Benster and D Pick Your Games -- Do You Want Round 3 Or The Eagles Edition

So as a quick disclaimer, I saw very little of both the Packers and Vikings because we were out of town last weekend. 

Yep, and we saw stuff like this:

Shoot your shot in Fort Smith, Arkansas

And in the case of the Packers, that probably was for the best as Derrick Henry is probably still running through the defense. 

As for the question in the title, because a trip to Chicago or a trip to Philadelphia would both would give the Packers a chance for revenge. Winning a potential round 3 against the Bears would mean that the Packers would once again win a huge game in the context of the rivalry, in da Bearz house. Also going into Philly would get the taste of last year out of their mouths. 

The taste of a cheesesteak marinated in bile.

Not good eatin', to be sure Either result would be fine with me. 

I would prefer a trip to Chicago, because historically we don't get to break out the Happy Schnapps Combo when the Packers beat the Eagles, but your mileage may vary.

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

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+9.5) vs. Minnesota Vikings Quite honestly, I have no issues with resting the starters against the Vikings. They have nothing to gain by winning, and given how this team resembles a walking hospital unit at this point, I have no problem turning things over to Clayton Tune with a week of prep and having Desmond Ridder serve as the backup. My issue with the Packers last week was that knowing that Lamar Jackson was going to be out, I would have thrown everything into stopping the run game and forcing the Ravens to win by passing down the field. To not do it was a bad coaching decision. The Vikings aren't playing for jobs, but this offseason is going to have a lot of interesting questions. I think that KOC is pretty safe, but it wouldn't surprise me if the front office gets a shakeup and the Vikings might move a couple of big pieces because they have locked themselves into a team that is near the top of the cap and could see Flores get a second shot at a head coaching gig. As for the Packers, if they can find a pass rush like they did back in November, they can beat JJ McCarthy and go into either Philadelphia or Chicago with some momentum. Packers 18, Vikings 17. 

That 9.5 line is a sucker bet. Do we assume the Vikings can score 10 points? They've had trouble scoring no matter who plays quarterback. I think McCarthy will want to prove a point, but I'm not convinced he can. This could be a really bad football game. Packers 16, Vikings 9.

Detroit LOLions (+3) vs. Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck So the Bears got a huge assist from the Eagles, who will likely resting players, and are likely going to want to get the chance of a home game in the divisional round. The thing is, Dan Campbell is the type of coach who is going to want to make things tough on the Bears and his old understudy, Ben Johnson. I figure that the Bears are going to play their starters for a good chunk of the game, and are hoping that they can get through this game healthy. Jared Goff had an epic meltdown last week with his decision to hand out a bunch of gifts at US Bank Stadium. Thankfully, his performance didn't cost my fantasy team in our bid to win a second title in three years and also make the title game for a third straight year. You love to see it. LOLions 26, Bears Still Suck 15. 

This game has bad karma written all over it for the Bears. The Lions played terribly last week and they will not want to end their season in last place, which would be the result of a loss. The Bears need to be careful here. Lions 28, Bears 24.

 Enjoy your football this weekend. It's almost certain you probably will enjoy it more than the SEC and their enablers Paul Finebaum and Clay Travis. Ben out.

Benster and D Pick Your Games --The Vikings Are In A Tight Spot With Their Quarterbacks Edition

The Vikings came into Lambeau with a lot of intentions, but as it turned out the Packers have pushed more questions on the Vikings and if made the right decision with the JJ McCarthy gamble.

I  have it on good authority that Kwesi is getting a little queasy.

Meanwhile, the Packers don't have to play on Thanksgiving every single year.

The NFL seems to disagree. Maybe they could try the Jaguars, who have never appeared on Turkey Day.

What could be more traditional than teal-colored predator cats?

Blue and silver predator cats?

Yes. And the Lions are looking for revenge after what happened in September. I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYPPPPPPPPPPPEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work. 

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+3) vs. Detroit LOLions Okay, Geritol Fan, let's get this out of the way. Do you have Grumpy Lions guy ready?

As you wish.

You know him, you love him, you can't live without him

Good job - have an extra Carter's Little Liver Pill on me. The Packers are banged up, but thanks to the special teams actually doing something and the pass rush making the Vikings offensive line rethink their life decisions, last week was an emphatic statement. Also, the Packer defenders doing the Skol chant was the funniest celebration I've seen from the Packers since Jaire did the Griddy in the face of the Griddy Man. The Lions struggled against the Giants, and in September looked very helpless against a motivated Packers team. The problem is that because the Bears won't stop winning, the Packers have to win out to win the division. This won't be easy, but the key difference is that this time Micah Parsons is fresher and will not be on a snap count. I like the Packers in this one. Packers 27, Lions 13. 

The Lions are still (a) enormously talented and (b) boneheads. The Packers defense will have to win this game and the key is keeping the Lions running backs from going nuts. If Jared Goff has to think about Micah Parsons on a regular basis, you'll know it's gonna be a tough one for the Kitties. Packers 27, Lions 26.

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (-1.5) vs. Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat The Badgers being a road favorite in conference play seems strange to me. After what the Badgers did last week, it shows that the young guys want to win and turn this thing around. The Gophers have nobody to blame but themselves for what happened against the Purple Nerds, and I get the sense that they are going to be tight because winning the Axe is important. Fickell has earned back a little goodwill, but getting the Axe back would really give him some goodwill. If you remember, the Gophers winning the Axe in 2018 gave PJ some credit in the bank to kickstart their 2019 run. Just remember that and don't be surprised by this score. Badgers 37, Row Row Row Your Boat 15. 

Before we proceed, a musical interlude:

Now there's a zoot suit for ya.

Old dude, you're not getting better, you're getting stranger.

No lies detected. Can I be honest with you? If the Badgers win on Saturday, I will be surprised. I do not dispute they are playing better than they had earlier in the season, and no one is going to confuse the Gophers with the Oregon Ducks or the Ohio State Buckeyes, but they have talent on both sides of the ball and a competent (if supremely irritating) coach. Would like to see the Axe leave town, but I don't think it will. Gophers 24, Badgers 17.

Minnesota Vikings (+11.5) vs. Seattle Seachickens In a twist of fate, the Vikings are going to be seeing their old buddy Sam Darnold for the first time as an opponent. Now, you can't judge the decision that the Vikings made to move on from Darnold based on what happens on Sunday. But that won't stop people from making that comparison. I asked Mrs. D aka Mom about who should be the QB next year, and she indicated that there is a 50/50 chance it is a QB on the roster or the Vikings could get someone else. The Vikings need this one badly, as they are in danger of being cut adrift in both the NFC North and playoff races given how good the Seachickens, Niners, and Rams are. The bottom line is that the Vikings better win and outplay Darnold with either Brosmer or McCarthy because then the heat on KOC and the front office will get lava hot. Thankfully, something tells me that Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are going to put the team on their back and get it done. Vikings 29, Seachickens 16. 

I am not conviced the Seahawks are a great team, but right now the Vikings are a hot mess and asking a rookie quarterback to win in Seattle seems like a bit much. Maybe Max Brosmer is capable of being a junior grade Brock Purdy, but I think he could just as easily be Shaun Hill. And that's not the hill to die on. I bet Darnold coughs up a hairball or two, but in the end... Seahawks 20, Vikings 13.

Happy Thanksgiving, and enjoy the football this weekend. Ben out.

Benster and D Pick Your Games -- We Got Micah Parsons Edition

Hey, we're back!

We are! So do we need a marketing photo?

Why can't you leave me out of this?

