Benster and D Pick Your Games: #Karma and LOL Illinois Edition

Remember when the Badgers were going to lose to Illinois again? Pepperidge Farm remembers. In fact, some might say it was #karma. 

Instant Karma's gonna get you. Knock you right in the head. 

Meanwhile, the Packers need to figure some things out.

They could start with playing better. And maybe coaching better. Two problems that are often related.

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

Michigan State Sparty the Spartan (+7) vs. Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat I've been very critical of PJ in the past, and used the he can't beat Iowa stat. Well, it turns out that he proved me wrong on that point. In the interest of full disclosure, the Badger game last week got all of my attention, and didn't see a second of the Gophers. After looking at the highlights, the punt return call was the right call. Instead of complaining about a rule that has been on the books for a while, Iowa could instead blame the offense for not doing anything in the second half and failed to win the game. Somehow, Sparty's football scandal is not nearly as bad as what is happening in Ann Arbor, but we will talk later as more and more of that story comes out. Look, the Gophers should win against the Spartans, especially since the momentum of getting the Iowa monkey off their back will make for a fired up crowd at the Bank. Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 42, Mel Tucker Fumbled The Bag 0.

Sparty is, ya know, kinda terrible? The Gophers aren't as strong this year as in previous years, but they're plenty good enough to win this game. Minnesota 24, Michigan State 3.

A School In Columbus (-14.5) vs. Beloved Wisconsin Badgers Last week was an incredible 4th quarter performance, and it turns out that the Badgers got their crap together just in the nick of time. Longo calling a tackle eligible pass for the winning touchdown took incredible guts, and props to Locke for getting a win in his first start on the road in Big Ten play, similar to Hornibrook in 2016 at Spartan Stadium. Look, we all know that Ohio State is arguably the best team in the country and coming off a big win against Penn State last week. Here is the thing, though. The Buckeyes have been slow starters, and dodged bullets against Maryland, Notre Dame, and Penn State by having their high end talent bail them out in the second half. The weather in Madison is going to be cold, and Fickell also isn't scared of the Buckeyes given that he knows how they operate in a way that few coaches do in the Big Ten. This won't be easy, I'll readily admit that. But the thing is, Buckeye fans are so mad about Michigan that they are forgetting that this is one of their toughest games all year, and the Curse of the Six Game Minimum is still intact. How about Fickell getting a signature win? You heard it here first. Badgers 24, Buckeyes 17.

I'd love to agree with you. But the Badgers aren't ready for this. Check back in a few years. Ohio State 34, Wisconsin 17.

Minnesota Vikings (-1.5) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers Serious question, did the Packers actually prepare for Denver at all? It was the same mistakes over and over, and honestly LaFleur is falling into the same traps that Sherman fell into in 2005. You are lucky that I had another special thing I wanted to do, because the Packers have learned nothing this year. Meanwhile, the Vikings beat the Niners in a performance that deserved a win, and they are coming into Lambeau in a good position to try and calm down the angry Vikings fans who light up the KFAN phone lines. What the Packers need to do is figure out how to start better, and actually have a defense that looks good. I get that you can't blame the defensive coaches when they are dealing with a bunch of injuries. But have you tried anything different? The good news is that the Packers should be due for a win. If not, I'm going to have to go deep, and you don't want me to do that. Packers 35, Vikings 21. 

The Packers are, ya know, not very good right now. And they have injuries galore. Vikings aren't great, either, but I don't see a lot of evidence that the Packers are good enough to win at this moment. So I have to pick it as follows: Vikings 27, Packers 17.

And now, it's time to laugh at Illinois and Bert. Those that are not Badger fans might be wondering why what happened last week made us feel so glad about this. They may be asking themselves why Badger fans hate Bert given the success he had. It's true, Bert had a lot of success in Madison. I don't have a problem with Bert leaving. What I do have a problem with is him calling out fans on Twitter who are mad at him, leaving 3 days after winning a Big Ten title, saying that the program can't win compared to Arkansas, and having his wife tweet #karma after the 2013 debacle against Arizona State. Here is the funny thing. Wisconsin has won a lot more than he has since he left, and came a heck of a lot closer to playing for a national championship compared to his time coaching at Arkansas. By the way, how is it easier to win games when you spent time in the very strong SEC West circa 2014 compared to Wisconsin being in the Big Ten West? 

He might have been mistaken?

Ya think? God it was great seeing the Badgers win. They played great in the 4th quarter, and ended up looking like what Fickell wants from his offense with a mixture of downfield passing and the trademark power run game. Blaming the refs? How about blaming yourself for burning timeouts, losing your physical edge, and some baffling decisions. It's like the Rose Bowl against TCU all over again. Way to burn bridges, Bert. 

He also might want to burn the orange clothes, too.

The American Heart Association has him on the watch list for other reasons, too

Glad you're paying attention to fashion, Old Dude! Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----We Didn't Steal Signs Edition

 So I didn't know that Jim Harbaugh decided it was a good idea to hire the 2017 Astros baseball ops people to steal signs.

He's a big fan of Brenton Wood:

That might be your most obscure effort yet, Old Dude!

I contain multitudes, Seabiscuit.

A few bran flakes should clear that up. Meanwhile, the Badgers have some explaining to do. I hate to bust the axe out this early, but they gave me no choice. 

They aren't playing the Gophers this week, are they?

You seem slower on the uptake than usual. Didn't think that was even possible. But I move on, as I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYPPPEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat (+3.5) vs. Iowa Hawkeyes So Iowa already beat one of their rivals in a game we will talk more about, and now they get ready to face the Gophers. As much as I get called a hater for pointing out how Row The Boat has manipulated history to brandish his culture more, the fact remains that he has never beaten Iowa. Quite frankly, this game is going to live up to all of the stereotypes that surround Big Ten football. There is going to be a lot of running, plenty of punting, and not a lot of cutting edge offense. This game is going to be ugly, and the Iowans should win this one comfortably. No matter what, I will get to laugh at one of these teams. Iowa 14, Row Row Row Your Boat 11, Viewers Fall Asleep.

I dozed off reading your prediction. Never a good sign. Iowa 20, Minnesota 9.

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (-2.5) vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Last week was a disaster for the Badgers on so many levels, and it's at the level of 2015 Northwestern and 2015 Iowa in terms of anger. Locke should be better with a full week of prep, and quite frankly a less stout defense. Illinois has been terrible all year, but then again the Big Ten West might be the worst division throughout the FBS as every single team is various levels of inept. This would be nice to win as the Badgers owe Illinois one for the disaster last year that ended up bringing the current coaching staff to Madison. Look for an angry group of Badgers to come out and get it done. Badgers 31, Illini 12.

Don't like this game. Bielema is a good coach. Illinois isn't talented, but the Badgers appear to be overhyped and with a freshman quarterback, it's a tall order. Against my better judgment, I say: Badgers 21, Illinois 20.

Penn State Nittany Lions (+4.5) vs. A School In Columbus So, the Buckeyes have been playing well. They had the narrow escape from South Bend, and survived against Maryland a couple of weeks ago. A game against Penn State at home should be easy, right? Not so fast, my friend. Penn State has been playing really well, and this is the best team they have had in years. Ohio State has looked shaky, and they are still under the Curse of the Six Game Minimum, which the Buckeyes know what to take down in their stadium to undo. I like Penn State to come into the Horseshoe to send the arrogant fanbase to blow up the phone lines of talk shows all across Ohio for the crime of losing a football game. Penn State 28, #NotMy2020BigTenChampions 26.

You realize no one cares about any of that, right? As for the game, I think Penn State is good enough to beat the Buckeyes in the Horshshoe this time. Will they? Ohio State 28, Penn State 27.

