Benster and D Pick Your Games---The Super Bowl That Could Have Cost Kwesi Edition

Sam Darnold has proved that last season was no fluke. As it turns out, letting Sam Darnold walk is the worst decision a team has made with a quarterback since the 49ers discarded Alex Smith for Colin Kaepernick. 

At the time, picking Kaepernick didn't seem that bad, grasshopper.

But it was, Old Dude! And it's become clear that the Vikings fired Kwesi Adofo-Mensah in large part because he gave the money that Darnold deserved on multiple bad defensive contracts and gave Justin Jefferson quarterback money and saddled him with JJ McCarthy to throw him the ball. 

I sense a local radio host warming up in the background. Meanwhile, a photo of our protagonist.

That Darnold Cat 

So you went with the obscure 60s Disney movie reference and didn't even explain what the heck you're talking about?

Of course I didn't!

Actually, I preferred the Ugly Dachshund

Stop interrupting my victory lap! I wrote in October 2024 that Sam Darnold should have gotten the chance to continue as the starting quarterback, and his success with the Seahawks not only makes me look smart, but should lead to serious questions about how the Vikings develop quarterbacks and also be a damning indictment about Kevin O'Connell and his ability as a quarterback whisperer. In fact, KOC shouldn't be getting any benefit of the doubt from Vikings fans or the Vikings/NFL media who have given him a pass for this debacle. 

So our host is Nostradamus, and the rest of us are Nostra dumbass?

Well, maybe not that, but I am taking a W for this one. By the way, for the record, I would be saying the same thing had Jordan Love been a bust about Gutey and LaFleur. Meanwhile, I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYPEEEEEEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work. 

Seattle Seachickens (-4.5) vs. New England Patriots, in the Bay Area Well, this is a Super Bowl that offers something different similar to the Rams-Bengals tilt. I'm sure that Malcolm Butler's interception will be played a bunch on Sunday, as of course that was the defining play of their previous matchup. The Patriots are a different team from their cheating dynasty past for the most part, and should Sam Darnold get his ring, it would be a deserved ring. The key to the game in my eyes is going to be how well the Patriots are able to shut down the potent Seahawks running game. Both of those things were key deciders two weeks ago, and the Seahawks running game allows Darnold to flourish off play action. In what I think is going to be a fairly low scoring game, should the Seahawks get out to a 10 point lead by the half, I don't think that Drake Maye can get out of that hole. He is a very good quarterback, but he ain't Tom Brady. Seahawks 17, Patriots 14. 

I'll be honest with you - this game does nothing for me. Darnold is the most interesting player in this game and that's what we call damning with faint praise. The Seahawks have surprised me this season and they certainly play defense. The Patriots are a solid operation again, but they don't really have anything that makes you think this is a great team - they merely outlasted a lot of teams that seemed to have bad things happen to them. I tend to believe had Bo Nix been available, the Broncos would have been in this game, but he wasn't. Seahawks are a better team, so they should win. Seattle 27, New England 16.

 A quick reminder, if you are reading this post either tonight or on Saturday of this weekend, I highly recommend going to the Border Battle on February 7th at Hamline University. You will get to see multiple very good high school basketball games between Minnesota and Wisconsin schools. You will be very glad you did. Also, thanks for reading this feature this year, and I'll see you in the fall. For the final time this season, Ben out.

Benster and D Pick Your Games-------Bears 4th Quarter Magic Strikes Again? Edition

Well, the Packers are going to have to find a new defensive coordinator as expected. I thank Jeff Hafley for his hard work the past two years, and totally understand him wanting to run his own ship. See you back at Lambeau next year, and Miami is getting a good one. As for the next defensive coordinator, I'll have a list of potential replacements after the games are picked. 

It should be fun. I'm guessing he might find a quarterback from Green Bay, too, but I'm sure you'll have something about that anon.

 If it happens, I will report! Meanwhile, we have games to address, so... I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPEEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work. 