I'm not sure that's helpful, and besides, we'll get to him next week, I'm guessing.

Lotta things are getting to him, to be fair.

Good point, although if you wear that dirty Spurs cap no one will see it. Meanwhile, back to business. I can't believe that the Packers were able to get Micah Parsons. The Super Bowl window is wide open for the Packers. You love to see it, old dude.

It is a game-changer, potentially. It's also the sort of bold move the Packers rarely make. Makes things more interesting to be sure.

 Meanwhile, the Vikings are about to enter the JJ McCarthy era. Lots of discussion around here about how they are going to do and about the big quarterback decision. 

Presumably, you have an opinion, right? 

Well, yeah. I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYYPPPEEEEEEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

Northwestern State Devils (+43) vs. Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat So in the interest of full disclosure, I saw part of the first quarter of the Gopher game last Thursday because the Wisconsin game ended up stating around an hour later. That being said, the Gophers had a pretty comfortable win after Buffalo gave them a battle for the first half. Northwestern State isn't a particulary good FCS team, and I think that the Gophers should be able to win this one pretty comfortably. Drake Lindsey seems like he could be good, but will have the growing pains that a lot of freshmen QBs have. Let's face it, if the Gophers struggle in this game then there should be some concerns. Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 45, Devils 17. 

I suppose ol' Peej could have scheduled the University of Northwestern, the pride of Roseville. That would have been worse. Al and Alma would be tougher competition, most likely, but a paycheck is a paycheck. Gophers 45, Northwestern Mutual Life 0.

 Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (+28.5) vs. Beloved Wisconsin Badgers Last week was a strange one. I thought that Billy Edwards was looking good until he went down, but thankfully the Badgers were able to win because the defense made enough plays and Danny O'Neil settled in nicely in the second half after throwing a bad interception. O'Neil looks a lot better than Locke did, so that is a positive. Middle Tennessee didn't look good last week, and I feel confident that with O'Neil getting a full week to prepare as the starter that this should be a fairly routine game. Badgers 50, Blue Raiders 0.

Middle Tennessee lost to Austin Peay last week. For those keeping score, Austin Peay is located in Clarksville, Tennessee and is the alma mater of ABA legend Fly Williams. I also recall MTSU beat the Gophers in the NCAA basketball tournament back when Pitino Junior was coaching the squad. So that's amusing. More amusing than this game will be. Don't play with your food, Bucky. Wisconsin 31, MTSU 3.

Detroit LOLions (+2) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers The Packers took the leap from a team that was expected to be a possible contender to a team with serious Super Bowl ambitions thanks to Gutey swinging the Parsons deal. Job number 1 is for them to start winning division games, especially at home. Parsons is going to be a lot of fun, but it is going to take the coaches time to get him bedded into the system. The Lions are coming into this season in an interesting spot. Yes, they are healthier, but the problem is that Dan Campbell lost his elite coordinators to head coaching jobs. Also, the way that they melted down against the Commies last January felt like what happened to the Packers in 2021 against the Niners. I expect the Packers are going to need to protect Jordan Love and get Parsons to make a play or two against Jared Goff. This won't be easy, but the Packers have gotten a lot better in the offseason. Packers 27, LOLions Gonna LOLions 24.

Have the Packers gotten a lot better? I hope so, but I don't know if that's true. I do think the Lions take a step back, but there was more than a step separating these teams last year. The Lions come in with something to prove. Can they? Packers 31, Lions 27.

Minnesota Vikings (-1.5) vs. Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck The Vikings and the Bears both have a lot of questions at quarterback. The Bears have surrounded Caleb Williams with a lot of resources to succeed, but it seems to me like he is behind a couple of his peers already, and though I am biased the Bears need to show that they are deserving of all of the hype they are getting from the NFL media. As for the Vikings, I personally would have kept Sam Darnold. The problem I see is that KOC has had success with veteran quarterbacks in the past. Goff, Stafford, Kirko, and Darnold all were veterans. JJ McCarthy is young and frankly has only played a little bit in the preseason.

 So what would success look like for him? I decided to ask Mrs. D, aka Mom. She indicated that success for her would be winning both games against the Packers and winning a playoff game. That is a good way to get the Vikings fans firmly on his side. 

Always trust content from Mrs. D.

I personally think that McCarthy is in a tough position. He has a lot of offensive talent around him and a QB whisperer as a head coach. It isn't like Jordan Love where he had few veterans around him or Caleb Williams with a badly run organization who has set other hyped QB prospects up to fail. McCarthy is going to have to win against the Bears and Lions as well to continue with Mom's thoughts. Monday night should go well. Vikings 36, Bears Still Suck 35. 

Until da Bearz prove it, I also have to pick the Vikings. I suspect it won't be a high-scoring game, though. The strength of the Vikings is on defense, as they kept their hotshot defensive coordinator, Brian Flores. And Da Bearz have been known to play defense. I am guessing they'll have something weird for J.J., but he has the weapons to beat those nasty ursine wretches. Vikings 24, Bears 16.

Wait, we agreed on everything?

Don't worry, that won't last.

 Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out.

Benster and D Pick Your Games----Please Beat the Chiefs Edition

 I think that I speak for a lot of people when I say that I really hope someone beats the Chiefs. 

That does seem to be the prevailing sentiment. And it's one I share.

I'm also happy for Ryan Day. Look, I am far from a Buckeye fan. But seeing him get to stick it in the faces of those crazy Buckeye fans that sent death threats to him and his family after the Michigan game was pretty awesome. And it really confirms that the Big Ten has changed the narrative surrounding the SEC. You do love to see it. 

While it remains to be seen if it's going to be a long-term trend, I am certainly okay with Big Ten teams winning championships, although maybe it would be cool if it weren't the resident Death Stars once in a while. The most heartening thing was seeing Indiana finally get a moment in the sun.

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

Washington Commanders (+6) vs. Philadelphia Eagles I wasn't shocked that the Commanders went into Detroit and ripped the soul out of the Lions. I do appreciate Brad giving me props for being right on the 45 points that Jayden Daniels put up. The Eagles are a very complete team and were able to shut down the Rams last week in bad weather. What I believe the key to this game is that the Commanders are playing with house money. Nobody had this team making the NFC title game, and all of the pressure is on the Eagles. I believe that Jalen Hurts is going to struggle a bit, and the Commanders are going to pull up another impressive road upset. I am getting some 2007 Giants vibes from the Commanders. Hail to the Commanders 26, Cry Eagles Cry 24.

That's an interesting comparison. I have to say that Jayden Daniels has surprised me. He's dynamic in all the right ways but he seems to have an advanced understanding of the game and rarely makes bad decisions. My concern with him will be injuries, because he plays in a style that leaves him susceptible to getting rocked by the ill-intentioned linebackers. Which brings us to the Eagles, who have guys like that on their squad. This game will turn on Washington's ability to slow down Saquon Barkley. Hey, bold observation, right? The Communards (or whatever we're calling them) do have have a stout defensive line, which helps. The Eagles are huge and wear teams down; that's what they did to the Packers and the Rams. It may be a more difficult assignment this time. Eagles 27, Community Notes 21.

