PiRate Ratings For NFL Week 15
And Down The Stretch They Come!
There’s just a furlong to go in the NFL regular season, and most of the playoff spots are still to be decided.
If the season ended today in the NFC, the Giants and Panthers would get first round byes, with the Cardinals, Vikings, Buccaneers, and Cowboys playing in the first round. The Falcons still control their own destiny, even though they are the number seven team in the NFC this week. Also in the running for a playoff spot are the Eagles, Redskins, Saints, and Bears.
If the season ended today in the AFC, the Titans and Steelers would get first round byes, with the Jets, Broncos, Colts, and Ravens playing in the first round. The Dolphins and Patriots still have good chances to move up, while the rest of the conference is out of the picture (San Diego could sneak in with three wins and three Denver losses).
This week’s schedule is chock full of important games with playoff implications. In the NFC alone, there are five games where both teams have winning records and strong playoff chances. It will be almost like a preliminary to the playoffs. In the AFC, all eyes will be in Baltimore for the big game between the Ravens and Steelers. Pittsburgh must play at Tennessee next week, so the Steelers have a rough couple of road games.
The PiRate Pro Ratings (Rating)
The NFL version of the PiRate Ratings is not the same as the collegiate version. The NFL version is strictly a statistical formula than could be reproduced by anybody who knew the equations I use to devise the formula. No subjective data is used.
The formula combines scoring margin, strength of schedule, and early in the season, last year’s scoring margin and strength of schedule. As the season progresses, last year’s data decreases to where it has little effect by mid-October.
The Mean Ratings (Mean)
Just like the PiRate Ratings, the NFL Mean Ratings are not the same as the collegiate version. The NFL Mean Ratings consist of a dozen different calculations. Three calculations consist of different ways to look at point differential and strength of schedule. Five calculations look at yards gained and allowed rushing and passing and special teams play with the strength of the opponents’ rushing and passing. Point values are assigned based on each set of data. The remaining four ratings are my old four pro ratings from the 1970’s and 1980’s. The 12 ratings are given equal weight, and then I take the average (mean) to get the rating.
The Bias Ratings (Biased)
The Bias Ratings consist of five of the components of The Mean Ratings. The five ratings are not given equal weight. The five ratings are weighted at 37.5%, 25%, 12.5%, 12.5%, and 12.5%. I have back tested these ratings and found that this weighting gives the rating its best predictive percentage.
All three ratings are normalized so that 100 is average. If I don’t mess up with the math, each of the three ratings should average 100. The teams’ ratings show how many points above or below average they are in comparison with the rest of the league. A rating of 107 means that team is a touchdown better than average, while a rating of 93 means that team is a touchdown weaker than average.
I do not attempt to rate teams from different years. A 107-rated team in 2008 is not the same as a 107-rated team from 1972. We all know that due to the evolution of strength and quickness, today’s Detroit Lions would blow the 1972 Miami Dolphins off the field.
| Current NFL Standings |
| NFC East |
Won |
|
Lost |
|
Tied |
Pts
|
Opp
|
Rating
|
Mean
|
Biased
|
HTA
|
| New York |
11
|
–
|
2
|
–
|
0
|
366
|
226
|
110.21
|
109.88
|
108.46
|
2
|
| Dallas |
8
|
–
|
5
|
–
|
0
|
312
|
280
|
102.02
|
102.78