San Francisco 49ers (-6.5) vs. Minnesota Vikings Well, the Vikings survived disaster last week, but the problem is that they are facing a much tougher test. The Niners may be banged up, but they are more talented than the Vikings are. I'll say this, Niners. You better win in this window, or you are going to have a lot of questions to answer about how you've done things lately. Niners 56, Vikings 0.

No McCaffrey. No Deebo, perhaps. A banged up Brock Purdy. I think the Niners win, but it won't be easy. Niners 24, Vikings 17.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (-1) vs. Denver Broncos So the good news for the Packers is that despite the disaster in the desert a couple of weeks ago, the team looks to be healthier after the bye, and are playing a Broncos team that although they have the pieces, have clearly been a disaster. The Broncos can't stop anyone, and the Packers hopefully used the bye week to stop being dumb and cover pass catchers with defensive linemen. This should be a nice bounce back. Packers 49, Broncos 5.

Denver is a hot mess. Packers really haven't proved anything. We'll see. I think the only thing that saves the Packers is the ineptitude of the opposition. Packers 24, Broncos 16.

And now, it's time for a Very Special Comment. Wisconsin, what in the world was that? I was enjoying a nice weekend out of town, and spent 3 hours watching this team have an ugly meltdown. Fickell, I love you, but the decision to not take the field goal in the first quarter was bad. I realize that you can't blame the coaches when players get hurt, but did you even try to adjust? It was vanilla playcalling, being conservative, and the game was decided when the Hawkeyes took the lead in the first half. Did Longo even try to do something unique? No, it was passing the ball all the time, even though Locke looked raw. I mean, good lord. You knew points were at a premium in that game, and sleepwalked through that game. You need to figure your shit out, or we might not even make a bowl game this year. What are you going to do about it? I expect far better, and you let me me down. 

We'll let the expletive go this time, because it's deserved. I think the brain trust in Madison needs to channel Brenton Wood and give us some kind of sign that things are getting better.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----Rutting Iowans Edition

 Old dude, the Iowans have something that the Badgers need to get back, or maybe the Ferentz family is using that to stay employed.

Well they certainly aren't using offensive acumen!

Shot slate this week, because we're traveling. Still I am ready to pick some games, and it is time to watch me work, and am feeling the HYYYYYYYYPPPEEEEE!

Iowa Hawkeyes (+10) vs. Beloved Wisconsin Badgers Luke Fickell was brought to Madison in part because the Badgers need to start winning games against Iowa and Minnesota, and this is a great place to start. Iowa is offensively challenged, and despite the worry that our old pal Mr. Deacon Hill will be ready for revenge, the Badgers should be able to get enough points to maybe force Iowa to reevaluate handing over their program to nepotism. Oh wait, they are Iowa and will be doing dumb decisions anyway. Wisconsin 31, Iowa 0.

It's on brand for them. Still, Iowa is a tough out every time and the Badgers are not exactly setting the world on fire in this transition year. I think they will play enough defense to keep the Iowans at bay and score just enough points to win. Wisconsin 17, Iowa 6.

Minnesota Vikings (-2.5) vs. Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck So the Vikings don't have the Griddy man for a while. That will suck for them, but the bottom line is that this team has regressed to the mean. They aren't winning many close games anymore, and it turns out that the Vikings sold their souls for a year that ended in pain yet again. Da Bearz are even worse, even though the game is in Chicago. Nothing will change for the Bears until they get new ownership, as much as people want to deny it. Vikings 21, Bears Still Suck 0.

Smart Bears fans agree with you, Benster, although a smart Bears fan is at best a theoretical construct. As for the game, no need to buy Sominex this week, kids - just tune in the (ahem) action in Chicago! Bears 17, Vikings 16.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games-----Peacock Is A Terrible Idea For Big Ten Football Edition

Seriously? You are putting my Badgers on Peacock? What the heck did they spike the Philly cheesesteaks with at the Comcast corporate cafeteria with? What's wrong with USA network? It's not the Big Ten's fault that Comcast can't run a profitable streaming service that nobody asked for. I might have to go to Buffalo Wild Wings again to watch the Badgers. 

Maybe they have a deal with Peacock? Are you sure those wings are chicken?

Meanwhile, while I'd normally do a Very Special Comment about the disaster last Thursday night, thankfully another sports team I love ended a streak, and I'm in a better mood. We'll talk about that later.

Did it involve Royce Lewis?

Emphatically yes. I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYPPPEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

Michigan Wolverines (-18.5) vs. Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat The Gophers struggled to get by the Cajuns, but thankfully dodged the bullet in the second half. But this week is going to be a huge increase in difficulty. Michigan has been criticized in some quarters for playing an easy schedule, but they won all of their games, and starting next year when our new Big Ten members join us, the easy schedule complaint goes away. The Wolverines play bully ball at a higher level and with better athletes. So while PJ continues to come up with new slogans and designs for oar branded merchandise for Goldy's Locker Room, Michigan will win in decisive fashion. Wolverines 60, Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 10.

What, you have a problem with merchandising? Let's see what ol' Peej can do to sell what happens tomorrow. It won't be pretty. Michigan 38, Gophers 7.

Buttgers Scarlet Knights (+13.5) vs. Beloved Wisconsin Badgers The Badgers ended up playing well to get by Purdue, but losing Chez Mellusi is a tough blow. Rutgers is improving and will now get a full share of BTN revenue. However, they still aren't there yet, and the Badgers have been bedding in well to Fickell's changes in how the program runs. Mordecai's running ability is a nice X factor, and the Badgers defense stood tall when Purdue made their rally in the 4th quarter. Wisconsin should win comfortably after a close 1st half. Badgers 42, Scarlet Knights 17.

That sounds right. They will miss Mellusi for sure, but not this week. Badgers 34, Scarlet Knights 14.

Taylor Swift Kansas City Chiefs (-3.5) vs. Minnesota Vikings I got nothing against Taylor Swift, and I get she's just supporting her boyfriend, but this whole thing of featuring her all the time during the past two Chiefs games is too much. Let the lady watch the game in peace, and may CBS keep that to the pregame and postgame only. The Vikings got it done in the second half against a game Carolina squad. It goes without saying that the Chiefs are going to be a much tougher out than the Panthers, even though the game is downtown. If the Vikings defense had trouble stopping Baker and Bryce Young, then stopping Mahomie is going to be a tall ask. Chiefs 34, Vikings 14.

I don't see the Vikings having an enjoyable afternoon, either. Chiefs 34, Vikings 20.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (-1.5) vs. Las Vegas Raiders The Packers came out flat last week, and that was an unacceptable coaching performance by the coaching staff. The good news is that the Raiders are led by a moron in Josh McDaniels, who clearly learned from his former boss in New England about how not to keep his word to a team about accepting a head coaching job. Jimmy G will be good to go, and it looks like the Packers are going to be healthier going into this game. What I want to see is some fire, some deep balls connect, and for the Packers to actually be able to stop someone running the ball. The Raiders are not a good team, and the Packers should win this one. Also, the good news is that this is one of the only times this year I have to listen to Troy Aikman continue to get paid millions of dollars every year despite never offering any insights at all. Packers 28, Raiders 0.

Aikman has a good point, but you never saw it because he wore a helmet. I think this will be much more difficult than you do. The Packers will not shut out the Raiders. But I do think the Packers will have enough firepower to win. Packers 31, Raiders 23.

And now, it's time to talk about the Twins and how proud I am. The Twins came into this postseason facing a stat that is almost beyond belief, yet has haunted the franchise for almost two decades. 0-18 in playoff games since Game 1 of the 2004 ALDS against the Yankees. For Twins fans like me, any regular season success would lead to getting swept out of the playoffs, often finding new and exciting ways to lose. A missed call by Phil Cuzzi in 2009 at Yankee Stadium, getting swept by the A's in 2006 despite having the Cy Young, MVP, batting champion, and a Gold Glove winner, getting manhandled by Didi in 2017 and 2019, losing to a Houston team that had a losing record in 2020, and the damn 2008 AL Central tiebreaker against the White Sox. So when I attended the first game of the Wild Card against the Jays on Tuesday afternoon, I knew that despite my optimism about this team, things could go wrong. 