Buffalo Bills (+2) vs. Kansas City Chiefs The Chiefs and Bills both were able to get past a couple of game opponents. I will admit that the Texans complaints about the zebras feel like an attempt to cover up that CJ Stroud and the Texan special teams really didn't rise to the occasion. That being said, Patrick Mahomes really seems to be going looking to draw a flag in the same manner as James Harden does. The Bills gutted out a tight win against the Ravens thanks to Lamar making a throw that needed to be a bit better. You still have to catch that if you were Mark Andrews, and now you know why I was disappointed with the results when I drafted him as my tight end in fantasy football. This Bills team feels different. It seems that Sean McDermott has decided to let Josh Allen really take the lead, and the Bills were able to beat the Chiefs straight up. This seems like the year that the Bills finally are able to have the breakthrough that they want. Something tells me that Tim Russert is going to be smiling in heaven Sunday night. Nobody Circles The Wagons Like The Buffalo Bills 42, Chiefs Fatigue 36.

The difference this year? Buffalo can run the ball when they need to. That makes a big difference. Josh Allen can take charge because he has options he didn't have before. Having said that, the Chiefs are different, too. This is not a high-flying offensive team, although they can score. The Chiefs win with defense and they have been doing it all season long. Buffalo will need to score early and score consistently to win this one. I don't see 42 points as being possible. 28? Maybe. And will that be enough? Buffalo 28, Kansas City 27.

And now, it's time to laugh at the Lions. All of this talk about how the Same Old Lions weren't back, and how you were going to win the Super Bowl. The problem -- this is the NFL, and nothing is promised. As a Packers fan, I know for a fact how hard it is to win a Super Bowl and this is the type of loss you don't recover from. Congrats on winning 15 games and not winning a playoff game. The bottom line is that Dan Campbell didn't learn a thing from the Niners meltdown. Calling a wide receiver pass when you were down was a bad call, and not knowing that there were 12 men on the field on that 4th down was coaching malpractice. You may know how to build a great culture, but the bottom line is that the Lions failed. Jared Goff ended up showing why the Rams got rid of him. He played horribly, and I honestly don't know where he goes from here. After laughing at the Packers and the Vikings, the Lions had the chance to back up all of the talk. They didn't. I got flashbacks to the 2021 disaster that my Packers had against the Niners. Now the Lions need to understand that things might go south without their coordinators. Instead of trying to run all of these cool trick plays from Madden, why don't you take a good look at if Dan Campbell can manage a game? Because at the end of the day, he didn't put his team in a position to win. Putting your team in a position to win is the most important thing about being a head coach. Like LaFleur and KOC, Campbell has to answer to that. 

I will be interested to see what happens. Campbell has delegated a lot of work to his coordinators, which on balance is a good approach, but he'll need individuals of similar quality to keep things humming in Detroit. The division is still going to be tough next year and if da Bears can find a way to overcome their bumbling ways, especially in the front office and ownership boxes, they could be trouble, too.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games------Is The NFC North Frauds Edition

Remember when the NFC North was called the deepest division in NFL history? Yeah, that take didn't age well. And thankfully, I got a working laptop again, so my brilliance will flow stronger than ever. 

If you do say so yourself. I dunno. Philly is a tough place to win. The Rams played well. I wouldn't minimize what the Packers and the locals did this season, but yeah, Detroit needs to represent. That's called foreshadowing

The NFC North can go and join the SEC in the overhyped in 2024 party. You can see Greg Sankey and SEC hype men Clay Travis and Paul Finebaum looking upset at the buffet. 

Is it the breakfast buffet at the Drury? Because that's usually pretty good.

No, and besides you know you're not supposed to eat all those biscuits. And trust me on this - where Sankey, Travis and Finebaum eat is more likely a place where everything is deep fried. But enough food references - I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYPPEEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

Houston Texans (+8.5) vs. Kansas City Chiefs I think that I speak for most of America when I am begging for someone to beat the Chiefs. The Patriots may have fallen into a rebuild, but the idea of the Patriots wasn't killed. I think that the Chiefs are like the 2011 Packers. The record is very impressive, but the Chiefs have needed either some Mahomes magic or some late game mistakes by their opponents to get that record. The Texans are a sneaky good outfit. They looked great against the Chargers, and I think that Stroud is ready to take the next step in his evolution as a star. Remember, the weather isn't going to be great in Kansas City tomorrow. I trust Joe Mixon to be the difference maker. Texans 36, Chiefs 29.

I would love that, but I don't see it happening. Cold weather will work to the advantage of the Chiefs. I think Stroud learned some things this year that will help him be a top echelon quarterback in the league in the future, but as a group the Texans are not there yet. Chiefs will win this one. Chiefs 27, Texans 17.

Washington Gridlocks (+9.5) vs. Detroit LOLions I think Dan Quinn should be getting more consideration for Coach of the Year. Don't get me wrong, KOC winning is something that I can agree with. The argument for Quinn is that a defensive minded coach was able to have Jayden Daniels become a star, build a great culture, and show that there is a chance that his career isn't defined by 28-3. The Lions are going to be a lot healthier, and are a year wiser with the playoffs. The thing is, Dan Campbell has to show that he is willing to manage the game better if things get tight. I'm not saying that he is a bad coach, as he has delivered the goods. What I do question is whether can he learn from the decisions he made against the Niners last January? If the Lions lose, then the NFC North might be the biggest bunch of paper tigers in NFL history. 3 double digit teams and an 0-3 playoff record would be terrible. Also, Detroit isn't a cursed sports city. The Red Wings and Pistons have been winners in my lifetime, and the Tigers have made a couple of World Series. Hail To the Commanders 45, LOLions Gonna LOLions 0.

Uh, no. Love you to death - you are my son after all - but that pick is ludicrous. The Lions are in Detroit and they have been the best team in the NFC consistently all season long. They are getting healthier, as you mentioned. The Commanders are a nice story, but they are not going to go into Detroit and win. Lions 31, Commanders 17.

Los Angeles Rams (+6) vs. Philadelphia Eagles So I talked to Mrs. D, aka Mom. She is a Vikings fan, and she said that she was surprised at how easily the Rams were able to get to Sam Darnold last week. I agree with her, and think that the Rams winning that comfortably was jarring. The Eagles made more plays than the Packers, who needed to play a perfect game last week to have a chance. Sadly, that a terrible performance by the players and coaching staff. I think that the Eagles are a team that is getting a bit slept on. They have Super Bowl experience from 2 years ago, and I feel like they match up well against any opponent on the NFC side. While the Rams are going to be up for this, the Eagles are just too well rounded. Eagles 31, Rams 17.

Hey, it's a sensible pick! I knew you had it in you! I could see the Rams giving the Eagles a game, but their defense is quick and small. That worked against a banged up Vikings offensive line, but it won't work against the earth movers in Philadelphia. And at some point, Saquon Barkley is going to break one. And that will break the Rams. Eagles 27, Rams 19.

Baltimore Ravens (-1) vs. Buffalo Bills This game is going to be a lot of fun. Both Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson are on a mission, and these teams are very exciting squads. Sean McDermott has been through the ringer the past couple of years thanks to suffering some brutal playoff losses, and he seems to have made some adjustments to his coaching style that have paid dividends. Josh Allen is a great player to have in your corner when you need magic, and I feel like with the Bills having home field advantage, they are going to finally win a big postseason game with the magic going in their favor for once. No more 13 Seconds, a game Bengals team, and a brutal miss by a kicker this time. Nobody Circles the Wagons 35, Ravens 34.

I don't have anything against the Ravens per se, but I'm tired of them. Buffalo has been on the verge of breaking through for a while now and it's time they do so. The only thing that makes me nervous is that the Bills defense is kinda ordinary and the Ravens can score. But it's at home and the Bills fans will be crazed. And Lamar Jackson, for all his brilliance, has a propensity to cough up hairballs, too. Bills 31, Ravens 27.

