Benster and D Pick Your Games -- It's Time To Have A Serious Conversation About The Packers Edition

No, I'm not bitter at all about what happened last week. 

Well, I am But it's a bitter resignation. Being a Packers fan is a guarantee of life lessons

And yes, I am still here. It's time to have a discussion about the Packers in the wake of the meltdown at Solider Field last weekend. 

Discussion, you say? Or a Very Special Comment?

Read on and find out. But first, we have business to attend to. I am still feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work. 

Buffalo Bills (+1) vs. Denver Broncos I've certainly been critical of Josh Allen in the past, but last week he showed me how tough he is. Jacksonville is a very good football team, and Allen took matters into his own hands in the fourth quarter to win, with his teammates making a big play on defense. This Bills team is the most experienced team left in the AFC, and you get the sense that they are like a college basketball team that is senior heavy and experienced in March Madness. Denver is a very tough minded team that looks like the Mike Shanahan teams I grew up watching. In particular, I consider RJ Harvey to be one of the most underrated players in the NFL. The thing is, the Broncos still have a pretty young core, and this Bills team feels like they are on a mission. Mile High is a tough environment, but I like the Bills to pull off a win that sets them up nicely to finally break through to the Super Bowl. Nobody Circles The Wagons Like The Buffalo Bills 24, Broncos 17. 

This weekend will have a theme, I think - this is the weekend the nice stories come to an end. With all the injuries the Bills have faced, Josh Allen may have too much to overcome. Denver is not a great team, but they have home field and a nasty defense. As great a magician as Josh Allen can be, he's run out of ladies to saw in half. Denver 27, Buffalo 23.

San Francisco 49ers (+7) vs. Seattle Seachickens As it turns out, Sam Darnold has really made the Vikings front office look questionable for letting him walk. I asked Mrs. D aka Mom if she would have kept Darnold knowing what we know now. She agreed that having an experienced backup would have helped, and that Darnold certainly has a point to prove to the Vikings. The thing is, he has turned up on the injury report and his health is going to be watched closely all night. The Niners certainly have experience and are proven threats, but the problem is that they are running out of bodies. As we saw last week with the Packers, even good coaching can't save you when practice squad guys have to play in positions that they likely weren't going to be in. I don't think Darnold is going to cough up a hairball again, as happened against the Rams last year. Seahawks 35, Niners 14. 

I have to admit - I am very surprised the Niners are still standing at this point. They have had an incredible run of bad injuries to key players. The latest guy to go down in George Kittle, their outstanding tight end and spirit animal. Darnold is likely to cough up a hairball at some point, but I agree, it won't be this week. Seattle 28, San Francisco 24.

Houston Texans (+3) vs. New England Patriots Both teams relied on very good defensive performances and got enough points thanks to their emerging star quarterbacks to get a good win last weekend. As someone who pays little attention to the Titans, it seems clear that Mike Vrabel wasn't the issue in Nashville, and because the Titans aren't good outside of their social media team, New England had an opportunity and wisely hired him and allowed him to build another good team; Vrabel obviously learned how to win in New England and his success as a player for the Patriots has spread to his coaching in Foxborough. The Texans have a great defense that travels very well, and are looking to break through to play in their first ever conference title game. I think that this game is going to be a lot of fun to watch. I feel like this is Houston's time and I've always liked CJ Stroud, even though I am no Buckeye fan. Texans 21, Patriots 20. 

This is the one game that doesn't involve a cute story - these are merciless teams with talent and resolve. The Texans are offensively challenged, but their defense is top-notch and they are not without weapons. I think the Patriots are actually a year ahead of schedule; they have the look of another multi-year contender, but while Drake Maye looks the part, I'm not sure he's seen a defense like the Texans yet. This one is tough to pick. I actually like the Texans more, but to keep it interesting... New England 21, Houston 20.

Los Angeles Rams (-4) vs. Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck As much as it pains me to say it given my obvious biases, the Bears did what they had to do last weekend, and the Bears fans who dealt with all of the jokes over the past decade or so do get to serve us some tasty crow. Here is the thing though -- the Bears remind me a lot of the 2014 Florida State football team. If you remember, the Noles went undefeated in the regular season and had won a bunch of games under improbable circumstances via second half comebacks and magic plays by Jameis Winston. I remember distinctly, while attending the Rose Bowl between Florida State and Oregon in 2015 (we had the good fortune to be there) thinking that the Noles were very much alive despite being down at the half in what had been a pretty solid game. But then Oregon came out and laid the hammer down brutally that afternoon in Pasadena. It is a fair question how much magic the Bears have, because eventually you can't come back every week from a subpar first half. The weather is going to be cold and snowy on Sunday night in Chicago, but Matthew Stafford has played in cold weather before and the Rams are a team that seems like they want to spoil the party in Chicago. And to quote Mark Dantonio, pride comes before the fall Bears. Rams House 31, Bears Still Suck 0. 