But then a funny thing happened. Royce Lewis hit two home runs, Pablo Lopez pitched very well to validate why we got him from the Marlins, Michael A Taylor made some great catches, and Carlos Correa delivered on his contract by making one of the best plays I've ever seen in person. Myself, Kirko, and 38,000 others stood tall and created an incredible atmosphere all afternoon long. Once Johan Duran closed out the game, there was an overwhelming feeling of joy, excitement, and relief. Finally, my beloved Twins had won a playoff game. No more jokes about how the Twins can't win in the playoffs. I must admit that when the Twins won, I teared up. Not of sadness, but of joy. Finally, the Twins were just another team fighting for a title, without the baggage of a streak that will take something to be broken. 

Shout a hip hooray!

And on Wednesday, the Twins finished the job and swept a postseason series for the first time in team history, and won a playoff series at home for the first time since the 1991 World Series. As I watched Duran strike out the final batter, there was joy and excitement. No longer would I watch my beloved Twins in the playoffs without fear. While Houston is going to be a tough ask in the ALDS, the Twins have already given their fans the one thing I asked of them. We aren't cursed in the playoffs, and we are just another team trying to advance. No more pressure. From the bottom of my heart, thank you Falvine, thank you Rocco, thank you Royce, thank you Correa, thank you Taylor, thank you Pablo, and thank you Sonny. The pain of October baseball in my childhood has gone away, and a new era of Twins baseball has begun. 

Enjoy your football this weekend, and let's go Twins. Ben out. 

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

So the Packers didn't go well last night. Bottom line is nothing went right, and we will be back. I'll discuss that disaster next week. The good news is that the Twins won the AL Central, and look like this time we might actually win a playoff game. I'm still on guard, because the Twins have let me down in October a bunch. 

You're too young to have all that scar tissue. But I can see it. Hope it changes this year.

Meanwhile, how in the world the Gophers blew a big lead to Northwestern of all teams is beyond me. And we also have a terrible NFL game. 

That's entertainment!

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

Louisiana Ragin Cajuns (+11) vs. Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat The Gophers have some explaining to do after blowing a 21 point lead and losing that quickly in overtime. The fact that the Purple Nerd voodoo struck the Gophers in that way made me laugh, and it couldn't have happened to a nicer coach. Louisiana is projected to be a middling Fun Belt team, and the Gophers won't have any problems this week on their homecoming. What the Gophers need to do is show a little creativity on offense? As a correction, I earlier blamed Kirk Ciarrocca for vanilla playcalling for the Gophers. Turns out that he is at Rutgers, where it is hard for him to run the Gopher offense. Once again, the Gophers will have no problems with Louisiana on their homecoming. Or will they? Bistro La Roux 28, Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 11.

Gophers will rebound. But this could be amusing. What should alarm the Gophers is their defense. Or lack thereof. Gophers 27, Louisiana 20.

Minnesota Vikings (-4.5) vs. Carolina Panthers Last week was a terrible piece of clock management by the Vikings. How in the world do you not clock the ball, and why was a veteran quarterback like Kirk making a terrible rushed throw into double coverage? I was dumbfounded watching that live, and the Vikings dropped a winnable game. Now, they gotta go on the road to a desperate Carolina team and have to deal with the Justin Jefferson trade rumors. As much as I'd love to say that the Vikings are the better team, they can't get out of their own way. Carolina ain't great, but they have a competent coach and I think Bryce Young has shown a bunch, given how terrible things look at Bryant-Denney without him. Panthers 36, Vikings 29.

This is a game the Vikings should win. They've had two others and haven't gotten it done. I sense a trend. Panthers 28, Vikings 24.

Denver Broncos (-3.5) vs. Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck This game is going to be the game of the year for those who love terrible football. If you get stuck watching this game and have no rooting interest, I feel so sorry for you. The Bears can't even protect their football equipment, let alone win games. Justin Fields is going to get run out of town by angry Bears fans, a new regime is going to come in and ruin some poor college standout, and the McCaskey clan still owns the team, which means that real improvements are not going to happen. As for the Broncos, they gave up 70 points. It couldn't have happened to a nicer coach than Sean Payton, who blamed his predecessor for how bad Denver is. Well, you have a worse record than him, Sean. Go back to coaching your son's football team, and maybe Netflix can make a sequel to that crappy film they made about his year in exile. Look, this game is  going to set the NFL back 50 years. Go watch something else. Bearz Still Suck -1000, The 1990s Broncos Aint Walking Through That Door -1009.

Do I have to pick this game? Really? Seems cruel. Broncos 21, Bears 13.

And now, it's time to laugh at the Gophers. God, I love seeing PJ get a ton of criticism, and his shine is coming off. I warned Gophers fans about this, but was told that I was a hater and had an agenda. It is obvious that the Gophers have gone backwards since 2019, and even then they still lost the two games that the Gophers can't lose. Northwestern might be the worst Power 5 team this year, and you blow a 21 point lead? Even Glen Mason thought that was a big blown lead. Then, you complain about NIL? LOL, get out of here. Maybe if you opened up the the playbook and showed some creativity instead of coming up with more stupid sayings, then you would have won. NIL ain't going to save you, especially considering that the Badgers and Nebraska have gotten better coaches, and 4 good football schools are joining the Big Ten next year. Oh, and the easy path to Indy is going away. Turns out that even with all of the advantages that you were handed compared to Jerry Kill, you haven't accomplished more than him. I warned you, Gophers. But you didn't listen. Watch PJ row his boat out of here, and then you can hire a coach who is a football guy instead of a wannabe HSN host on the graveyard shift. 

That's gonna leave a mark!

Who is this Benster guy and why is he so mean to me?

That's why I said it, Old Dude! Enjoy your football this weekend. 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-----The Vikings Are In Trouble Edition

So it turns out that the Packers are indeed mortal. Which also means the beatdown of the Bears looks less impressive, given that the Bears have bigger things to deal with.

Here's a live look at Halas Hall:

,

Meanwhile, some say that Georgia Southern is still getting intercepted by the Wisconsin secondary. This Badgers team is flawed, but I can see what Fickell is trying to do, and should get the time given his track record with the Bearcats. 

Sure, but things will get more difficult quickly.

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

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (-5.5) vs. Purdue Spoilermakers Thankfully for the Badgers, losing to the Cougars means that they are unranked and less likely for Purdue Pete to seek his blood sacrifice. Hopefully, he saves the voodoo for the Buckeyes. Wisconsin didn't play great against Georgia Southern, but woke up in the third quarter and decided to play bully ball. Purdue won't be an easy out, given that this is a road game in conference play. However, what should be noted is that the Badgers have dominated Purdue ever since Scott Starks scores on the fateful fumble back in 2004, and Purdue lost to a Fresno State team that might not be up there in the Mountain West. I think the Badgers need to start better and go to the run early, and then let Mordecai cook. Badgers 27, Spoilermakers 10.

Slow starts have been a problem in all three games thus far. I agree - the better formula is to bury the opponent early. Won't be easy in West Lafayette, but the Badgers are the better team. Wisconsin 28, Purdue 22.

Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat (-11.5) vs. Northwestern Purple Nerds So it goes without saying that the Purple Nerds are a mess after the shocking news about Pat Fitzgerald. I don't know where Northwestern goes from here, and this game could be very old-fashioned. The Gophers struggled in Chapel Hill last week, and while they are heavy favorites, the Gophers seem to have lost all sorts of imagination. Where was the creative offense that the Gophers ran in 2019? I know that PJ wants to be like Iowa and Wisconsin, but his style is dangerous. If Northwestern goes to the lead, then I think the Gophers are going to be rowing up the creek. Thankfully, Northwestern is going to roll over and die for the Gophers. Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 9, Purple Nerds 0.

