Head to Head: Duffin v Duffy

08 Oct

If there’s one thing sure to split opinion quickly it’s the age-old battle of who knows more about the NFL, the players or the staff?

To try and resolve the issue once and for all players take on coaches and backroom staff one on one to try and decide once and for all who really knows their stuff.

The concept is pretty simple: each week one Eagles player and one staff member will go head to head predicting the outcome of the weekend’s NFL games, and by the end of the season the true power houses will emerge.

In week one Wide Receiver Chris Cowley took on Club Chairman and Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster battled out a 6-10 draw. Two weeks ago Head Coach Will White defeated Tight End Jack Judge by a score of 13-3 to 11-5, and last week Vice Chairman Mark Chilton edged passed Offensive Lineman and Rookie of the Year Danny Cousins.

Heading into this week where Running back Matt Duffin takes on Running back coach Neil Duffy, the Coaches and Staff lead the players 28-19 to 25-22.

Coach Duffy, our resident Viking, has gone for a scientific approach to this weekend’s games. He has calculated the average scores for each team to come up with a formula to work out who is more likely to win. Duffin on the other hand, has made it up as he went along. Let’s see how it goes…

Colts @ Texans (Thursday Night Football – Sky Sports 1 HD, Friday 01:25)

MattDuffinDUFFIN: I think the Colts will beat the Texans quite convincingly in this one. Indy by 16. Colts win.

NeilDuffyDUFFY: The Texans are struggling (as usual), and the Colts without Luck, this will be a close game, but not in a good way. Colts win. Just.

Redskins @ Falcons

MattDuffinDUFFIN: Falcons to remain unbeaten against the Skins and win by nine. Falcons win.


NeilDuffyDUFFY: It’s hard to see Washington break the Falcons winning start to the season. Falcons win.

Browns @ Ravens

MattDuffinDUFFIN: I dislike both of these teams but will have to go with the Ravens due to the home field advantage. Ravens by 4.

NeilDuffyDUFFY: The stats say this will be close, but I think the Ravens will be energised by their win last week. Ravens win.

Seahawks @ Bengals

MattDuffinDUFFIN: Seahawks to ruin the Bengals’ 100% record in a close one. Seahawks by 3.


NeilDuffyDUFFY: The Bengals have looked annoyingly solid in every game so far, it’s hard to see them slipping up here. Bengals win.

Rams @ Packers

MattDuffinDUFFIN: I think the Packers will dominate the Rams in every aspect of this game. Green Bay by two scores.

NeilDuffyDUFFY: Packers comfortably.


Bears @ Chiefs

MattDuffinDUFFIN: No idea why I fancy the Chiefs for this one but Kansas by 8.


NeilDuffyDUFFY: The two teams with the highest average points against. This will be a high scoring game, but the Chiefs offence will make the difference.

Saints @ Eagles (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 17:30)

MattDuffinDUFFIN: Can’t imagine this being the most exciting of games, but I’ll go with the Saints by 7.

NeilDuffyDUFFY: Stats suggest the Eagles will win, but it is close and with Brees back, I think stats be damned, it’s the Saints to win this one.

Jaguars @ Buccaneers

MattDuffinDUFFIN: Not sure about this one at all but I’ll go with the home team. Buccaneers win by 5.

NeilDuffyDUFFY: The stats say it will be a tie, but we don’t need stats to know it will be a boring game. I would like the London Jagwars to win, though I will be brave and trust the numbers to say a tie.

Bills @ Titans

MattDuffinDUFFIN: This one is a complete guess, I know next to nothing about either team. Bills by a score.

NeilDuffyDUFFY: Stats suggest it will be close game, but the Titans have had one big win against poor opposition and then two losses to weak or weakened teams, which inflates their stats, so Bills by 10.

Cardinals @ Lions

MattDuffinDUFFIN: Can’t see the Lions breaking their 0.000 record against the Cardinals. Cards by two scores.

NeilDuffyDUFFY: Arizona by a large margin.


Patriots @ Cowboys (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 21:15)

MattDuffinDUFFIN: With the Pats unbeaten so far and the Cowboys with so many injuries, I reckon this could be fairly one sided. Pats by 3 scores.

NeilDuffyDUFFY: Always bet on the team most likely to cheat. Patriots to win.


Broncos @ Raiders

MattDuffinDUFFIN: Can’t imagine the Raiders will be able to cope with Denver. Broncos by 13.


NeilDuffyDUFFY: The Raiders are playing better than usual, but you have to go with the Broncos.

49ers @ Giants (Sky Sports 2 HD, Monday 01:30)

MattDuffinDUFFIN: Another guess, but I’ll go with Manning over Kaepernick. Giants by 7.


NeilDuffyDUFFY: The 49ers are the lowest scoring team by a significant margin, so this has to be the Giants.

Steelers @ Chargers (Sky Sports 1 HD, Tuesday 01:15)

MattDuffinDUFFIN: As a Steelers fan I’m going to have to back them in this one. Steelers by 9.


NeilDuffyDUFFY: Heart, head and stats all say Steelers…


Summary

Match Duffin Duffy
Colts @ Texans (TNF) Colts Colts
Redskins @ Falcons Falcons Falcons
Browns @ Ravens Ravens Ravens
Seahawks @ Bengals Seahawks Bengals
Rams @ Packers Packers Packers
Bears @ Chiefs Chiefs Chiefs
Saints @ Eagles Saints Saints
Jaguars @ Buccaneers Buccaneers TIE
Bills @ Titans Bills Bills
Cardinals @ Lions Cardinals Cardinals
Patriots @ Cowboys Patriots Patriots
Broncos @ Raiders Broncos Broncos
49ers @ Giants (SNF) Giants Giants
Steelers @ Chargers (MNF) Steelers Steelers


You can let us know what you think of their predictions by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet. Be sure to check back to Tuesday to see how they got on.

Cousins v Chilton – The Results

06 Oct

In our third Head to Head of the season Offensive Lineman and Rookie of the Year Danny Cousins took on Vice Chairman Mark Chilton. Here’s how they got on…

Ravens 23 Steelers 20 (Thursday Night Football)

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: This was a tough one to call but Danny went with the hosts by a score despite them missing Big Ben. Home advantage seemed to be the difference for him but he called it wrong as the Ravens won a close one. 0-1.

ChiltsCHILTON: Mark said the Ravens were better than their 0-3 record suggested, and said the short week wouldn’t help the Steelers. Spot on on both counts, it would seem. 1-0.

