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Sports

Weekly NFL Picks and Predictions

Looking for Pro or College Football Picks? They're on Page 7 of the November idleguy.com

Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 8 NFL Picks

Week 7 Results:
Rick: 5-10; Flip: 4-11
Cumulative: Rick: 45-57-5; Flip: 40-62-5

ALL TIMES EASTERN

Thursday, October 24

Minnesota Vikings (-3, 48) at Los Angeles Rams, 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - Minnesota took their first loss of the season last week, as the Lions upended them, 31-29. Losing a close one to a divisional opponent that played in the conference championship last season isn't a knock at all. The Vikings have a solid defense and with Aaron Jones beside Sam Darnold in the backfield, and Justin Jefferson running routes, they're quite formidable.

The Rams have yet to get it all together, but may make this one interesting. At 2-4, they have to start winning some games, but this doesn't appear to be a good spot for them. Last week's 20-15 win over the Raiders wasn't very pretty. The Rams need to do better if they expect to top the Vikings

Coin Flip: Minnesota

Fearless Rick's Pick: Vikings 24 Rams 17


Sunday, October 27

Baltimore Ravens (-9, 44.5) at Cleveland Browns, 1:00 pm (CBS) - Uh, oh, James Winston will be starting at QB for the Browns, which means the Ravens, one of the bst defenses in the league, are probably going to produce (or be gifted) three turnovers. Winston is a noted fumbler and gets picked a lot. (142 TDs, 99 INTs, career).

Ravens should make quick work of their divisional opponent.

Coin Flip: Baltimore

Fearless Rick's Pick: Ravens 34 Browns 14


Tennessee Titans at Detroit Lions (-11, 45), 1:00 pm (FOX) - Even though the Lions are coming off an emotional win at Minnesota, the Titans are facing a second straight week on the road and instability on offense.

Those two factors should lead to a Detroit romp.

Coin Flip: Tennessee

Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 38 Titans 10


Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans (-5, 46), 1:00 pm (CBS) - In what could easily be considered a Super Bowl preview (this season or next), Houston's 24-22 loss at Green Bay last week can be seen as a character-builder for the Texans, a team vastly superior to the Colts, winners of two straight, though against lesser opposition (Tennessee and Miami).

Houston should be able to clamp down on Anthony Richardson and keep Jonathan Taylor to minimal rushing yards.

Coin Flip: Indianapolis

Fearless Rick's Pick: Texans 30 Colts 14


Green Bay Packers (-4.5, 49) at Jacksonville Jaguars, 1:00 pm (FOX) - It's odd that the Jaguars played back-to-back games in London, losing, 35-16, to the Bears, then topping New England, 32-16, last week. Finally playing a true home game, they host the Packers, looking to get back on track after the hard-earned home win over Houston, 24-22. While the Packers are 5-2 and the Jags, 2-5, this may turn out to be closer than expected.

Jacksonville sorely needs a win and they may pull off the upset on their native soil.

Coin Flip: Green Bay

Fearless Rick's Pick: Jaguars 27 Packers 24


Arizona Cardinals at Miami Dolphins (-3.5, 46.5), 1:00 pm (FOX) - The Cardinals were able to upend the Chargers Monday night, 17-15, and have to travel cross-country, which is one of the reasons they're road dogs against the undermanned Dolphins, but it really doesn't add up.

Arizona's losses have come against teams with winning records - Detroit, Buffalo, Washington, Green Bay. Miami is 2-4.

Coin Flip: Miami

Fearless Rick's Pick: Cardinals 23 Dolphins 20


New York Jets (-7, 41.5) at New England Patriots, 1:00 pm (CBS) - The Jets are in dire need of a win, and New England might be the place to get one, though after their heartless performance in the 37-15 loss at Pittsburgh Sunday night, one wonders if this team is a contender or a pretender.

The Jets have lost four straight, the Patriots six in a row. Hard to see the Jets winning by more than a TD.

Coin Flip: New England

Fearless Rick's Pick: Jets 20 Patriots 16


Atlanta Falcons (-2.5, 46) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 1:00 pm (FOX) - Big game in the NFC South, with the winner taking the divisional lead, both teams 4-3 and coming off home losses.

With Kirk Cousins and Baker Mayfield probably not being under too much pressure, this could turn into a real shoot-out. Atlanta won at home earlier this season, 36-30, in OT, so Tampa Bay is likely to return the favor.

Coin Flip: Atlanta

Fearless Rick's Pick: Buccaneers 31 Falcons 27


Philadelphia Eagles at Cincinnati Bengals (-2.5, 48), 1:00 pm (CBS) - The Bengals have bounced back nicely after their 0-3 start, with three wins in their last four, the only loss a 41-38 OT defeat against the Ravens. The Eagles have been Jekyl and Hyde, losing to Atlanta and Tampa Bay, but beating Green Bay, New Orleans, Cleveland and the Giants.

Tough call, but the Eagles appear poised to go on a run. They've won two straight since their bye week and the defense has stepped up.

Coin Flip: Philadelphia

Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 27 Bengals 24


New Orleans Saints at Los Angeles Chargers (-7.5, 40), 4:05 pm (FOX) - The Saints started out a ball of fire, 2-0, but have lost five straight since then. Six offensive starters are listed as questionable, including QB Derek Carr, RB Alvin Kamara, and WR Chris Olave. They simply have too many injuries to make this game competitive. Maybe in another week or two they'll be back together, but for now, they aren't playable.

The Chargers aren't exactly killing it at 3-3, and they have injuries as well, especially thin at wide receiver. Their defense has been exceptional and will need to win this game for them.

Coin Flip: Los Angles Chargers

Fearless Rick's Pick: Chargers 20 Saints 10


Buffalo Bills (-3, 47) at Seattle Seahawks, 4:05 pm (FOX) - Buffalo's offense exploded last week for a 34-10 win over the Titans, thanks in part to the addition of Amari Cooper at wideout and the emergence of Keon Coleman as a deep threat.

Seattle made a mockery of the Falcons in Atlanta with a 34-14 victory, ending a three-game skid. Geno Smith continues to play well at QB for the Seahawks, but Buffalo appears to have found a new level.

Coin Flip: Buffalo

Fearless Rick's Pick: Bills 34 Seahawks 20


Carolina Panthers at Denver Broncos (-9, 43.5), 4:25 pm (CBS) - The Panthers have lost four straight by a combined 87 points, including last week's lay-down, 40-7, loss at Washington.

Denver is 4-3, their losses have all been by one score, so they have every right to be thinking playoffs. Look for Denver to establish an early lead and let their defense go to work.

Coin Flip: Carolina

Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 31 Panthers 14


Chicago Bears (-2.5, 43) at Washington Commanders, 4:25 pm (CBS) - Showcase for two top rookie QBs, with Caleb Williams leading the Bears to a 4-2 mark, while Jayden Daniels has the Commanders at 5-2 atop the NFC East. However, Daniels is questionable to start, but the Commanders bench is deep, with Marcus Mariota and Jeff Driskel and Sam Hartman ready to step in.