Here's a live look at the Northwestern football complex:

You don't necessarily need to be good. This week is one such example for the Flecktones: Gophers 21, Northwestern 9.

A School in Columbus (-3) vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish This game is between two schools that I don't like very much. Both teams win too much, have national media love ins, and have fanbases that drive me up the wall because of how entitled and unrealistic they are. The Domers have done nothing since 1988, and yet I still get them shoved into my faces every single time they win, and the Buckeyes still fly a banner for a conference title that required a rule change, if you remember the Curse of the Six Game Minimum that other outlets don't want to admit the existence of. Hey, Dan Shaughnessy built his entire career around a curse, why can't I? So this game should be fun. Ohio State hasn't looked great, while the Domers have already started to anoint Sam Hartman as the next great Notre Dame star, ignoring that he's a transfer. As much as the mystique of Notre Dame Stadium is a marketing product, I like the Domers to get it done. No matter what happens, I get to see an entitled group of fans melt down. Rudy Was Offsides 50, Born on Third Base 48.

Notre Dame has looked better than expected, while the Buckeyes have looked worse. What does it mean? Nothing. Ohio State 31, Notre Dame 21.

Los Angeles Chargers (+1) vs. Minnesota Vikings Both teams are 0-2, and there is going to be an air of desperation downtown. The Vikings weren't good enough to beat the Eagles, and quite honestly given their next few games could be struggling again just like in 2021. The Chargers can't stop anyone, and have had two brutal losses. Cam Akers coming to the Vikings is an interesting move, because the Vikings have not gotten any running lanes established, and they are going to need that to avoid relying on Kirk, who might be in danger of getting run out of town and losing his precious Spire commercials. I think the Chargers are better balanced, and with the Vikings not having a lot of pieces on defense, I think the angry Vikings Whine Line callers will be out in force. Pray for Ron Johnson and Corey Cove. Go Back to San Diego 35, Vikings 26.

Akers has talent, but the Vikings offensive line? Here's a live look at their O-line meeting:

Chargers can rush the passer when it occurs to them. Kirk Cousins has been excellent thus far but he's got a tough assignment here. If Austin Ekeler can't play for the Chargers, that may mean the difference. Vikings 34, Chargers 31. 

New Orleans Who Dat Nation (+1.5) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers Last week the Packers had a very bad defensive meltdown that reminded me of 2008. Honestly, everyone can be blamed from the players to the coaching staff. We don't know if Jones or Watson is going to be good to go, but Love played very well without his two best weapons, and gave us a great chance to win. The Saints are a hard team to read. Derek Carr is trying to rebuild his career, and while the Saints have talent, Dennis Allen might not be the right guy to coach the team. The Packers should be able to make some more plays, and then it's a short week to deal with the LOLions. Packers 28, Saints 3.

Can the Packers keep Love upright against a pretty good Saints defense? That's the question this time. I think they do but this one makes me nervous. Packers 27, Saints 24.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games-----LOL Bears Fans Edition

Old dude, do you remember when the Bears fans were talking so much about how they were going to run the NFC North, how Justin Fields was going to be the MVP, and how the Packers were going to be irrelevant this year after the Bears exposed them at Solider Field? Pepperidge Farm remembers.

That's a whole lotta Milanos, Seabiscuit. I take it you find all that amusing?

Oh, we are going to laugh at the Bears this week. The Vikings are going to escape some laughter because losing on the road at Philly wasn't too unexpected. Though they might want to stop turning the ball over so much.   

That seems like constructive criticism.

I am capable of it. Meanwhile, I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYPPPPEEEEE! and am ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat (+7) vs. North Carolina Tar Heels In the interest of full disclosure, I was watching the Badgers and didn't see a second of the Gophers last week. This is going to be the real test for the Gophers in the nonconference portion, as North Carolina has Drake Maye, who a lot of people have going as a first rounder next spring. North Carolina is still coached by Mack Brown, who is a wily coach who obviously has the championship pedigree. If the Gophers fall behind, then I really question if their offense is designed to get them back in the game. Sorry, not sorry Gophers fans. Tar Heels 26, Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 10.

North Carolina is certainly a step up in class and while Chapel Hill is better known for roundball, they have been sneaky good at football for a long time. I think the Gophers will give them a game, but I think Carolina pulls away. Heels 27, Gophers 17.

Georgia Southern Eagles (+19.5) vs. Beloved Wisconsin Badgers The Badgers didn't have a great night out in Pullman, but while everyone was talking about the safety and fumble calls, you can't blame the refs for what happened. The Badgers dug themselves too big of a hole in the first half, and settled for field goals. Those things set up the 4th quarter and forced certain decisions to be made. Georgia Southern is a school that has a sneaky good history. Remember, they won a bunch at the lower level of college football and helped push App State to become what they are now. The Badgers should play well, and come out with focus and anger. Badgers 49, Eagles 17.

Focus and anger rarely travel together. If I had to choose one, I'd take focus. Let's hope the Badgers find it. Wisconsin 31, Georgia Southern 16.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+1.5) vs. Hotlanta Falcons Well, the Packers really showed that there is life after Aaron last week. Love looked very good, the defense played well, and the rookies all showed out. The concern is that Aaron Jones and Christian Watson are both questionable, and it looks like they might be a game time decision. The good news for this Jones owner in fantasy is that I have Quadfather locked and loaded if needed. Atlanta has a very good running game, which has given our somehow still-employed defensive coordinator trouble in his tenure. This won't be the easiest game in the world, but the Packers can win to go to 2-0 and get ready to welcome the Saints to Lambeau next week. Packers 21, Falcons 18.

I'm not sure if the Packers are good or if the Happy Schnapps Combo still has taken the measure of things:

What I do know is the Packers better stop the run game. Atlanta is the first of many such tests. Packers 31, Falcons 24.

And now, it is time to laugh at the Bears. You talked all this crap, and you backed it up like that? Even some players were talking crap about how they were going to take the rivalry back, how our fanbase didn't know football, how Jordan Love was terrible. Don't you remember in 2019 and how you said that the Bears ran this division? Life comes at you fast. The problem is that Justin Fields isn't the savior, and you guys should have known better. Fields was able to succeed in college because he was a better athlete, and had the benefit of Urban Meyer's recruits to help him with the Buckeyes. Fields ain't a pocket passer as of yet, and looked to run a whole lot. The Bears can't develop a quarterback, and after all this building around him, Fields has accomplished less than Trubisky. That's right. Trubisky at least got you to the playoffs twice. 

The real problem that the Bears have isn't in the coaching or football ops ranks, though both areas need an overhaul. What holds the Bears back is the nepotism and failure of the McCaskeys. Virginia is a great lady who I would love to talk football with, but her ownership is a prime reason why hiring family members and putting them in key positions in a family organization while not firing them when you would fire those who are outside the family kills a business from the inside. Virginia's kids have presided over failure after failure, and only Michael was fired. That was back in 1999 for the infamous botched Dave McGinnis hiring, but Michael was allowed to stay on in another role. Would you hire any of Virginia's kids given their track record to any organization outside of the Bears? Honestly, no. While Kevin Warren at least is an outsider, his record running the Big Ten produced mixed results, with even his master stroke of getting the LA schools to join the Big Ten getting overshadowed by issues with the new television deal. You can read some stuff on this blog from 2020 if you want to learn more about my thoughts on Warren. 

If I were Virginia, I would have fired all of her kids years ago, and cleaned house. Nothing will change as long as the McCaskeys continue to rob the Bears and their fans by drawing a paycheck that they don't deserve. If their last names were different, they would struggle to work in the NFL at any level. I'll say it even more strongly, the Bears are run by a bunch of damn nepotism kids  who lack any skills or qualifications outside of their DNA being right. I'm not even a Bears fan, but the McCaskeys need to step away from running the Bears entirely if they really cared about their team and their fanbase. 