A School In Columbus (-8.5) vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish, in Atlanta I love that there is no SEC team in this game once again despite the fact this game is in the heart of SEC country. You really hate to see it. I am going to say this very bluntly about Ohio State. The fans who melted down after the Michigan game and insulted this team and coaching staff are not true Buckeye fans. I don't want to hear any fan who insulted the players, Ryan Day, or the coaching staff celebrate anything about this team. Ryan Day is a coach that 99% of college football programs would kill to have, and this Buckeye team has had to deal with a loud minority of fans that have decided to hold them to a standard that not even Woody Hayes could match. For those Ohio State fans that have supported this team all year long and have not engaged in that behavior, you are the true fans and deserve this. Those that haven't shouldn't be watching on Monday. 

Notre Dame has been very impressive. After a loss to NIU that looks worse every day, they have rallied. And remember, Marcus Freeman is in his third year as the coach of the Irish. The last 4 coaches at Notre Dame who have won a national championship did so in their 3rd year. I am no fan of the Irish, but I think that it would be deserving for a fanbase who supported their coach and team when the going got tough. Domers 26, Buckeyes 12.

Could Notre Dame win? Sure, I can see a scenario where it happens. Will they? I am skeptical. Ohio State has been crushing everything in its path since that Michigan loss and the win in Dallas was particularly impressive, because that was a very hostile venue. The Buckeyes have unbelievable skill players, as always - I would expect both of their top running backs and at least three of their wide receivers to be playing on Sundays in the future. They have a dominant offensive line and a nasty defense. Notre Dame can't match that. I think Freeman is an excellent coach and is building something that will wake up the echoes soon, but Monday is not the day. Ohio State 31, Notre Dame 24.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games-------Vikings And Lions Grudge Match Edition

It is incredible to think that either the LOLions or the Vikings could win 14 games this year and having to be a wild card team. 

There's never been anything like this in NFL history. And considering how often the NFC North has been suspect, it's amazing.

Meanwhile, the Packers are trying to determine if they are going to fly out to Los Angeles or Philadelphia. I would prefer to face the Rams, but will take my chances with the Eagles. 

Neither is a picnic lunch, but what are you gonna do?

Well, I'll tell you what I'm gonna do. I am ready to pick some games and am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYPPPPEEEEE! Watch me work.

Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck (+10) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers The bottom line for the Packers is that they lost last week because they once again dug themselves too big of a hole in the first half to overcome. Given that the NFC North race probably deserved to come down to a Vikings Lions showdown among themselves, I am not as mad as I could have been. Playing the starters is something that I agree with, especially because the Bears are going to be playing hard. Lest we forget, the Bears literally came within one hand of a dramatic comeback the last time. This won't be an easy game, but the Packers should win. Packers 32, Bears Still Suck 10.

The Bears will come hard, but there's a stench of death around that team that wasn't there when they played the Packers in Chicago earlier in the year. Packers are going to be motivated. Not sure some of the mercenaries on the Bears will be. Packers 28, Bears 16.

Minnesota Vikings (+3) vs. Detroit LOLions So it all comes down to this as it should be. The winner of this game gets the road to New Orleans coming through them, and the loser gets a tricky trip to the NFC South winner next week. The Lions won a back and forth game back in October, and rest assured they need the bye. Remember, the Lions got hit with an early bye, and have a bunch of injuries. I asked Mrs. D, aka Mom if she would feel confident beating Tampa if disaster strikes. She indicated that she would be fairly confident as a Vikings fan. This game is going to have a lot of hype to live up to, but I think it will. The magic of 1998, 2009, and 2017 seems to be coming back to the Twin Cities, and I think that the Vikings are going to take a gigantic step forward on Sunday. Vikings 39, LOLions Gonna LOLions 36.

The Lions are so nasty and the game is in Detroit. We'll find out a lot about the Vikings in this one. I think they are better situated to win in a lot of ways, but I don't know. I could see something weird happen to tip the balance to the home team here. So that's how I'm going to pick it. Lions 34, Vikings 31.

Yeah, sorry about not picking the Gopher road game. By the time this goes up, you will know if PJ is going to get mayo dumped on him. 

He did get the mayo bath, and it was glorious.

Coulda been worse, coulda been Chipotle queso

In my defense, I was watching the Badger basketball team take Iowa out to the woodshed. You love to see it, and you especially really hate to see Frantrum take a giant L. Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games------Thursday Night Football Is Just A Cash Grab Edition

 Is tomorrow Thanksgiving? No, it's December 5th. Why are they making the Packers and LOLions not get a mini bye until after tomorrow? How much is Bezos paying you, Roger?

If you have to ask....

As for what happened to Wisconsin, I am not going to repeat what I wrote after the Iowa game. Fickell and the AD have a lot to consider, and the clock is ticking. The way things have been going haven't worked. Greg Gard changed how the men's hoops team looks, and early indications are very promising even after the hairball against Michigan. That's all I need to say on that front. 

Sometimes a pithy comment is better than a Very Special one.

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

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+3.5) vs. Detroit LOLions Last week was a very impressive performance by the Packers against a quality Dolphin team that wanted no part of the cold weather. Jordan had his best performance of the season, and the defense in particular looked good. The Lions did win the game, but got a huge assist from the Bears completely bungling the clock at the end. I was in disbelief as I watched the ending, and even some people I was with who aren't big football fans were wondering what the Bears are doing. Obviously, this game is going to be difficult for the Packers, especially given that they are down a couple of defensive backs and that the Lions won at Lambeau. But, the Lions are also banged up a bit. Remember the last time the Packers traveled to Ford Field? Nobody gave them a chance, and the Packers used their win to set up their playoff run. The good news is that the Packers are going to be fine in the playoff hunt with a loss given that they hold the tiebreakers, but if they want Jordan to get a home playoff start, you want to win this game. I think that the Packers are going to win, especially since they can move the ball on the Lions. Packers 34, LOLions Gonna LOLions 24.

I'd like to agree. I really would. The Packers have improved, especially on defense, since the last time these two teams played. And it's worth remembering that a bad pick-six from Jordan Love turned that game. Love has improved his passing since then and the Packers will give a good accounting - I'm certain of that. But the Lions are no longer a laughing matter. Lions 30, Packers 27.

Penn State Nittany Lions (+3.5) vs. Oregon Ducks, in Indy Thanks to the Curse of the Six Game Minimum coming into play with the Buckeyes losing in hilarious fashion, we have a game that I think is going to be a classic. The winner will get a first round bye, and the loser is likely to host a first round game. For James Franklin and Penn State, this is a chance to prove that they can win a big game and get their biggest win since the 2016 game against Ohio State. Oregon has proved that they belong in the Big Ten, as they have looked physical and have been very consistent in a year of college football where the other top teams have been consistently inconsistent. The biggest challenge Oregon faces is that their coach, Dan Lanning, sometimes tries stuff that can blow up in his face, and how those choices go will decide the game. Also, my personal experience with Oregon fans is that they are cool. Quack Quack 42, Sad Valley 39.

I think it will be a good game. I think Oregon is better, but not substantially better. Defense, rather than offense, decides this one, and I think Oregon's overall team speed will be the difference. Oregon 34, Penn State 28.