Getting points at home, Daniels or not, Washington has been playing well all season and should be ready to man up.

Coin Flip: Washington

Fearless Rick's Pick: Commanders 26 Bears 23


Kansas City Chiefs (-10, 41.5) at Las Vegas Raiders, 4:25 pm (CBS) - The Chiefs are the only remaining unbeaten team in the league, so, if you want to take a stand against the reigning champs, go ahead, but it's proven to be a risky endeavor.

Coin Flip: Las Vegas

Fearless Rick's Pick: Chiefs 38 Raiders 17


Dallas Cowboys at San Francisco 49ers (-4, 46.5), 8:20 pm (NBC) - Dallas is 3-3, coming off a bye week after being humiliated by the Lions, 47-9, in week six. They've had extra time to fix what's broken (not much, really) and the 49ers have injuries up and down their offensive roster.

Dallas should be able to keep this close while wearing down the SF defense and come away with a much needed win.

Coin Flip: Dallas

Fearless Rick's Pick: Cowboys 24 49ers 16


Monday, October 28

New York Giants at Pittsburgh Steelers (-6.5, 36.5), 8:15 pm (ESPN/ABC) - The Steel Curtain is back in vogue. Through seven games, Pittsburgh has allowed a mere 101 points, a league low (LA Chargers, 83, thru 6 games). The defense was on display in the 37-15 win over the Jets Monday night, and they get to chew on another metro opponent when the Giants come to town.

Russell Wilson, threw for a pair of scores and 264 yards against the Jets, showing no sigs of rust. With the Giants just 2-5, and with virtually no run game, this looks like a one-sided affair.

Coin Flip: New York Giants

Fearless Rick's Pick: Steelers 26 Giants 13


Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 7 NFL Picks

Week 6 Results:
Rick: 7-7; Flip: 6-8
Cumulative: Rick: 40-47-5; Flip: 36-51-5

ALL TIMES EASTERN

Thursday, October 17
Denver Broncos (-2.5, 37) at New Orleans Saints, 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - With Derek Carr listed as doubtful, it looks like Spencer Rattler will get his second straight start for the Saints. Rattler was 22-40, for 243 yards, a TD and a pair of picks in a humbling, 51-27 home loss to the Buccaneers, while Denver rookie, Bo Nix, went 19-33, 216, 2 TDs, 1 INT in a 23-16 loss to the Chargers last week.

Short rest for both teams. Denver is 2-0 on the road. The saints have lost four straight after starting 2-0.

Coin Flip: Denver

Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 28 Saints 13


Sunday, October 20

New England Patriots at Jacksonville Jaguars (-5.5, 42.5), (at Wembley, London) - The Pats started Drake Maye, rookie out of North Carolina, at QB last week against the Texans, and the result was as expected, a 41-21 Houston victory. Maye threw for three scores, but had two picks and was harassed by Houston's front and sacked four times. He should do better against the 1-5 Jaguars. Only Carolina has allowed more points than Jacksonville.

New England isn't much better than Jacksonville on defense, but there may be no better opportunity for Maye to record his first NFL win than over in London town. Looks like a shootout brewing between Maye and Trevor Lawrence, despite the low O/U set in Vegas.

Coin Flip: New England

Fearless Rick's Pick: Patriots 37 Jaguars 34


Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons (-3, 51.5), 1:00 pm (FOX) - The Seahawks have lost their mojo, losing three straight after a 3-0 start, including last Thursday's 36-24 home loss to the 49ers.

Atlanta's been punching above their weight, so to speak, cruising past he Panthers last week, 38-20, sharing the lead in the NFC South with Tampa Bay at 4-2. Winners of three straight, don't see them slowing down at all here.

Coin Flip: Atlanta

Fearless Rick's Pick: Falcons 27 Seahawks 20


Tennessee Titans at Buffalo Bills (-9, 41), 1:00 pm (CBS) - Now 1-5, the Titans couldn't even hold off the Colts on their own field, losing a 20-17 decision last week. Buffalo squeezed by the Jets, 23-20, in a game marred by penalties and shoddy play from both squads. The wind had as much to do with the result as the refs, so don't hold it against the Bills, who have the lead in the AFC East, but not because they're playing all that well.

The Titans have a tendency to give games away, mostly because their quarterback, Will Levis, is still learning. They'll have to lean on their defense, which isn't so bad. Can they hang in and lose by less than 10? Maybe.

Coin Flip: Buffalo

Fearless Rick's Pick: Bills 24 Titans 20


Cincinnati Bengals (-6.5, 42) at Cleveland Browns, 1:00 pm (CBS) - Cincinnati's defense stepped up in their Sunday night, 17-7 win over the Giants, but they're still not playing the kind of ball that was expected of them. Joe Burrow has appeared average at best, and, while the Browns are not playing well either (1-5), this is a divisional contest and Cleveland gets stud RB Nick Chubb back into the offense.

While everybody is still enamored with Joe "cool" Burrow, this game has all the trappings for an upset.

Coin Flip: Cincinnati

Fearless Rick's Pick: Browns 23 Bengals 21


Houston Texans at Green Bay Packers (-3, 47.5), 1:00 pm (CBS) - This should be the best game of the weekend. Both teams are hotter than loaded pistols and in the hunt in their respective divisions. The 5-1 Texans have opened some distance - 2 games - on the Colts, with the Titans and Jags already out of the picture in the AFC South. Green Bay may need the game more, and may be subject to scoreboard watching, as the Lions and Vikings will be playing in the same time slot.

Both teams have plenty to offer on both sides of the ball, but the Packers, coming off a 34-13 mauling of the Cardinals, are home for a second straight week, while the Texans are road warriors again after their 41­21 win at New England.

Coin Flip: Green Bay

Fearless Rick's Pick: Packers 30 Texans 24


Miami Dolphins at Indianapolis Colts (-3, 44), 1:00 pm (FOX) - Miami had a bye last week, which may be helpful in getting their offense on the same page when they travel to Indy for this tilt with the Colts. Joe Flacco has been keeping the Colts in business, but they may get Anthony Richardson back this week.

Miami QB, Tyler Huntley, may be a godsend for the Dolphins. Far from perfect, he does have experience and running skills that the Dolphins can use to their advantage. If he is able to get the ball into the hands of playmakers like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and Odell Beckham Jr., Miami may be able to establish a lead the Colts cannot match.

Coin Flip: Indianapolis

Fearless Rick's Pick: Dolphins 31 Colts 21


Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings (-2.5, 50), 1:00 pm (FOX) - While the Vikings had the week off, the Lions dispatched the Cowboys down in the Lone Star state, 47-9. Both teams are on fire, the Vikings winners of their first five games, the Lions having won three straight, this their sixth conference game of the season.

Being too close to call, seriously, the Lions, getting points, is a reasonable play, but either team can win this.