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Benster and D Pick Your Games----Jeff Bezos Made Me Do This Emergency Post Edition

I swear to God, enough with the Thursday Night Football. Just because the NFL got in bed with Jeff Bezos doesn't mean that this package is needed. 

What you want and what you get are often at variance. But you knew that.

And we need to talk about what happened on Monday, because if you saw what happened coming, you are a liar or a sadist. 

It's a shame. No one wanted that.

I am feeling the HYYYYYPPPEEEE! and it is time to watch me work. 

Minnesota Vikings (+6.5) vs. Philadelphia Eagles Last week was a wakeup call for the Vikings, who still have some work to do if they want to prove that they aren't frauds. Kirk was very lax in holding onto the ball, and the Vikings blew a tire in the second half against Baker. The problem is that the Eagles are up next in Philly, and this is the type of game that the Vikings need to win if they want to prove the haters wrong. The good news is that Philly looked shaky at times against the Patriots, and are going to be banged up in the back end. The problem that the Vikings have is that they are banged up on the offensive line. While I think the Vikings are going to hang in there, the Eagles will be much too strong. Eagles 31, Vikings 17.

We'll find out a lot about the Vikings this week. They are banged up and their offensive line looks shaky. And the Eagles have a nasty defense. This could get out of hand in a hurry. Eagles 34, Vikings 13.

And now, it's time to talk about what happened on Monday. That sucked to see Aaron go down like that. I've been very critical about him and his exit from the Packers, but you don't like to see a guy go down like that. Any Packers fans who cheered for Aaron getting hurt has some explaining to do. I will say that what stinks about this is that the Packers won't get that conditional first round pick. Sucks for everyone, and nobody wins out of this mess.

Enjoy your Thursday. More picks on Friday. Ben out.                                                                                             

Benster and D Pick Your Games---We Didn't Join The Jets This Year Edition

Welcome back, and I didn't join the Jets this offseason like half the Packers. We will talk about some people in that organization. You've been warned.

Is this thing on? It looks like it's on. We still blog?

Well, I do, old dude! Badgers looked good, though Camp Randall apparently decided to amp up the volume this year, based on watching on television last weekend. 

I'm sorry, I can't hear you - my ears are still ringing.

You weren't listening anyway, were you?

You said something?

Oh, I have plenty to say, Geritol Fan! I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYPPPEEEEE! and it is time to watch me work.

Eastern Michigan Eagles (+20.5) vs. Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat The Gophers looked very questionable at times, but escaped thanks to Nebraska finding a way to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. Eastern Michigan is a terrible MAC team year in and year out, and the Gophers should win. What the Gophers need to do is stop playing Tressellball. Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 21, Eastern Michigan 10.

Not sure what Tresselball is, but I recognize what the Gophers are doing, which is the same thing they do every year. Apparently not as well, though. They should roll. Gophers 38, EMU 13.

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (-6) vs. Washington State Cougars Last week ended up well, but the Badgers looked a little loose in the turns for a while, even though Buffalo was well prepared and well coached. Tanner Mordecai was very loose with the football, and Longo should have gone to the running game a bit earlier in my view. But, a win is a win. The Cougars are out for blood this year, and I don't blame them for being upset with the Badgers, given that Washington State is going to be looking forward to trips to Laramie and Logan in the future. I do feel bad for Washington State and Oregon State, because they are getting hung out to dry by the other Pac schools. This won't be easy, but the Badgers should get revenge on the Cougars. Badgers 31, Cougars 17.

As former WSU coach Mike Leach (RIP)said, Butch the Cougar is clear-minded and crafty. And there's a reason most schools avoid the Palouse. The Badgers signed up for this, however, and they have to find a way to win. We saw the potential of the Badger running game when they aren't running into a 9-man box; big plays are in the offing. Defense will be the key for this one, though. I expect a shootout. Badgers 38, Washington State 34.

Minnesota Vikings (+5.5) vs. Tampa Bay Bucs So the Vikings are looking to show that 2022 was not a fluke, though there is a lot of drama under the surface. Will Kirk still be the guy next year? Will Justin Jefferson griddy his way out of town if the Vikings don't pay him? Honestly, I think that Jefferson is probably going to force his way out of town, and the Vikings have already planned for his departure if you look at who the Vikings got in the past two years. Thank God that Gisele's ex is no longer playing for the Bucs, and the Bucs are looking at going back to where they were before adding those mercenaries. The Vikings should win this game, though the Bucs will make this a challenge. Or will they? Bucs 35, Vikings Gonna Viking 21.

You do realize who is the Buc quarterback, right? It's Baker Freaking Mayfield. Vikings will win. Vikings 28, Tampa Bay 17.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+1.5) vs. Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck We are going to talk a little later about a certain trade the Packers made, but I am glad that the Packers finally got rid of the drama. It was freaking exhausting to deal with the drama over the past couple of years. Jordan Love will get his chance, and I like the guy. He has shown me some encouraging signs, and I like what LaFleur has been cooking up this offseason. A lot of hope has been invested in Justin Fields, and quite frankly Fields hasn't shown he has been worthy of the praise. I think that the Packers are going to be playing with house money this year, and will do a lot better than the haters think. It starts in Chicago, and while this game will be close given the history between these two teams, the Packers defense and running game will allow Love to make a couple of plays to win this game. Packers 28, Bears Still Suck 21.

Have the Bears fixed their defense? When the Bears win, they play defense. I'm not convinced they have fixed their defense. How about another shootout? Packers 31, Bears 27.

And now, it's time for a Very Special Comment. I'm happy that Aaron is gone and not on the schedule this year. While I will cherish the special memories of his tenure, it was clear that he had been causing a lot of drama, tension, and discord within the organization. That was something that bothered me, and it's nice that the Packers have been avoiding drama this offseason. One thing I will give Aaron credit for is not blaming the fans, and I hope that in a few years once everything calms down, he can be welcomed back and get his jersey retired. 

Now, onto the Jets. I'm not sold on them this year. While the Jets do have some nice pieces, their defense was remarkably healthy, and health in the NFL can change in a heartbeat. The other concern I have is that the Jets brought in a bunch of guys from a Packers team that missed the playoffs in 2022, and have been full of drama. For a team that was building a culture, there is a risk to bring in guys from a toxic situation, and Green Bay has been a toxic place the past few years. No disrespect to Joe Douglas and Robert Saleh, but when you bring in Aaron, it's buyer beware and if the Jets don't take the next step, those two could pay with their jobs. I'm not saying that Douglas and Saleh are bad at their jobs, as I think they are both good at their jobs. But let's be honest with ourselves here. The AFC is the stronger conference, and the AFC East is arguably the deepest division in the NFL this year. The Bills are a proven winner, the Patriots always have a chance with the Hoodie, and the Dolphins are underrated. Plus, the Chiefs and Bengals are going to have some things to say about the Jets being the kings of the AFC. If the Aaron trade blows up in their faces, then the Jets are back in the wilderness with no quarterback. The Packers were smart to make the move early, and after this year will have a ton of cap room to work with and an extra high draft pick to use in some way. In fact, the Packers are a prime Ewing Theory candidate. Remember that in 1998, everyone expected the Vols to rebuild without Peyton. Turns out the Vols were able to get it done, and without the pressure of expectations were able to win the national title that Peyton never got in addition to beating Florida. 

The ol' ball coach thanks you for that comment:

Somebody remembers me!

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games------Both Teams are Worthy Super Bowl Winners Edition

Old dude, both the Chiefs and the Eagles would be fine winners with me. I don't hate either team, and both Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts are likeable dudes.