The Bears are vampires. Sean McVay is Van Helsing. It's become clear that Caleb Williams is a magician of the first rank - some of the throws he made to beat the Packers were nothing less than astonishing. Even though I hate 'em, the Bears are a cute, nice story. The problem they have this week is they don't have an answer for Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. They had trouble dealing with the Packers receivers and the challenge this week is far greater. On offense, Williams will have more trouble with the Rams, who have a better assortment of pass rushers than the Packers could muster without Micah Parsons on the field. The formula for a Bears win would be to run the ball down the throat of the Rams and to keep Matthew Stafford and his crew off the field. I don't think they'll be able to do that. And the league is already getting tired of Ben Johnson's shtick. Los Angeles 34, Chicago 20.

Miami Hurricanes (+8) vs. Indiana Hoosiers, in Miami. If you would have told me that Indiana football would play for a national title sooner than Indiana basketball, I would have called you insane. The Hoosiers have steamrolled both of their playoff opponents, and are getting ready to play a Miami team that has all of the bandwagon fans who were nowhere to be seen 5 years ago coming out of the woodwork. Miami is currently high on my list because of the Xavier Lucas affair where Miami induced him to transfer despite having signed a contract with the Badgers and not entering the transfer portal. As of this writing, the lawsuit is still pending. The good news is that this game is SEC free yet again, which I appreciate so much. As it turns out, the most important position in the SEC is the bagman. With NIL, the bagman doesn't exist in that form anymore. Even though the U gets to play in their own building, this Indiana team is ready to be the third different Big Ten school to win a title in a row, and the first one that isn't a traditional power. Google Them, They Win 24, 7th Floor Crew In Shambles 17.

Arms akimbo and kicking butt

Miami has been impressive in their run to the finals, but Indiana has been otherworldly. The emerging formula for college athletics in the NIL era seems to be if you want to be fun, you hire 5 star high school players, but if you want to contend for championships, you bring in battle-tested transfers. That's how Indiana has been doing this - their players are not as athletically gifted as their opponents, but they are grown-ass men and they cuff around the talented kids. Miami has some of both - I think their quarterback Carson Beck is closer to 30 than 20. While the Hoosiers have been nothing short of astonishing all season, they are not a nice story. They are on a mission, though, and I fully expect them to complete the mission.. Indiana 34, Miami 16.

And now, it is time for A Very Special Comment. The Packers really have to do some soul searching. When I consider what happened on Saturday to be as bad as the Seattle meltdown of 2014, that is when you should know that you done messed up. We just gave the Bears hope and momentum, and lost control of the rivalry. 

Not what you want.

Not at all, old dude! The bottom line for me is that there are 3 simple things that the Packers need to do right now to show that they understand what is going on. 

• Special teams needs an overhaul. I can't believe that I am saying this again, but it is time for a rethink. Rich Bisaccia is getting paid a ton of money, but he left at least 7 points on the board and almost had another disaster on the kickoff that Jacobs almost fumbled. Brandon McManus looks past his prime, and he cost the team at least 4 games. He didn't convert kicks that were key in the losses to the Bears, Panthers, Browns, and Eagles. I realize that I was spoiled by having Mason Crosby around for years to be clutch, but at some point this organization needs to take a serious look at getting guys in for special teams. Even being above league average would be much better. I expect this to be a key decision. 
• Matt Lafleur's fate is unknown as of this time in regards to being a lame duck coach, but he lost me. You knew well after the first meltdown at Solider Field that playing not to lose and letting your foot off the gas was a mistake. Well, the first few drives in the second half were plodding and playing to lose. The Packers let the crowd back into the game, and it's been the same themes for the past couple of years. After the game, it was yet more of "I need to be better" and the usual excuses. Matt, you aren't a young first time head coach anymore.
• It is time for some serious changes in the coaching staff. With Jeff Hafley likely being gone to take a head coaching job, it wouldn't surprise me if Lafleur is being told that getting some coordinators who aren't intternal hires. There needs to be some serious questions asked about if Lafleur is growing too stale. Considering that Mike Tomlin and John Harbaugh ended up moving on after accusations of being stale by Steelers and Ravens fans, it is a fair question. 

Ed Policy has shown himself to be more aggressive as the team president. I get the sense that he does want to be stable but also gets that the fanbase expects to win. Call it arrogance and being demanding, but Packers fans my age expect to win, and it has been 15 years since the Lombardi trophy has been back home. I don't think that the Micah Parsons trade would have happened under Murphy, and Policy is going to try very hard to get this team to be more bold in pursuit of championships. The thing is, the Packer way of getting rid of players a year too early needs to apply to coaches and executives as well. It wouldn't surprise me if Policy wants to bring in someone that he wants as a coach. How Lafleur's contract discussions are going will provide a huge sign of how aggressive the Packers are going to be. 

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out.

Benster and D Pick Your Games -- So We Get Round 3 Edition

So the Packers get the chance to go back to Solider Field and get the rubber match. 

Bring it on.