New England Patriots (-4.5) vs. Denver Broncos The Broncos were able to win last week to take the next step, though it must be mentioned that their interception in overtime probably shouldn't have counted. The Bills made enough mistakes to lose on their own merit and the Broncos deserve credit for winning, but that missed call should be acknowledged. As exciting as a Bo Nix duel with Drake Maye would have been, sadly the Broncos are going to have to start Jarrett Stidham. Obviously, Stidham does know New England from his time as a backup, though that was before Mike Vrabel took over. I don't see a Rick Dockery situation happening for the Broncos, but certainly there is going to be a dropoff. The thing is, I like the Broncos because this game is in Denver and the Patriots have relied on their defense to get by, and the Broncos defense is going to have to win this game by holding the Patriots in check. Broncos 27, Patriots 13.

I have no idea who Rick Dockery is, but I would have assumed the Broncos could have called this guy:

Lotsa mountains near Denver, so you want a guy who can throw the ball over them. But enough about fictional characters. The game is real enough. Not convinced the Patriots are that good, but they are well-coached and Drake Maye looks to have a bright future. It could be the future is now. Patriots 17, Broncos 14

Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck (+5) vs. Seattle Seachickens I can't believe that the Bears pulled some more BS magic out of their hats when Caleb hit that crazy 4th down pass to set up the Bears winning in overtime on Caleb hitting that deep pass. Soldier Field was rocking when the Bears pulled out the win. Hold on. I am being told that the Bears lost because Caleb was picked in overtime. 

Kinda like this guy?

Misinformed? But that can't be. I was told that this was their year and that I was a salty sore loser Packer fan. Welcome to the playoffs, Bears fans. The story doesn't have a happy ending. Now you know how Packers fans have felt in the past. Thank you Rams, and now we can pick the actual NFC title game. 

Los Angeles Rams (+2.5) vs. Seattle Seachickens The Rams were able to survive the Bears, and get a rubber match against the Seahawks. Sam Darnold didn't cough up a hairball last weekend, mostly because Seattle ran all over the Niners right from the jump. The Rams now have the only proven championship quarterback in Matthew Stafford, who is looking to potentially go out a champion like his buddy Clayton Kershaw did last October. But Seattle is a tough venue to play in, and if the Seahawks jump out early, then the crowd will be fully engaged. However, the Rams have enough of a mix of championship DNA and hungry guys who want a ring to block out the noise and get back to the Super Bowl. And you know that the Niners have to be frustrated that one of their hated rivals will be trying to win a Super Bowl in the Bay Area. Rams 19, Seachickens 0. 

Sneaky important thing about this game - one of the reasons that Sam Darnold has been effective on offense is the two-headed running back attack of Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet. Well, no Charbonnet, who suffered a season-ending injury last week. Can Walker handle the load, or does Darnold need to do more? His history suggests he could cough up that hairball this week, especially against a Rams defense that offers quality edge rushers and rather a lot of exotic looks. I think this is going to be a low scoring game. Ordinarily that means Seattle has the advantage, but not this time. Rams 17, Seahawks 14.

And now, it is time to talk about who I would like the Packers to hire as their next defensive coordinator. This list isn't in any particular order, and I would be pretty happy with anyone. 

Jim Leonhard: He has NFL experience now, and I have a high degree of trust given the success he had developing NFL caliber defenders who I enjoyed watching at Wisconsin. Guys like TJ Edwards, Zack Baun, and Andy Van Ginkel can all thank him in part for how prepared they were to have success at the NFL level. He also has no ties to the current coaching staff, and would be coming back home to the state of Wisconsin. 

Al Harris: Not only does he have a ton of credit in the bank given that he played for the Packers, but has really developed into a very good young coach. Would also weaken the Bears, and would bring some toughness and enthusiasm to the defense. 

Jonathan Gannon: We saw firshand back in October how he was able to have the Cardinals play above their talent. He had a lot of success with the Eagles a couple of years ago, and would have a point to prove. 

Raheem Morris: Has experience working with LaFleur, and I thought he got Aaron Donald playing arguably the best football of his career. That would bode well for Micah, and he would be someone who I think would be a very solid pick. 