|
103.60
|
2
|
| Philadelphia |
7
|
–
|
5
|
–
|
1
|
339
|
263
|
107.18
|
105.64
|
105.81
|
2
|
| Washington |
7
|
–
|
6
|
–
|
0
|
218
|
246
|
99.03
|
99.74
|
100.60
|
2
|
| NFC North |
Won
|
|
Lost
|
|
Tied
|
Pts
|
Opp
|
Rating
|
Mean
|
Biased
|
HTA
|
| Minnesota |
8
|
–
|
5
|
–
|
0
|
307
|
276
|
103.51
|
103.71
|
104.09
|
2
|
| Chicago |
7
|
–
|
6
|
–
|
0
|
304
|
278
|
102.34
|
101.17
|
102.15
|
2
|
| Green Bay |
5
|
–
|
8
|
–
|
0
|
355
|
319
|
104.62
|
102.10
|
100.99
|
2
|
| Detroit |
0
|
–
|
13
|
–
|
0
|
219
|
413
|
87.55
|
88.46
|
87.65
|
3
|
| NFC South |
Won
|
|
Lost
|
|
Tied
|
Pts
|
Opp
|
Rating
|
Mean
|
Biased
|
HTA
|
| Carolina |
10
|
–
|
3
|
–
|
0
|
323
|
254
|
105.75
|
104.74
|
106.54
|
2
|
| Tampa Bay |
9
|
–
|
4
|
–
|
0
|
303
|
238
|
105.14
|
103.85
|
105.04
|
2
|
| Atlanta |
|
8
|
–
|
5
|
–
|
0
|
323
|
271
|
104.40
|
103.44
|
103.62
|
2
|
| New Orleans |
7
|
–
|
6
|
–
|
0
|
366
|
326
|
103.61
|
103.00
|
102.17
|
2
|
| NFC West |
Won
|
|
Lost
|
|
Tied
|
Pts
|
Opp
|
Rating
|
Mean
|
Biased
|
HTA
|
| Arizona |
8
|
–
|
5
|
–
|
0
|
372
|
323
|
101.44
|
100.95
|
102.52
|
3
|
| San Francisco |
5
|
–
|
8
|
–
|
0
|
286
|
327
|
95.22
|
96.48
|
96.19
|
3
|
| Seattle |
2
|
–
|
11
|
–
|
0
|
237
|
335
|
92.29
|
92.89
|
92.48
|
3
|
| St. Louis |
2
|
–
|
11
|
–
|
0
|
169
|
394
|
83.23
|
86.90
|
84.67
|
2
|
| AFC East |
Won
|
|
Lost
|
|
Tied
|
Pts
|
Opp
|
Rating
|
Mean
|
Biased
|
HTA
|
| New York |
8
|
–
|
5
|
–
|
0
|
354
|
292
|
101.26
|
101.10
|
102.52
|
2
|
| New England |
8
|
–
|
5
|
–
|
0
|
301
|
276
|
99.57
|
101.16
|
102.79
|
2
|
| Miami |
8
|
–
|
5
|
–
|
0
|
269
|
260
|
98.26
|
98.56
|
102.01
|
2
|
| Buffalo |
6
|
–
|
7
|
–
|
0
|
279
|
275
|
96.33
|
95.31
|
97.37
|
3
|
| AFC North |
Won
|
|
Lost
|
|
Tied
|
Pts
|
Opp
|
Rating
|
Mean
|
Biased
|
HTA
|
| Pittsburgh |
10
|
–
|
3
|
–
|
0
|
289
|
183
|
108.86
|
108.01
|
107.22
|
2
|
| Baltimore |
9
|
–
|
4
|
–
|
0
|
316
|
200
|
109.24
|
108.03
|
106.70
|
3
|
| Cleveland |
4
|
–
|
9
|
–
|
0
|
222
|
275
|
97.55
|
97.36
|
95.03
|
2
|
| Cincinnati |
1
|
–
|
11
|
–
|
1
|
154
|
345
|
90.35
|
91.54
|
88.23
|
2
|
| AFC South |
Won
|
|
Lost
|
|
Tied
|
Pts
|
Opp
|
Rating
|
Mean
|
Biased
|
HTA
|
| Tennessee |
12
|
–
|
1
|
–
|
0
|
332
|
184
|
110.21
|
108.83
|
108.85
|
2
|
| Indianapolis |
9
|
–
|
4
|
–
|
0
|
292
|
253
|
104.85
|
105.51
|
105.92
|
2
|
| Houston |
6
|
–
|
7
|
–
|
0
|
306
|
331
|
99.15
|
100.04
|
100.08
|
3
|
| Jacksonville |
4
|
–
|
9
|
–
|
0
|
251
|
293
|
97.23
|
96.78
|
94.85
|
3
|
| AFC West |
Won
|
|
Lost
|
|
Tied
|
Pts
|
Opp
|
Rating
|
Mean
|
Biased
|
HTA
|
| Denver |
8
|
–
|
5
|
–
|
0
|
316
|
336
|
96.27
|
98.09
|
100.92
|
2
|
| San Diego |
5
|
–
|
8
|
–
|
0
|
324
|
281
|
102.60
|
100.41
|
100.85
|
2
|
| Oakland |
3
|
–
|
10
|
–
|
0
|
179
|
299
|
90.57
|
91.98
|
89.56
|
2
|
| Kansas City |
2
|
–
|
11
|
–
|
0
|
233
|
364
|
90.15
|
91.53
|
90.58
|
2
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Note: due to the Thursday game, weather forecasts and odds are those as of Wednesday 12 Noon EST
You will now see multiple numbers given in the Vegas line and Ov/Un. I am listing the range given by the different books in Vegas and offshore as of 12 Noon EST Wednesday, so you can use the one that best meets your needs. Remember though, if you use parlays and teasers, you must use the same source. You cannot play a parlay using the odds from different books. What you will see in my “imaginary picks” below will show different books, but each teaser will be composed of games from the same book. When I believe it is okay to play different spreads of the same game, I have put those numbers in parentheses. If you don’t see different choices, then I only recommend that single spread for that game.