 Meanwhile, the SEC is going to be out of the national title game again for the third straight year. You really do hate to see it. By the time this post goes up, will Miami get to play Oregon or Indiana? 

Here's a hint:

So, at least Dan Lanning can't go back there.

He may need to Google that Sadly, I was not able to regain my crown in fantasy football because despite having another good week, my opponent decided to drop 140 points. I know that nobody cares about my fantasy team, but this is the second year in a row I have lost the title game. 

No, that's okay, I care. I care deeply. Really, I do.

Sarcasm does not become you, Geritol Fan! I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYPPPPPPEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

 Los Angeles Rams (-10.5) vs. Carolina Panthers I'll be honest when I say that the Panthers have been one of the biggest surprises of the year. They have had a lot of turmoil, but all of a sudden they were able to win the bad NFC South and get the reward of playing a Rams team that lost that epic Thursday nighter in Seattle. The Rams have rebounded nicely after paying the price for their all in title win, and probably don't appreciate going across the country on a short week. If you remember, the Panthers won their earlier matchup. I believe that the Panthers are going to play their usual tough game to get the Rams into the mosh pit. But while Carolina is going to be determined, I believe that the Rams will gut out a tough win. Rams 21, Panthers 19. 

Carolina is sneaky good, but I suspect the Rams might be the best team in the NFC and they will handle business tomorrow afternoon. Rams 34, Panthers 17.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (-1.5) vs. Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck So we all know what happened a couple of weeks ago at Soldier Field, and how both games between these two have been arguably been the game of the year. I was in favor of the Packers resting players because they have been too banged up in a similar fashion to 2016 where they had to chuck fringe NFL/UFL type guys to guard Julio Jones straight up. For Jordan Love and Caleb Williams, this is the game that they are going to be judged on. If you remember the 2010 NFC title game between these two teams, Jay Cutler's reputation never recovered from the unfair criticism he got that day. A Bears win won't fully erase that playoff loss, but this is a game that both Love and Williams can't lose. This Packer core that will play for the most part is the same as the one that made history two years ago against Dallas, and I like history repeating itself. Also, the Packers should have Jordan Love healthy for the entire game this time and the Bears can't keep relying on 4th quarter magic to bail them out of trouble again. Packers 21, Bears Still Suck 14.

The Bears themselves have been pretty quiet this week, but man, their fans have been insufferable. Perhaps the Packers have too many injuries, but I think they'll do well. The key guy is going to be Christian Watson. If he goes off, and I'm guessing he does, the Packers will move on. Packers 28, Bears 20.

Buffalo Bills (-1) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars While I personally think that Dave Canales should get Coach of the Year, Liam Cohen has also done a fantastic job. The Jaguars really have looked impressive, and in an AFC that is wide open given that the boogeyman of the AFC is at home they have a great chance. The problem is that Buffalo is experienced and is a team that is ready to take the next step. Josh Allen is at a point similar to Peyton Manning was in 2006. Allen has been brilliant and has revived the Bills, but hasn't been able to win the big one to this point in his career. With the Chiefs not being in the playoffs, this is a great chance for Allen to finally break through and win the ring that will silence all of the narratives forever. So while Jacksonville is a team that I like, Buffalo will use their experience to get this done. Nobody Circles The Wagons Like the Buffalo Bills 45, Jags 23. 

I think Jacksonville is, top to bottom, a better team. Buffalo has to go on the road and that will complicate matters further. While, I agree, nobody circles the wagons and all that, I'm thinking this one is where the Jags are overduuuuuuuuuuuuval. See, I can extend words, too! Jaguars 28, Bills 24.

San Francisco 49ers (+6) vs. Philadelphia Eagles Long time readers know that I am not a huge fan of Kyle Shanahan. I consider him a coach that while talented, is a coach who has not gotten it done for the Niners, despite having a loaded roster with Purdy on a cheap deal. This clearly has nothing to do with the Niners knocking out the Packers in the playoffs multiple times in the recent past, don't let that get in the way of this narrative. As for the Eagles, they somehow seem incapable of going a week without getting questioned despite being proven champions. This game is going to be a tough one, as the Niners lost their easy path to staying home all playoffs long after losing to the Seahawks last week. I like the Eagles to figure things out and finally let Jalen Hurts and their wideouts take them home. Eagles 35, Whiners 23. 

To be fair...

the 49ers have had some awful injuries, in some ways similar to what the Packers have gone through this season, and maybe worse. Philly is not the same team as last year, but they did not collapse down the stretch the way they did a few years back after winning a Super Bowl. I do believe they could return this year. To do that, they need to win this weekend And I believe they will. Eagles 27, Niners 19.

Los Angeles Chargers (+3.5) vs. New England Patriots The Patriots did the proper thing when Mike Vrabel was stupidly let go by the Titans and brought him back to New England to rekindle some of that old school vibes. These Patriots aren't as hated as the Cheatriots of old, and the only strike against Drake Maye in my book is helping Phil Longo get enough credibility to get a job with the Badgers. The Chargers are stuck in the cycle of good enough to make the playoffs but not do anything. With the AFC being wide open, New England should like their chances, but I like the Chargers to break through. Even though Jim Harbaugh can't win on a level playing field. Chargers 11, Patriots 8. 