Daronte Jones: If you couldn't get Brian Flores, why not get Jones? He has been a key figure in the Vikings defensive success, and would also weaken the Vikings. 

Glenn Schumann: He is the defensive coordinator for the Georgia Bulldogs. Considering that the Packers defense is basically becoming a UGA alumni chapter, getting someone who is considered one of the key reasons why Georgia went from very good to championship level would be an intriguing option. He is very young, but would be someone who could see this as a chance to get to be a head coach given that Kirby Smart has shown no signs of leaving Athens. 

 Enjoy your football this weekend. Also, if you are bored and looking for something to do on Saturday the 7th of Feburary, go to Hamline University and watch the Border Battle. It is an event matching high school basketball teams from Minnesota against Wisconsin. You will be glad that you did, and will get to see some really good matchups and good players. Ben out.

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----LOL Tampa Bay Edition

 Lots of readers want to see me melt down over what happened last week in the Horseshoe. That is the subject of another post that will require research and the rest of the season to play out in order to get a better set of data. All I'm going to say now is that if the Buckeyes don't win a conference title, I got something special planned. You've been warned.

Wait a minute -- we have lots of readers?

I was also glad to see that the Packers beat the Bucs in Tampa despite having struggles on offense. And seeing the Bucs make a hilarious mistake at the end was the kicker. You really hate to see it.

Well, I don't.

You are a little bit literal minded, aren't you, Geritol Fan?

All in the service of the bit, Seabiscuit.

You be you, old dude. Although I'd rather not think about what that's like. But no matter -- I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYPPPEEEE! for this week, and it's time to watch me work.

Purdont Spoilermakers (+11.5) vs. Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat So the Gophers ended up passing their first test in league play pretty comfortably. Now, them being ranked at 21 in the latest AP poll is low. Outside the top 10, you can make a fair case. But outside the top 20? They should be ranked ahead of Texas A&M, who should be doing a lot better with both the guys they have and their coach, but that is a conversation for another blog post. Purdue is okay, but they are road underdogs for a reason. The Gophers should roll and maybe move up depending how the rest of the picture plays out. Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 42, Spoilermakers 14.

Purdue is okay. Were the game in West Lafayette, maybe it would be different. But the Gophers have something going right now and as long as they don't believe their press clippings, they'll be fine. Minnesota 34, Purdue 20.

Illinois Cheating Illini (+7) vs. Beloved Wisconsin Badgers So the good news is that the Badgers won't be the last team to see that scoreline in the Horseshoe this year. There were many takes about the state of the program, and quite honestly everything should be considered and nothing is immune from possible changes. This game marks our old friend Bret Bielema returning to Camp Randall. Now, Bret did a lot of good things with Wisconsin. He won 3 consecutive Big Ten titles, and did a good job as Barry's chosen successor. But how he left Wisconsin left a bad taste in a lot of people's mouths, and he probably will get booed and for good reasons. Wisconsin needs to get back to basics, and I think against a much fairer test they should win fairly comfortably in a way that might be #karma. Badgers 31, Illini 10.

Good lord, have you seen Bert lately?

He's an ordinary Joe with a extraordinary Joe

He's gotta go four bills. I really am worried about him, actually. The man can coach, though, and frankly the Badgers have to be careful here. I think Bucky bounces back, but it won't be easy. Wisconsin 28, Illinois 17.

Minnesota Vikings (-3) vs. New Orleans Victim Complex, in London Old dude, who let the Vikings come to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the home of your beloved Tottenham club? The Vikings dodged a massive bullet against the Lions thanks to some clutch throws by Kirk and some awful game management by the Lions. The good news for the Vikings and my fantasy team is that Dalvin will be good to go, and it is the start of what Vikings fans like to call "Kirktober", where Kirk plays really well for a month and fuels the delusional dreams of Vikings fans, who forget 60 years of history and start to believe that they might actually not choke in the clutch like they do every time they have the chance to do something. The Saints are in desperate straits and are really banged up. If this game was in the Dome down in New Orleans, then it would be a different story. Or will it? You Wasted Drew Brees 31, KFAN Whine Line Will Be Lit 0.