Coin Flip: Minnesota

Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 30 Vikings 27


Philadelphia Eagles (-3, 43) at New York Giants, 1:00 pm (FOX) - The Giants offense is pretty banged up, and losing, 17-7, to the Bengals Sunday night doesn't help matters, especially with the Eagles coming off a bye for a visit to the Meadowlands.

The Eagles are 5-1 their last six against the G-Men, including a 38-7 whacking in the divisional round in 2022. Eagles may have their prey in sight.

Coin Flip: New York Giants

Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 30 Giants 17


Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Rams (-6.5, 43.5), 4:05 pm (CBS) - While the Rams are 1-4, the Raiders are just 2-4, their wins a miracle at Baltimore, 26-23, and a 20-16 win over Cleveland at home. Otherwise, they've lost four games by a minimum of 12 points, the last a 32-13 smackdown by the Steelers in Vegas, baby.

Sorry, Raiders, but Aidan O'Connell is not the answer.

Coin Flip: Los Angeles Rams

Fearless Rick's Pick: Rams 27 Raiders 10


Carolina Panthers at Washington Commanders (-7.5, 51.5), 4:05 pm (CBS) - OK, sooner or later, somebody's going to pitch a shutout, and the Commanders are on the cusp of breaking out while the Panthers appear ready to break down, if not already broken with a 1-5 record and Andy Dalton leading the offense.

Coin Flip: Carolina

Fearless Rick's Pick: Commanders 30 Panthers 0


Kansas City Chiefs at San Francisco 49ers (-1.5, 47), 4:25 pm (FOX) - Big time rematch from last season's Super Bowl, which, as we recall, went into overtime.

The 5-0 Chiefs come off a bye week, but will be without Rashee Rice for the remainder of the season, but they've been gutting games out all along and still have the best QB in the business, that Mahomes guy. San Fran is a little challenged without Christian McCaffrey, but they're in the hunt as usual, tied with Seattle at 3-3 atop the NFC West division. Neither team needs the game, but it's hard to go against Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes no matter the circumstances.

Coin Flip: San Francisco

Fearless Rick's Pick: Chiefs 23 49ers 20


New York Jets at Pittsburgh Steelers (even, 38), 8:20 pm (NBC) - The Jets were a play, or penalty, or missed field goal away from topping the Bills Monday night and have the luxury of being on the road in a short week.

4-2 Pittsburgh has defied logic on offense with Justin Fields leading them, and could be making a big mistake putting in Russell Wilson here. The Jets are desperate for a win and could break through at any time. A defensive battle should develop, but look for Aaron Rodgers to make winning plays, especially if Davante Adams (acquired Tuesday) replaces worthless Mike Williams in the slot.

Coin Flip: New York Jets

Fearless Rick's Pick: Jets 19 Steelers 17


Monday, October 21

Baltimore Ravens (-3, 48.5) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 8:15 pm (ABC, ESPN) - Its show time in Tampa, where Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay defense will either put up or shut up against the always dangerous Ravens. Both teams are 4-2 and tied atop their respective divisions, so this one may get somewhat serious.

No team has stood out thus far into the season, but these are two of the better ones. ABC made a smart move airing it nationally. Beats the heck out of Dancing with the Stars or whatever woke junk they had planned.

For what it's worth, Baker Mayfield has a 71% completion rate, and has 15 TDs and 5 picks on the season.

Coin Flip: Tampa Bay

Fearless Rick's Pick: Buccaneers 30 Ravens 27


Los Angeles Chargers (-3, 44) at Arizona Cardinals, 9 pm (ESPN+) - Lots of passing, little defense best describes the Arizona season. Sandwiching an unlikely 24-23 win at San Francisco, Arizona lost to Washington, 42-14, and last week were schooled by the Packers at Green Bay, 34-13.

No matter where they play, the Cardinals pretty much stink. Chargers looking pretty good at 3-2, especially on defense, having allowed just 66 points.

Coin Flip: Los Angeles Chargers

Fearless Rick's Pick: Chargers 23 Cardinals 13


Bye: Chicago, Dallas


Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 6 NFL Picks

Week 5 Results:
Rick: 8-5-1; Flip: 8-5-1
Cumulative: Rick: 33-40-5; Flip: 30-43-5

ALL TIMES EASTERN

Thursday, October 10

San Francisco 49ers (-3.5, 49.5) at Seattle Seahawks, 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - The 49ers looked more like 7th graders in their loss to Arizona last week and the Seahawks came within a blocked field goal of overtime against the Giants. Divisional game, points at home. Yeah, sure.

Generally speaking, this game is a pass, so tread lightly, if at all.

Coin Flip: Seattle

Fearless Rick's Pick: Seahawks 20 49ers 16


Sunday, October 13

Jacksonville Jaguars vs Chicago Bears (-2, 44.5) (at Tottenham, London), 9:30 am (NFL Network) - Jacksonville got their first win of the season last week, just barely edging out the Colts, 37-34 at home. They're 1-4 and not very good. The Bears have more upside and twice as many wins. No team is allowing more ppg than Jacksonville except, hmmm, the Bengals.

Coin Flip: Chicago

Fearless Rick's Pick: Bears 34 Jaguars 24


Washington Commanders at Baltimore Ravens (-6.5, 51.5), 1:00 pm (CBS) - Baltimore may be an elite team, but the Commanders happen to be leading the NFC East at 4-1, with four straight wins. Gimme that 6.5 all day long.

Coin Flip: Baltimore

Fearless Rick's Pick: Commanders 31 Ravens 29


Arizona Cardinals at Green Bay Packers (-5.5, 47.5), 1:00 pm (FOX) - The Packers took care of the Rams last week, so here's another NFC West team, the Cardinals, coming off an emotional win at San Francisco. On the road for a second straight week, the Cards may not have what it takes to whip the Packers in Green Bay.

Coin Flip: Green Bay

Fearless Rick's Pick: Packers 40 Cardinals 20


Houston Texans (-7, 38) at New England Patriots, 1:00 pm (CBS) - This could be the most one-sided affair of the weekend. Houston is rocking the AC South at 4-1, having just topped Buffalo, 23-20, and now believe they are at or near the top of the pack. New England just lost to a depleted Miami team AT HOME. The story writes itself.

Coin Flip: New England

Fearless Rick's Pick: Texans 34 Patriots 0


Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3.5, 41.5) at New Orleans Saints, 1:00 pm (FOX) - Tampa being favored on the road can only mean one thing: Derek Carr will not be starting for the Saints. Spencer Rattler gets the nod for New Orleans. The Bucs probably smell blood in the water.

Coin Flip: New Orleans

Fearless Rick's Pick: Buccaneers 27 Saints 13


Cleveland Browns at Philadelphia Eagles (-9, 42.5), 1:00 pm (FOX) - Sorry Cleveland, your season is over. While the Eagles aren't exactly tearing up the league, they are 2-2 (Browns are 1-4) and they had last week off. Man for man, they outclass Cleveland. Eagles, at home, should win this by at least 13.