Hotlanta Dirty Birds (+6.5) vs. Minnesota Vikings This week is going to be a critical one for the Vikings. They are going to gain ground on someone in the NFC North, and their old buddy Kirko Chains is making his return to town. Obviously, the Vikings letting Kirk go has been a big storyline. And while it is going to be unfair to judge the decision on one game, there are going to be some takes about that decision after the game ends. Atlanta has struggled lately, and the Vikings have looked good despite needing a comeback against a pesky Cardinals squad. I've gone on record as a Kirk defender, which shouldn't have been my job in the first place. Remember, I am a fan of an NFC North rival. Kirk did a great job with the Vikings, and deserves to be cheered during pregame. As for the game, I think that the Vikings are going to win this game pretty comfortably. Vikings 37, Falcons 29.

Agree with everything you said. Vikings will win. Vikings 34, Falcons 24.

Man, you gotta love it when the Buckeyes and Bears both lose in hilarious fashion. Hope this week's games are as entertaining that way. Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games------LOLions Have Something To Say About The Vikings Edition

 Editor's Note: we're going early because we'll be on assignment the rest of the week. Not that you'd notice, but.... Meanwhile, you want some Benster? Here's some Benster!

Well, the Vikings are probably for real. But the LOLions aren't going to give up their crown that easy. 

They've waited a long time to get a crown and this isn't a dollar store tiara. So yeah, I suppose that's right.

The Packers are about to play another playoff contender in the Texans. Should be a fun duel between two of the best young quarterbacks in the NFL. A special screw you to the stupid NFL broadcasting rules for screwing over Packer fans in Minnesota. There are very few Raiders and Rams fans in the Twin Cities. Show the Packer game opposite the Viking game, as that slate at noon combined with the Niners-Chiefs game is objectively the better slate in this market. 

The NFL's broadcast rules are dumb. They should show the better games, but they still think they need to protect a team that sells out all their games. I don't get it, either, but what are you gonna do? Meanwhile, here's a picture of Roger Goodell looking dumb to illustrate the point:

Really should lay off those Lemonheads, Rog

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

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (-7) vs. Northwestern Purple Nerds Holy crap, Phil Longo actually is getting the ball to his best weapons on offense. Where was this for the last year or so? This game is going to be hard. Northwestern is a team that plays hard, and the Badgers always struggle in Evanston. What is going to be the key is for the Badgers to keep on playing well early on. As interesting as the Penn State game is next week, it doesn't matter if the Badgers stub their toe. They won't. despite getting a game effort from Northwestern. Badgers 25, Purple Nerds 21.

The Badgers have lost a lot of games in Ryan Field. I don't know how they do on Oak Street Beach, or wherever this temp field is built. NU is a decent squad. I hope the Badgers can win, but this one makes me nervous, too. Badgers 30, Northwestern 24.

Detroit LOLions (+1.5) vs. Minnesota Vikings As much as I get a ton of joy about mocking the Vikings having Super Bowl ambitions, the Vikings are actually very good this year. They have thoroughly beaten two Super Bowl contenders at home in the Niners and Texans, and are facing a critical game in the NFC North against the Lions. Detroit gave me vicarious joy in making Jerry Jones have a terrible birthday. Thank you for your service, guys. The problem the Lions have in my eyes is that Dan Campbell showed a lot of his trick plays in a blowout. That shows me that he learned nothing from being too arrogant to take the points last January. What nobody in Michigan wants to admit is that the Lions failed a year ago was by being too aggressive even when it backfired. For the Vikings, I need to see how they respond to being jumped. And I am going to say this right now. If Sam Darnold keeps this play up, then the Vikings should trade JJ McCarthy at the trade deadline. I'm dead serious, by the way. They need draft capital. LOLions 35, Vikings 21.

Well, no one is going to trade for a quarterback who won't play in 2024 at the trade deadline. Perhaps in the offseason, maybe, but at this point McCarthy has proven exactly nothing. The Vikings did mortgage their future on drafting, but so far it's paying off. I do think the Lions are a better team, top to bottom, but losing Aidan Hutchinson will be a blow to the Lions defense. If they can't get home, the Vikings will move the ball a lot. And that may be enough. Vikings 38, Lions 34.

Houston Texans (+2.5) vs.  Glorious Green Bay Packers Last weekend went pretty well for the Packers. The only complaint is that things got a little nervy in the third quarter, but that would be nitpicky. I have a lot of respect for the Texans. They nailed their head coach and quarterback choice, and I like the talent that they have surrounded Stroud with. This is going to be a fun game between two entertaining offenses. The key for the Packers is to get off to a fast start again, and to keep Stroud from going deep. I think that they can do that, and X Man will get another pick. Packers 42, Texans 41.

Close game? Yes. Explosive plays? Probably. 42-41? Maybe less than that. But you're on the right track. Packers 34, Texans 30.

Enjoy your football this week. 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-------Packers Haters In Shambles Edition

Remember when everyone said that the Packers were going to be going into the wilderness and that Jordan Love was going to be a massive bust? Pepperidge Farm remembers. 

Certain parts of the Upper Midwest are hotbeds of wishful thinking, especially where football is concerned. 

In other news, I wasn't fired by anyone nor am I announcing my retirement in what will be the craziest offseason of coaching changes that I have ever seen. 

Yeah, it's quite the coaching carousel this year. And the fun is just beginning.

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

Cleveland Browns (-2) vs. Houston Texans Big credit to the Texans for being here. I always liked CJ Stroud at Ohio State, and he was able to help turn around a frankly awful Texans team into division champions. The Browns have been up and down all year, but somehow Joe Flacco was able to come out of the wilderness and take the Browns to January football. Don't forget that Flacco is a Super Bowl winning quarterback, which is something that few other teams have. The Browns have a defense that will play well, and are a sleeper team to watch. Don't be surprised if they make a deep run. Browns 21, Texans 10.

I sure enjoyed watching Stroud this year in the few chances I had to see him. The Texans are in their customary playoff spot - first game of Wild Card Weekend. They are at home. But the Browns are better. That's a sentence I haven't had to type in a long time. Browns 24, Texans 20.

Miami Dolphins (+4.5) vs. Taylor Swift Eras Tour Kansas City Chiefs This game shouldn't be on Peacock. It's not the NFL's fault that Comcast failed at creating a streaming service that nobody asked for, and whoever came up with this idea should be ashamed of themselves. Also, the weather in Kansas City is going to be awfully cold, and I wouldn't attend that game if you paid me. The Chiefs have issues with catching balls, and this is the type of weather that is going to cause drops. So while the Dolphins are going to be wishing that they could go back to South Beach, this is a game that they are going to win. The worst thing is that Mahomie has a contract that is going to be a big hinderance to keeping talent, and the Chiefs front office has to nail every pick in the draft going forward. Dolphins 60, Chiefs 34.

Somewhere a songstress is distressed:

Dammit, Benster!

Keep it up and she might write a song about you, pal. As for the game, I'm not buying what you're selling. Both of these teams are inconsistent, but the Chiefs have a track record of winning in Kansas City at this time of year. I suspect that continues, even though I have my misgivings. Chiefs 27, Dolphins 24.

Pittsburgh Yinzers (+9.5) vs. Buffalo 13 Seconds The Steelers being here amazes me, and can only be described as Mike Tomlin having some sort of luck modifier. The Steelers offense is a mess, no TJ Watt, and they win games thanks to their stars bailing them out after giving the Yinzers heart attacks every other week. But they got in, and that's all you can ask. This game is going to be in awful weather as well, and should be a good old fashioned rock fight. As for the Bills, it's clear that Sean McDermott needs to just let the Bills play. They have all the weapons, but for some reason there is something off about the Bills this year. Josh Allen needs this one, or there are going to be some uncomfortable questions asked about if the Bills core is the right one, or if their steakhouse menu needs to be changed. Never forget the steakhouse metaphor. Bills 7, Steelers 6.

