Here are my “lock” picks of the week. If you like your money, and I’m sure you do, then take these picks and send me a gratuity check when you come out on the winning side (although I won’t hold my breath waiting for it).
New Orleans –2.5 home to Baltimore
I'm not jumping on the Saints bandwagon at all. I’ve said all along that their offense would be very good and they certainly are. I’m taking the Saints to cover in this one easily even though the Ravens have one of the best defenses in the game. However, it’s tough to win when you can’t score and your starting quarterback (Steve McNair) is hurting. Saints 21 Ravens 14
Carolina –5.5 home to Dallas
The Panthers are going to be in a really bad mood after their loss to the Bengals last week that ended their modest four-game winning streak. Take the Panthers to pounce on Tony Romo and the Cowboys, who appear to be only mediocre at best. Panthers 24 Cowboys 14
NY Giants -9 home to Tampa Bay
The Giants are beginning to get on something of a roll, but I don’t think they’re 10 point better than the Bucs who appear to be getting some confidence going themselves. The G-Men will win but not by 10. Giants 21 Buccaneers 17
Cleveland –0.5 home to NY Jets
I know the Browns are at home, but the Jets are indisputably the better team. Not only will they cover, but take the J-E-T-S for the outright win here. Jets 24 Browns 17
Chicago –16.5 home to San Francisco
I realize the Bears are head and shoulders above the young Niners, and that they’re playing at home, but these high lines are really scary. Take the Niners to cover – barely. Bears 28 49ers 14