Vrabel vs. Harbaugh is a fair fight. The Chargers are pretty good. The Patriots are better. Patriots 24, Chargers 16.

Houston Texans (-3) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Somehow, the Texans are not playing in the Saturday afternoon playoff game? Is nothing sacred in this world? The Steelers won their division last weekend on a crazy end of game sequence and I firmly believe that had the Ravens made that kick that Mike Tomlin would have been looking for work like John Harbaugh. It is nice to see Aaron back in the playoffs for the first time since he melted down in 2021 against the Niners. The Steelers haven't advanced in the playoffs since 2016 and that has been a big issue that the Yinzers have had with Tomlin. If Aaron can summon some of his old magic and the Steelers get enough splash plays from their highly paid defense, then I like the Steelers to win. Steelers 37, Texans 20. 

I hope this isn't the end for Aaron Rodgers, but I fear it will be. The Texans are a nasty group and while Rodgers is wily and will have DK Metcalf back, I think it's going to be too high a hill to climb. Texans 24, Steelers 13.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out.

Benster and D Pick Your Games-----Phil Longo Is Finally Gone Edition

 I am so glad that the Badgers fired Longo. He is one of the worst assistant coaches I have ever seen one of my teams hire, and I hope that the Badgers can hire someone competent. The bar is very low. We will talk about that later. 

Not sure why it didn't work; his credentials were good, but there seemed to be a mismatch of approach and available talent. Now we'll see what happens next. There are some attractive options out there.

Meanwhile, the Niners are coming into Lambeau banged up. Should be an interesting one.

No Purdy, no Bosa? That does change the calculus a bit.

I am feeling the HYYYYYYPPPEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

Penn State Nittany Lions (-11.5) vs. Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat Penn State is looking pretty good to get into the playoff, especially considering that the SEC is a complete mess outside of Texas. The Gophers have been looking good, but Penn State is going to be a tough out. If PJ can get to an early lead and play his style of ball, then the Gophers have a chance. But it is going to be a hard one. Even the most delusional Gopher fans would admit that. Nittany Lions 24, Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 10.

Having seen Penn State a few times, there's no disputing their talent, but I really don't believe James Franklin is a guy who can win the big game consistently. Fortunately for him, he doesn't have to do that this week. Penn State 28, Gophers 20.

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (+1.5) vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers You can't blame the defense for what happened last week, as they held Oregon in check. But 13 points from the offense was never going to win this game. At this point, why not start someone other than Locke? You have nothing to lose this week. Nebraska is looking better, but they also need a win to get to a bowl game. You don't want the bowl streak to come down to the Axe game. I want the Badgers to run the ball more, and frankly anyone besides Longo is an improvement to the offense by default. Oh, and if Nebraska wants to promise a win, you better deliver on it. Badgers 31, Nebraska 14.

Promises, promises. Raiola the freshman quarterback may have written a check he can't cash. Badgers have to have this one, and I think they will get it as well. Badgers 23, Nebraska 21.

Indiana Hoosiers (+10.5) vs. A School In Columbus I've been impressed with Indiana. They are a tough team, very well coached, and it's very rare that there is more optimism in Bloomington for the football team compared to the men's hoops team. Ohio State is going to be at home, but this is the toughest test they will have since the Oregon game back in October. You might remember that in 2020, Indiana got screwed over by the Big Ten office changing the rules for the conference title, thus giving rise to the Curse of the 6 Game Minimum. The football gods don't forget. I look forward to seeing that wrong be righted this weekend. Windiana 35, #NotMy2020BigTenChampions 21. 

Indiana has been a great story and I have been impressed with what they can do on the field. Tough minded, veteran bunch. Ohio State is another level, though. Ohio State 34, Indiana 25.

Minnesota Vikings (-3) vs. Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck Remember when Bears fans thought that they were finally going to get the Packers? Karl Brooks ended up ripping the heart out of Solider Field. Also, the Bears are sore losers. If they want to complain about leverage, then I am sure that they will admit that Caleb flopped to get a late hit or that the Bears got away with multiple holds all day, or that Swift left early on their last drive. But any mention of that is a felony offense in Cook County. Because I was watching the Packers, I only saw like 2 minutes of the Vikings game, and they ended up winning on their own merits as well as the Titans extending drives due to too many bad 3 down penalties.  The Vikings should win this game, as the Bears won't be able to use the element of surprise with their offense on them. Vikings 32, Bears Still Suck 13.

This is the type of game the Vikings would historically lose. But not this time. My guess is the Packers beat the Bears twice because they will still be fuming over last week and thus will not be mentally ready for the Purple. Will be interested to see how Caleb Williams reacts to the weird stuff that Flores will throw at him, too. Vikings 24, Bears 17.