Coin Flip: Cleveland

Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 27 Browns 10


Indianapolis Colts at Tennessee Titans (-1, 43.5), 1:00 pm (CBS) - If Tennessee can manage to not give the game away, they have to realize they're up against one of the more porous defenses in the league. This is actually a touch call because neither team has any chance of making the playoffs and they're in the weakest division in the NFL. Homies get the nod here.

Coin Flip: Tennessee

Fearless Rick's Pick: Titans 30 Colts 17


Los Angeles Chargers (-3, 35.5) at Denver Broncos, 4:05 pm (CBS) - It should be obvious by now that Denver is the second-best team in the AFC West after KC. How anybody can make the Chargers the favorites on the road is a complete mystery. Maybe because they had last week off? Sorry, but Bo Nix is every bit as good as Justin Herbert, if he even suits up for this game.

Both teams are playing well defensively. This might be the under play of the week.

Coin Flip: Denver

Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 19 Chargers 16


Pittsburgh Steelers (-3, 36.5) at Las Vegas Raiders, 4:05 pm (CBS) - In five games, the Raiders have allowed 131 points, and scored 96, while the Steelers have given up 73 and scored 92. Now, neither team is a deep threat offensively, but at least Pittsburgh plays pretty good defense.

Coin Flip: Pittsburgh

Fearless Rick's Pick: Steelers 20 Raiders 13


Atlanta Falcons (-6, 47) at Carolina Panthers, 4:25 pm (FOX) - Atlanta is on top of the NFC South with a hard-earned 3-2 record. The Panthers were last seen in Chicago, throwing up the white flags in a 36-10 demolition. Kirk Cousins is playing at peak level and could use some help from his defense, which he'll probably get here.

Coin Flip: Atanta

Fearless Rick's Pick: Falcons 31 Panters 14


Detroit Lions (-3, 52) at Dallas Cowboys, 4:25 pm (FOX) - Hard to believe the Cowboys are dogs at home, but there it is. They haven't won a home game yet - in two tries - so maybe they can pull it together here. 3-1 Detroit has all the makings of a serious playoff team and their defense might just rough up the Dallas offense enough to come out a winner on the road.

Coin Flip: Dallas

Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 24 Cowboys 17


Cincinnati Bengals (-3 1/2, 48) at New York Giants, 8:20 pm (NBC) - It would be interesting to see what occurs when both the Jets and Giants are underdogs at home the same weekend. Probably doesn't happen all that often, but we'll go with the Giants here and the Jets on Monday. Cincy managed to lose a game they could have won last week in Baltimore. The Giants are beginning to click.

Coin Flip: New York Giants

Fearless Rick's Pick: Giants 26 Bengals 24


Monday, October 14

Buffalo Bills (-2.5, 41) at New York Jets, 8:15 pm (ESPN) - Both teams are coming off losses, but it appears the Jets are actually playing better football than the Bills, despite their record. The winner of this contest will have first place in the division, and it's arguable that the Jets have the better defense, plus the firing of head coach Sales probably a step in the right direction.

Coin Flip: New York Jets

Fearless Rick's Pick: Jets 23 Bills 21

Byes: Kansas City, Los Angeles Rams, Miami, Minnesota


Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 5 NFL Picks

Week 4 Results:
Rick: 8-8; Flip: 9-7
Cumulative: Rick: 25-35-4; Flip: 22-38-4

Thursday, October 3

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons (-1.5, 43.5), 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - The Falcons are home for a third straight week and come off a 26-24 win over the Saints. They are finding their best offense and the defense has been good enough the past three weeks, producing a 22-21 win over the Eagles and losing a tight one, 22-17, to the Chiefs.

Tampa Bay is 3-1, leading the division and were last seen wrecking the Eagles, 33-16. The Bucs and Falcons split their divisional series last season, each winning on the road. Falcons should produce a win and tighten up the divisional race, but that's far from a certainty.

Coin Flip: Atlanta

Fearless Rick's Pick: Falcons 27 Buccaneers 24


Sunday, October 6

New York Jets vs Minnesota Vikings (-2.5, 40.5) (at Tottenham, London) 9:30 am (NFLN) - 4-0 Vikings meet unlucky Aaron Rodgers and the Jets (not a rock band). Had a few plays gone differently for the Jets, especially in their rain-drenched 10-9 loss to Denver, the Jets might be 4-0.

The Vikings have beaten good teams: Giants, 49ers, Texans, and Packers - and done so confidently. Can the Jets contain Justin Jefferson for 60 minutes? Probably not.

Coin Flip: New York Jets

Fearless Rick's Pick: Vikings 24 Jets 16


Carolina Panthers at Chicago Bears (-4, 41.5), 1:00 pm (FOX) - The Panthers got a win two weeks back when Andy Dalton replace Bryce Young at QB, topping the Raiders in Las Vegas, 36-24. Cincinnati put them away, 34-24, last week.

The Bears are not really that good and neither is their rookie QB, Caleb Williams, so giving four points may be a stretch. Looking for a close game.

Coin Flip: Carolina

Fearless Rick's Pick: Panthers 24 Bears 23


Baltimore Ravens (-2.5, 50.5) at Cincinnati Bengals, 1:00 pm (CBS) - The Ravens have just too much firepower in their running game for Cincinnati to handle. The Bengals started out 0-3, and got a win by beating possibly the worst team in the league, Carolina, 34-24.

Who's not favored at home should be a red flag.

Coin Flip: Baltimore

Fearless Rick's Pick: Ravens 30 Bengals 21


Buffalo Bills (-1, 47.5) at Houston Texans, 1:00 pm (CBS) - Battle of 3-1 division leaders has Buffalo on the road after being trounced in Baltimore last week, 35-10. Meanwhile, Houston rebounded from a 34-7 loss at Minnesota to defeat Jacksonville, 24-20, last week.

Everything points to a tight game featuring two talented, playoff-bound teams. Home field should count for something, but in this case Houston gets a point. Take it.

Coin Flip: Buffalo

Fearless Rick's Pick: Texans 26 Bills 24


Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars (-3, 46.5), 1:00 pm (CBS) - Jacksonville has yet to find a way to win this season. At 0-4, they look like playoff outsiders. Indy QB Anthony Richardson and RB Jonathon Taylor are both questionable and the Jags whipped them twice last season. Jaguars are overdue and this is a good spot for a win.

Coin Flip: Indianapolis

Fearless Rick's Pick: Jaguars 24 Colts 17


Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots (-1, 35.5), 1:00 pm (FOX) - Can't take the Dolphins at any point without Tua, so it looks like a lost season in Miami. Both teams are sub-par, 1-3, but New England can pick up it's first home win of 2024 against a depleted Dolphins' squad.