Jets 27 Dolphins 14

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Danny’s back in the game. He called a big week for Chris Ivory and boy did he call that right. The only thing he had wrong was the margin of victory for the Jets, but we’ll let him off that one. 1-1.

ChiltsCHILTON: Our lifelong Jets fan was never going to pick anyone other than New York in this one, but he had a little bit of science to back him up. “The key battle is that Miami’s offensive line will not cope…” he said. If you look at those stats the Fins O put up it’s hard to argue. 2-0 and a very happy Jets fan.

Texans 21 Falcons 48

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: That matchup must be our “never in doubt” game of the week. The Falcons brushed the Texans aside to go 4-0, Danny called it right, and he’s up to 2-1.

ChiltsCHILTON: Chilts said Atlanta were his dark horses for a bit of a run this season. If they weren’t on everybody’s radar at the start of the season they sure as heck are now. Mark goes 3-0.

Giants 24 Bills 10

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: He trusted his instincts and said the Giants would not be able to overcome the Bills, and this showed that the Force is not strong in this one. Cousins is back to 2-2.

ChiltsCHILTON: It’ll be a close one and “home field advantage may tile it in Rex’s favour” said Mr Chilton. The fast-improving Giants clearly didn’t get the memo for this one, and the Vice Chair has his first slip up. 3-1.

Raiders 20 Bears 22

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Is the fact that both of our guys predicted a Raiders win on the road here a sign of how far Oakland have come, or how far the Bears have fallen? You be the judge. Anywho back in the room, Danny is now 2-3.

ChiltsCHILTON: Chilts was closest to a correct prediction by saying they both could lose. He wasn’t far off, but he still falls to 3-2.

Chiefs 21 Bengals 36

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Danny’s prediction of the Bengals clocking up over 200 yards on the ground was maybe a little optimistic, but he was bang on apart from that. He’s up to 3-3.

ChiltsCHILTON: He had a lot of faith in Kansas City. Some would say misplaced faith, but one wouldn’t want to be unkind. Their “decent defense” shipped 36 points and left Bengals wondering if this could finally be the year it all comes together for them. Spoiler alert: it probably isn’t. Mark’s 3-3, and we’re all tied up.

Jaguars 13 Colts 16

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Both of our guys picked the Colts to blow Jacksonville away, but in fairness that was before it was revealed that Andrew Luck would miss the game through injury. In any event, Danny’s above .500 for the first time. 4-3.

ChiltsCHILTON: Neither team wanted to win this but eventually the Colts managed to make it stick. It was a big win in the context of the AFC South, but it won’t paper over the cracks of what has been a decidely dodgy start for them. Mark also goes to 4-3.

Panthers 37 Buccaneers 23

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: The Panthers are up and down more than…well, let’s just say they’re inconsistent. What was consistent though is that both our guys correctly picked them to beat the Bucs. Cousins goes 5-3.

ChiltsCHILTON: Correctly predicted a Buccaneers defeat. Not much more to say really is there? Let’s move on. 5-3.

Eagles 20 Redskins 23

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Went with the Eagles winning a close one. It sure was a close one, and the ‘Skins somehow dug out the win. Danny falls to 5-4.

ChiltsCHILTON: Mark thinks it inexplicable that Washington are in freefall, which will come as a surprise to fans of NFC East teams who have enjoyed/endured watching them suffer for a number of years now. He’s also 5-4.

Browns 27 Chargers 30

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: “Chargers bounce back from their loss against the Vikings and get a home win against the Browns. Chargers win.” Just about sums it up. 6-4.

ChiltsCHILTON: He went back and forth and eventually settled on a home win with no confidence whatsoever. Which ironically is exactly what we had. Mark is also 6-4.

Rams 24 Cardinals 22

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Carson Palmer has been immense so far this season and Danny reckoned it would continue in this divisional game against the Rams. He was wrong. 6-5.

ChiltsCHILTON: Oh Mark. Marky, Marky Mark. “This is the home banker/lock of the week” said Mr Vice Chairman. Not quite as wide of the mark as Will White and Jack Judge both picking the 49ers to beat the Cards last week, but it’s close. 6-5.

Vikings 20 Broncos 23

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Vikings fan Danny had to go with his team on the road against Denver, and you have to admire him for that (are you listening, Mr McMaster?). Still, Minnesota lost the battle and it looks to have lost Cousins the war. 6-6.

ChiltsCHILTON: Having said Denver would have too much for the Vikings he probably didn’t think it would be as close as it was, but that’s irrelevant. Mark edges ahead, 7-5.

Packers 17 49ers 3

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Another game that finished closer than predicted, but he called a Packers win (although who wouldn’t?) and another good game for James Jones. Danny goes 7-6 but keeps it close.

ChiltsCHILTON: The only thing Mark got wrong in this one was the margin of defeat for San Francisco. He expected them to ship 40 points but the 49ers defense managed to keep it fairly respectable. 8-5.

Cowboys 20 Saints 26

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Always a tricky one to pick considering the injury situations at both teams, and not knowing whether or not Drew Brees would be playing. The Cowboys ran the previously 0-3 Saints close, but it’s not good enough for Cousins who falls to 7-7.

ChiltsCHILTON: Chilts was a bit more confident of another Cowboys road victory, but hadn’t factored in Mr Brees being fit and in determined mood. He goes 8-6.

Lions 10 Seahawks 13

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: It wasn’t supposed to be this close, and but for another incredibly controversial call in Seattle it may have been very different. No matter, Danny rightly picked the Seahawks and finishes a just about respectable 8-7.

ChiltsCHILTON: He called Kam Chancellor the difference maker in this one and boy was he right, but certainly not in the way he expected Chilts finishes 9-6 to take the win.

So there we have it. Vice Chairman Mark Chilton takes a close Week 3 with a score of 9-6 to Danny Cousins’ 8-7. The Coaches and Staff lead after three rounds 28-19 to 25-22, and it’s all to play for between the Players and the Staff next week where Running Back Matt Duffin take on Running Back Coach Neil Duffy.

Did any of this week’s results in the NFL surprise you? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet.

Head to Head: Cousins v Chilton

30 Sep

If there’s one thing sure to split opinion quickly it’s the age-old battle of who knows more about the NFL, the players or the staff?

To try and resolve the issue once and for all players take on coaches and backroom staff one on one to try and decide once and for all who really knows their stuff.

The concept is pretty simple: each week one Eagles player and one staff member will go head to head predicting the outcome of the weekend’s NFL games, and by the end of the season the true power houses will emerge.

