NFL PICKS (WEEK #19 - Divisional round)

BY PROFESSOR MJ

 

Our picks went 3-1 last week, following a season where our record was 26-21. Quick picks this week:

PICK #1: Indianapolis Colts +5 at Kansas City Chiefs

There is a lot of hype with K.C.’s offense (deservedly so), but their defense is far from being stingy. The Colts’ offense is well-balanced and they should be able to move the ball methodically, keeping Mahomas & company on the sidelines. It’s going to make a win by 6+ points more difficult. I expect the Chiefs to exorcise demons by finally snapping a six-game home losing streak in the playoffs, but it’s going to be a nail biter.

PICK #2: Los Angeles Rams -7 vs Dallas Cowboys

In my humble opinion, the Cowboys are the weakest team still alive. After managing just 6 points in a loss to the Bears, the Rams’ offense came back to life with an average of 34 points scored over their final three games. They are explosive like the Chiefs, but I trust their defense much more than K.C.’s (especially with Aaron Donald who can make big plays). Also, Dallas’ offense doesn’t scare me too much. This young Rams’ team gained some playoff experience last year and they will start reaping the rewards right there.

PICK #3: Los Angeles Chargers +4 at New England Pats

If I had to pick a dark horse candidate to win the Super Bowl, it would be the Chargers. They don’t get talked about as much as the Chiefs, the Rams and the Saints, but they are extremely good and have an experienced quarterback. They simply don’t have many holes: a well-balanced attack and a solid defense. I feel like this is Philip Rivers’ year. The perfect record at home ends at the worst possible time for New England. That's my favorite pick of the week.

PICK #4: Philadelphia Eagles +8 at New Orleans Saints

It ain’t easy to pick against Nick Foles as an underdog in the playoffs. He just gets the job done! Their defense has really impressed me recently, they seem to click at the right time. They have allowed an average of 18.9 points per game over their past 7 games. I expect this game to be much tighter than the 48-7 rout by the Saints against Philly on week #11.

 

Best of luck with your plays!

Professor MJ