Dave Blezow is on vacation. His NFL analysis will return next week. Blezow’s selections are listed in the Bettor’s Guide pick box on Page 117.
SURE, the Raiders have ended the Jets’ season in each of the last two postseasons with victories in Oakland.
Sure, the Raiders are only months removed from their Super Bowl appearance last January.
And sure, the Jets have a history of winning in Oakland as often as the Rangers have brought Stanley Cups to New York in the last six decades.
But remember this name as we break down Sunday’s Jets game in Oakland: Rick Mirer.
Remember that Rick Mirer, whose last NFL start came as a member of the Jets in Bill Parcells’ ill-fated final season here in 1999, will start at quarterback for the Raiders.
Then remember that Chad Pennington is starting for the Jets.
Now ask yourself this question: Whom am I betting on? Chad Pennington or Rick Mirer?
Enough said.
The pick: Jets (-3).
Falcons (+10 1/2) over GIANTS
Giants do not blow anybody out, not even a struggling, injury-depleted team like the 1-7 Falcons. Atlanta coach Dan Reeves will find a way to keep this game within striking distance against his former team.
Seahawks (-3) over REDSKINS
Skins are in disarray, with assistant coaches and players questioning Steve Spurrier, not to mention Washington owner Daniel Snyder becoming angry that his toy isn’t working so well. Look for Seattle RB Shaun Alexander to add to his six rushing TDs against the Redskins’ 28th-ranked defense.
STEELERS (-7 1/2) over Cards
Offensively challenged Arizona, with its minus-13 turnover ratio (worst in NFL), will have trouble with the No. 2-ranked Steelers’ defense despite the fact that the Steelers themselves are horrid on offense.
Bears (+2) over LIONS
Bears have made a move to turn their season around. Don’t, however, be fooled by the Lions’ win over the hapless Raiders last week. Detroit’s offense remains ranked 32nd in the NFL.
BENGALS (-5 1/2) over Texans
Cincinnati didn’t fare well as a rare road favorite last week, but look for Marvin Lewis to orchestrate a turnaround this week with the AFC North very much up for grabs.
Bucs (-3) over PANTHERS
Panthers coming back to earth and while the Buccaneers are desperate to make a move. Look for Bucs’ defense to gang up on Panthers’ RB Stephen Davis and make QB Jake Delhomme beat them.
Colts (-6) over JAGUARS
Indy is quietly going places. Look for the Colts’ plus-5 turnover ratio to the Jags’ minus-5 to be a factor. Look, too, for Peyton Manning to dominate.
TITANS (-5) over Dolphins
Tennessee’s No. 1-rated rushing defense is going to smother Miami RB Ricky Williams and force Dolphins’ 24th-ranked passing offense to win the game, which won’t happen.
Browns (+9 1/2) over CHIEFS
Cleveland’s No. 7-ranked defense will keep this a game into the fourth quarter. That means not allowing Priest Holmes to run wild all game. K.C., too, has had a bye week, time to bask in that comfortable undefeated record.
Vikings (-5 1/2) over CHARGERS
Minnesota is plus-13 in turnovers while San Diego is minus-5. High-powered Vikings have lost two straight after 6-0 start, so don’t expect them to overlook weaker opponent.
Bills (+4) over COWBOYS
Look for Drew Bledsoe to take some of the air out of his former coach’s balloon in Dallas with a big game. Bills’ RB Travis Henry has been a scoring machine with eight rushing TDs this season.
Ravens (+7) over RAMS
Baltimore’s No. 1-ranked rushing offense will batter the Rams’ No. 1-ranked passing offense. Ravens, too, are better on defense and that’ll be the difference.
PACKERS (-4 1/2) over Eagles
Green Bay found its stride in Minnesota last week and is tough at home. Eagles are still unsure of themselves offensively.
BEST BETS: Jets, Colts, Vikings.
