Last week, the Jaguars managed to lose to a even more depleted than normal Jets team, in a game featuring more embarrassing moments than normal.  They allowed a kickoff return for a TD for the 2nd consecutive week.  They allowed rookie QB Zach Wilson to run 52 yards for a TD.  Finally, they completely botched the last two minte drill, being unable to get set on the game's deciding play.  The division leading tacks rallied from an early deficit to beat the 49ers on Thursday night, the Colts edged the Cardinals on the road, while the Texans, fresh off a sweep of the Jaguars, shocked the Chargers in a result nobody saw coming.

Picks wise, I had a good, not great week, going 3-1, missing out on the Texans win.  That brought my overall record to 36-14 for the year.  Here's hoping I can finish these last two weeks with a flourish.

On to this week's games...


Jaguars (2-13) at Patriots (9-6)-The Patriots have managed to lose their last two games.  However, they are still in great position to reach the playoffs, a major victory considering they have played the entire season with a rookie at QB.  Nobody thinks the Jaguars have a chance in this game.  Their franchise is everything the Jaguars are not.  Those hoping for a Trevor Lawrence breakout game are likely to be very disappointed.  Belichick has historically been brutal on rookie QBs.  Patriots win 27-7.

Dolphins (8-7) at Titans (10-5)-a tough game to pick between two solid teams.  After a horrid 1-7 start featuring a loss to Jacksonville, Miami has won seven straight and are unbelievably in control of their own playoff destiny.  Meanwhile, the tacks are competing for home field advantage, a game behind the Chiefs.  Miami has been playing very well and are the hotter team.  This will sound like a broken record, but Miami rushes the passer well, while Tennessee does not pass protect well.  Dolphins win 23-20.

Raiders (8-7) at Colts (9-6)-Given all that has happened with the Raiders this year between Gruden's dismissal, Ruggs' dui vehicular manslaughter and subsequent release, and Damon Arnette's video and releasem for them to still have a shot at the playoffs at this stage speaks volumes as to their resiliency.  That said, the Colts have played very well and are a dangerous team going into the playoffs.  Colts win 24-17.

Texans (4-11) at 49ers (8-7)  On paper, this game would appear to be a mismatch.  But rookie Davis Mills has shown the kind of progress Trevor lawrence, Zach Wilson, and many of the higher drafted rookie QBs have not shown.  Furthermore, Garoppolo has an injured thumb, which likely contributed to the INTs he threw in Tennessee.  He will try to play through it.  But I think the 49ers are still a better overall team from top to bottom, and will handle the Texans.  49ers win 23-13.

Last week:  3-1
Overall:  36-14

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