San Francisco 49ers (+5.5) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers Just a note for the Packer haters that can't be refuted. Yes, the Packers have struggled in the postseason against the Niners. But the Packers have won the last two times they have played in the regular season, and both of those games were played out there. The Packers have had another close escape, and are going to get a break thanks to no Bosa or Purdy. Getting the head to head over the Niners would be good, as they are going to be desperate to get their ring before some tough questions are going to be answered this offseason. This won't be easy, but a comfortable win would be appreciated. Packers 27, Niners 10.

The 49ers will still have a lot of talent, but Brandon Allen is not going to lead a team to victory in Lambeau. Love has time without Bosa in his grill and he'll have a big game. Packers 31, 49ers 20.

And now, it is time for a list of people I would like the Badgers to hire to replace Longo. This list is in particular order.

Brian Hartline: Co Offensive Coordinator at Ohio State. With Chip Kelly having the offensive play calling duties this year, it wouldn't surprise me to see Hartline leave. Would be an elite recruiter, and has helped develop NFL talent. Would require a huge offer, but you have to make the call.

Tee Martin: QB coach for the Ravens. Has had experience in the college ranks, and has NFL ties. Helped develop Matt Barkley and Sam Darnold at USC. 

Tom Herman: Just fired at FAU. Coached with Fickell at Ohio State, and has a point to prove. Seems like a better coordinator than a head coach, given how his time at Texas and FAU ended. 

Andy Kotelnicki: Offensive Coordinator at Penn State. Would be a reach, but knows the conference. Has been a key part in why the Nittany Lions are so good offensively. And could tempt Penn State's backup QB to come with him. 

Dan Mullen: Analyst at ESPN. While he has been out of the game for a few years, he is a proven QB whisperer. Helped develop Alex Smith, Tim Tebow, and Dak among others. 

Gino Guidugli: QB coach at Notre Dame. Coached with Fickell in the past, and has had success with the Irish quarterbacks. Helped develop Ridder, and has ties to the Midwest.

Jason Eck: Head Coach at Idaho. An alum, and has done a good job at the FCS level.

Junior Adams: Co Offensive Coordinator and Wide Receivers Coach at Oregon. Has a very good track record in developing wideouts like Puca, Cooper Kupp, and Rome Odunze. Could see this as a promotion as being the sole OC, and has helped develop Nix and Gabriel given that Lanning is a defensive minded coach. 

Good list. If I were to guess, I'd think Herman is the likeliest choice. He's got history with Fickell and he's a very good offensive mind. Will be interested to see what happens.

That's the list. Enjoy your football this week. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----The Super Bowl That Nobody Asked For Edition

So, old dude, remember when a Lions-Bills Super Bowl was likely? That would have been fun. Instead, we are stuck with a boring matchup that nobody outside of Kansas City and the Bay Area asked for. You really do hate to see it. We will discuss Dan Campbell later. 

Kinda tired of both these teams. Not gonna lie. But we do have to finish this out.

And we will! Nevertheless, I am still feeling the HYYYYYYPPPEEEEEEEE! for Sunday, and am ready to pick this game. Watch me work. 

Taylor Swift Private Jet Tracker Kansas City Chiefs (+2) vs. San Francisco 49ers Oh, this game at least should be good. The Chiefs are back despite dealing with a ton of drops, dodging bullets, and an AFC that couldn't dethrone them despite other teams looking good. The Niners have a lot more pressure on them. You see, everyone talks about Kyle Shanahan as this genius, and how the Niners have a ton of talent. Both those things are not hot takes at all, but the thing is they have been denied in cruel ways. Remember, Shanahan was the second biggest culprit behind 28-3, and blew a lead to the Chiefs 4 years ago on the biggest stage, and needs this badly. The Niners also haven't won a Super Bowl since 1994, even though they have been close a number of times. The Niners remind me of the Giants before 2007, where they were often good but unable to close the deal. The Chiefs losing this Super Bowl won't harm Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes. Their legacy is secure, and even the greats have lost Super Bowls. I like the Niners to break through and finally get their ring. At the very least, they would be someone who haven't won in a while, and I respect that. Niners 29, Chiefs 19.

Deebo missed the boat that day he left the shack. But that was all he missed, and he is coming back.

Huh?

A musical interlude:

Oh my goodness, it's 70s poisoning!

I gotta be me, grasshopper.

Well, could you at least pick the game?

Sure, why not? And remember I could have picked this:

Looks like you just did. You're stalling.

I guess I am. Okay, here goes. I think the 49ers are more talented, but they've been scuffling through the playoffs. The Packers should have beaten them and the Lions certainly could have, if not for some questionable decisionmaking from their head coach, which I believe you'll be discussing anon. The Chiefs aren't necessarily the most buttoned-up outfit, either, but they seem to have their act together at this point. And I have learned not to bet against Andy Reid or Patrick Mahomes, even if they have to put faith in Kadarius Toney or Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Somehow it works. Chiefs 28, 49ers 23.