I leave it to you to find out the book in question. Generally, some of the big ones in Vegas are: Hilton, Caesar’s-Harrah’s, MGM Mirage, Stations, Leroy’s, Wynn, Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, and The Palms. Some of the large offshore books include: BetUs, Bodog, Sportsbook, BetJamaica, and Pinnacle.
Average Simulation Scores for each game are now rounded to nearest whole number.
NFL Previews-Week 15
New Orleans (7-6-0) at Chicago (7-6-0)
Time: 8:15 PM EST, Thursday
TV: NFL Network
Forecast: Overcast sky, moderate wind, temperature falling from the upper 20’s to the mid 20’s
PiRate: Chicago by 1
Mean: Tossup
Bias: Chicago by 2
Vegas: Chicago by 2.5, 3
Ov/Un: 44.5, 45, 45.5
100 Sims: Chicago 64 New Orleans 36
Avg Sim Score: Chicago 27 New Orleans 23
Outlier 1a Sim: Chicago 34 New Orleans 13
Outlier 1b Sim: New Orleans 30 Chicago 17
Strategy: Chicago -2½, Chicago +7½ in 10-point teaser, Chicago +10½ in 13-point teaser, Over 31½ in 13-point teaser
Drew Brees may be held well under his 300+ yard average in passing yards in this game due to the elements and not because of the Chicago pass defense On an average day game, Brees might pass for over 400 yards against the Bears. The Bears’ defensive line should contain the run just enough to force Brees to pass a few times too many in this game. I expect Brees to go down at least twice, and he may rush some throws and connect with the wrong jersey.
The Bears won’t exploit the Saints’ defense like some teams have, but I expect the home team to win this game by more than a field goal. The home field advantage should be on the high side for this game between two evenly-matched teams. I’m looking for Chicago to win by a score around 24-20 with Matt Forte having a great night.
The loser of this game will not make the playoffs this year, while the winner stays in contention for another week. With Minnesota playing a tough road game, Chicago could move into a first place tie in the black and blue division with a win.
Green Bay (5-8-0) at Jacksonville (4-9-0)
Time: 1:00 PM EST
TV: Fox
Forecast: Mostly cloudy, moderate wind, temperature around 70
PiRate: Green Bay by 9
Mean: Green Bay by 2
Bias: Green Bay by 6
Vegas: Green Bay by 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5
Ov/Un: 45, 45.5
100 Sims: Green Bay 58 Jacksonville 42
Avg Sim Score: Green Bay 25 Jacksonville 22
Outlier 1a Sim: Green Bay 37 Jacksonville 21
Outlier 1b Sim: Jacksonville 20 Green Bay 10
Strategy: Jacksonville +12½ in 10-point teaser, Jacksonville +15½ in 13-point teaser, Over 32 in 13-point teaser, Under 58½ in 13-point teaser
Welcome to the Disappointment Bowl. These two teams are done for the year and have nothing to play for other than pride. The Jaguars may be as weak as Cincinnati, St. Louis, and Oakland at this point of the season. Green Bay’s problem is an inconsistent defense, especially against the pass.
Jacksonville’s passing game shouldn’t do to the Packers secondary what other teams have done this year, and the running game will be hindered with the absence of Fred Taylor due to an injured thumb.
I am looking for this game to be lower scoring than expected but not a defensive struggle. The Packers should win this road game, but I have no confidence in the certitude. I’ll call for them to win this one by a score similar to 24-17.
Detroit (0-13-0) at Indianapolis (9-4-0)
Time: 1:00 PM EST
TV: Fox
Forecast: Cloudy, moderate wind, temperature around 50 if the dome roof is open
PiRate: Indianapolis by 19
Mean: Indianapolis by 19
Bias: Indianapolis by 20
Vegas: Indianapolis by 17,18
Ov/Un: Indianapolis by 44.5, 45
100 Sims: Indianapolis 100 Detroit 0
Avg Sim Score: Indianapolis 34 Detroit 12
Outlier 1a Sim: Indianapolis 56 Detroit 7
Outlier 1b Sim: Indianapolis 27 Detroit 24
Strategy: Over 31½ in 13-point teaser
The simulation gave Indianapolis 100 wins in 100 sims. I haven’t run 100 simulations for that long, but I have to believe it is quite a rarity for it to return 100% success for any NFL Team in a scheduled game.