Uh, no. The Saints have an unbelievable number of injuries. While I think Spurs may want to fumigate their stadium after these teams come calling, it won't be because of the Vikings. Minnesota 33, New Orleans 16.

New England Patriots (+9.5) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers That was a narrow escape from Tampa, but that win was vital on a day that the Packers didn't play well. Even better, the Packers will be getting a lot healthier with only Jaire Alexander being a question mark. As for the Patriots, they are going to be without Mac Jones, and are in danger of being cut adrift in the AFC. But the Hoodie will find a way to keep the Patriots in it. I'd imagine that he will try and take away Jones and Dillion and force the Packers to win matchups on the outside in the passing game. The Packers should win, but this will not be easy. Packers 26, Patriots 21.

The hoodie is a challenge, no doubt. But remember what the coaches say -- Johnnies and Joes beat Xs and Os. And this is the least talented Patriots team in the past 25 years. Packers will win and cover. Packers 31, Patriots 14.

Kansas City Chiefs (+1) vs. Tampa Bay Bucs Before we get into the main point of picking this game, there is one serious message to share. If you can, please donate to the relief effort in regard to Hurricane Ian. Lots of people in the Tampa area and beyond could use your help, and may everyone in that area be safe and in a good place. 

And now we get to return to our regular programming. God, it was awesome seeing Tom Brady, the Bucs coaching staff, and the scoreboard ops team make mistakes that no self-respecting high school team would make at the end of the game. If the Bucs knew that you needed to go for 2, the failure to not have a play ready for the conversion is unforgivable. What makes it even more hilarious is that they got extra time on the play clock because the touchdown had to be reviewed, even though it was clear and obvious. What makes it even funnier is that Brady isn't some rookie quarterback, and he knew the situation. Get your team lined up! If you are the GOAT, you should be able to do that simple requirement of your job every single time. And to add the cherry on top, the Bucs were dumb enough to show the play they had dialed up on the scoreboard for the Packers to see. And the real crappy part is that the scoreboard ops people will take the blame for that instead of the real culprit. If I were the Bucs, I would bench Brady for this game for taking the delay of game. I'm serious, by the way. The Bucs fired Bruce Arians to keep Brady happy, and it's his team. And all of Brady's enablers in the media will just sweep it under the rug and blame Todd Bowles and Byron Leftwich for this. It's time for Brady to finally take some accountability and have his ego be brought back down to size. The Bucs shouldn't have lost that game on a fundamental error by a quarterback who ain't the GOAT. 

Brad, pick up the white courtesy phone.

As for the actual game, the Chiefs are struggling on offense. But I think that Mahomes and company will come out swinging. And then maybe the Bucs can miss the playoffs and Brady can finally stay retired and go to the Fox booth where he belongs. Chiefs 45, Bucs 28.

Bucs are damaged. Chiefs aren't necessarily at full strength, either. But I agree, the Chiefs are the better team. The difference? This will be a lower scoring game than you think. Chiefs 27, Bucs 20.

It's great to see Brady take a L in a hilarious way. Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out!

Lightning Round -- 020419

Freezing rain this morning. Yes, it's about 55 degrees warmer than it was a few days ago, but Mother Nature is still trying to kill us. So shake down the thunder:

• The Super Bowl was dull. Just about everyone (with a few exceptions) is tired of the New England Patriots, but it must be said -- they cracked the code on the Rams. Considering half the league is either already planning to, or will begin shortly, emulating the Rams, Bill Belichick's master class will make things interesting for next season. I hope Matt LaFleur was watching closely in Green Bay.
• Ralph Northam now says that yearbook photo of his isn't him, although he did pick out all the other images on his page. It's bad enough to be a racist and a ghoul, but being an unskilled liar takes things up a notch. My next prediction -- Northam will reveal he is actually Bill Clinton's half-brother.
• Super Bowl ads were mostly meh, but the jarring one was the "wait, what?" appearance of Andy Warhol, dead 32 years now, as a pitchman for Burger King. I'm eagerly waiting for the Picasso endorsement of Culver's and the inevitable pairing of Jackson Pollock and Jack in the Box. This one has Top Ten List potential, although having Frida Kahlo saying "Yo quiero Taco Bell" might be beyond the pale.
• By the way, pitchers and catchers report in less than two weeks.