And now, it's time to dunk on Dan Campbell and the LOLions. You thought I was going to glance over that? Oh, you know I wouldn't. I've said that my problem with Dan Campbell isn't in his culture or as a motivator. He did produce the goods this year, and have no problem admitting that. But the constant aggressive playcalling was going to catch up with him. The bottom line is that the Lions had the Niners dead to rights, and thanks to Campbell giving up 6 points by trusting his offense, he ended up costing his team. Part of being a head coach is showing growth. He has been making the same mistakes for a long time, and refuses to change. The worst part is that this might have been the best chance for the LOLions. Da Bearz have a bunch of cap space and picks, the Packers have a bright future and are getting out from under Aaron's contract, and the Vikings will have better injury luck. You might have caused the Same Old Lions to come back. I hope you are happy Dan. If I were the Lions front office or ownership, I would have ordered him to dial back the aggression and hired a situational management coach to protect Campbell from himself. He needs to learn to be smarter as a game manager. 

I can't argue with you.

Arguing with me never works any way. But hey, thanks so much for reading us this year, and enjoy your football this weekend. For the last time this year, Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games-----Joe Barry Is Finally Gone Edition

 Yes, I'm still here after what happened last weekend in the Bay Area. Bottom line is that there were mistakes made by the entire team, and as long as they don't waste this failure, they will be back. No need to do a Very Special Comment, since that would be unfair. 

This season turned out so much better than I could have expected. Yes, they kinda blew it against the Niners, but I see a path forward, especially because of something that happened later in the week.

The Packers also did the right thing by getting rid of Joe Barry. While the guy had some success down the stretch, the defense needed a new voice. Whoever that new voice is, I hope that he can bring success to the team.

Precisely the event I was referencing. Some of the apparent candidates are promising. Eager to see what happens. Meanwhile, football season continues, right?

That's right, Geritol Fan! I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYPPPEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

Taylor Swift The Eras Tour Live From Baltimore Kansas City Chiefs (+3.5) vs. Baltimore Ravens So this game is going to be an interesting one. After ripping the soul out of the Bills fans last week in Buffalo, the Chiefs are looking to get back to the Super Bowl. Oddly, we haven't seen a Mahomes/Lamar playoff meeting yet for whatever reason. The Ravens feel like a team that is very hungry for success and Lamar is having the type of run that will shatter all of the narratives about him. What is going to decide this is that the Ravens defense is a very physical one, and will contain the Chiefs. Also, look for Mahomes's weapons to let him down once again. Ravens 26, Chiefs 22.

Like this?

Forget the Boney Moronie, it's the Toney Moron-ey

That would be the appropriate scenario. Ravens have been on a mission all season. Lamar makes me nervous, but I think they get it done this time. Ravens 31, Chiefs 23.

Detroit LOLions (+7) vs. San Francisco 49ers The Niners did ride their luck last week against the Packers, but did make enough plays to win in the end, and it's fair to acknowledge that. Having Deebo Samuel be available for this game is a huge boost, as the Niner offense looked very shaky without him. There is a lot of pressure on the Niners to win this game to avoid not having a ring and for their front office to make some difficult decisions. But there is pressure on the Lions. They have yet to win a road playoff game since 1957, which is a long time ago. It goes without saying that this is the best chance the Lions have had to win a championship in most people's lifetimes, and with the rest of the NFC North getting better, who knows what the future holds. For the loser of this game, this will be one of those games that will be a tough one to lose. When in doubt, go for the desperate team at home. Niners 45, LOLions 23.

My guess is it will be closer than that, but I agree. The Lions have a tendency to do something inexplicable in big moments. They are absolutely stepping up in class as well. The 49ers can be beaten - there's no question of that. Whether the Lions will get it done is another matter. 49ers 28, Lions 24.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games-----LOL Cowboys, Cowboys Fans, And Skip Bayless Edition

I have one simple question to start. How Bout Them Cowboys? Seeing the Packers go into Jerry World and just lay waste to the Cowboys gave me vicarious joy. Oh, we are going to laugh at them later.

Why wait? Let's laugh at them now!

Jerrah and Dak are not happy

I have more to say, but that's a good start, although I'm surprised that Jerry Jones isn't using his giant forehead for advertising space. I also need to offer a sincere apology to the Packers. Earlier this year I called for everyone to be fired. I'm glad that I blew that take, and that's on me for being reactionary to a bad run. 

I don't know why things changed, but things have improved a lot in the ol' 54301.

I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYYYPPPEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

Houston Texans (+9.5) vs. Baltimore Ravens The Texans had an equally impressive performance, and I feel like the DeMeco Ryans deserves to be named Coach of the Year. Houston has gone from being a terribly run organization to an organization that nailed their head coach hire, nailed finding the right quarterback, and seems to be steps ahead of where most thought they would be. But this won't be easy in Baltimore. The Ravens are arguably the most complete team in football, and Lamar really seems like a man on a mission to prove the doubters wrong, and I am not surprised that fellow Knox alum Todd Monken has done a great job in changing the offense to better suit Lamar's strengths. I like the Ravens to win a game that is going to be close into midway through the third quarter into a deceptive score. Ravens 35, Texans 17.