In week one Wide Receiver Chris Cowley took on Club Chairman and Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster battled out a 6-10 draw, and last week Head Coach Will White defeated Tight End Jack Judge by a score of 13-3 to 11-5.

Next up we have Offensive Lineman and Rookie of the Year Danny Cousins taking on Vice Chairman Mark Chilton.

You can let us know what you think of their predictions by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet. Be sure to check back to Tuesday to see how they got on:

Ravens @ Steelers (Thursday Night Football – Sky Sports 1 HD, Friday 01:25)

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: The Ravens are 0-3 and the Steelers have lost Big Ben. Not ideal situations for either team. Although I think that Vick will do ok for the Steelers, they also have Bell and Brown on their side of the ball and home advantage. Steelers win by 1 TD.

ChiltsCHILTON: Baltimore are 0-3 for the first time in their history but are playing better than that record suggests. Pitt will be without their starting quarterback and will turn to an ageing Michael Vick whose magical powers are diminishing. The short week won’t help. I pick Baltimore to open their account.

Jets @ Dolphins (International Series – BBC2 HD, Sunday 14:00)

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: I’m struggling to decide on this one. The Jets and Dolphins are both coming off home losses but the Dolphins haven’t had great results against any of their opponents this year. Ivory will come back in week 4 and post 100yds+ and the Jets get a close win over an under-performing Dolphins team. I reckon it will come down to a FG.

ChiltsCHILTON: I’ve supported The Jets for thirty years and know them to be cursed. The last time I saw them play Miami, in New York they stunk the joint out. This time at Wembley with me watching again it will be different. The key battle is that Miami’s offensive line will not cope with the stunts and blitzes The Jets fearsome defense will deliver and Tannehill will be pressured all day. The Jets may have the best defense in the league and their conservative offence will have enough on Sunday. I am definitely biased; but for once there’s logic to it.

Texans @ Falcons

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: The Texans beat the Buccaneers last week but they face a far more formidable offense in the Falcons where Julio Jones is on fire. I reckon the Falcons will go 4-0.

ChiltsCHILTON: I like Atlanta. They are often overlooked and are my dark horses for a bit of a run this season. They have a consistently balanced offence led by Matt Ryan which should be a model for many teams to copy. Devonta Freeman rushing and Julio Jones receiving combined for 350+ yards and five touchdowns last week. Even JJ with his super-hero powers is not stopping that. Falcons win.

Giants @ Bills

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: I’m gonna go with my instincts and say that the Giants can’t overcome the Bills. OBJ still has a great game (for the sake of my fantasy team), but not enough to beat the Bills and they win by a TD. Bills win.

ChiltsCHILTON: Buffalo have been spanked by New England – who hasn’t – but have otherwise been effective on both sides of the ball. The Giants have been finding exotic ways to throw games away but I reckon they will make this close. Home field advantage may tilt it in Rex’s favour. Bills win.

Raiders @ Bears

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: The Raiders had a great game last week with Carr, L. Murray and Cooper all looking awesome. With the Raiders showing great potential for the future and the Bears on a dismal run, the Raiders win.

ChiltsCHILTON: Chicago competed well against Green Bay in week 1 but has particularly suffered from poor special teams play in posting 0-3 for the first time in more than ten years. They also can’t move the ball without Cutler. The Raiders sprung a surprise in beating the Ravens and won on the road last week for the first time in a season and a half. Toss a coin on this one, they might both lose. Raiders win.

Chiefs @ Bengals (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 17:30)

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: The Bengals offense are looking good at the moment along with a good defense. I think they’ll keep the Chiefs’ offense in check and get the win with the Bengals clocking over 200 yards on the ground. Bengals win.

ChiltsCHILTON: The Bengals have edged games which they might have lost and that’s a good habit to have. The Chiefs record is misleading as they have lost to two very good teams in Green Bay and Denver. They will provide the toughest opposition Cincy has faced yet. Sean Smith their best corner returns following a DUI suspension so a decent defense will get better. Chiefs to edge it.

Jaguars @ Colts

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: The Colts offense will finally come good and blow the Jaguars away. They win by 3+ TDS. Colts win.

ChiltsCHILTON: Jax are underfunded perennial strugglers and are likely to be the next franchise to up sticks for somewhere else. Indy has had a slow start and has lost to good teams but kick started their offense putting up 35 last week. Another long afternoon for the Jax D. Colts win.

Panthers @ Buccaneers

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: I think the Panthers will have the fire power to beat the Buccaneers. Panthers win convincingly.

ChiltsCHILTON: Both teams have prevailed against New Orleans. Carolina has had a soft schedule to date and Tampa has looked very ordinary in their other games and has a propensity to be terrible. No surprises here as I take Carolina’s passing game to win the day. Panthers win.

Eagles @ Redskins

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Eagles get the win, but only just. Low scoring game with less than 7 points in it. I’m sure one of these teams will make me eat my words on this one, let’s hope it’s the Eagles!

ChiltsCHILTON: Inexplicably Washington are in freefall. I’m surprised they won’t trade RG3 if they are not going to play him. He retains value andthey have holes all over. Philly had a good first half last week and hung on gamely for their first win. Chip Kelly has found a way to be effective and this will continue. Eagles win.

Browns @ Chargers

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Chargers bounce back from their loss against the Vikings and get a home win against the Browns. Chargers win.

ChiltsCHILTON: Both teams have started poorly and neither will contend. San Diego can’t defend the run and even pulled Phillip Rivers for Kellen Clemens last week. Hardly a great sign. But then Cleveland has yet to establish a running game and have QB inconsistencies of their own. I’ll go with home advantage with no confidence whatever. Chargers win.

Rams @ Cardinals (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 21:15)

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Carson Palmer has thrown 9 TD passes already this season! With home advantage they get yet another win. Cardinals win.

ChiltsCHILTON: The Rams did well to beat a complacent Seahawks team but have been unconvincing since. The Cardinals ripped The 49ers a new one last week with two rushing, two receiving and two defensive touchdowns and vie with Atlanta and Green Bay as the best team in the NFC. This is the home banker/lock of the week. Cardinals win.

Vikings @ Broncos

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: The odds might be stacked against us, but I can’t go against my own team. I think we’ll need to rely on our running game heavily (AP to rush for 150yds+), and then burn them with the deep pass to Wallace once they’ve stacked the box. Fingers crossed for a Vikings win.

ChiltsCHILTON: Minnesota has celebrated the welcome return of Peterson, given his issues, but this is a tough ask. Peyton is on the last lap of a brilliant career and deserves to go out as one of the best ever. I feel that Denver will have too much at Mile High altitude for the Vikings. Two good teams but Denver to edge it. Broncos win.