Coin Flip: Miami

Fearless Rick's Pick: Patriots 20 Dolphins 13


Cleveland Browns at Washington Commanders (-3, 44.5), 1:00 pm (FOX) - The Browns dropped to 1-3, losing a 20-16 decision in Las Vegas last week. Cleveland's offense leaves much to be desired, having scored 15, 16, 17, and 18 points in their four games, so they're likely to score 14 or 19 against the rising Commanders, winners of three straight.

QB Jayden Daniels is almost certain to be NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and may bid for league MVP. Washington may be the best pure play of the week.

Coin Flip: Washington

Fearless Rick's Pick: Commanders 38 Browns 14


Las Vegas Raiders at Denver Broncos (-3, 36), 4:05 pm (FOX) - Las Vegas has a pretty good defense, but so do the Broncos, plus, Bo Nix seems to have found a groove and a passion for winning. Denver's wins over Tampa Bay and the Jets after losing their first two games suggests the Broncos are heading for a playoff spot.

Coin Flip: Denver

Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 23 Raiders 13


Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers (-7.5, 49.5), 4:05 pm (FOX) - Arizona's only win this season was a 41-10 stomping of the Rams, but after that, two straight home losses sends them on the road to a place they normally lose.

Even a little banged up, the 49ers are a vastly superior team.

Coin Flip: San Francisco

Fearless Rick's Pick: 49ers 31 Cardinals 16


Green Bay Packers (-3.5, 48) at Los Angeles Rams, 4:25 pm (CBS) - The Packers got Jordan Love back from injury last week and promptly dispatched by division rival, Minnesota, 31-29. Though the Packers rallied hard from a deep deficit, in the end it wasn't enough.

They should do better against the up-and-down 1-3 Rams, who managed somehow to lose to Arizona and Chicago, but beat the 49ers. The Rams are really desperate for a quality performance and may spring the upset.

Coin Flip: Green Bay

Fearless Rick's Pick: Rams 28 Packers 26


New York Giants at Seattle Seahawks (-6, 43.5), 4:25 pm (CBS) - Seattle fell behind the Lions Monday night and never could catch up in a game that turned into a track meet, 42-29. They are 3-1 now and still are atop the NFC West.

The Giants show signs of improvement and injuries to Seattle defenders may pave the way for a breakout game for Daniel Jones and the G-Men's offense. The 20-15 loss to the Cowboys last week was a good effort by the defense.

Coin Flip: Seattle

Fearless Rick's Pick: Giants 27 Seahawks 24


Dallas Cowboys at Pittsburgh Steelers (-2.5, 43), 8:20 pm (NBC) - Pittsburgh lost a tough one at Indianapolis last week, 27-24, while the Cowboys took care of business in New Jersey with a 20-15 win over the Giants, improving to 2-2.

Even though the Steelers are home and Dallas is on the road a second straight week, it's worthwhile to note that the Cowboys' game was on Thursday, giving them extra time to prepare and get healthy.

Coin Flip: Dallas

Fearless Rick's Pick: Cowboys 21 Steelers 17


Monday, October 7

New Orleans Saints at Kansas City Chiefs (-5, 42.5), 8:15 pm (ESPN) - Awesome match-up to close out the week, with the 4-0 Chiefs having to deal with injuries at wideout and running back. The door is open for Derek Carr and the Saints to hand KC their first loss of the season.

New Orleans lost to Philly, 15-12, two weeks ago, and dropped a divisional game at Atlanta, 26-24, last week. Chris Olave, who missed the Atlanta game, is back for the Saints this week.

Coin Flip: Kansas City

Fearless Rick's Pick: Saints 29 Chiefs 24

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Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 9 College Picks

Week 8 Results: Rick: 6-7; Flip: 8-5
Cumulative: Rick: 54-66; Flip: 58-61

All Times Eastern

Thursday, October 24

7:30 pm Syracuse at 19 Pittsburgh (-6, 62.5) (ESPN) - Pitt remains undefeated after their 17-15 win over Cal on October 12. Now, with a week off, they host the 5-1 Orange, who also have aims on the ACC title, as they also had last week off after wining at NC State, 24-17.

Syracuse QB Kyle McCord is playing like a Heisman candidate, with 19 TDs and 6 INTs. This is a long-standing rivalry in which Pitt has prevailed five straight until the Orange won, 28-13, last season.

Coin Flip: Syracuse

Fearless Rick's Pick: Orange 31 Panthers 24


Friday, October 25

10:30 pm 17 Boise State (-3, 65.5) at UNLV (CBSSN) - The Rebels of UNLV are 6-1, the only loss a 44-41 OT defeat at the hands of Syracue. Getting this game at home offers and edge to UNLV and it's important, as the winner will remain on top of the Mountain West, Both teams are 2-0 in conference play.

Boise, 5-1, has only a loss to Oregon, 37-34, on its resume. Both teams have plenty of offense and negligible defense, so the OVER seems a likely scenario.

Coin Flip: UNLV

Fearless Rick's Pick: Rebels 41 Broncos 38


Saturday, October 26

12:00 pm Nebraska at 4 Ohio State (-25.5, 48.5) (FOX) - The huge spread afforded the Cornhuskers is due to their horrific performance last week, simply overwhelmed by Indiana, 56-7.

After their 32-31 loss at Oregon two weeks ago, the Buckeyes need to win their remaining games if they have hopes of winning the Big Ten, meaning they can't take Nebraska lightly. Playing this game in Columbus is a big edge for Ohio State.

Nebraska, for all the hype about Matt Rhule's turnaround prowess, hasn't hit the big time yet. Freshman QB Dylan Raiola is said to model his play after Patrick Mahomes. Sadly, he's nowhere near as good.

Coin Flip: Ohio State

Fearless Rick's Pick: Buckeyes 44 Cornhuskers 13


12:00 pm 12 Notre Dame (-13, 51.5) at 24 Navy (ABC) - I never get Notre Dame right, so bear in mind when I pick them they don't cover, and when I don't, it's usually a blowout win for the Irish.

However, it's impossible to resist taking 13 points at a neutral site with a Navy team that's 6-0 and has won every game by a minimum of 12 points. Navy's defense and special teams will be key to victory.

Coin Flip: Notre Dame

Fearless Rick's Pick: Midshipmen 31 Fighting Irish 24


12:00 pm Washington at 13 Indiana (-6.5, 53.5) (BTN) - The Hoosiers were quite impressive last week, hammering Nebraska 56-7, and Washington, while a reasonably good squad, simply doesn't measure up to the offensive juggernaut from Bloomington.

7-0 Indiana has scored 41 or more points in every game since their opener, a 31-7 pounding of Florida International. The Huskies can't defend well enough to keep this even close.

Coin Flip: Washington

Fearless Rick's Pick: Hoosiers 45 Huskies 21


12:00 pm Oklahoma at 18 Old Miss (-20.5, 49) (ESPN) - It wasn't long ago that Oklahoma was ranked up around 15th nationally, and then Tennessee topped them, 25-15, on their own field in Norman. Since then, the Sooners have been curb-stomped twice more, losing to Texas, 34-3, and last week, South Carolina buried them, 35-9.