Benster and Pick Your Games -- Super Bowl LIII Edition

Old dude, 17 years ago today the Patriots beat the Rams to start their road to becoming a hated sports team that can't win without cheating. It's also the first Super Bowl I remember watching.

I remember Super Bowl V. Which was a bad game. Most of them were bad until the 1980s, actually.

I think everyone can agree that New England has been around too long, and some diversity in teams would be great.

Sure, but that requires the other AFC teams to get better. Other than Pittsburgh, and the Colts under Peyton Manning, has anyone been equal to that task? And is that Brady and Belichick's fault?

No, but let's be honest, Geritol Fan -- we're tired of these dudes.

Yeah, but it's been amazing to watch.

Maybe it's over, though. Maybe today. Watch me work!

New England Cheatriots (-2.5) vs. Los Angeles Rams. It's eerie how circular this game is compared to Super Bowl XXXVI. The Patriots are playing the role as favorite and the dynasty talk will be secured further with a win. The Rams have faced a long road back and are starting a young quarterback who nobody seems to trust outside of Hollywood. If that sounds familiar, it does echo back to 2002. The key to this game is going to be the first two full possessions of the second quarter. That sounds random, but hear me out. New England's experience in Super Bowls is that they do not start fast, but play better once they get settled in. I expect the Rams know this, and they tend to play better as the game goes on. Whomever plays better on the first two possessions of the second quarter should win. I think the Rams are a dangerous team and they are too flexible. Rams 35, Patriots 29.

This Patriots team is flawed, but they are playing very well right now. The underrated part of New England's dynasty is how they've been consistently able to take away what their opponents do best. The Rams present a different challenge, though, because the thing they do best, surprisingly, is on defense. Aaron Donald is again the Defensive Player of the Year and he's the closest thing to an unstoppable defensive lineman I've ever seen. And his partner in crime Ndamukong "Hong Kong Dirty" Suh has been lights out for the last month. Tom Brady rarely has to face a team that can get pressure right up the middle quickly, but that's what the Rams will do. The Patriot O-line is good, but it's strength is on the edges, not up the middle. That's the question today -- can Tom Brady win the game if Donald and Suh can put him on his back consistently? If they can, chalk up another Lombardi Trophy for the Pats. I say. . . Patriots 31, Rams 27.

So the Old Dude disagrees with me yet again. I shake my head. And don't worry, I'm sure there will be plenty of HYYYYYYPPPPPPE! in the pre-game show, which began last Wednesday, I think. Ben out!

Benster and D Pick Your Games -- Patriots Aren't Underdogs Edition

Old dude, does it bother you that the Patriots are underdogs? Was Darth Vader an underdog during the Star Wars saga?

When you're talking comparative morality and Las Vegas is involved, I'm not sure it's a distinction of much value.

I really don't like morality plays. I am feeling the HYYYYYPPPPEEEE!, and can't wait to discuss these games.

I sense a disturbance in the Force. Or is it a Very Special Comment?

Watch and see. It is time to watch me work.

Los Angeles Rams (+3) vs. New Orleans Saints. This is a rematch of a game played earlier this year where the Rams were run out of the Dome. Some say that Sean McVay's personal assistant is going to be hired as a head coach, because apparently McVay knows everything and is the coaching flavor of the month. The Saints are almost unbeatable in the Dome these days, and I think they are going to dominate again. The Rams are too much of a finesse offensive team and all their talent has not won anything yet. Saints 70, Rams 49.

Saints are going to make their free throws, I assume? I expect a shootout, but perhaps not to that extent. Rams will have a chance, but I'm thinking Brees will find a way. Saints 34, Rams 28.