Packers @ 49ers

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: The Packers are looking like the team to beat in the NFC, they’ve been putting on some fine performances even after losing Jordy Nelson for the season. Are the Raiders and Giants kicking themselves after releasing James Jones, or could Aaron Rodgers even make me look like a world class receiver? I don’t know, but he’ll get at least another TD this week. Packers win by 3+ TDs.

ChiltsCHILTON: Green Bay look strong again and San Francisco most decidedly does not. Their home opener win against The Vikings would be reversed if it were to be played again. I see The 49ers shipping 40 points for the second successive week against Green Bay’s potent offence. Packers win.

Cowboys @ Saints (Sky Sports 2 HD, Monday 00:30)

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: Can the Cowboys O line carry their offense? Will Drew Brees be back? I think the Cowboys have more quality overall. They get the win by one TD.

ChiltsCHILTON: This is an example of roster management. Jimmy Graham’s free agency move to Seattle has left a hole that New Orleans has yet to fill but Dallas has coped just fine without DeMarco Murray. I expect this trend to continue and predict another Cowboys win.

Lions @ Seahawks (Sky Sports 2 HD, Tuesday 01:15)

Danny CousinsCOUSINS: The Seahawks shut the Bears out last week and the Lions haven’t looked great this season. Seahawks have enough to get the win.

ChiltsCHILTON: Kam Chancellor ends his hold-out and Seattle posts their first win. Coincidence? I think not. But it shows lack of depth. The Seahawks have been in the last two Super Bowls but I do not expect a 3-Pete, although they’ll have too much for Detroit who are in for another long season. At least they get Chicago twice – but not this week. Seahawks win.

Summary

Match Cousins Chilton
Ravens @ Steelers (TNF) Steelers Ravens
Jets @ Dolphins Jets Jets
Texans @ Falcons Falcons Falcons
Giants @ Bils Bills Bills
Raiders @ Bears Raiders Raiders
Chiefs @ Bengals Bengals Chiefs
Jaguars @ Colts Colts Colts
Panthers @ Buccaneers Panthers Panthers
Eagles @ Redskins Eagles Eagles
Browns @ Chargers Chargers Chargers
Rams @ Cardinals Cardinals Cardinals
Vikings @ Broncos Vikings Broncos
Packers @ 49ers Packers Packers
Cowboys @ Saints (SNF) Cowboys Cowboys
Bears @ Seahawks (MNF) Seahawks Seahawks

Judge v White: The Results

29 Sep

In our second Head to Head of the season Head Coach Will White took on Tight End Jack Judge. Here’s how they got on…

Redskins 21 Giants 32 (Thursday Night Football)

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Jack backed the Giants to turn around their poor start to the season and it looks as though that may be what they’re about to do in a ridiculously bad-looking NFC East. 1-0.
Will WhiteWHITE: Coach couldn’t bring himself to go for the Giants and that stubbornness means he’s off to the worst possible start. 0-1.

Bengals 28 Ravens 24

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: The Ravens have dropped a long way in the last couple of years but Jack couldn’t see him losing this divisional game. He was wrong. 1-1.

Will WhiteWHITE: The HC is back in the game. He said the Bengals and Andy Dalton would prove too much for this Ravens defense, and we’re back to level pegging. 1-1.

Saints 22 Panthers 27

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Following an extremely scientific approach of “I like the Panthers kit so…Panthers win”, Jack moves to 2-1. We’re not sure if he even knows who Drew Brees is, but we’ll give him the benefit of the doubt for now.

Will WhiteWHITE: He thought the Panthers would win this one by ten, but the Saints pushed them to the wire. In any event, Coach is also up to 2-1.

Raiders 27 Browns 20

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: He picked the Browns in part because he loves seeing Nellie’s team lose (they didn’t) and watching Manziel play (he didn’t). There’s consistency in there somewhere. 2-2.
Will WhiteWHITE: Coach White is one of a very people old enough to remember a Raiders winning streak, so it should be no surprise that he successfully called this one – and that Amari Cooper would shine. 3-1.
Falcons 39 Cowboys 28

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: With the Cowboys missing some big players on offense Atlanta came into this one as favourites, so Jack backed a winner to take himself up to 3-2.

Will WhiteWHITE: Like Mr Judge, Will went with the Falcons saying Julio Jones would be the difference maker. 164 yards and 2 touchdowns later, it’s hard to argue. 4-1.

Buccaneers 9 Texans 19

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Picking your winner in some part based on them having a very cool season of Hard Knocks could be questioned by some, but that Texans D against that Buccaneers O certainly couldn’t. 4-2.
Will WhiteWHITE: Will’s on a roll with his fifth correct pick on the bounce. 5-1.

Chargers 14 Vikings 31

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Following 126 yards rushing and 2 touchdowns it looks like Adrian Peterson is back. Both our guys called it right, and it takes Judge to 5-2.

Will WhiteWHITE: Nobody quite expected this to be as one-sided as it was, but it’s six correct predictions in a row for Coach White although Jack’s hanging in there. 6-1.

Jaguars 17 Patriots 51

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Nobody gets a prize for correctly predicting the Patriots would walk it against the Jags, and it’s no shock that JJ did exactly that. 6-2.

Will WhiteWHITE: Only the most optimistic Jacksonville would have gone for anything other than a Patiots win by a landslide. Will’s a Patriots fan (for shame) so that was never going to happen. The streak continues. 7-1.
Eagles 24 Jets 17

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: He picked the Eagles because they were called the Eagles, and we’re the Eagles. Lot of Eagles in that sentence. Big W for JJ, who is still only one game behind. 7-2.

Will WhiteWHITE: Or is he? The streak is finally over, and we’re all square at 7-2 just inside the second half. Is the tide turning against the man from ‘Bama? 7-2.

Steelers 12 Rams 6

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: It was the lowest scoring game of the weekend in the NFL, and although the Steelers picked up the win (as correctly predicted by Mr Judge) they may have lost the war with Big Ben getting injured. That’ll be for another time though, JJ’s at 8-2 and guaranteed finishing at least 0.500.
Will WhiteWHITE: Coach White also went with Pittsburgh, also moves to 8-2 and also guarantees himself at least a 0.500 finish. Both guys have outscored Week One’s contestants.
Colts 35 Titans 33

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Mariota at home wasn’t enough for the Jack-backed Titans, who lost a close one. He falls to 8-3.

