicariously…on the gridiron.

My Season: 19-14

Zach’s Season: 15-18

Michigan State at Oregon (-24)

This is the Friday night game on Fox, which I have quickly grown to love. That is probably a sad commentary on my life, but that’s okay. The 3-2 Spartans are unlikely to pose a serious threat to the unbeaten Ducks, but can they keep it respectable?? Oregon has only beaten one opponent by more than three touchdowns, while only Ohio St. has beaten Michigan St. by that much. It’s risky, but I’ll lean toward the home team winning by 15-20 points. Zach is a bit concerned by the points, but not concerned enough to agree with my assessment.

My Pick: Michigan St.

Zach’s Pick: Oregon 

UCLA at Penn State (-27.5)

I am intrigued by these games with such a large point spread. How is that number arrived at?? What kind of analytics are used?? I know it’s not done haphazardly. At any rate, the Nittany Lions are undefeated and haven’t been challenged too much thus far. Conversely, the 1-3 Bruins have lost three consecutive games and need to rebound quickly before the season is a total debacle. If the game were being played in Pasadena I might consider that the underdogs could remain competitive, but in Happy Valley I think we will see complete domination. Zach doesn’t believe that Penn St.’s offense is built to be that dominant, so he thinks it’ll be slightly closer than four TDs.

My Pick: Penn St.

Zach’s Pick: UCLA

Michigan at Washington (-3)

It’s a National Championship rematch, and when these teams met in January the Wolverines won in dominating fashion. Of course, as this is college football, these are both far different teams than they were last season. They even have new head coaches. Michigan is off to a 4-1 start, with only a loss to Texas as a blemish. Meanwhile, the erratic Huskies are 3-2 and Michael Penix Jr. ain’t walking thru their door. Washington gets the home field bump, but I’m not buying it. The talking heads at NBC would love for this to be a Michigan-Washington 2023 redux and will probably try to hype it as such, but I think the visitors will achieve a fairly mundane “upset”. Zach is concerned about his Wolverines offensive ineptitude, opining that even I might be a better QB for them, which is hilarious for reasons very few will understand. Anyway, since Michigan defeated USC last month he believes they stand a chance to win out west. 

My Pick: Michigan 

Zach’s Pick: Michigan

Buffalo at Houston (-1)

Despite getting trucked by the Baltimore Ravens last weekend the 3-1 Bills have been more impressive than I anticipated. Conversely, the 3-1 seem underwhelming regardless of their record. Both teams are dealing with alot of injuries, with the status of several key players up in the air at the moment, which makes accurate prognostication nearly impossible. It’s a leap of faith either way, but I’m riding with the home team. Zach is expecting a close contest that comes down to the wire, and he has confidence in QB Josh Allen to lead Buffalo to a huge win on the road.

My Pick: Houston

Zach’s Pick: Buffalo

Las Vegas at Denver (-2.5)

Will receiver Davante Adams be traded before Sunday?? Probably not. Will he be traded at all?? We’ll see. Will he suit up for this game?? I don’t know. The 2-2 Raiders probably aren’t going to be too successful with Gardner Minshew at QB with or without Adams. The Broncos are also 2-2, with rookie QB Bo Nix taking his lumps. I’m not expecting an instant classic or even an entertaining game, but it should atleast be competitive. Denver’s home field is always promoted as daunting with the higher elevation and all that jazz, but that hasn’t seemed to translate into consistent success. I foresee a forgettable upset. Zach is a little more upbeat about the fun factor but agrees on the outcome.

My Pick: Las Vegas

Zach’s Pick: Las Vegas