With all indications pointing to a completely wrecked season for the Sooners, Ole Miss, with an extra week off following their 29-26 OT loss at LSU, should get back on track. Their defense should have a field day against the sluggish Sooner offense.

Coin Flip: Oklahoma

Fearless Rick's Pick: Rebels 35 Sooners 10


3:30 pm 20 Illinois at 1 Oregon (-21, 55) (CBS) - The Ducks have made their way to the top of the rankings

Illinois is 6-1, with the only loss a 21-7 defeat at Penn State. There's no comparison between Oregon's offense and that of the Nittany Lions, so expect the score to be even more lopsided. Oregon is aware that remaining unbeaten gets them closer to a national championship, so they should be well-prepared after last Friday's 35-0 laugher at Purdue.

Only two teams have scored more than 14 points against the Ducks, Boise State and Ohio State, and Oregon won those by narrow margins.

The Illini will need an enormous effort from their defense if they hope to cash in an upset. Doable, but unlikely.

Coin Flip: Illinois

Fearless Rick's Pick: Ducks 33 Fighting Illini 20


3:30 pm 11 BYU at UCF (-2, 55.5) (ESPN) - Hard to believe the Cougars are two point dogs against the 3-4 Knights, but that's the way they see it in Vegas. UCF, despite their record, has a reputable offense, though BYU has a statistical edge in scoring and on defense.

Stick with the undefeated Mormons and QB Jake Retzlaf to get to 8-0.

Coin Flip: BYU

Fearless Rick's Pick: Cougars 34 Knights 21


3:30 pm 21 Missouri at 15 Alabama (-13.5, 55) (ABC) - As strange as it may seem, the Crimson Tide already has two conference losses, after Tennessee dominated them in the second half of last week's 24-17 triumph in Knoxville.

While the Tide is a perfect 4-0 at home this season, their wins over Georgia (41-34) and South Carolina (27-25) have not been convincing.

Missouri has something Alabama lacks: a defense, and that will be the determining factor in another troubling upset.

Coin Flip: Alabama

Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 26 Crimson Tide 24


4:15 pm 5 Texas (-18.5, 53.5) at Vanderbilt (SECN) - Anybody who witnessed Texas getting shredded by Georgia has to be concerned about giving Vandy nearly three TDs at home, where they are undefeated at 4-0, including that stunning 40-35 win over Alabama.

Let's face it, the Commodores may not be national championship quality, but they are capable of winning any time they take the field. The likelihood of a Vandy victory is quite high here. The points are a bonus.

Coin Flip: Vanderbilt

Fearless Rick's Pick: Commodores 31 Longhorns 30


7:00 pm Florida State at 6 Miami (-21, 54.5) (ESPN) - Miami's defense has yet to show up in three straight conference games, winning over Virginia Tech, 38-34, Cal, 39-38, and Louisville, 52-45.

As unlikely as it may seem, the disgraced Seminoles would love to put a hurting on their in-state rivals. Freshman QB Brock Glenn has two starts under his belt and may find some holes in the Miami defense. Not to say that Florida State can win this game - though they might - it's useful to point out that despite their 1-6 record, no team has beaten them by 21 points and that they can score on Miami's defense. Everybody else has.

Coin Flip: Miami

Fearless Rick's Pick: Hurricanes 28 Seminoles 21


7:30 pm 3 Penn State (-6.5, 48) at Wisconsin (NBC) - There's one game that sums up Wisconsin's chances at beating Penn State, and that was the September 14 home loss to Alabama, a 42-10 beatdown. The Badgers followed that up with a 38-21 defeat at USC, but since have won three straight by convincing margins, knocking off Purdue, Rutgers and Northwestern.

Now, the Wisconsin defense may be improved since September, but so is the Penn State offense and they're motived to stay undefeated. This is a big game for both squads, but bigger for the Nittany Lions and they should rise to the occasion in a low-scoring slugfest, typical of the Big Ten.

Coin Flip: Wisconsin

Fearless Rick's Pick: Nittany Lions 27 Badgers 14


7:30 pm 8 LSU at 14 Texas A&M (-2.5, 53.5) (ABC) - Seriously, anybody who can claim to have an inside scoop on who's going to win this game, give us a call, we're all ears. Both teams are playing at championship-type levels, with few knocks against them, both 6-1 with eyes on the SEC championship and the playoffs after that.

A second loss would hurt either of their chances but not rule out making the post-season field of 12. Maybe the coin flip will get this one right.

Coin Flip: Texas A&M

Fearless Rick's Pick: Aggies 30 Tigers 27


8:00 pm 22 SMU (-11.5, 48.5) at Duke (ACCN) - SMU hasn't gotten much respect until this week, when their 6-1 record was good enough to get them into the Top 25.

Oddly enough, Duke is also quietly 6-1, last week knocking off Florida State, 23-16. The Blue Devils' lone loss was a 24-14 defeat at Georgia Tech. Arguably, the Mustangs have faced better competition, beating Nevada, TCU, and Louisville, their only loss an 18-15 heart-breaker at BYU. SMU has a solid blend of offense and defense, good enough to score plenty and keep the Devils out of the end zone.

Coin Flip: SMU

Fearless Rick's Pick: Mustangs 31 Blue Devils 16


8:00 pm Kansas at 16 Kansas State (-10, 55) (ESPN2) - Don't be fooled by Kansas' 2-5 record. They've yet to be blown out in any loss, the worst, 11 points in a 38-27 loss to TCU. Those four other losses have been by 3, 4, 4, and 6 points, to UNLV, Arizona State, West Virginia, and Illinois, all competitive teams.

This is a big rivalry game in which many of the players know each other and may have actually played together in high school. Kansas can keep this close and possibly spring the upset.

Coin Flip: Kansas State

Fearless Rick's Pick: Jayhawks 26 Wildcats 24

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Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 8 College Picks

Week 7 Results: Rick: 9-6; Flip: 8-7
Cumulative: Rick: 48-59; Flip: 50-56

All Times Eastern

Friday, October 18

8:00 pm 2 Oregon (-28.5, 60) at Purdue (FOX) - This could be somewhat of a sad affair. Oregon comes off its biggest win of the season, a 32-31 win over Ohio State. The Ducks have to avoid a letdown after an emotional win, but the Boilermakers need to avoid being blown out, like they did against Notre Dame in September (66-7), or at Wisconsin a few weeks ago, 52-6.

Purdue has one win, over Indiana State, has lost five straight since then and is 0-3 in Big Ten action. The big change in last week's double-overtime loss to Illinois, was redshirt freshman Ryan Browne replacing Hudson Card at QB. Browne was 25-37, for 365 yards and three TDs with no picks.

With the Ducks on the road, a confident young QB for Purdue, maybe the homies can keep it close?