New England Cheatriots (+3) vs. Kansas City Chiefs. It's time for another Very Special Comment. I know that New England is not the underdog, but the NFL needs to seriously consider if it is better for their brand to keep having New England being showcased all the time. The Patriots have a coach and star player who knowingly cheated and an owner who makes Jerry Jones look like a moral guardian. How can Patriots fans continue to root for a team that does not care about the rules and is a bad example for our children? If Robert Kraft had any morality or shred of humanity, he would give back all the tainted money and fire every single cheater on his staff, and be banned from ever owning a football team. The Hoodie should be banned and stripped of his wins and be forced to give back his salary to the league. Brady should be stripped of his wins and give all of his mtroney to Adam Vinatieri. Vinatieri is the only reason that the Patriots are relevant these days, and every single Patriots fan should thank the heavens that he could kick in the clutch. Patriots fans, if you have any shred of morality, give up your tickets and turn your back on the team. You are aiding cheating and have shown you won't hold your "heroes" accountable. Kansas City should win, and they have a moral duty to. I am going to call on Roger Goodell to strip New England of every single win that the cheating weasels won and force them to give back their trophies to the teams who were screwed over by a rogue organization that is an embarrassment to the game of football. Chiefs 31, Cheatriots 0.

Whoa. I love you, young fella, but that was some Grade A crapola you just put out there. For a guy who claims he doesn't like morality plays, that's a ton of moralism you're flinging. I checked the record, just to be sure. I believe Adam Vinatieri left the Patriots around 2006. A lot has happened since then. I'll grant you one thing -- the Patriots are shady as hell. But I've been watching them for a long time and they win because they figure out how to beat their opponents and rarely make mistakes when the game is on the line. Anyway, on to the particulars. I think the Chiefs are better overall, but they haven't been in the Super Bowl since the 1969 season. Patrick Mahomes is a heck of a talent, but I have a feeling ol' Hoodie has something special for him. I don't like saying this, but. . . Patriots 27, Chiefs 24.

That was straight fire right there. Ben out.

Benster And D Pick Your Game -- Bold North Edition

Old dude, this might be the closest some Vikings fans have gotten to a Lombardi trophy.

It's in the same state and you can see it. Yes, I suspect you're right.

I hope you are avoiding the crazies downtown.

Put it this way -- I do not anticipate crossing Larpenteur Avenue until Monday. It's really not that bad here, because the fashionable people don't come to the northern suburbs. If you can't get a reservation at Meritage, you don't go to Applebee's in Northtown.

Well, you don't either, Geritol Fan!

True. Although some of the swells ought to try out our friends at Bistro La Roux.

If the Saints had won, they'd be there for sure. I sure liked my po' boy there.

Before this turns into a restaurant review piece, we ought to turn our attention to the Super Bowl.

Good point! That Metamucil buzz must be wearing off for you! This could be the continuation of the Patriots and their dynasty deal with the devil, or will the Eagles finally end years of frustration and break through?

And will they need to grease the poles in Philly again?

We will discuss that and more. I'm feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYYPPPEE!, and am ready to watch me work.

Philadelphia Eagles (+4) vs. New England Patriots, in Minneapolis. The Patriots were expected to come to Minnesota and defend their crown. The Eagles were given no respect after Carson Wentz went down, but Nick Foles and their defense decided to prove the doubters wrong. I personally am sick and tired of the Patriots, but not because they have ruined my team's chances to win. The reason I am sick and tired of New England is that they seem to win by employing people who have done things that are fast and loose in terms of fair play and screwing over other teams, and their fans seem to treat them like they are the victims. Tom Brady may be the best quarterback of all time, but he certainly has been dogged by questions about inflation of footballs and was on the team during Spygate, and may have had some of his success come from information he should not have had. Bill Belichick has certainly been a great coach, but we easily forget that he quit on the New York Jets after 1 day as their head coach after the Jets gave him a second chance to be an NFL head coach, as detailed here. It is a shame that instead of celebrating the Patriots success, they have made themselves into villains because of things like Spygate and Deflategate, missteps that were of their own doing. I would love to see the Eagles win, and I think they can. The Patriots under Kraft, Belichick, and Brady have played tight Super Bowls and never have blown any team out. The Eagles have a great defense and Nick Foles made plays against a much better defense in the NFC Championship game. I think New England has an excellent shot to win, but I feel that the Eagles will have the will to win in order to make their critics have to call them Super Bowl champions. Eagles 27, Patriots 21. (In OT)