It's more of a wings joint, but that's okay. Bills should win easily. It won't be easy. Bills 24, Steelers 20.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+7) vs. Dallas How Bout Them Cowboys The Packers being here is the best coaching and management job that this organization has done in my time being a fan of the team. Jordan Love answered every single question asked of him and more, this team is young and only going to get better, and no matter what happens on Sunday this season has been a success by all reasonable metrics. The Cowboys have all of the pressure on them. If they don't make the NFC title game and end that drought, Jerry will make changes. I've sensed a little bit of nerves from Cowboys fans and their media enablers, but regardless this will require the Packers to play their best game of the year. But you know that I am a delusional homer and back the Packers no matter the odds. Packers 33, Cowboys 23.

About two months ago, we were ready to fire everyone. Things have changed pretty substantially and you do have to give credit to the Packers for sticking with their plan. The reward is probably going to be a short visit to the playoffs, but I like the Packers to make the Cowboys nervous. Cowboys 31, Packers 27.

Los Angeles Rams (+3) vs. Detroit LOLions The funny thing about this game is that Matthew Stafford will be playing quarterback at the first playoff game at Ford Field. Little did anyone guess that he will be making his return to Detroit as the visiting quarterback. The Lions are good, and deserved to win the division as they were the most consistent team in the NFC North. However, the next step is that they need to win a playoff game, and that has been a challenge. My issue with Dan Campbell is that while I get why he does things the way he does, his coaching style costs the Lions at times. People want to complain about the Cowboys ending a couple weeks ago, but Campbell left points on the board by being aggressive, and that is going to come back to haunt him against a team in the Rams that have a Super Bowl pedigree and are looking to spoil the Lions getting their moment. Oh well, you at least have Michigan? Rams 21, LOLions Gonna LOLions 0.

It's easy to forget the Rams won the Super Bowl fairly recently. They have done a nice job of retooling and this will be a tough one for the Lions. But I do think they have it in them to win. Lions 35, Rams 28.

Philadelphia Eagles (-3) vs. Tampa Bay Bucs Honestly, the Eagles are looking like the Phillies last fall. If you remember, the Phillies were talking a lot of stuff about how they were going to overcome losing the World Series, and ended up losing to a D-Backs team that was young and hungry after a collapse that looks obvious in hindsight but was ignored by the baseball community. The Eagles collapse is real, and honestly I think that this team can't fight their way out of trouble. The Bucs are hungry, and are a team that I feel is getting overlooked. They have a quarterback in Baker Mayfield who is looking to prove the doubters wrong, a defense that will play well on any stage, and are looking to prove that they didn't win their ring by just getting Gisele's ex and his merry band of football mercenaries who all somehow fit under the salary cap. Bucs 40, Die Eagles Die 0.

The Eagles are talented but dysfunctional. The Bucs are limited but organized. I tend to agree with your assessment, if not your score. Bucs 24, Eagles 19.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----LOL SEC Edition

After ESPN and the CFP hyped up Alabama for a month like nobody's business, the SEC won't have a team in the title game? You know I am going to enjoy dropping some truths that the SEC won't want you to hear.

You better watch out, you'd better not cry. Bensterman is coming to town!.

Meanwhile, the Packers have a chance to get into the playoffs by beating the Bears.

Always a pleasure when accomplished.

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

Washington Huskies (+4.5) vs. Michigan Sign Stealers, in Houston Ah yes, no SEC in sight for once. The real winner of this game no matter what is going to be the Big Ten, who will get a rematch next season and the ability to claim that the national champion is in their conference next year. Michigan didn't look great, but were able to get past Alabama. Washington is a team that I love. They are well-coached, play very well, and are untainted by scandal. Regardless of what happens, this game is going to be a lot of fun and should be at the level of the 2006 Rose Bowl. Huskies 38, Jim Harbaugh Can't Win On A Level Playing Field 33.

Do we need to hear it again?

Few things are more majestic and yet more annoying. And the off-color version they sing in Madison is pretty amusing, too. As for the game, I think it will be a classic. Michigan is not a big muscle-bound group; they have superior athletes all over the field. But I have to say that Michael Penix is something else. He's going to play on Sundays and play very well. Washington 28, Michigan 27.

Minnesota Vikings (+3.5) vs. Detroit LOLions Oh my, the locals are not happy about what happened to the Vikings. When JJ got shut down by Joe Barry of all defensive coordinators, you know that you have issues. Now the Vikings are going to need an absolute miracle to make the playoffs, and could see the Packers make the playoffs in a rebuilding year. The LOLions need to get over what happened last week. Regardless of what you think about the refs, the Lions made a number of bad coaching decisions and let the Cowboys stick around to win it late. Dan Campbell may have done a great job getting the Lions their division title, but he still makes questionable decisions in games and is using the refs as a scapegoat to cover for his own flaws. He's not a first year coach, and those types of decisions could haunt them down the line. How a tough minded city like Detroit gives him a pass for his excuses is beyond me, but it's not my problem. Even if the Lions rest some starters, the Vikings are going to have a tough time winning in Detroit. Lions 24, Vikings 14.

The Lions won't rest their starters. I don't think the Vikings will phone it in, either, but the team I saw on Sunday was not impressive. Vikings fans can't have nice things after all. Lions 31, Vikings 20.

Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck (+3) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers Last week was a great performance by the Packers. They did a lot of things right, and just need to win one more game against the Bears to win, and are getting healthier for once. But this won't be easy. The Bears have been playing better, are playing for jobs, and they remember getting blown out all the way back in Week 1. Also, the Bears always play the Packers tough given the nature of the rivalry. If the Packers can keep doing what they have been doing, then I like their chances. Even if disaster strikes, the future looks a lot brighter. Packers 28, Bears Still Suck 17.

Jordan Love looks like the real deal. He's played very well down the stretch and the young receivers and tight ends wearing green and gold are varied and impressive. The Bears are getting a lot of, well, hype this week. I think they are improving and with the fortification of a million high draft picks in the spring, I think they'll be a problem. But in the end, rivalry ownership remains closer to the 45th parallel. Packers 27, Bears 20.

And now, it's time to laugh at the SEC. 

Here's a bitter face to begin the festivities:

I'm a very unhappy man with an enormous forehead

Don't post pictures like that, old dude - you're going to scare away the paying audience.

Wait - you're getting paid?

If you keep interrupting, you're gonna pay, all right. Ahem. After all of the hyping up ESPN did about how the SEC is a beast, how they are the greatest conference, and how Oklahoma and Texas are going to be such a great fit, it turns out that you won't have any schools in your 2024 lineup in the national title game being held in SEC country. You really hate to see it. The Big Ten is laughing in their offices in suburban Chicago. It turns out that Alabama didn't deserve to be there, and don't forget that the Big Ten makes more money than you do, even with you adding Texas and Oklahoma. The Big Ten is adding cable subscribers at the in-market rate in California, Washington, and Oregon. You are only adding in market rate subscribers in Oklahoma. The Big Ten makes 9 million dollars more than you do per school, and will get to go to the media rights well before you do thanks to you waiting until 2034 to redo your big shiny ESPN deal. The Big Ten has a minimum of 3 games on network television every single Saturday, and the top 3 games that the conference offers have a defined timeslot. You threw away the SEC on CBS 2:30 timeslot. When is your best game going to air? The Big Ten is a national conference. You are a regional conference in the Southeast. When the Big Ten increases their lead on you in the financial arms race, I'd worry about losing your top brands. The alarm clock is ticking, Greg Sankey. I suggest you answer it. But you won't do that. Instead, you will have ESPN and the SEC fanboys continue to be yes men while you ignore that college sports is changing and your cycle of dominance may be coming to an end. 