Sure, but I'm kinda tired of the Hy-Vee ads.

The Super Bowl pregame show has already begun, and I will continue my proud tradition of not watching it. After all the hoopla and HYYYYYYYYPPPEEEEEEE! surrounding the game, often everything has been said out loud.

Besides, if we want HYYYYYYYYYPPPPPEEEEE, we can usually find it closer to home.

That's right. I am ready to make the last pick of the year. Watch me work.

Kansas City Chiefs (+1.5) vs. Philadelphia Eagles, in Phoenix Despite the continued whining from the Niners players, the Eagles did win the game fair and square. When you lose by more than 20 points, injuries ain't your biggest problem. The Chiefs also did win their game fair and square, given that Mahomes did get hit out bounds. The biggest difference in this game is going to be how the off hands of the offenses work. Obviously both Hurts and Mahomes have plenty of talent on their respective passing games, and have creative playcallers by their sides as their main weapons. But the running game for both teams gets forgotten about outside of the quarterbacks. Whomever has the most rushing yards between Pacheco and Miles Sanders will win the game. Both backs have been very effective in these playoffs, and in a game where time of possession is going to be critical, I believe those two players are going to be the ultimate keys. The Chiefs already have their legacy in great shape, and a win will only enhance their legacy. This Eagles team is different than the 2017 version, and their legacy is currently unknown. So, who do I pick? Eagles 35, Chiefs 32.

The owls are indeed superb this year. Does that help the Eagles? Hard to say, actually. I think Philadelphia is a slightly better team all around, but the Chiefs have already won one with this core and they have the best big-game quarterback currently available. Mahomes is injured, though. He played through it against the Bengals and should be, at least theoretically, healthier for this game. But I think the Eagles can get to him a few times. Will it be enough? Or do we have more Hy-Vee ads coming? Chiefs 38, Eagles 34.

Thanks again to everyone who read this feature all season long. Enjoy your football this weekend, and we will see you again in September. For the final time this year, Ben out. 

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

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

Yeah, probably. And it would suck. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Time has come today

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----Vikings Super Bowl Parade Still On? Edition

 The Vikings played pretty well last week, and are now getting ready to visit the Niners this weekend with the Super Bowl parade very much on, according to the local media and the Vikings fans. Wait, the Giants won? But I was told that the Vikings were going all the way this year. That can't be right. Ed Donatell was going to be different here then he was in Green Bay, and wouldn't be the fall guy for a playoff loss. We Packers fans were told we had an agenda. But the Super Bowl champions gear was on sale at the Vikings Locker Room? You really hate to see it. In all honesty, the Vikings have nothing to be ashamed of, and if they make the right moves then they have a chance to be back.

Wait, you lay out the elaborate cheap shot, and then you pull the punch?

I'm trying to be a nice guy, old dude.

Since when?

Uh, the mid 90s? Also, why haven't the Packers followed the lead of the Vikings and canned Joe Barry as the yearly coordinator sacrifice?

Because our beloved Packers are dumb?

That may be the case. But never mind that -- I am feeling the HYYYPPPPEEEEEEEEEE! and ready to pick the best weekend of football all year, where the top seeds come out to protect their home field. Watch me work.

Jacksonville Jaguars (+9) vs. Kansas City Chiefs Just give Doug Pederson Coach of the Year right now. While it is fair to laugh at the Chargers for melting down, this Jags team showed a lot of character and heart last week down in Florida. Now they have to go to Arrowhead and deal with a Chiefs team that is experienced and rested after their bye week. What the Jags are going to need to do is to avoid the turnovers in the first half, as Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid won't melt down. I'd also look for the Jags to make a play on special teams or defense to set up a touchdown early to try and quiet Arrowhead. But sadly, it won't be enough. Chiefs 38, Jaguars 21.

Somewhere out there, Jack Harry is no longer wondering what's wrong with the Chiefs. 

Things change after a decade. The Chiefs remain the team to beat in the AFC. And crusty old sportscasters fade away. Chiefs 42, Jaguars 27.

New York Giants (+7.5) vs. Philadelphia Eagles Jalen Hurts is going to be pretty healthy after the week off, and the Philly fans are going to be revved up after a long day of tailgating and will be even more annoying and intimidating than usual. The question I have for Philadelphia is this -- can their defense keep Daniel Jones in the pocket and limit his ability to pick up first downs. What really killed the Vikings was giving up those third and mediums, and not being able to get off the field. If the Giants can pick up four 3rd and 4-8 yard conversions throughout the game, then the Giants will win. If not, then the Eagles win. I think the Eagles will win that prop bet, and thus the game. Eagles 21, Giants 20.

Danny Dimes showed the world something last weekend. But now things are different. The Giants won't be intimidated, but their fun stops here. Eagles 31, Giants 17.

Cincinnati Bengals (+5.5) vs. Buffalo Bills So we obviously know what happened last time these two teams met, and thankfully Mr. Hamlin is doing incredibly well,  given what happened to him. I'm not a believer in the Bills. Look, they do have talent and certainly can win the Super Bowl. Lest we forget, this version of the Bills haven't reached the Super Bowl, and if I were the Bengals, I'd feel a little disrespected that people are overlooking the defending AFC champions. The Bills didn't impress me last week, especially given how they struggled against a Dolphins team without Tua. I just feel like Josh Allen hasn't taken the two last steps a quarterback needs to take to be truly elite. He hasn't won a road playoff game in his career, and the Bills have needed to get pieces to elevate him, and he hasn't elevated anyone else. The Bills defense also doesn't get the credit that they deserve at times. It's like going to a steakhouse where they advertise the steaks as the best thing on the menu, but the sides and desserts are the best thing on the menu and need to elevate a decently good steak into a meal that justifies the price and expectations you have. The Bills skill position players, front office, and  Sean McDermott are the sides and desserts. Josh Allen is the steak. He's decently good, but needs those other things on the plate to justify the meal. Joe Burrow has elevated the Bengals in just 3 years, and will show it on Sunday. Now I need to go get some steak. Bengals 45, Brett Hull Scored A Clean Goal 12.

Sounds like you're describing this old favorite:

We had one of those in Appleton and half my high school buddies worked there, along with the cute girl who lived next door to us. She did not appear in this commercial. As for the Bills, I'm not sure I agree with your assessment, but I do understand it. Josh Allen has to prove it. Will he? I think so. Buffalo 34, Cincinnati 31.

Dallas How Bout Them Cowboys (+4) vs. San Francisco 49ers If the Cowboys have sent Gisele's ex into retirement, that would be the first good thing they have done in a long time. The Niners didn't play great last week, but were able to have a dominant second half to win. To continue the steakhouse analogy, the Niners were able to take their three best cuts of steaks in their defense, Kyle Shanahan, and run game and have Christian McCaffery and Brock Purdy be the new wood fire grills and new seasoning mix that head chef John Lynch added as part of a remodel of the restaurant to add a new taste that can bring new customers in, while still offering the old standby options that long term regulars like. 

Wait, what?

That is probably the first time that anybody has made these comparisons, but I'm nothing if not unpredictable. 

No kidding.

The Cowboys do have one big concern on their West Coast road trip on a short week, and that is the kicking game. Brett Maher had a bad game. Because I love the steakhouse analogy now, he is the normally reliable automatic dishwasher in the kitchen that broke down, and the customers noticed it starting fairly early in the dinner rush. I think that the Niners will continue to use their winning formula, and the Cowboys will have another meltdown, and someone will be the scapegoat besides Jerruh Jones. Niners 56, Cowboys 21.

You shouldn't write these features when you're hungry, Seabiscuit. I think the 49ers are the best team on the NFC side, but I think we tend to let our animus regarding the Cowboys and their moronic fanbase color our judgements at times. The Cowboys are legit this year -- very good offense and a much improved defense. But on a short week against the 49ers, this is a tough assignment. San Francisco 31, Dallas 24.

