Week 6 picks

OK, things are starting to get ugly. After a 5-9 week, it's time to turn things around now. Here we go:

Chargers (-9) over RAMS

Too much Philip Rivers.

Chiefs (+5) over TEXANS

I don't know if the Chiefs are for real, but the Texans might not be either. They arguably haven't played a complete or impressive game since their Week 1 win over the Colts.

Ravens (+3) over PATRIOTS

Maybe the best game of the day. I'll take the Ravens; I just think they're the better team.

BUCCANEERS (+5) over Saints

Speaking of teams being for real, there's the Saints (3-2), who, in their three wins, have won by a combined 10 points. Their loss to the Falcons was understandable, but to the Cardinals last week? They may be due for a big week soon, but I don't think it's coming right now.

Falcons (+3) over EAGLES

Tough road game for Atlanta, but I just flat-out think they're better than Philadelphia.

GIANTS (-10) over Lions

The Lions completely dominated a team last week when they destroyed the Rams. Don't expect that trend to continue.

BEARS (-7) over Seahawks

Have the Seahawks played an actual game this year? Why do I feel like I haven't seen any recaps and replays from any of their games? Maybe it's just me. Anyway, I'll take the Bears and that defense.

Dolphins (+3.5) over PACKERS

Aaron Rodgers is going to play despite suffering a concussion last week, but Clay Matthews is listed as doubtful and likely won't be active. Backing a team with an offense with a banged-up quarterback and no running game (and also no Jermichael Finley) to rely on and a defense missing its biggest playmaker? Yeah, the Packers could really use a sound win here, but no thanks.

STEELERS (-14.5) over Browns

Sure, this is Ben Roethlisberger's first game back. But Colt McCoy getting his first NFL start against a stalwart Steelers defense equals big trouble for the Browns.

Jets (-3) over BRONCOS

The Jets are due for a let-down game at some point, but this isn't the game it happens.

Raiders (+7) over 49ERS

I understand the logic here, but backing the 49ers right now in any game just seems silly.

Cowboys (+1.5) over VIKINGS

Ravens-Patriots may be the best game, but this may be the most interesting. The losing team in this contest drops to 1-4 and will be in big, big trouble. I'll take the Cowboys, and I don't really know why.

Colts (-3.5) over REDSKINS

Lots of people seem to be backing the Redskins, and I'm thrilled with that. But the Colts will win this game for two reasons: Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis. Those two will get pressure on Donovan McNabb all game long, something the Packers weren't able to do after Clay Matthews got injured last week.

Titans (-3) over JAGUARS

This seems like a game that could come down to a field goal, but I don't feel confident backing David Garrard in a big game. By the way, did you know he hasn't thrown for over 200 yards in a game yet this season?

Last week: 5-9
Season: 33-40-3