I estimate the Colts to have a 95% chance of winning this game and a 50% chance of winning by double digits. Peyton Manning and company have the offense up to full speed, and I could easily see the Colts running the table to finish 12-4 and winning their wildcard playoff round.
Detroit’s chances to get a win are getting slim. With New Orleans at home and Green Bay on the road, it may not happen this year. The Lions could become the first 0-16 team in history.
This week, I am looking for the Colts to win almost effortlessly. I could see them with a 28-3 lead at the half and then cruising to a 38-10 victory. I favor the 13-point tease of the Over in this one, as I believe Indianapolis will top 31 points. Even if they shut out Detroit (with the Lions’ QB problems, it could happen), the Colts can cover 31½ total points by themselves.
Washington (7-6-0) at Cincinnati (1-11-1)
Time: 1PM EST
TV: Fox
Forecast: Cloudy, moderate wind, temperature in the low 50’s
PiRate: Washington by 7
Mean: Washington by 6
Bias: Washington by 10
Vegas: Washington by 6.5, 7, 7.5
Ov/Un: 36.5, 37
100 Sims: Washington 82 Cincinnati 18
Avg Sim Score: Washington 26 Cincinnati 18
Outlier 1a Sim: Washington 38 Cincinnati 13
Outlier 1b Sim: Cincinnati 24 Washington 20 (2 times)
Strategy: Over 23½ in 13-point teaser
This is a must-win game for the Redskins. In all likelihood, they have to win out to qualify as a wildcard team. They have dropped four out of their last five games, and I doubt they will win their final three. In fact, this game could be their last win of the season.
Cincinnati has mailed it in for the year. They need major reconstruction, and I think it will be quite some time before the Bengals are competitive again. The Reds could be in the Major League playoffs before the Bengals make the NFL playoffs.
I look for a low-scoring game with Washington winning in boring fashion. Clinton Portis will probably have a great game after running his mouth all week.
I don’t like playing the sides in this one, even in teasers. While I think the Bengals will struggle to score more than a touchdown in this game, I do see Washington topping 21 points. That makes the low Over a play in a 13-point teaser.
Tampa Bay (9-4-0) at Atlanta (8-5-0)
Time: 1PM EST
TV: Fox
Forecast: Dome
PiRate: Atlanta by 1
Mean: Atlanta by 2
Bias: Atlanta by 1
Vegas: Atlanta by 2.5, 3
Ov/Un: 44.5, 45
100 Sims: Atlanta 53 Tampa Bay 47
Avg Sim Score: Atlanta 23 Tampa Bay 22
Outlier 1a Sim: Atlanta 28 Tampa Bay 14
Outlier 1b Sim: Tampa Bay 23 Atlanta 14
(note: 7 sims went to OT)
Strategy: Under 58 in 13-point teaser, Over 31.5 in 13-point teaser
This should be a great game, possibly one of the five best games of the regular season. Both teams are coming off tough divisional losses. The winner of this game will hold on strong to the top of the wildcard playoff bubble, while the loser will join a host of other teams in a mix at the bottom of the bubble.
Matt Ryan had his worst game when these two met in St. Petersburg in September. I expect a much better effort this time out, and I also expect Michael Turner to break off a couple of 10+ yard runs.
This game will be close, and I believe both teams will score in the 20’s. The best plays here are to sandwich the expected 40-50 point total with a teasing of both the Over and Under.
San Francisco (5-8-0) at Miami (8-5-0)
Time: 1PM EST
TV: Fox
Forecast: Showers likely, moderate wind, temperature in the mid to upper 70’s
PiRate: Miami by 5
Mean: Miami by 4
Bias: Miami by 8
Vegas: Miami by 6.5, 7
Ov/Un: 41.5, 42
100 Sims: Miami 57 San Francisco 43
Avg Sim Score: Miami 22 San Francisco 20
Outlier 1a Sim: Miami 27 San Francisco 10
Outlier 1b Sim: San Francisco 21 Miami 13
Strategy: Under 55 in 13-point teaser
This one is a hard one to figure out. The 49ers are playing really good ball even though it is too late to make the playoffs. The Dolphins are in the hunt for both a wildcard spot and divisional championship. Obviously, this is a critical game for Miami, and a loss would put them in serious jeopardy in the AFC playoff hunt.
Miami has quietly won six of seven games, and I think they are quietly going to win their next two games to set up a monumental season finale against the Jets in The Meadowlands.
As for this game, I expect it to be a hard-fought defensive battle. I cannot say for sure that Miami can cover at 6½ or 7 points, but I do believe both teams will score fewer than 25 points. Thus, teasing the Over is my selection for this game.