I'm tempted to go get steak sometime soon, and never thought that I would compare NFL figures and teams to steakhouses. Hey, I've done stranger stuff in the past. Also, if you want to watch some good high school basketball this weekend, go to Prescott High School in Wisconsin on Saturday for the Border Battle. You'll thank me later. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games--The Pack Will Be Back Edition

 Yes, I am still here after last week. And the Packers have nobody to blame but themselves. Also, Quay Walker isn't the only person to blame. That's all that needs to be said. We will be back. 

Lotta work to do for the Packers. But we have other games to consider.

You picked right up on that, Geritol Fan! Meanwhile, the locals get their home playoff game, and I sense a lot of triumphalism amongst the local fans. That might not be the right thing. The one thing I can agree with Vikings fans on is that getting Correa back for the Twins is awesome, and sets the Twins up well to compete for the AL Central before they find some new and exciting ways to get swept out of the playoffs. But that is a topic for another day.

Soon enough. 

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

Seattle Seachickens (+9.5) vs. San Francisco 49ers The Niners are the team that I wouldn't be sleeping on because they are very good at winning January games. I always knew that Brock Purdy was going to be a pretty good bet for the Niners, since they have enough talent around him where he isn't going to have to win the game on his own. The Seahawks deserve a lot of credit for getting in, and the Russell Wilson trade has been a complete win for them. They don't have to move on from Geno Smith. Yes, that is a reasonable take and one I never thought that I would say back in the spring. Combine that with the picks they got from Denver, maybe the Seahawks aren't that far away. It reminds me of when the Twins traded Johan Santana to the Mets back in 2008. The Twins won 2 more AL Central titles, and the Mets didn't get the pitcher that would take them over the top in the NL. I think San Francisco will avoid the dubious honor of being the first 2 seed to lose to a 7 seed, but this game will be closer than you think. Seahawks 26, Niners 23.

Uh, wait. If the Niners lose, they don't avoid the dubious honor.

I'm having fun. Try to keep up.

Okay, but I'm a fan of logic, which has never been a strong point in this feature. Anyway, happy enough for the Seabags, but the Niners are better. 49ers 27, Seahawks 18.

Los Angeles Chargers (-2.5) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars I'm going to be level with you guys. Doug Pederson should be named NFL Coach of the Year. With all due respect to Mr. KOC here in town, the Vikings weren't devoid of talent. The Jags winning the AFC South is crazy, and they have a great chance of winning this game. The Chargers have talent, but Brandon Staley is living proof that just because using math makes sense, you have to actually watch the games. In fact, all of the NFL analytics people should have to go through the combine and have to coach just so that they understand what you can't calculate. Also, the Chargers should move back to San Diego. Nobody in LA cares about them, and the NFL should remember that they don't need LA to succeed. Jaguars 19, Go Back To San Diego 18.

You know what that's about, right?

It's all about the money! And the Jaguars aren't about the money. El Lay is about the money, even if they don't give a damn about the Bolts. As for the game? Could be the best game of the weekend. Chargers 24, Jags 23.

Miami Tuna Net Victims (+13.5) vs. Buffalo Bills The Bills ended up winning last week in an emotional game, and Damar Hamlin is living proof that miracles can happen as he continues to make progress on his long road to recovery. The Dolphins are going to be outgunned in Buffalo, as no Tua means that they will need to play a perfect game and for the Bills to self destruct. I don't think the Bills are the best team in the AFC, and don't think they will win a Super Bowl with their current core, as the AFC is going to  be a lot stronger for the next couple of years. But they will win comfortably. Bills 45, Sorry Charlie 0.

No Tua, no chance. Bills 31, Dolphins 14.

New York Giants (+3) vs. Minnesota Vikings So this is the first home playoff game for the Vikings since the Minneapolis Miracle. The Vikings beat the Giants, but needed to survive a late comeback and for Greg Joseph to hit a field goal at the gun on Christmas Eve. The good news is that Kirk will have a stronger offensive line, which has been half of the secret sauce for the Vikings this year. The other half has been KJ Osborn. Call me crazy, but it seems like the guy has taken the biggest leap of any Viking under the current regime, and in particular has been very good at making a big catch or two to start a Vikings drive. When I was at the Colts game, he was the unsung hero that started the comeback. But this Giants team shouldn't be underestimated. I think the Giants will make it interesting, but the Vikings will pull the last bit of pixie dust they have to win the game in some crazy way after giving every single Vikings fans a scare. Vikings 31, Giants 28, in 3OT. 

Three overtimes? What in the name of Ed Podolak are you talking about? Vikings will win but will increase Tums consumption in town exponentially in the process. Vikings 34, Giants 30.

Baltimore Ravens (+8.5) vs. Cincinnati Bungles No Lamar is going to hurt the Ravens, but they do a good job at staying competitive without him. The Bengals are probably the best team in the AFC, and looked primed to take the next step. But beating a divisional rival is going to be tough, and this game will be your classic AFC North rockfight. If the Ravens can keep it close, then the Bengals fans might get nervous, as they are used to their team choking. Bengals 21, Ravens 10.

I am still trying to figure out how the Ravens made the playoffs. I know how Cincinnati did it. And that makes all the difference. Bengals 31, Ravens 17.

Dallas How Bout Them Cowboys (-2.5) vs. Tampa Bay Bucs I'll be perfectly honest, both these teams annoy me and I want them to both lose. The Cowboys are my second least favorite team in the NFL, and I find their fanbase and media mouthpieces to be quite annoying like all right thinking Americans. As for the Bucs, I really dislike Gisele's ex and his band of merry men that all happen to be under the salary cap. The Bucs only are here because they play in the godawful NFC South, which deserves to have their playoff berth taken away from them. Was it really worth it, Gisele's ex? At least the Cowboys are here on merit. All I ask for is one of these teams to lose in a hilarious way, and for the winner of this game to get eliminated next week for the greater good. Bucs -400, Cowboys -401. 

You know what would be hilarious? If Mike McCarthy lets the Bucs hang around long enough for Brady to beat him at the end. Tragedy tomorrow, comedy tonight! 

Bucs 30, Cowboys 28.

Enjoy your football this week. 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----Packers Aren't Dead Yet Edition

 Old dude, I'm sensing a bit of nerves amongst the Vikings fans. They might be spouting their usual triumphalism over local Pravda outlet KFAN, but it's like they are worried about objects in their mirror.

Here comes the mirror, man. Think that was an old Human League song.

Eye shadow was easy to find in the 80s

This is a very different Packers team since September, and this time the Vikings will have to play on the road in the cold. 

The road is long, too.

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

TCU Horned Frogs (+7.5) vs. Michigan Wolverines, in Glendale I'm really glad that TCU didn't get punished for losing an extra game in overtime, and am always glad to see some new playoff blood get in. Michigan looked very impressive against Purdue, and hopefully this is the year that we can get someone outside of the usual suspects to win a title for the good of the sport. TCU is a legit team with a real life Matt Saracen in Max Duggan, Sonny Dykes has done the best coaching job in the nation this year, and it's great to have a team that took a long and difficult road since the Southwest Conference broke up to get to this stage by doing everything right and earning their way up to the big boy table. The problem is that this Michigan team is on a mission, and I feel like they have yet to peak. So while it wouldn't surprise me to see TCU win given their toughness and never say die attitude, I like Michigan to get a chance to bring the title back to Ann Arbor and remind the SEC that no matter their football success, the Big Ten started the concept of conferences, postseason play, and showed them the blueprint on how to build a conference that makes more money and has all of the top media markets in this conference. Michigan 35, TCU 17.

Coach Dad Pants definitely has it together. I am not sure what to expect, but my suspicion is that TCU is an underdog for a reason. They haven't played anyone with the overall brawn of the Wolverines and I see them getting worn down as the game progresses. I like the Wolverines in this one, too. Michigan 34, TCU 22.