I really like Stroud and I believe he and Love will face each other next season, which should be fun. Baltimore will not be fun for the Texans, however. I think the Ravens are simply better top to bottom and will prevail. Ravens 31, Texans 23.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+9.5) vs. San Francisco 49ers Last week was the best playoff performance the Packers had since the 2010 blowout against the Falcons. Nobody gave this young Packers team a chance, but they played almost a perfect game to be the first 7 seed to win a playoff game. But this won't be an easy trip to the Bay Area on a short week. The Niners have very good reason to believe that they are going to win the Super Bowl, and are going to be very healthy and rested after their bye. But I have been sensing a little bit of nerves among Niners fans. Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch have done a great job the past few years, no question. But they haven't broken through, and if this game gets tight late, there could be some doubts about if another playoff loss is coming. The Packers have nothing to lose. Even if they get blown out, this team has done way more than I could have fairly asked for, and the future is looking bright with more cap space coming. They won't get blown out. Packers 13, 49ers 10.

Oh, they could get blown out, but I don't think they will be, either. Having said that, it's going to take even more to beat the Niners than it did last week. Do they have enough, especially when stopping Christian McCaffrey is the assignment? 49ers 31, Packers 27.

Tampa Bay Bucs (+6) vs. Detroit LOLions Tampa deserves a ton of credit for rebounding after Gisele's ex finally retired. They have a defense that plays, and a win here would really be a strong Ewing Theory case study. I am happy for the Lions and their fans. I've made a lot of jokes about them in the past and am not a big fan of Dan Campbell as an in game coach, but they've validated the hype that they were given. This feels like the type of game that Baker really wants. He would love nothing more than to go to the Motor City and spoil the party. I think that Baker will do just that, with help from a Bucs defense that wants to remind everyone that they want to be remembered as winning a Lombardi trophy as the heart and soul of the team, not Gisele's ex. Bucs 28, LOLions 12.

I'm not sure if Tampa was impressive or if the Eagles were terrible last week, but if I had a guess I would go with the Eagles being terrible. Tampa is a good team but I can see the Lions figuring out how to stop him. This will be a fun game, but I see the Lions moving on. Lions 27, Bucs 20.

Taylor Swift's Football Era Kansas City Chiefs (+2) vs. Buffalo Steakhouse Analogy For the first time, Patrick Mahomes will be playing a true road playoff game. This is the first time that these two teams have played each other in the playoffs since the infamous 13 Seconds sequence two years ago. The Bills need this one, as Mahomes has been the guy who has ruined their playoff dreams in this current era of AFC football. If Buffalo doesn't win, then a lot of questions are going to be asked about the Bills and their core, coaching staff, and front office. When in doubt, pick the desperate team at home. Last time I checked, this game was in Buffalo. Nobody Circles The Wagons Like The Buffalo Bills 50, Too Many Chiefs Commercials 49.

This one will be flat-out hostile. Buffalo's inconsistency really troubles me, but this Chiefs team is not as good as previous editions. The elements will not be a factor, but I think the Bills break through as well. Bills 34, Chiefs 31. 

And now, it's time to dunk on the Cowboys. God, seeing the Cowboys get destroyed after all of the talking they did. All this talk about the Packers being an easy opponent, how they were going to end the curse now that Jimmy Johnson got in the Ring of Honor, all of Skip Brainless talking about how his Cowboys were going to dominate, and they come out like that? It's time to admit that even though the Cowboys may have dominated the Packers in the 1990s, that was against the historical trend. Skip, why don't you just admit that you hate the Packers because the Packers ruined your childhood during the Ice Bowl. Cry more. 

The best part is that Jerry decided to keep Mike McCarthy around. We warned you, Dallas. We told you that he needs high end talent to bail him out of trouble, and that he was a big reason why the Packers didn't get the second ring for Aaron. But you didn't listen, and are doubling down on him. Jerry once again has proven that he learned nothing from March of 1994. 

You want to know what advice I'd give to Jerry? Simple. He won't listen to this, but he has two options. The first one is to get him and Stephen away from football operations and let the professionals do their jobs. You want to know why the Yankees were so good in the 1990s-early 2000s? It's because Gene Michael and Buck Showalter were able to have the time they needed to fix the problems that George Steinbrenner caused with his constant meddling with the front office after he got banned from baseball. The second option I would tell Jerry is one that he would never do, but at this point should be considered. Sell the team. The Cowboys at this point aren't as much a football team but more a vanity brand for Jerry, and he ain't doing a good job as an owner. Even Cowboys fans agree. But Jerry won't sell the team. At this point, he's a liability as an owner, but nobody wants to admit it. I'm dead serious. Coaches and players have changed, but Jerry is the constant since the last time the Cowboys made the NFC title game. 