Seattle (2-11-0) at St. Louis (2-11-0)
Time: 1:00 PM EST
TV: Fox
Forecast: Dome
PiRate: Seattle by 7
Mean: Seattle by 4
Bias: Seattle by 6
Vegas: Seattle by 3
Ov/Un: 43, 43.5
100 Sims: Seattle 61 St. Louis 39
Avg Sim Score: Seattle 26 St. Louis 19
Outlier 1a Sim: Seattle 24 St. Louis 3
Outlier 1b Sim: St. Louis 17 Seattle 10
Strategy: St. Louis +16 in 13-point teaser, Over 30 in 13-point teaser, Under 56½ in 13-point teaser
How much would you pay for tickets to this game? You might find someone willing to pay you to take their ticket. It was expected that St. Louis would be where they are at this point in the season, but Seattle was supposed to be about 9-4 after 13 games. Injuries ruined their season, and those injuries continue to plague the Seahawks. Don’t expect Matt Hasselbeck to play in this game. Seneca Wallace isn’t totally healthy, but he’ll likely start this game.
The Rams should never be expected to win a game before it starts, even if they are hosting Detroit or Cincinnati. I do expect them to lose by no more than 14 points if at all, so I can recommend taking St. Louis in a 13-point teaser. My guess at the total score for this game is something like 23-21, which places that in the middle between the extremes of a 13-point teaser.
Buffalo (6-7-0) at New York Jets (8-5-0)
Time: 1:00PM EST
TV: CBS
Forecast: Partly cloudy, light wind, temperature in the mid 40’s
PiRate: Jets by 7
Mean: Jets by 8
Bias: Jets by 7
Vegas: Jets by 7, 7.5
Ov/Un: 41
100 Sims: Jets 73 Buffalo 27
Avg Sim Score: Jets 32 Buffalo 24
Outlier 1a Sim: Jets 48 Buffalo 17
Outlier 1b Sim: Buffalo 28 Jets 20
Strategy: Jets +3 in 10-point teaser, Jets +6 in 13-point teaser, Over 28 in 13-point teaser
Buffalo started 5-0, and the Bills have since gone 1-7. Their season is done, and Dick Jauron has done nothing to earn his extension.
The Jets can ill afford to lose three games in a row and make the playoffs in the highly competitive AFC. It looks like 10-6 will be the minimum record for the successful wildcard qualifiers. A loss in this game just may be too much to overcome. The Jets won handily in Buffalo six weeks ago, and they should win again this week. Thus, I like playing New York on both 10 and 13-point teasers. The 13-point tease of the Over should win before halftime, as I see 50 total points being scored in this game.
Tennessee (12-1-0) at Houston (6-7-0)
Time: 1:00 PM EST
TV: CBS
Forecast: Chance of thunderstorms, light wind, temperature in the mid 70’s
PiRate: Tennessee by 8
Mean: Tennessee by 6
Bias: Tennessee by 6
Vegas: Tennessee by 3, 3.5
Ov/Un: 44.5, 45
100 Sims: Tennessee 66 Houston 34
Avg Sim Score: Tennessee 29 Houston 22
Outlier 1a Sim: Tennessee 33 Houston 14
Outlier 1b Sim: Houston 28 Tennessee 16
Strategy: Houston +13½ in 10-point teaser, Houston +16½ in 13-point teaser, Over 31½ in 13-point teaser, Under 58 (or 57½) in 13-point teaser
This is a trap game for sure. Even though the Texans cannot qualify for the playoffs this year, they still have much to play for, like their first ever winning season. That September hurricane probably cost them a shot at the playoffs, for Houston might be 8-5 or 9-4 instead of 6-7 if it weren’t for all the troubles they endured in September.
In the first meeting of these two teams, Tennessee won by 19 points, but the game was much closer than the score indicated. The Titans led 24-12 with Houston near the Tennessee goal line, when Titan CB Cortland Finnegan picked off a Matt Schaub pass and returned it 99 yards for a touchdown.
The Texans haven’t forgotten that game, nor have they forgotten that they had success running the ball against the Tennessee defense. Steve Slaton topped 100 yards in that game.
Tennessee could wrap up home field advantage throughout the playoffs with a win Sunday. It won’t be easy, and I think they have little more than a 50-55% chance of winning. The Titans are the Texans’ biggest rival for obvious reasons, and they would like nothing more than to spoil that clinching chance for Tennessee.
I believe this game will be higher scoring than expected. Tennessee has given up more than 21 points only once this year, and that was their lone loss. I believe Houston will become the second opponent to top 21 points, but I’m not sure it will be enough to win the game.
I’m going with Tennessee to win and clinch home field advantage throughout the playoffs, but I don’t think they will win by much.