Coin Flip: Oregon

Fearless Rick's Pick: Ducks 38 Boilermakers 20


10:15 pm Oklahoma State at 13 BYU (-9.5, 52.5) (ESPN) - The Cowboys have been to too many rodeos it seems and they've dropped three straight, all conference games. Last week's 38-14 blowout loss to West Virginia exposed their weak defense, which has allowed 80 points over the last two games.

6-0 BYU is roaring through the Big 12, last week busting up Arizona, 41-19. The way the Cowboys are playing, they'll be lucky to score more than one touchdown.

Coin Flip: Oklahoma State

Fearless Rick's Pick: Cougars 34 Cowboys 13


Saturday, October 19

12:00 pm 6 Miami (-5, 59.5) at Louisville (ABC) - Miami's gaudy 6-0 record may be in jeopardy as they visit Louisville. The Hurricanes' last two wins have been too close for comfort, 38-34 over a stubborn Virginia Tech squad, and last week, a 39-38 win over Cal was hardly convincing.

Louisville needs a win to stay in the hunt for a shot at the ACC Championship game and knocking off the Hurricanes would be just the tonic for them. Their two losses were to Notre Dame (31-24) and SMU (34-27), losing by a TD in each game against high quality opposition gives the impression that the Cardinals may be up and ready for the challenge.

Coin Flip: Miami

Fearless Rick's Pick: Cardinals 34 Hurricanes 31


12:00 pm Virginia at 10 Clemson (-21, 57.5) - Don't be fooled by the heavy line. If Clemson really was that good and Virginia that bad, the Tigers would be 28-32-point favorites. Virginia is 4-2, last seen losing at home to Louisville, 24-20, on a late score by the Cardinals.

While Clemson is 5-1, they haven't really played any good teams since their opening weekend, 34-3, loss to Georgia. Beating up on NC State, Stanford, Florida State and Wake Forest isn't getting them any bonus points. Look for Virginia to hang tough with heady play on defense and maybe pull of a stunner.

Coin Flip: Virginia

Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 31 Cavaliers 26


12:00 pm Nebraska at 16 Indiana (-6.5, 50.5) (FOX) - There has been a lot of positive vibes out of Nebraska being 5-1, but the Hoosiers are shockingly 6-0 and leading the Big Ten. The trouble with Indiana is the quality of opposition, of which there's little, their toughest task probably against Maryland, in a 42-28 win a few weeks ago.

The Cornhuskers only loss was to Illinois, 31-24, in overtime, on September 20, which seems like a lifetime ago. They've had an extra week off in preparation for this game and appear to be on the improve.

Coin Flip: Indiana

Fearless Rick's Pick: Cornhuskers 23 Hoosiers 18


12:00 pm Auburn at 19 Missouri (-4.5, 50) (ESPN) - Auburn plays everybody tough, but they continue to lose. Now 4-2 after their October 5 31-13 drubbing at Georgia, they're on the road again - and next week, at Kentucky. Now 0-3 in the SEC, the Auburn guys may be burnt out.

Missouri recovered from their 41-10 beating at Texas A&M, taking out their frustration on the Minutemen of UMass, 45-3. They should be good to go in this all-Tigers meeting.

Coin Flip: Missouri

Fearless Rick's Pick: Missouri Tigers 31 Auburn Tigers 17


12:00 pm East Carolina at 23 Army (-16, 51.5) - Army is marching toward the playoffs with a solid 6-0 record, while the Pirates appear to be walking the plank after giving up 55 points to Charlotte last week (55-24). No team has scored more than 14 points against the Black Knights and they have scored 42 or more in four of their six outings.

They are scary good and possibly the best bet of the weekend.

Coin Flip: East Carolina

Fearless Rick's Pick: Black Knights 48 Pirates 10


3:30 pm 7 Alabama (-3, 56.5) at 11 Tennessee (ABC) - This game is getting plenty of hype, but the truth is that both teams have issues. Tennessee's offense hasn't lived up to its billing, while Alabama's defense leaves much to be desired. Remember, the Crimson Tide defenders all but blew it in their win over Georgia, giving away a huge lead for a 41-34 victory, and did blow it in their loss at Vanderbilt, a 40-35 no doubter.

That said, this looks to be a very even match-up between two very likely playoff competitors.

Both teams are 5-1 and 2-1 in the SEC, so this is a huge game. The Volunteers deserve the nod, getting points at home. While their offense may not be as good as advertised, the defense comes to play every week.

The last time these two met in Knoxville, Hendon Hooker and Jaylin Hyatt went off in a wild, 52-49 Tennessee win.

Coin Flip: Tennessee

Fearless Rick's Pick: Volunteers 31 Crimson Tide 27


3:30 pm 12 Notre Dame (-11.5, 50) at Georgia Tech (ESPN) - The 5-2 Yellow Jackets are 4-0 at home, having lost at Syracuse, 31-28, and Louisville, 31-19 and last week winning at North Carolina, 41-34, so they are a proven quantity capable of going toe-to-toe with anybody.

The Irish are 5-1, the only loss an inexplicable upset to Northern Illinois. Wins over Texas A&M (23-13) and Louisville (31-24) stamp Notre Dame as a serious contender for the playoffs, but another loss might count them out, just as Georgia Tech may sense a win at home over a ranked opponent might put them back in play. The way college football has panned out this season, with no truly dominant teams week to week, the points look pretty juicy.

Coin Flip: Georgia Tech

Fearless Rick's Pick: Yellow Jackets 26 Fighting Irish 21


3:30 pm 24 Michigan (-3.5, 44.5) at 22 Illinois (CBS) - For what it's worth, Michigan is simply too one-dimensional on offense and if the Illini can keep the Wolverine rushing attack somewhat in check, they have a legitimate chance at overtaking them in the Big Ten standings (Both teams are 2-1 in conference play). Illinois' only loss was at Penn State, and the 21-7 score from that game indicates they are ready for prime time while Michigan may have worn out its welcome.

Coin Flip: Michigan

Fearless Rick's Pick: Fighting Illini 27 Wolverines 24


7:00 pm 8 LSU (-2, 56) at Arkansas (ESPN) - The Razorbacks will compete well with just about any team in the SEC. At 4-2, their only losses were to Oklahoma State, in double overtime, 39-31, and Texas A&M, 21-17. Their defense was very effective unstopping Tennessee two weeks ago, 19-14, and, with the extra time off, they should be ready for the visiting Tigers.

LSU comes off a very solid, 29-26 OT win over Ole Miss, making them 5-1 and 2-0 in the SEC. The only loss of the season came in the Tigers' opener, a 27-20 defeat at the hands of the USC Trojans. LSU took a big step forward last week and should maintain their winning attitude in a tough road test.

Coin Flip: LSU

Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 24 Razorbacks 17


7:30 pm 5 Georgia at 1 Texas (-4.5, 56) (ABC) - Honestly, Georgia just hasn't had that championship look this season, though their only loss was at Alabama, a wild, 41-34 contest which the Bulldogs actually rallied from a deep deficit only to lose it late.