Enjoy your football this weekend. Also, if you are looking for something to do on Saturday the 20th, go to the Border Battle to watch some high school basketball. It's at Benilde St. Margaret's in St. Louis Park. You'll be glad you did. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----I Have A Point About The Bills Edition

 It turns out that the Bills laid an egg against the Bengals. Thank God that the neutral site conference championship game idea is dead in the water, at least for now. But the greedy profiteers in the NFL will bring it up again. 

Yeah, probably. And it would suck. 

That final play by the Cowboys last week was hilariously awful. Zeke as the center? Nobody being able to lateral the ball to? Why not take a quick out route to get 5 yards closer to try a Hail Mary? We tried to warn you, Cowboys fans. But we were told that McCarthy had changed and that Packers fans had an agenda. Hope the 1990s were worth it, because you ain't winning with Jerruh running the show.

I think I know what they were trying to do, but it wasn't gonna work. And it sure didn't.

I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYPPEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Should be a good weekend of football. Watch me work.

San Francisco 49ers (+2.5) vs. Philadelphia Eagles The Eagles steamrolled the Giants last week, and this will be an interesting clash between a very modern offense that the Eagles run against the very physical smashmouth style that the Niners run. Brock Purdy has had a pretty easy ride so far, and while he has been impressive, I would caution the Niners on anointing Purdy as the quarterback of the future based on one good run. While the NFL might stand for Not For Long, Trey Lance shouldn't be Wally Pipped, and Jimmy G could still do a job for a QB needy team in the offseason. The Eagles have no such concerns. Jalen Hurts is the guy, and while this game will be close, the Eagles will roll at home behind their defense shutting down the Niner ground game, and Hurts to play a balanced game. Eagles 31, Niners 24.

If there's a team built to win in the postseason, it's the 49ers. They have a tremendous defense and some incredible skill players. Purdy seems like a game manager, but a good one. Oddly enough, considering Philly is the #1 team, I really haven't seen that much of them this season. They are a really solid, all-around team. But I don't see anything particularly magical about them. Are they good enough? Maybe, but I just have a feeling about this one. 49ers 27, Eagles 24.

Cincinnati Bengals (+1.5) vs. Kansas City Chiefs At this point, Jim Nantz and Tony Romo should be paying income tax in Kansas City considering how often they go there in January. Mahomes says that he is good to go, but this is going to be a challenge. The Bengals had a point to prove last week, and showed why they might be the most complete team in football. Joe Burrow had a good game, but the Bengals defense was able to shut down the Bills, who showed that all of the media hype they got all year was undeserved, but more on then later. Now, all of the professional journalists are making the same points I made last week, without the steakhouse analogy. Don't worry, I did get some steak this week, and have a full stomach to work on. The Bengals have proven that they can win in Arrowhead, and the Chiefs are going to have to make some tough choices this offseason thanks to Mahomes having his big contract start to eat up the salary cap. I like the Bengals to win in comfortable fashion, as they try and finish their unfinished business. Bengals 26, Chiefs 3.

Hmmm. I was impressed with the Bengals. I wonder if Mahomes will be able to play up to his usual standard. I think the Bengals defense is better overall than Kansas City's defense. It really comes down to this -- does Mahomes have the physical wherewithal to play at the level required to win this game? I'm thinking, no. Bengals 31, Chiefs 23.

And now, it's time to talk about the Bills. I'll be honest, the Bills really have some tough choices to make, and they might have to move a big piece or two. That might make me a wanted man in Buffalo, but they made all of those moves and the furthest they have gotten is getting blown out by the Chiefs two years ago in the AFC title game. Despite all of the moves that the Bills front office has made, Josh Allen still hasn't taken the next step, and all the questions about him being the guy coming out of Wyoming are coming back. They aren't the plucky underdogs anymore, and need to break through. Even the 1990s Bills at least won 4 straight conference titles, and had the misfortune to run into very good teams in those Super Bowls. At this point, Josh Allen, Stefon Diggs, Sean McDermott, and Brandon Beane have their seats get hotter, and if they can't reach the AFC title game next year, then you have to consider blowing up that core. The good news for the Bills, is that there is one team who could have blown it up but didn't.

In 2019, the Tampa Bay Lightning made NHL history for all the wrong reasons. Despite winning 62 games during the regular season and tying the 1996 Detroit Red Wings for the most wins in NHL history, the Lightning were swept in the first round of the playoffs by a Columbus Blue Jackets team that had never won a playoff series in their existence. There were calls to blow up the core, and fire John Cooper from his role as head coach. The Lightning ignored those calls, and won the Stanley Cup in 2020 and 2021, and lost in the Stanley Cup Finals in 2022 to the Colorado Avalanche. 

You don't blow up the Bills just yet, but the clock is starting to tick on them. This year might have been their best chance. The alarm clock is ringing, Buffalo. I suggest you answer it. 

Time has come today

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out.