A School in Columbus (+6) vs. Georgia Bulldogs, in Atlanta So the Buckeyes owe Utah a huge thank you for getting the last ticket to the ball, but the Buckeyes getting the ticket is a defensible move. The problem is that Georgia is really good, and gets to play a virtual home game in Atlanta where they have played in multiple games since Kirby Smart took the job at his alma mater. Now, this game is awkward for me. Longtime readers know that I despite both the Buckeyes and the SEC with every fiber of my body, for a ton of reasons. But the thing is, Ohio State has nothing to lose, and Ryan Day has a chance with the right results to get the chance to do something that would get him a statue outside the Horseshoe this month. I normally don't say this, but in the interest of the Big Ten, I have no choice. I want The Game in LA for all the marbles and will be rooting for the Buckeyes. Don't screw this up. A School in Columbus 21, Georgia 10.

Georgia convinced me when they destroyed Tennessee earlier this season. I don't see anyone being able to beat them. The one thing that makes me nervous is that Stetson Bennett is kinda frail and the Buckeyes have some really nasty defenders. But while I think this could be a classic, Georgia has what it takes. Georgia 38, Ohio State 30.

Minnesota Vikings (+3) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers So all of a sudden the Packers are relevant, and there are a bunch of Packers fans getting back onboard. Last week was a struggle in South Beach, but the Packers were able to make a bunch of plays defensively and beat the Dolphins. As for the Vikings, they won after giving their fans another heart attack down the stretch. Unlike in September, the Packers will be at home, and the Vikings will be facing a hostile crowd, a team that believes in itself, and the ghosts of Lambeau past. This won't be easy, but the Packers seem to have discovered some magic. The Vikings are right to want to knock us out of the playoffs, because if the Packers and the Bucs make the playoffs, you would be a fool to bet against them. One last warning, Vikings fans. You know what happens when you get your hopes up for this team, despite me thinking this team could be the one to end your pain. Packers 56, Vikings 31.

Two things. Christian Watson won't drop the touchdown this time. And Jaire Alexander will regret mouthing off. The weather won't be too bad, so the cold won't be a factor. And that, unfortunately, is the difference. Vikings 31, Packers 27.

Enjoy your football this weekend, and have a great New Years. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----How Did the Vikings Win That Game Edition

 I wonder if Brad turned Vikings game off last week. If you told me at halftime that the Vikings would come back and beat the Colts, I would have called you crazy.

Brad probably stuck with it. I know someone else who did, too, but it wasn't me. But that was because I was running errands during the first half and missed the initial carnage.

As promised, I will have the report on what the assignment I did last week was, and let's just say that the assignment was crazy to experience. All will be revealed after the picks in what is not a Very Special Comment.

So it's mundane?

Judge for yourself, Old Dude! I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYPPPEEEEEEEE!, and ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

Syracuse Orange (+10) vs. Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat, in the Bronx A Minnesota sports team playing in the Bronx, what could possibly go wrong. Long time readers know that I am a Twins fan, and the Twins have a horrible record at Yankee Stadium. But this is football, and the Gophers have never lost a bowl game under PJ. Syracuse is a middling team, and while there will be a distinctive pro Orange bias in the crowd, I think that the Gophers should beat the Orange pretty comfortably. Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 35, Orange 19.

I think most Syracuse fans are actually ESPN announcers, but your mileage may vary. Gophers are actually in a decent place and I think they win, too. Minnesota 24, Syracuse 13.

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (-3.5) vs. Oklahoma State Cowboys, in Phoenix So, a lot has happened for the Badgers since the disappointment of the Axe game. Luke Fickell is in, and the early recruiting has been positive. While Nick Evers won't be in action, I can't wait to get a closer look at him in spring ball. Oklahoma State is a team that we don't talk about much, but I think will be one of the new power teams in the Big XII after the Red River schools decamp for the SEC. For whatever reason, the Cowboys are down this year, and will also be starting a backup QB. The Badgers should win this game, and will be motivated to send out the seniors and Jimmy as winners. While I am sad that Jimmy doesn't want to stick around, he still is a great Badger, and I will forever cherish his time in Madison. Mark Murphy, you know what to do. And, I have a video to share when talking about Mike Gundy. 

Badgers 35, Cowpokes 0.

I'm a man. Come at me. I'm older than 40, though. So be gentle. Badgers 24, Oklahoma State 21.

New York Football Giants (+4) vs. Minnesota Vikings So the Vikings won a game last week that will go down in history as the greatest comeback in NFL history, and clinched the North. Obviously, both teams are still in the playoff hunt, and this game will matter for playoff seeding at a minimum. The Giants are coming off a tough loss to the Gridlocks, and don't want to leave the door ajar for other teams to sneak in. What the Vikings need to do is to win a game comfortably for once. Look, I've been a critic of the Vikings, but after last week even I will admit that this might be their year. Vikings 42, Giants 21.

Can the Vikings handle prosperity? Maybe. Giants need this one. They won't get it. Vikings 31, Giants 24.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+3) vs. Miami Tuna Net Victims The Packers won last week, though it wasn't super pretty against the Rams. The soft zone "defense" that the team has been running belongs on the Dairy Queen menu, and Tyreek Hill and Waddle will probably be licking their lips. To make matters worse, Raheem Mostert probably is remembering what happened in early 2020, which didn't go well for us. The good news is that compared to the utter hellish weather here, Miami will be decently warm. This won't be easy by any stretch, but the Packers can win this game. Packers 17, Sorry Charlie 10.

Yes, the Packers can win. Will they? Better play better defense. Not sure they will, though. Dolphins 31, Packers 28.

And now, for something that is not a Very Special Comment. You might be wondering what the assignment I was on last week was. Well, I actually took Mrs. D, aka Mom, to the Vikings-Colts game last weekend as a birthday gift to her. Seriously, I was there. I got a great deal on tickets in the Polaris Club, which meant that I got to see the game 8 rows up from the Colts sideline at about the 35 yard line. I was able to see the entire field, and both scoreboards easily. Plus, we had our own concession stands, own restrooms, plenty of tables in the lobby, a full bar, and free refills on soft drinks. Those are the best seats I have ever had to a sporting event, and the experience was great. Only complaints were that Minneapolis needs to clear the sidewalks off, and getting out of the parking garage was slow. Granted, those complaints are not on the Vikings, but a reality of the weather and 65,000 people attending a game in a small part of downtown. What I do want to ding the Vikings for is they needed to add more restrooms in the club level. If I'm paying a premium price, I expect there not to be a line for the men's room like at Wrigley and the Rose Bowl. US Bank Stadium is a modern stadium, and has zero excuses for not having enough restrooms in the club level.

That was the 4th NFL game I have attended, and the 2nd game to go into overtime after the 2017 Packers-Bucs game where Aaron Jones won on a rushing touchdown. Saturday was the best sporting event I have ever attended, and it was incredibly loud. I've given Vikings fans a ton of grief, but they were incredible in the second half after rightfully being upset with the terrible officiating and complete meltdown in the first half. When Dalvin scored the game tying score, you couldn't hear yourself think, and that is something that people forget about Minnesota sports. Sure, there hasn't been a lot of success in recent years, and no titles in the 4 main sports leagues since the 1991 Twins, but the passion is there. I couldn't help thinking to myself how loud and crazy it was, and had to scream to talk to Mom next to me by the end of the game. After Joseph won the game, everyone was just amazed, in shock, or probably both. I will never forget that game as long as I live, and Mom was overjoyed at the result, especially when the Vikings flashed a message saying that this was the biggest comeback in NFL history.

Have a great Christmas this weekend, and enjoy your football. And if you are at a Christmas gathering and your family gets into political arguments, watch some sports. Ben out.