Will WhiteWHITE: He thought it’d be a blow-out, going with the Colts by three scores. It certainly wasn’t that, but the Colts managed to dig out the win. 9-2.

49ers 7 Cardinals 47

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Oh this is awkward. Did anyone really think the Cardinals wouldn’t win this one? I’m sure if JJ had his time again he wouldn’t pick the 9ers, would you JJ? 8-4.

Will WhiteWHITE: In our “what the hell were you thinking” moment of the week, Coach White said the 49ers would win this one by 14. We’ll leave you with that one for a minute. 9-3.
Bills 41 Dolphins 14

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: “I’m a Buffalo fan so I have to back my Bills in this battle of London-bound teams. Bills win”, said JJ. Bet he didn’t think it’d be this easy though? 9-4.

Will WhiteWHITE: “The Bills will get back on the winning track and I can see QB Taylor having a breakout game. Bills win”, said Coach White. Again, who thought it would be this easy as the Dolphins limp (can Dolphins limp?) to London. 10-3.
Bears 0 Seahawks 26

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: The Bears are doing their best to secure the #1 pick nice and early this year, and with showings like this they might just get it wrapped up. JJ said Seahwawks win, of course it was a Seahawks win. 10-4.

Will WhiteWHITE: “The Seahawks get Chancellor back, the defense steps up another level and the Bears get blown out.” That just about sums it up. Great practice for the Bears punter though. 11-3.
Broncos 24 Lions 12

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: With both guys going with the Packers in Monday Night Football it all came down to this. JJ stuck his neck out and said the Lions would win. Oops. 10-5.

Will WhiteWHITE: The old head knows never to count Peyton Manning out and bags himself the win by backing the Broncos on the road. 12-3. Game over.

Chiefs 28 Packers 38

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Almost seems irrelevant now but JJ went with the Packers and gets it right in a game that was a lot better than probably should have been. He finishes with a respectable 11-5, despite openly admitting that he knows absolutely nothing about American Football.
Will WhiteWHITE: Coach puts the icing on the cake by correctly calling MNF, but was it ever really going to be anything other than a Green Bay win? Victory and 13-3.

So there we have it Coach White takes Week 2 with a score of 13-3 to Jack Judge’s 11-5. The Coaches and Staff lead after two rounds 19-13 to 17-15, and it’s all to play for between the Players and the Staff next week where Offensive Lineman Danny Cousins takes on Vice Chairman Mark Chilton.

Did any of this week’s results in the NFL surprise you? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet.

Head to Head: Judge v White

24 Sep

If there’s one thing sure to split opinion quickly it’s the age-old battle of who knows more about the NFL, the players or the staff?

To try and resolve the issue once and for all players take on coaches and backroom staff one on one to try and decide once and for all who really knows their stuff.

The concept is pretty simple: each week one Eagles player and one staff member will go head to head predicting the outcome of the weekend’s NFL games, and by the end of the season the true power houses will emerge.

Last week, Wide Receiver Chris Cowley took on Club Chairman and Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster. It was a close battle throughout the weekend and both eventually finished 6-10, so it’s all to play for this week.

Next up we have Tight End Jack Judge going up against Head Coach Will White. You can let us know what you think of their predictions by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet. Be sure to check back to Tuesday to see how they got on:

Redskins @ Giants (Thursday Night Football – Sky Sports 1 HD, Friday 01:25)

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Giants to turn around a poor start to the season and edge this one out by a score. Giants win.

Will WhiteWHITE: Redskins by two touchdowns as I hate the Giants being a Patiots fan! Redskins win.

Bengals @ Ravens

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Bengals coming off the back of a win and I can’t see it happening again. Ravens win.

Will WhiteWHITE: The Ravens defense is struggling and the Bengals will prove too much and pull one out. Bengals win

Saints @ Panthers (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 17:30)

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: I like the Panthers’ kit so… Panthers win.


Will WhiteWHITE: The Panthers will win this one by ten as the Saints D is hurting. Panthers win.

Raiders @ Browns

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Not only do I love to see Nellie’s team lose I also love to watch Mr Manziel play. Browns win.

Will WhiteWHITE: Toss up but I pick the Raiders by a TD – Amari Cooper a ‘Bama boy to have a great game. Raiders win.

Falcons @ Cowboys

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: I have a small soft spot for the Falcons and with some big players missing for the Cowboys I’ll have to back a win for the visitors. Falcons win.

Will WhiteWHITE: Falcons by a touchdown. Julio Jones is the man and the Cowgirls suck. Falcons win.

Buccaneers @ Texans

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: The Texans provided a great Hard Knocks this season and I think defensively they will be able to pull this one off. Texans win.

Will WhiteWHITE: The Texans defense will finally come alive and the offense will pick up some steam to get their first win. Texans win.

Chargers @ Vikings

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: I’m backing AP to have a blinder this game. Vikings win.


Will WhiteWHITE: AP has a great game as they eek one out and beat the Chargers. Vikings win.


Jaguars @ Patriots

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: I get compared to Gronk daily and in all honesty I think he needs to put in some work to catch up to me, but I have to back the big TE and the Pats. Patriots win

Will WhiteWHITE: Brady and Gronk keep up their hot streak and burn the Jags. Patriots win.


Eagles @ Jets

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: If I didn’t back the Eagles that would be like backing the Cheetahs. Eagles win.


Will WhiteWHITE: Jets on a roll and the Eagles offense has left the building with Bradford at the helm. Jets win.

Steelers @ Rams

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Steelers coming off the back of a demolition of the 49ers. Steelers win.


Will WhiteWHITE: Steelers stay hot and beat the Rams. Steelers win.


Colts @ Titans

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: The Titans are at home and I think Mariota will be back to what we saw in week one. Titans win.

Will WhiteWHITE: Colts by three touchdowns, Luck will get his mojo back and bury the Titans. Colts win.

49ers @ Cardinals

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: The 49ers have been all over the place so far but I think they’ll bounce back with a win. 49ers win.

Will WhiteWHITE: The 49ers will go to work and beat the Cards by 14. 49ers win.


Bills @ Dolphins (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 21:15)

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: I’m a Buffalo fan so I have to back my Bills in this battle of London-bound teams. Bills win.

Will WhiteWHITE: The Bills will get back on the winning track and I can see QB Taylor having a breakout game. Bills win.

Bears @ Seahawks

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: The Seahawks are having an absolute western this season but I can see them turning the year around. Seahawks win.


Will WhiteWHITE: The Seahawks get Chancellor back, the defense steps up another level and the Bears get blown out. Seahawks win.