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games-----LOLions Have Zero Excuses This Week Edition

Old dude, if the Lions don't win tomorrow, this will be on the level of the Packers going into Arizona and beating the Cardinals a couple of years ago on a short week with a wrecked football team. 

Seabiscuit is setting a narrative.

Oh yes, it's time to get revenge on the LOLions. 

The mighty Lions? Somehow that still doesn't sound right.

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

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+8) vs. Detroit LOLions So the Packers beat the Chargers by some divine miracle, and now they get a chance to visit the NFL media's favorite team, the Detroit LOLions. Look, my issue with the Lions isn't that they are good. What boggles my mind is that certain members of the NFL media are forgetting that the Lions were good under Jim Schwartz and Jim Caldwell. So while Dan Campbell is doing a fine job, it's not like the Lions have been consistently terrible in recent memory. Heck, the Lions were a playoff team the year that Barry Sanders quit on them for not being good enough. And I would argue that teams like the Texans and the Broncos have also been major improvements, to say nothing about the Jaguars proving that they are not a fluke. Look, the Packers are banged up, and this is a tough test against a good team on the road, especially after the beatdown in Green Bay in September. But what gives me hope is that the Packers have been quietly playing a bunch of close games lately. They just haven't finished. Don't forget, the Lions were incredibly lucky to escape against a bad Bears team on Sunday. Don't be surprised if the same old Lions show up right on time. Packers 24, LOLions 23.

They hope to dine on better fare this year

I've seen progress, too, but the injury list is daunting. It's going to be difficult to beat a very healthy Lions team when half the team doesn't suit up. Lions 27, Packers 20.

Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck (+3.5) vs. Minnesota Vikings The Vikings last week lost because I thought that Brian Flores sat back a little too much last week. On that last drive, he was too slow to adjust to the Broncos dumping the ball off, and it was a departure from how he called the rest of the game. As for the Bears, last week was a brutal collapse for them. They were very vanilla on offense, and let Detroit march down the field. The Vikings need this one, and I will default to the desperate team at home to make sure that the Griddy Man makes an appearance down the line for the Vikings fans to experience maximum pain in January. Vikings 35, Bears Still Suck 0.

The Bears? They really really really really really really suck. Yes, the Bears still suck. Vikings roll. Vikings 31, Bears 14.

A School In Columbus (+3.5) vs. Michigan Release the Manifesto On a holiday weekend based on gratitude and respect for your neighbors, we have these guys playing. Ryan Day and Jim Harbaugh don't seem to get along very well, and this game might make the 2006 game look tame by comparison. For the Buckeyes, this game has taken on an air of importance for Ryan Day. If the Buckeyes don't win in Ann Arbor against a Michigan team dealing with cheating allegations and an interim head coach, the crazies will blow up the Ohio State fan sites and Ohio sports radio call in lines calling for Ryan Cooper to be fired. No pressure, huh? I like Michigan to win, as Ohio State is still under the Curse of the Six Game Minimum. If you don't know what I mean, look in the archives. You know what to do, Buckeyes. Michigan Man=Cheating is Okay? 50, #NotMy2020BigTenChampions 45.

A meteor strike seems in order here. On the field, I still think Michigan is the better team, especially with the game Up North. Michigan 31, Ohio State 28.

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (-2.5) vs. Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat Thanks to Matt Rhule's genius clock management and some heroic performances by banged up stars, the Badgers were able to gut out a victory that means the bowl streak lives. For the Gophers, last week was strange. I know that PJ likes to control the time of possession, but they played very conservatively against Ohio State last week. I get that there is a talent gap, but seriously playing that scared? Lots of grumbling in these parts. I warned you, Gopher fans. But you didn't listen and said I had an agenda. The bottom line is that for the Gophers, this game is for bowl eligibility and to keep the Axe downtown among everything they want this season. Badgers 41, Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 21.

I don't think the Badgers score 41 points this weekend. But they may score more than the Gophers, which would be enough. Badgers 27, Gophers 24.

Enjoy your football this weekend. If your relatives start arguing about politics or stirring up some drama, go watch some football. You'll thank me later. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----Amazon Prime Mandated Edition

 Why can't the NFL admit that nobody outside of them and Amazon thinks that Thursday Night Football is a good idea?

You know the reason.

I still have no idea how the Packers won last week's game, and all of a sudden the haters are scared. You love to see it, and Jordan Love got it done at the hour of greatest need. 

He was good. Can he do it again?

I'm about to tell you. I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYPPEEEE! Watch me work.

Detroit LOLions (-1.5) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers So with the Bears and the Vikings having a ton of issues, this game is very important for this early in the season. Both teams are banged up, and the mini bye for the Packers is going to be much needed. The Packers dug themselves a hole, and can't do that again. However, what should be noted is that the Packers played the LOLions very close in 2022. If the LOLions want to be taken seriously as people are claiming, then they have to win this game. I look for Love to hit a deep ball or two, and for the defense to continue to step up. Packers 24, LOLions Gonna LOLions 17.

It would be nice if Christian Watson could step up. Haven't seen him on the field yet. If he can stretch the defense, the Packers should be able to move the ball. And that might be enough. Packers 27, Lions 24.

We'll see you on Friday. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games-----LOL Vikings and LOL KFAN Edition

 Remember when the Vikings fans were so confident and thinking that they would see the Vikings run over the Packers again? Life comes at you fast, and you really hate to see it.

Actually, I didn't hate to see it at all.

One other piece of good news is that Mr. Hamlin is awake and responsive after that horrible scene on Monday. Glad to see it, and please donate to the University of Cincinnati hospital. 

Seems like a good suggestion. They do good work.

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

TCU Horned Frogs (+12.5) vs. Georgia Bulldogs, in LA Well, that didn't go well for the Big Ten. While Ohio State deserves a lot of credit for hanging in there, it is an objective fact that the Buckeyes did hold a double digit lead in the second half, and that game was a missed chance for them. I love TCU, and to me Sonny Dykes has done the best coaching job in football this year across both the college and professional ranks. You could make the argument that the Vikings or Eagles could be playoff contenders given their talent, but if you had told me at the start of the year that Sonny Dykes would take TCU to the title game, you would have been called a liar. No matter what happens on Monday night, TCU deserves a ton of credit, and the Big XII should be in great shape even after the Red River schools join the dark side. Don't think that I am disrespecting Georgia for one second, though. They are the defending champions, and Stetson Bennett is someone who no matter what happens in the NFL will have a secure college football legacy. Kirby Smart is going to have his team prepared, and could very well win this game comfortably. But what TCU shows us is that while recruiting does matter, coaching and getting the right talent mix matters as well. But that is another post for another day. I like TCU to complete their miracle, and having them win would be refreshing for the sport and a good way to build towards the 12 team playoff. TCU 30, Georgia 24.

I hesitate to pick against TCU, because they are very good indeed. But Georgia has become the Death Star and they have better personnel and a really good coach. That's the way you win national titles. Georgia 45, TCU 38.