I don't have any great love for the Eagles, but as a team and organization they aren't all that loathsome. Their Milwall-style fan base makes it more difficult to get with them, too. But the Eagles fans aren't on the field. Can the Eagles win? I think they can, too. Will they, though? Not so sure. The Patriots win because they are, invariably, stronger at the moment of truth. That's what happened last year. The Falcons couldn't close the deal, even though they were dominating the game most of the way. You have to beat the Patriots for 60 minutes, or more. Can the Eagles do that with Nick Foles at the helm? Yes, but that's not the way to pick it. Patriots 34, Eagles 31.
I probably won't be welcome in Foxboro, but as a Packers fan I can always point out that we beat New England straight up in Super Bowl XXXI to cement the 1996 Packers as one of the best teams to ever win a championship. Thank you for reading us this season. Until next fall, Ben out!

Benster and D Pick Your Games -- Inauguration of Champions Edition

Old dude, it's time to see who is going to get to go down to Houston and play for a nice shiny trophy, and I am pretty sure that this post will be a political free zone here.

Man, I hope so. One of the reasons we play games is to forget about everything else and we're seeing too much of the political world seeping into places where it ought not.

That actually makes sense, Decrepit! Have they been putting some extra brain additives in your Geritol lately?

Again, I hope so. But that's not why we're here, right?

Nope, we're here because of football. And the biggest thing is we have two excellent matchups, and people are going to enjoy the football, and not worry about politics, at least for a couple of hours. And as usual, I have a metric ton of HYYYYYYYYYPPPPE! to unleash.

You never seem to run out.

That's right. I got it. And it is time to talk some football and pick some games. Watch me work!


Glorious Green Bay Packers (+5.5) vs. Hotlanta Dirty Birds. This is a rematch of a game played in October, that the Falcons won in a 33-32 shootout. The Packers come in very beat up, though it sounds like some of their injured players might be able to give it a go. What the Packers need to do is going to be tough, but I think they can do it. The key for the Packers is to have Ty Montgomery run the ball and keep Matt Ryan off the field. My biggest concern for Atlanta is that this is the final game in the Georgia Dome, and there is bound to be a lot of emotion and pressure on the Falcons. Matt Ryan has not performed well in the playoffs throughout his career, and that needs to change in the biggest game of his life. This game will feature a lot of points, but I think the Packers will still have another game to play. Packers 63, Falcons 50.

Bet the over, then? I suspect a lot of points will indeed be scored, but I don't see anyone putting up 63. Two key players for the Packers did not play the last time these teams met -- Jared Cook and Clay Matthews. Those are key contributors, especially Cook, who has really opened up the middle of the field for the Packer offense. Atlanta can rush the passer better than the Cowboys, but they are suspect along the back line. If the Packers can get a couple of stops defensively, they will win. But it's going to be a shootout for sure. Packers 37, Falcons 34.

Pittsburgh Steelers (+6) vs. New England Patriots. The Patriots were expected to roll through the Texans, and did just that. The issue I see for New England is that the Steelers are not just a team along for the ride. They have talent and Mike Tomlin has done a better job than some of his critics give him credit for, and it's worth remember the Steelers are a talented group of players. Even though New England won the first meeting in Pittsburgh, look for this game to be very close until the Steelers pull away late, and for New England sports fans to face the reality that maybe it is time to clean house. Steelers 35, Patriots 11.

What does Tom Brady have left in the tank? That's the question. He looked mortal at times against the Texans, although that's an excellent defensive team. The question for the Patriots is simple -- can you stop LeVeon Bell? No one has recently. The Patriots tend to take away one player, and the guess here is that they will concentrate on Antonio Brown instead. Pick your poison. Patriots 24, Steelers 20.

Enjoy your football Sunday, and hopefully these games are going to be dramatic and interesting. And again, I may say some crazy stuff, but I call it like I see it. Ben out!