NFL Week 6

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Cincinnati -7 vs Indianapolis:
The Colts burned me back in Week 3 when they nearly beat the Steelers and I'm looking for some pay-back here. I mentioned last week that the Bengals are throwing down a good defensive unit and we're likely to see another good game out of them this week, it sure helps to catch Indy without Addai and Manning. Not only are the Colts banged up offensively, their run defense is terrible. Cincy will pound the rock often allowing a surprisingly consistent Andy Dalton to hit a couple big plays off play action. Pick: Bengals

Atlanta -4 vs Carolina:
I'll admit Cam Newton has surprised me… A LOT. Unfortunately, he can't play defense too. Here's the deal - Atlanta needs this game badly, they cannot afford another loss. Which means they'll go with their ground game and it matches up well against the Panthers. The loss of Julio Jones is probably a bit overemphasized this week, so it doesn't bother me too much. I expect Newton to have another good game, but Atlanta's still a quality TEAM and should be able to overcome a one-man wrecking crew. Pick: Falcons

2 Team, 6 Point Teaser - Tease the Patriots down to -1 & the Raiders down to -1.5:
I really like both teams to get a win, but the big spreads make me uncomfortable. I know both the Browns and Cowboys are coming off a bye week, but the Browns simply don't have the quality players on defense (except Haden) to slow down the Raiders rushing attack & Tom Brady might throw 700 yards against that Dallas secondary. This is a very good teaser situation where we're crossing 7 & 3, the two most important numbers in NFL wagering.

There are a couple interesting intangibles in both games that make interesting talk radio chatter…

1. The Al Davis factor. I don't buy into the big letdown theory, it's more likely that Oakland gained confidence after going on the road and earning a quality win last week. This biggest difference between these two teams will be when the Raiders have the ball and Cleveland needs to stop them. That's what matters most.
2. The Ryan brothers get the best of Belichick. Does anyone actually think Belichick won't end this "rivalry" with the last laugh.

Pick: Patriots -1 & Raiders -1.5