Pittsburgh (10-3-0) at Baltimore (9-4-0)
Time: 3:15PM EST
TV: CBS
Forecast: Partly cloudy, light wind, temperature in the upper 40’s
PiRate: Baltimore by 3
Mean: Baltimore by 3
Bias: Baltimore by 2
Vegas: Baltimore by 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5
Ov/Un: 34, 34.5
100 Sims: Baltimore 50 Pittsburgh 50
Avg Sim Score: Baltimore 20 Pittsburgh 19
Outlier 1a Sim: Baltimore 17 Pittsburgh 0
Outlier 1b Sim: Pittsburgh 20 Baltimore 7
Strategy: Baltimore -1, Baltimore +9 in 10-point teaser, Baltimore +12 in 13-point teaser, Pittsburgh +15½ (14, 14½, or 15) in 13-point teaser, Over 21 in 13-point teaser, Under 47 in 13-point teaser
This is the top game of the day, and it will look like one of those Packers-Vikings games from the mid to late 1960’s. The winner could very well score just 10 points in this game, although I am expecting Baltimore to score at least 17 points and win the game.
The Steelers will clinch the AFC North with a win, and if Baltimore wins, the Steelers would still hold the tie-breaker edge over the Ravens by virtue of a one-game edge in AFC games (the 4th tie-breaker scenario).
Both teams face a tough opponent on the road next week, and this game takes on even greater importance. If Baltimore wins this week, and both teams lose next week, then it will take the 5th tiebreaking rule to separate the two. That one is strength of victory, and it could still leave them tied. Tiebreaker number six is strength of schedule, and yes, if New England and San Diego were to lose a few more games than Miami and Oakland, this could be a push as well. Tiebreaker numbers seven through 11 would have to decide it, because tiebreaker number 12 is a coin flip. With the NFL having so many financial troubles and with layoffs announced, they may not have the coin to make that flip and Bank of America won’t lend one to them.
Seriously, I look for Baltimore to play just a little more inspired and emerge with a 17-10 victory. Both teams will make the playoffs if they are 10-4 after this game. If Pittsburgh should find a way to win, then next week’s game at Tennessee could be for number one in the conference.
Denver (8-5-0) at Carolina (10-3-0)
Time: 4:15PM EST
TV: CBS
Forecast: Mostly cloudy, light wind, temperature in the low 50’s
PiRate: Carolina by 11
Mean: Carolina by 9
Bias: Carolina by 8
Vegas: Carolina by 7, 7.5, 9
Ov/Un: 47, 47.5, 48
100 Sims: Carolina 54 Denver 46
Avg Sim Score: Carolina 29 Denver 28
Outlier 1a Sim: Carolina 45 Denver 24
Outlier 1b Sim: Denver 41 Carolina 24
Strategy: Denver +19 in 10-point teaser, Denver +22 in 13-point teaser, Over 34 (34½ or 35) in 13-point teaser
It looked like the Broncos were going to swoon right out of the top spot in the AFC West after losing four of five earlier this year. However, San Diego kept finding ways to lose, and now the Broncos have recovered as of late, winning four of five including two big road victories.
The time is right for the Panthers to bounce a little and come out flat in a game against a team capable of beating them in Charlotte. Carolina played brilliantly, especially on offense, against Tampa Bay Monday night, but I don’t believe their running game will come close to repeating the production in that game. Denver is by no means a run-stopping team, but they will concentrate their efforts on stopping the two-headed monster of Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams. Jake Delhomme will have to pass the ball for the Panthers to win.
I expect this to be a high scoring game. Jay Cutler will not have Peyton Hillis available for this game, so I expect the Broncos will throw the ball 40 times and pick up more than 300 yards.
This game could see more than 135 scrimmage plays, and that should lead to both teams topping 24 points. I like teasing the Over here, as I just cannot see the offenses being stopped all day, especially with this game set to be played in ideal football weather.
San Diego (5-8-0) at Kansas City (2-11-0)
Time: 1:00 PM EST
TV: CBS
Forecast: Chance of showers, moderate wind, temperature in the low 50’s
PiRate: San Diego by 10
Mean: San Diego by 7
Bias: San Diego by 8
Vegas: San Diego by 4.5, 5, 5.5
Ov/Un: 45, 45.5, 46, 46.5
100 Sims: Kansas City 52 San Diego 48
Avg Sim Score: Kansas City 25 San Diego 24
Outlier 1a Sim: Kansas City 28 San Diego 17
Outlier 1b Sim: San Diego 40 Kansas City 20
Strategy: Kansas City +15½ (15, 14½) in 10-point teaser, Kansas City +18½ (18, 17½) in 13-point teaser, Under 59½ (59, 58½) in 13-point teaser, Over 32 in 13-point teaser
Contrary to what the Charger brass have stated publicly, I believe this is going to be the final season for Coach Norv Turner in San Diego. His team was robbed in that game in Denver, and that wasn’t his fault. However, the way they reacted after that game and failed to recover is his fault. He could even be shown the door Monday if San Diego loses to the lowly Chiefs.