Broncos @ Lions (Sky Sports 2 HD, Monday 00:30)

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: This one I think could go either way but I’m going to back the home team. Lions win.


Will WhiteWHITE: I think Manning will get his touch back and smoke the Lions. Broncos win.


Chiefs @ Packers (Sky Sports 1 HD, Tuesday 01:30)

Jack Judge 2JUDGE: Eeny Meeny Miny Mo. Packers win.


Will WhiteWHITE: Rodgers keeps his hot hand and the Packers pull one out on the Chiefs. Packers win.


Summary

Match Judge White
Giants @ Redskins (TNF) Giants Redskins
Bengals @ Ravens Ravens Bengals
Saints @ Panthers Panthers Panthers
Raiders @ Browns Browns Raiders
Falcons @ Cowboys Falcons Falcons
Buccaneers @ Texans Texans Texans
Chargers @ Vikings Vikings Vikings
Jaguars @ Patriots Patriots Patriots
Eagles @ Jets Eagles Jets
Steelers @ Rams Steelers Steelers
Colts @ Titans Titans Colts
49ers @ Cardinals 49ers 49ers
Bills @ Dolphins Bills Bills
Bears @ Seahawks Seahawks Seahawks
Broncos @ Lions (SNF) Broncos Lions
Chiefs @ Packers (MNF) Packers Packers

Cowley v McMaster: The Results

22 Sep

In our first Head to Head of the season Club Chairman and Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster took on Wide Receiver Chris Cowley. Here’s how they got on…

Broncos 31 Chiefs 24 (Thursday Night Football)

CowleyCOWLEY: Off to a flyer correctly backing the Broncos in this divisional encounter, and although his prediction of four TD passes and 300+ yards passing for Peyton Manning was a little off, we’ll take it. 1-0.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Oh Nellie. He feared the worst for Peyton heading into this game, and whether he’s right or not remains to be seen. All that matter for now is he backed the Chiefs, and he was wrong. 0-1.

Patriots 40 Bills 32

CowleyCOWLEY: Went with his heart and backed the Bills and demonstrated that you should never bet against Tom Brady and the Patriots, who always find a way to win (legally of course). 1-1.

Nellie2MCMASTER: This game had “blow-out” written all over it until the fourth quarter when Buffalo threatened to stage an incredible comeback but you know, the Bills. Nellie said the Pats would win a close one, and he was right. 1-1.

Texans 17 Panthers 24

CowleyCOWLEY: Chris couldn’t see the Texans going 0-2 and backed Houston over Cam and co, but he should have known better as Houston are not firing on all cylinders to say the least. 1-2.

Nellie2MCMASTER: He said he’d rather hike up a hill than watch this one, and backed the Texans. No word on how the hill was yet but we’ll be sure to let you know once we hear. 1-2.

Cardinals 48 Bears 23

CowleyCOWLEY: Our man out wide is predicting big things for Carson Palmer and the Cards this year, and on the evidence of this big road win against the Bears (who lost Jay Cutler to injury) is anything to go by he may not be far off. 2-2.

Nellie2MCMASTER: He expected the Cards to comfortably win the game, and he was right. 2-2.


Chargers 19 Bengals 24

CowleyCOWLEY: He wanted to get behind the Bengals but didn’t. Oops. 2-3.


Nellie2MCMASTER: Coach went with the pragmatic “if in doubt, go for the home team” rule here, and it paid off. 3-2.

Titans 14 Browns 28

CowleyCOWLEY: Very few people predicted the Browns to get the win in this one, including Cowley. 2-4.

Nellie2MCMASTER: He described this one as a “no contest” and said the Titans would win by three scores. No further comment required. 3-3.

Lions 16 Vikings 26

CowleyCOWLEY on Adrian Peterson: “I don’t think he will be back to pre-ban form until at least midway through October”. 134 yards rushing, 192 total yards later, it looks like AP is ahead of schedule. 2-5.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Correctly predicted it would be a two-score game, incorrectly predicted that the Lions would be on the right side of it. 3-4.

Buccaneers 26 Saints 19

CowleyCOWLEY: He’s a Saints fan, of course he predicted a Saints win. The Bucs were awful in Week 1, how could it not be a Saints win? Everyone predicted a Saints win. The Bucs win, and Cowley drops to 2-6.

Nellie2MCMASTER: He said he’d rather go on another hike than sit through this one, described it as an “easy call” and predicted the Saints to win by three scores. The big man’s on a roll. 3-5.

Falcons 24 Giants 20

CowleyCOWLEY: He tried to hedge his bets predicting this one, and said it could go either way in a close game. He wasn’t wrong, but he backed the wrong horse and gets his fifth prediction in a row wrong. 2-7.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Went with QB power and the Falcons in a close one. This one probably wasn’t on Eli, but the Giant’s lack of ability to manage the clock continues to baffle. 4-5.

49ers 18 Steelers 43

CowleyCOWLEY: He thought it would be close but other than that Cowley was bang on. Big Ben just doesn’t take “no” for an answer. 3-7.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Oh boy I think Nellie would love to have this pick again, having predicted a 49ers win “by two scores” on the road in Pittsburgh. 4-6.

Rams 10 Redskins 24

CowleyCOWLEY: “I can see them easily strolling past a recovering Redskins team” said Cowley. In truth, so could most people including I suspect a lot of Washington fans. No matter, he’s down to 3-8 and needs to be 100% from here on in to get to .500.

Nellie2MCMASTER: “The Rams beat the Seahawks last week and the Redskins are easily the most laughable and ridiculous team in the league right now, certainly off-the-field. Enough said. Rams win by three scores.” Enough said indeed. 4-7.

Dolphins 20 Jaguars 23

CowleyCOWLEY: It may have been game Chris “couldn’t care less about of the week”, but that apathy lead to predicting a Dolphins win in this clash of London-bound teams. Cowley’s slide continues. 3-9.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Nellie said that Ryan Tannehill and the Miami offense needed to improve and improve quickly, but still backed them to beat the Jags by two scores. Ouch. 4-8.

Ravens 33 Raiders 37

CowleyCOWLEY: He’s back in the game, and it looks like the Raiders have found someone other than the Browns they can beat. 4-9.

Nellie2MCMASTER: The die hard Raiders fan predicted a Ravens win and didn’t think losing Terrell Suggs would be an issue in the game. Will he live this one down in a hurry? Hopefully not. 4-9.