Minnesota Vikings (-6) vs. Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck When you get blown out like the Vikings did at Lambeau, it turns out the warnings that people like me have had about the team have some legs. The Vikings offensive line in particular is a huge concern, and Kirk had probably his worst game in a Vikings uniform. I don't think that the Vikings will rest starters as they have a chance to get the 2 seed and the potential second home game in the Divisional Round. Da Bearz still haven't taken a step forward, despite what people are telling you. The Vikings will win this one comfortably, and will await how things play out in the NFC. Vikings 27, da Bearz 10.

It's the return of Nathan Peterman! He might be, in all his ineptitude, the platonic ideal of a Bears quarterback. Vikings lick their wounds and win easily. Vikings 24, Bears 3.

Detroit LOLions (+4.5) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers Last week was the best Packers performance since 2020 against the Titans, and the crowd in particular was great. I told you back in November that hope was alive, and it turns out that my belief has been rewarded to this point. But finishing the job won't be easy. The Lions are a good team, and even if the Seahawks win against the Rams and eliminate the Lions, Dan Campbell will not have his guys roll over and give us anything. The Packers owe Detroit one after the disaster in Detroit back in October, but it's important to remember that the Packers stunk up the joint that day. This won't be easy, but the Packers will finish the job and if they get in the tournament, anything can happen. Packers 42, LOLions Gonna LOLions 23.

This game does make me nervous. Lions are pretty good. I think the difference is this -- Jared Goff is lousy in cold weather. He'll make enough mistakes to screw things up and the Packers will survive and advance. Packers 27, Lions 20.

And now, time for me to laugh at the Vikings, Vikings fans, and KFAN. I can't believe the conspiracy theories that I have seen from the locals. Blaming the turf when Vikings players had the arrogance to not wear the proper cleats? Ignoring the fact that the field was impacting both teams? Give me a break. The Vikings play at Lambeau every year, and you knew that the turf wasn't going to be perfect. I get that the locals here hate the Packers more than they love their own team, but take the loss and move on. I took the loss in September and didn't blame anyone but the team.

Is it the shoes, Benster? Is it the shoes?

Cleats don't fail me now

Justin Jefferson is a talented receiver, no questions about it. However, he completely let Jaire get in his head. I don't condone Jaire doing the Griddy, but it wasn't taunting and it is fair to use someone's celebration against him. People have been doing Aaron's belt for years, and I don't mind it. Now that everyone knows that press coverage and bumping Jefferson will get him frustrated, everyone is going to do that to him. 

And he will have to respond. I think he's capable of it, but he needs a little help sometimes.

I've been called out before for calling every single person on KFAN Vikings approved homers, but there is an element of truth. Since KFAN has the Vikings broadcasts, there is a limit to the objectivity that you will hear on that station. Sure, Dan Barriero will call out the Vikings, as well as Common Man, the Head Cheese, and occasionally others, but by and large they treat the Vikings as the greatest franchise and hype them up every single year as a team that can do no wrong. KFAN has ignored warning signs throughout the year, and now when the inevitable Minnesota sports meltdown is looking likely, they keep drinking the Kool-Aid. Look, I realize that being in the Twin Cities means that this is inevitable, but KFAN does this a ton. In 2019, they thought that the Gophers would roll over the Badgers, and acted surprised when the Badgers won the Axe. They are critical of the Wild, whom they also have broadcasts of, but the Vikings are the sacred cow who can do no wrong. At least I admit that I am a complete homer, and I'm not a professional member of the media. And by the way, if KFAN wants to have me on to dispute these thoughts, I'll go on any show at any time of day. Just give me a heads up. After all, Brad has the best radio show in town and he will call out everyone when needed. 

I suppose they could call you if Gerby calls in sick. Pick up the phone. Give Benster a call.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----Gophers Getting No Respect Edition

 So the Gophers are 3-0, and not a member of the Top 25. That doesn't make a lot of sense.

No respect. No respect at all.

I realize that the Gophers haven't played a tough schedule, and you want to reward teams who have better wins. If the Gophers were ranked outside the top 10, then that would be a fair ranking in my opinion. But the Gophers have beaten what's in front of them, and that's all you can ask. 

This is true. They get their opportunity to demonstrate their prowess this week.

I am feeling the HYYYYYPPPEEEEE!, and think that the Badgers have a better than average chance.

Well, that's how you roll. Can't wait to see your, ahem, analysis.

Wait no longer, Geritol Fan! It's time to pick some games. Watch me work.

Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers Of The Boat (-3) vs. Michigan State Sparty The Spartans So the Gophers want to be a ranked team? Well, getting a win on the road in Big Ten play is a great way to make their case stronger. Michigan State is coming off a bad loss on the road against Washington up in Seattle. Meanwhile, the Gophers kicked the crap out of Colorado. Spartan Stadium is a difficult place to play, and the Gophers will need to play well. Mel Tucker is probably the most overpaid coach in the Big Ten, because he hasn't done a whole lot to elevate the Spartans based on the available evidence. Despite my personal views on Fleck which I won't rehash here, Fleck has at least been worth the money. But will it be enough? Sparty 27, Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 21.

I think Tucker is doing well. The previous administration was, at the end, a big of a dumpster fire, and he's cleaned it up nicely. Having said that, I'm not sure what to make of this one. The Gophers will miss Chris Autman-Bell and the Spartans can fill up the scoreboard. I expect a fun one. Gophers 30, Spartans 28.

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (+19) vs. A School In Columbus. This is going to be a tough game, regardless of my personal views on both these teams. We all know that Ohio State is a very tough out. But what Buckeye fans know deep down but don't want to admit is that the idea that Ryan Day was born on third base and thinks he hit a triple isn't 100 percent false. Look, I do think Day is a good coach. But the Buckeye program by and large can run itself. He didn't take over a team that was down, and he still gets grief due to an entitled fanbase that consists of plenty of smart Buckeyes fans drowned out by people that can't handle losing at all and lack perspective. Wisconsin has zero pressure and can't lose. Don't forget, Notre Dame played the Buckeyes tough, and Wisconsin has done about as well as could have been asked for in previous years against the Buckeyes. Look for the Badgers to pull a huge upset. Wisconsin 21, Ohio State Was Born On Third And Thinks They Hit A Triple 14.

Uh, no. Badgers will play them tough, but the talent gap is huge and growing. And the Buckeyes have something to prove. It will be a typical matchup in the series, in which the Buckeyes eventually wear them down. Ohio State 38, Wisconsin 23.

Detroit LOLions (+6) vs. Minnesota Vikings Well, the Vikings Super Bowl parade plans were put on hold after the Eagles were able to move the ball at will last week. While it isn't quite Kirktober yet, the Vikings love playing against the Lions, though they have struggled the last two times they have played them. I think the Vikings are going to get back on track. A big day from Kirk and Dalvin would be much appreciated by this fantasy football owner. This game might be closer, but the Vikings will win. Vikings 35, LOLions Gonna LOLions 31.

You like shootouts? This will be a shootout. Vikings have just a few more bullets. Vikings 38, Lions 30.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+1) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers The Packers were able to calm down some of the worriers with a great win against Da Bearz. Gisele's husband and his merry band of men who are all somehow able to fit under the salary cap are going to be shorthanded, but the Packers are also facing some injury problems. The Packers have also struggled to play well in Florida recently, but this game is personal. You want this one badly to make sure that a potential rematch happens someplace a lot colder. If the Packers can control the clock and get some inside pressure on Gisele's husband, then good things will happen. Packers 25, Investigate The Bucs for Salary Cap Violations 16.

Good grief. Really? Oh well. I want to pick the Packers, but I don't know. Hate picking against them, but... Tampa Bay 20, Green Bay 17.

Hopefully Gisele's husband can join the Fox booth next year. Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out.