Kansas City is not a pushover. Just ask Denver after the Broncos had to come from behind to win at Invesco Field and avoid the sweep. Five weeks ago at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego escaped with a 20-19 win over Kansas City.
Note that the simulator gives Kansas City a 52% chance to win this game even though the Chargers are favored by more than a field goal. I like those odds, and I am taking Kansas City in the teasers because of that.
Minnesota (8-5-0) at Arizona (8-5-0)
Time: 4:15 PM EST
TV: Fox
Forecast: Partly cloudy, moderate wind, temperature in the low 60’s
PiRate: Arizona by 1
Mean: Tossup
Bias: Arizona by 1
Vegas: Arizona by 3
Ov/Un: 47.5, 48
100 Sims: Arizona 59 Minnesota 41
Avg Sim Score: Arizona 33 Minnesota 24
Outlier 1a Sim: Arizona 52 Minnesota 31
Outlier 1b Sim: Minnesota 27 Arizona 17
Strategy: Over 34 ½ (35) in 13-point teaser
This is another one of those great NFC games this week. While Arizona has already clinched their division, the Cardinals can still get a first round bye if they win out and Carolina and Tampa Bay lose enough games.
Minnesota holds a tiny one game edge over Chicago, and they have the toughest final three games of any of the NFC contenders. The Vikings must close against the Falcons and Giants after this game.
I give the Cardinals a very slight advantage in this game, but I find no value in any plays on sides in this game. My only inclination is to tease the Over. I cannot see Minnesota’s defense holding Kurt Warner and company at bay very often, and I cannot see Arizona stopping Adrian Peterson very often. Tarvaris Jackson gets another chance to show he belongs in the NFL, as Gus Frerotte doesn’t appear likely to play.
New England (8-5-0) at Oakland (3-10-0)
Time: 4:15 PM EST
TV: CBS
Forecast: Rain showers, light wind, temperature in the upper 40’s
PiRate: New England by 7
Mean: New England by 8
Bias: New England by 11
Vegas: New England by 7
Ov/Un: 39,40
100 Sims: New England 89 Oakland 11
Avg Sim Score: New England 24 Oakland 15
Outlier 1a Sim: New England 37 Oakland 7
Outlier 1b Sim: Oakland 21 New England 16
Strategy: Under 53 (52) in 13-point teaser
The Patriots have to win this game to stay in the playoff hunt. If they lose to the pitiful Raiders, they may just fold up. It’s not going to be easy for Coach Bill Belichick’s team this week. Quarterback Matt Cassel left the team following the passing of his father. He may not be ready to play Sunday. Rookie Kevin O’Connell would start in his place, and even the Raiders’ anemic defense would give him fits.
Oakland isn’t healthy by any means, and I mean physically as well as mentally. Quarterback JaMarcus Russell has a gimpy ankle, and he hasn’t produced all that much when he has been healthy. Former Raider quarterback Rich Gannon openly stated that he does not think Russell has a work ethic conducive to being a winner in this league.
I expect this to be a low scoring game if Cassel is not on hand. The totals line has dropped, and I am sure it will drop after this blog story comes out. I am playing the Under in a 13-point teaser while I can get that number at 53 (or 52) points because I believe this will be a 35 to 45-point game.
New York Giants (11-2-0) at Dallas (8-5-0)
Time: 8:15PM EST
TV: NBC
Forecast: Partly cloudy, moderate wind, temperature falling from the upper to mid 60’s
PiRate: Giants by 6
Mean: Giants by 5
Bias: Giants by 3
Vegas: Dallas by 2.5, 3
Ov/Un: 44, 44.5, 45
100 Sims: Giants 58 Dallas 42
Avg Sim Score: Giants 23 Dallas 19
Outlier 1a Sim: Giants 28 Dallas 12
Outlier 1b Sim: Dallas 24 Giants 10
Strategy: Giants +13 in 10-point teaser, Giants +16 in 13-point teaser, Under 58 in 13-point teaser, Over 31 in 13-point teaser
Dallas should be favored in this game, and the betting public believes that as well. The simulator has no biases, and it believes the Giants have a 58% chance of winning this game. All three of my computer ratings agree with the simulator and favor New York by six, five, and three points. That data is good enough for me to take the Giants in both 10 and 13-point teasers.