Cowboys 20 Eagles 10

CowleyCOWLEY: Oh Chris, it was all going so well and then you predicted DeMarco Murray would be the difference maker. Two rushing yards from thirteen carries later America’s Team is 2-0 and you’re at 4-10.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Correctly backed the Cowboys in “another close game, and definitely one to watch”. It was one to watch alright, but not one for the purists. Nellie moves to 5-9.

Seahawks 17 Packers 27 (Sunday Night Football)

CowleyCOWLEY: Are the Seahawks on the decline? Cowley thinks the Legion of Boom may well be, and on the evidence of this performance it’s difficult to argue. 5-10.

Nellie2MCMASTER: You’d have got very good money on the Hawks starting the season 0-2 but that’s exactly where they sit after tough losses to the Rams and now Green Bay. Nellie called this one, and it’s all down to Monday Night Football. 6-9.

Colts 7 Jets 20 (Monday Night Football)

CowleyCOWLEY: Ahead of Monday Night Football Mr Cowley said this is a different Jets this year. He’s not wrong, they’re 2-0 and Cowley’s 6-10 for the week.

Nellie2MCMASTER: “I can’t ever pick the Jets to win, I just can’t. Andrew Luck won’t be that bad again”, said McMaster ahead of this one. Think again. 6-10.

So there we have it. Both guys finish the week 6 and 10, and it’s all to play for between the Players and the Staff next week where TE/DE Jack Judge takes on Head Coach Will White.

Did any of Week 2’s results in the NFL surprise you? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet.

Head to Head: Cowley v McMaster

17 Sep

If there’s one thing sure to split opinion quickly it’s the age-old battle of who knows more about the NFL, the players or the staff?

We’ve decided to try and resolve the issue once and for by having the players take on coaches and backroom staff to try and decide once and for all who really knows their stuff.

The concept is pretty simple: each week one Eagles player and one staff member will go head to head predicting the outcome of the weekend’s NFL games, and by the end of the season the true power houses will emerge.

In week one, it’s Wide Receiver Chris Cowley taking Club Chairman and Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster.

Let us know what you think of their predictions by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet. Be sure to check back to Tuesday to see how they got on:

Broncos @ Chiefs (Thursday Night Football – Sky Sports 1 HD, Friday 01:25)

CowleyCOWLEY: It’s GD Peyton Manning! He has a bad game and they still win? Peyton will bounce back, throw four TDs and 300+ yards and Alex Smith won’t be able to keep up with that, especially with the Broncos D on him. Broncos win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: I already fear the worst for Peyton Manning. This extra season may be too much for him, and he struggled last week albeit against a terrific Ravens defense. The Chiefs on the other hand had a big win against JJ Watt and the Texans last week, and I expect that will continue against another very stout defense. Chiefs win by a score.

Patriots @ Bills (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 17:30)

CowleyCOWLEY: This may be the match which costs me the Head to Head and it’s totally me going with my heart. They say never bet against the Patriots but I hate the Pats, I hate Tom Brady and, well, I always have a soft spot for the Bills – four Super Bowl games and no trophies? One day Buffalo, one day. Bills win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Both teams are coming off a victory, but I see Tom Brady’s experience seeing him through. The Bills got a shock win against the Colts last week and really got in Andrew Lucks’ face throughout the first half, but Tyrod Taylor surely can’t keep up performances like last week. It will be a much, much tighter game than many would expect. Patriots win by a field goal.

Texans @ Panthers

CowleyCOWLEY: Yes both teams have good defences, the Panthers have the better QB and a game changer in Cam Newton but I don’t think I can see Houston going 0-2. Texans win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: I’d rather go for a hike up a hill than watch this game. The Panthers got the win last week, but were underwhelming on offense to say the least, and their defensive star Luke Kuechly is possibly out with a concussion. The Texans on the other hand have zero identity on offense, but a tremendous defensive line. I’m picking one of the Texans DL to get a score this week, hopefully big Vince! Texans win by two scores.

Cardinals @ Bears

CowleyCOWLEY: The Cards have been an up and coming force last year and I believe would have been a Super Bowl contender if they had Carson Palmer all year instead of losing him for a few games due to injury. Good O, Great D and awesome Special Teams – Super Bowl bound this year is my guess. Cardinals win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: The Bears looked competitive for a few quarters last week against the Packers, then Jay Cutler threw an interception (shock horror!) and it unravelled from there. The Cardinals look impressive with Carson Palmer looking like he did with the Bengals years ago. The running back isn’t a huge loss for this team, and I expect them to comfortably win this game. Cardinals win by two scores.

Chargers @ Bengals

CowleyCOWLEY: This one was a toss up. I like Andy Dalton as a QB and I think he has what it takes to win games. They have a number of options to throw to including the amazing AJ Green and they have guys who can run the ball, and on the flip side the same could be said about the Chargers with Rivers, Woodhead and numerous good WRs. Even though I’d like to bet Bengals to annoy Jack Rice I think Chargers will seal it. Chargers win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: The second really tough to call game, I’m going with the home team as having the advantage here. It’s going to be an offensive battle, with Phillip Rivers going against Andy Dalton. The deciding factor for me was the RBs: Cincinnati’s are better by a long way, and I think that’ll help the Bengals get the W against a pretty good Chargers side. Bengals win by one score.

Titans @ Browns

CowleyCOWLEY: With a phenomenal performance in his first ever NFL game I do believe the former Ducks QB will work his magic yet again against one of the worst teams in this year’s NFL. Titans win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: I couldn’t get this pick down quick enough, but then again, I’d pick almost every team to beat the Browns. They looked awful last week against New York, whilst the Titans looked so good they could play their backups in the 4th quarter. I think Johnny Football will look better this week, and Mariota will look a bit more human against a much better defense than Tampa, but it’s still a no-contest. Titans win by three scores.

Lions @ Vikings

CowleyCOWLEY: Even though the Vikings have got their formidable AP back I don’t think he will be back to pre-ban form until at least midway through October, and with little other threats in the offence I believe the Lions D will get them the W. Lions win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Both teams are coming off losses, but Detroit looked much better against the Chargers than the Vikings did against the 49ers. The Lions really pushed San Diego, and I fancy will romp away with this one too. The Vikings were in the hunt for the win away in San Fran right up until kickoff, and Adrian Peterson needs to be better than last week. I’m calling Ameer Abdullah to have a BIG week too! Lions win by two scores.

