I've broken my standard this week of publishing my picks BEFORE the games take place, But I've been too busy playing poker and working. But my first pick of the weekend was successful, and you will have to take my word for it (or check my bet365 account, but I don't want the embezzlement risk, so fat chance). I took the Pats & the shitty weather over Tampa Bay, despite Tom Brady's bum leg, and they came through, 28-0. (Spread was 4.5). On a similar note, I'm taking Chicago and their shitty weather(-3) over Atlanta. I'm also hoping that their speedy linebackers can contain Vick. If any defense can do a job on that guy it's this one.
Meanwhile, in order to protest the firing of Steve Mariuchi (sp?), and to attempt to get Matt Millen fired, Lions fans have organized the "Millen Man March" and the Orangeout. Fans are encouraged to wear Cincinnati Bengals colors and cheer for the Bengals during the game. Part of me thinks the Lions, who tend to overperform at home, (or is it underperform on the road?) will somehow make a game of it.
The other part of me thinks that is just fear talking.
In a similar situation, I bet against New Orleans opening day at Carolina, figuring that hurricane Katrina would leave the Saints even more vulnerable than usual. I was already looking ahead to taking the Giants the next week when the Saints played their "home" opener in the Meadowlands. Somehow New Orleans managed to pull off the upset, however, and they managed to scare me away from betting against them the following week, when the Giants destroyed them.
Then they went back to their losing ways.
Will the Lions be inspired by the contrived hostility of their own fans? If the Bengals are anywhere near the Colt busters some think them capable of becoming, they should kick the snot out of them. Are the Bengals 8.5 points better than the Lions? Yes. At Detroit? Yes. This weekend? I don't know.
Has this ever been done before?
I remember when the 'Aints fans wore bags over their heads back when New Orleans went 1-15. I don't think their fans ever were told to go out and buy some 'Niners gear and wear it to the game, though. Or any other rival gear.
Well, at this point I've just about talked myself out of my pick, but I've already thrown down. My money's on Cincy. Not that yours should be. If the Lions get pissed off I can see them losing by seven. But I've already bet on the Bengals.
That's my part of the Orangeout.
Since I'm in Korea, Chad Johnson jerseys are $15. Maybe I should get one of them too. Or Carson Palmer. To do my part. Fire Matt Millen.
Draft Reggie Bush.
I know, the Lions are 4-9, and there are at least 3 teams that will get to pick ahead of them. I know. But I can dream....