Almost all 100 simulations of this game produced scores with total points between 35 and 55. So, I like playing both sides in 13-point teasers.
I think New York will pull off the mild upset and force Dallas into must-win situations their final two weeks. The victory may hurt New York down the stretch, as this game should be very physical. Without running back Brandon Jacobs, there’s a chance Eli Manning could see a heavier pass rush and possibly suffer an injury in this game. With Carolina coming up next on the schedule and Minnesota probably needing a win in week 17, the Giants could trip up as the season concludes. They need this game more than any of the other teams that have already clinched their division. If they lose this one to fall to 11-3, they could easily lose their last two as well.
Dallas could also lose their final three games and miss out on the playoffs. Baltimore and Philadelphia are two tough hombres as the season winds down. This is probably a must-win game for the team and Coach Wade Phillips. I’m guessing with a loss, Dallas is on the outside looking in, and Coach Phillips is soon to be on the unemployment line.
Cleveland (4-9-0) at Philadelphia (7-5-1)
Time: 8:30PM EST Monday
TV: ESPN
Forecast: Clear, light wind, temperature holding steady in the upper 40’s
PiRate: Philadelphia by 12
Mean: Philadelphia by 10
Bias: Philadelphia by 13
Vegas: Philadelphia by 14, 14.5, 15
Ov/Un: 38.5, 39
100 Sims: Philadelphia 90 Cleveland 10
Avg Sim Score: Philadelphia 29 Cleveland 13
Outlier 1a Sim: Philadelphia 44 Cleveland 6
Outlier 1b Sim: Cleveland 28 Philadelphia 24
Strategy: Over 28½ (29) in 10-point teaser, Over 25½ (26) in 13-point teaser
Cleveland failed to show up last week in Nashville, and now they face a hungry and mad Eagles team ready to claw them to pieces.
Since the tie debacle with Cincinnati and a terrible follow-up with Baltimore, Philadelphia has been a terror on the gridiron. The Eagles destroyed Arizona and then won at the Giants. They have a clear path to a 10-5-1 season, and I think they will bring their A-game this week to the 21st Century version of the Mistake on the Lake known as Browns Stadium.
I don’t like the line in this game, but I do like the totals. Philadelphia should top 24 points in this one, so I see both the 10 and 13-point teasers as being strong plays. Remember that almost every Monday night game this year has been an offensive shootout. I just cannot see the Browns slowing Donovan McNabb and company much if at all.
Hurray For A Good Week
I played it conservatively last week and stuck with what I had studied the most-playing teasers with totals instead of sides. It produced a 5-2 record for the week and just missed by a whisker of going 7-0 (one game of each losing teaser just missed). The return on the $700 “wagered” was $950 for a nice profit of $250 and ROI of 35.7%.
For the season, the record against the spread is now 94-75-7, which computes to 55.6%. I’m under 60%, where I was for most of this season, but it least we are headed back up again.
I don’t really like most of the games this week insofar as picking point spread winners. This is going to be a fun week for watching some big games. I will stay with my minimalist view for another week and try to find the top values rather than go for quantity.
Here are my wagers for week 15 (all wagered to win $100 or $100 wagered if at + odds on a parlay or money line):
ALL 5 WAGERS = 13-POINT TEASERS
For those not familiar with a 13-point teaser, you can move the lines 13 points in your favor, but you must play a four-game parlay and all four games must win to win the wager. You play at odds of 10-13, meaning you put up $13 for every $10 the book puts up.
1. New Orleans & Chicago OVER 31½
Green Bay & Jacksonville OVER 32
Detroit & Indianapolis OVER 31½
Washington & Cincinnati OVER 23½
2. Tampa Bay & Atlanta OVER 31½
San Francisco & Miami UNDER 55
Buffalo & NY Jets OVER 28
Tennessee & Houston UNDER 58
3. Pittsburgh & Baltimore OVER 21
Denver & Carolina OVER 34
San Diego & Kansas City UNDER 59½
New England & Oakland UNDER 53
4. Seattle & St. Louis OVER 30
Tennessee & Houston OVER 31½
Minnesota & Arizona OVER 35
NY Giants & Dallas UNDER 58
5. Seattle & St. Louis UNDER 56½
Pittsburgh & Baltimore OVER 21
NY Giants & Dallas OVER 31
Philadelphia & Cleveland OVER 25½
AND REMEMBER!!! Do not use these picks for real. I have no real money on the line in this mathematical experiment. I won’t lose a penny if all these wagers lose this week, so you shouldn’t risk a penny on these picks either. This is strictly for fun.
The Pi-Rate Ratings 