Buccaneers @ Saints

CowleyCOWLEY: As a Saints fan I’ll never expect the Bucs to win, but with the #1 pick of this year’s draft behind the helm of the offence I don’t see them out scoring future Hall of Famer Drew Brees, who’s gunning for his 400th TD of his career. Saints win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Get my boots, I’m off on a hike again. The Buccaneers looked like they are playing for the number 1 pick again, with a dismal outing last week. Jameis’ first pass in the NFL was a Pick 6 ( that’ll be a quiz question in a few years time). He’ll get better, but not soon enough. I literally have no idea who the Saints are anymore except Drew Brees, but I think we’d beat the Bucs at the moment, so it’s an easy call. Saints win by three scores.

Falcons @ Giants

CowleyCOWLEY: Unlucky to lose against the Cowboys, but the Giants should have made more of the chances given to them by those easy picks. If they could do that and their O-line can protect Eli from the Falcons lack of talent in the pass rush I see them sealing this but either way going to be a close game. Giants win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: This is my second most undecided game, and I went with QB power. Matt Ryan isn’t trending upwards anymore, he’s at his peak now, but Eli is heading down. That’s what sealed it for me. Will be a close one though. Falcons win. Just.

49ers @ Steelers

CowleyCOWLEY: The Steelers were unlucky to lose against the Patriots, they seemed strong and back to full force. I see them containing Kaeper”pick” and Vernon Davis but struggling to slow down breakout draft pick Hyde. The game will be close but Big Ben will find a way to win. Steelers win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Jimmy T to get the W again! The 49ers were rolling against the Vikings, and Carlos Hyde looked like a superstar in Week 1. I suspect the passing game will be more the focus this week, but that’s more than enough to see them past the Steelers. Pittsburgh had a notably absent defense on Thursday night (literally, no-one covered the best TE in the league on some snaps). Long season for the yellow and black. 49ers win by two scores.

Rams @ Redskins

CowleyCOWLEY: The Rams have seemed to be building year after year and getting stronger, now with former Eagles QB Foles in the driving seat of a exciting attacking selection I can see them easily strolling past a recovering Redskins Team. Rams win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: The Rams beat the Seahawks last week and the Redskins are easily the most laughable and ridiculous team in the league right now, certainly off-the-field. Enough said. Rams win by three scores.

Dolphins @ Jaguars

CowleyCOWLEY: The NFL Game I couldn’t care less about of the week. I just pick The Dolphins due to them having the more experienced QB and some defensive talent. Dolphins win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Tannehill was underwhelming at best last week against a worse-than-average Redskins team. I fancy he just had an off-week, but he needs to improve and quickly. Special Teams will not be there every week to bail you out! The Jags lost to a completely uninspiring Panthers organisation. The rebuilding continues in Jacksonville. Dolphins win by two scores.

Ravens @ Raiders

CowleyCOWLEY: Like the Browns these last few years, it has become a question of who can the Raiders actually win against (other then the Browns) but this year they have picked up a bit of talent, the Ravens have come out slow this year, and I don’t see them picking up steam for a few weeks yet. Picking up an injury to T.Suggs is going to have a negative impact to this team. Raiders win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: As a diehard Raiders fan, I’m used to seeing some pretty bad scorelines, but to be down 33-0 in the 3rd quarter, and be talking to Christian Ponder in Week 1 is a bad sign even for us. Yet another long season for us I think. The Ravens on the other hand looked lost on offense, and dominant on defense in the loss to the Broncos. Losing Terrell Suggs wont be an issue in the game. Ravens win.

Cowboys @ Eagles (Sky Sports 2 HD, Sunday 21:15)

CowleyCOWLEY: Dream Team, The Incredeagles etc – this team always has a lot of hype surrounding it, and with good reason as they always play exciting football and have a huge stars in their teams (where do they get the cap room?). Versus “don’t you ever count me out” Romo, not the greatest QB in terms of ability, but he has that certain something that gets his Cowboys the W. Dez out and Demarco coming back with some bad blood (que Taylor Swift) is the deciding factor for me. Eagles win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Big division game that could have play-off consequences already. I’m a massive Chip Kelley fan, but I still don’t think the offense has bedded in yet, and the QB is Sam Bradford. I’ve seen wet newspapers that can stand up longer than him. Romo is clutch, even without Dez Bryant. Another close game, and definitely one to watch. Cowboys win by a score.

Seahawks at Packers (Sky Sports 2 HD, Monday 00:30)

CowleyCOWLEY: Back-to-back Super Bowl appearances is impressive this day and age with the salary cap and players always wanting to be the highest paid in their position, but the scales may have tipped last week with the Legion of Boom looking weak and Marshawn not running at his best. Green Bay are always guaranteed to either push you or trounce you, and seem to be back with a bite with Clay Matthews looking to have a new lease of life in the NFL. Packers win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: Two of the last three games Seattle have played have come down to an onside kick, one of them against Green Bay. They aren’t as strong as they once were, and are relying a bit much on no-name guys, BUT, Green Bay has one of the worst run defenses in the league (see Matt Forte last week). I prefer the Pack at home, but by a gnat’s crotchet. Packers win. Just.

Colts @ Jets (Monday Night Football – Sky Sports 2 HD, Tuesday 01:30)

CowleyCOWLEY: The Colts put on a very lacklustre performance last week and their offence looked anything but threatening. Even with the most reliable QB to come out of the draft in recent years they couldn’t seem to get anything going, but they’re playing the Jets right? THE JETS! – would have been the response you’d usually expect but not this year, with Chris Ivory, Brandon Marshall and Ryan Fitzpatrick on the offensive side of a team which has struggled for years to get things going I see the tide turning Green. Jets win.

Nellie2MCMASTER: I can’t ever pick the Jets to win, I just can’t. Andrew Luck won’t be that bad again, and hopefully the rest of the Colts can pick their game up too. Colts to win by two scores.

Summary

Match Cowley McMaster
Broncos @ Chiefs (TNF) Broncos Chiefs
Patriots @ Bills Bills Patriots
Texans @ Panthers Texans Texans
Cardinals @ Bears Cardinals Cardinals
Chargers @ Bengals Chargers Bengals
Titans @ Browns Titans Titans
Lions @ Vikings Lions Lions
Buccaneers @ Saints Saints Saints
Falcons @ Giants Giants Falcons
49ers @ Steelers Steelers 49ers
Rams @ Redskins Rams Rams
Dolphins @ Jaguars Dophins Dolphins
Ravens @ Raiders Raiders Ravens
Cowboys @ Eagles Eagles Cowboys
Seahawks @ Packers (SNF) Packers Packers
Jets @ Colts (MNF) Jets Colts