With the game at Texas, the Longhorns can cement their claim to SEC stardom. If any team this year is dominant, it is Texas. In their six victories without a loss, the smallest margin of victory has been 19 points (31-12 at Michigan). Thy just blow people away and should gore the Bulldogs, but good.

Coin Flip: Georgia

Fearless Rick's Pick: Longhorns 34 Bulldogs 21


7:30 pm 17 Kansas State (-3, 55.5) at West Virginia (FOX) - Just draw a line through that 38-9 loss at BYU and the Wildcats have five solid victories, the last one a 31-28 win over an improved Colorado team. The Big 12 is pretty wide open right now, with K-State, BYU, Iowa State, Texas Tech, and Arizona State all looking pretty solid.

West Virginia is a good team, but they don't measure up to the elite in the conference. Losses to Penn State (34-12), Pitt (38-34) and last week's 28-16 loss to Iowa State demonstrates that they are middle of the road.

Coin Flip: West Virginia

Fearless Rick's Pick: Wildcats 31 Mountaineers 21


Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 7 College Picks

All Times Eastern

Week 6 Results: Rick: 7-7; Flip: 2-12
Cumulative: Rick: 39-52; Flip: 42-49

Friday, October 11

8:00 pm Northwestern at Maryland (-11, 45.5) (FS1) - This is really a throwaway game. Neither team is expected to reach the playoffs much less win six games and be bowl eligible. It's here because it's on FS1 and a Friday night game.

Both teams lost to Indiana recently, Northwestern, 41-24, at home; Maryland, 42-28, at IU. Does that make Maryland 11 points better? Probably not.

Coin Flip: Northwestern

Fearless Rick's Pick: Terrapins 27 Wildcats 24


10:30 pm 16 Utah (-4, 45) at Arizona State (ESPN) - Both teams are 4-1 and 1-1 in Big 12 action, but, the Sun Devils are 3-0 at home. The bigger question is whether Cameron Rising will return to actions as the Utes' QB, or will freshman Isaac Wilson be leading the offense again?

Word has it that Rising will start, but how effective he will be on the road after a month on the sidelines is still uncertain, though Rising is 2-0 against the Sun Devils, winning, 35-21, in 2021, and 34-13 in 2022. Rising was inactive in Utah's 55-3 thumping of AZST last season.

For its part, Arizona State seems to be game, their only loss was to Texas Tech, 30-22. Otherwise, wins over Mississippi State (30-23) and Kansas (35-31) look pretty good.

Coin Flip: Arizona State

Fearless Rick's Pick: Sun Devils 24 Utes 21


Saturday, October 12

12:00 pm South Carolina at 7 Alabama (-21, 50.5) (ABC) - The Tide got rolled by Vanderbilt last week, 40-35, knocking them down from #1 to #7 in the latest poll.

The Gamecocks have the unenviable task of trying to inflict a second straight loss on Alabama, something that's unheard of anywhere south of the Mason-Dixon line. Seeing that Lanorris Sellers and the South Carolina offense could only muster up a field goal in a 27-3 home loss to Ole Miss last week, heading into Tuscaloosa looks like a death sentence.

These two last met in 2019. The result: Alabama 47 South Carolina 23. Could be more of the same, maybe worse.

Coin Flip: South Carolina

Fearless Rick's Pick: Crimson Tide 42 Gamecocks 10


12:00 pm Washington at Iowa (-3, 41.5) (FOX) - Two teams on the periphery of playoffs in a Big Ten match-up. The 3-2 Hawkeyes enter the contest off a 35-7 drubbing at Ohio State, while 4-2 Washington comes in after topping Michigan last week, 27-17, avenging last season's national championship loss to the Wolverines.

The win by the Huskies should inspire confidence and the program looks to be well balanced. Iowa remains challenged offensively which negatively affects their defense. Leaning heavily toward the visitors continuing to make their case for playoffs down the road.

Coin Flip: Iowa

Fearless Rick's Pick: Huskies 23 Hawkeyes 10


12:00 pm 10 Clemson (-20, 61.5) at Wake Forest (ESPN) - Is it lunch time? That's the question because Clemson is likely to eat Wake Forest's and leave them crumbs.

The last time the Demon Deacons beat the Tigers was in 2008, by a 12-7 score, so history is not on their side. Lay the points because Clemson is in solid, mid-season form and likely headed to the ACC championship game and beyond.

Coin Flip: Clemson

Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 44 Demon Deacons 17


3:30 pm 1 Texas (-14, 48.5) at 18 Oklahoma (ABC) - Hard to say how good 4-1 Oklahoma is, as their only loss was to Tennessee and they were kept mostly under wraps in a 25-15 loss at home.

5-0 Texas has beaten every team handily, the closest margin was 19 points in their win over Michigan, 31-12, so, it's safe to assume they're the real deal and they've won the last three with backup QB Arch Manning running the offense. This week Quinn Ewers returns, so it may be a long day for Sooners' fans and defenders.

No team has scored more than 13 points on the Longhorns or held them to under 31.

Coin Flip: Texas

Fearless Rick's Pick: Longhorns 38 Sooners 17


3:30 pm 4 Penn State (-4.5, 50.5) at USC (CBS) - Despite two losses (Michigan, 27-24; Minnesota, 24-17) the Trojans are only 4.5 point underdogs, and for good reason: the Nittany Lions aren't all that tough and this is a long-trip road game. Penn State was last seen kind of stumbling to victory over a very poor UCLA squad in Happy Valley. Their 27-11 victory wasn't eye-pleasing. Penn State only had 322 yards of offense against a very porous defense.

As boring as this game may be, USC can do better and may expose the Lions as lambs.

Coin Flip: USC

Fearless Rick's Pick: Trojans 23 Nittany Lions 20


3:30 pm Stanford at 11 Notre Dame (-23.5, 45.5) (NBC) - After beating Syracuse and getting their first ACC victory, 26-24, the Cardinal has been shelled, losing 40-14 at Clemson, and last week, 31-7, at home to Virginia Tech.

Notre Dame hasn't exactly been overpowering anybody this season (other than Purdie, 66-7), but they're cruising towards a playoff spot if they don't mess up what looks to be a pretty easy schedule. They were last seen 9/28, topping Louisville, 31-24. Not sure they can win by 24.

Coin Flip: Stanford

Fearless Rick's Pick: Fighting Irish 31 Cardinal 17


3:30 pm California at 22 Pittsburgh (-3.5, 58.5) (ESPN) - How good is 5-0 Pittsburgh? Well, they beat Cincinnati by one point, West Virginia by four and North Carolina by 10, so they seem to be improving.

At 3-2, Cal is looking for its first ACC win. They've lost to Florida State, 14-9, and last week, fought tooth and nail with Miami, only to surrender a tough, 39-38, home loss. They may be good enough to pull off the upset.

Coin Flip: Pittsburgh

Fearless Rick's Pick: Golden Bears 26 Panthers 24


4:00 pm Arizona at 14 BYU (-3.5, 49) (FOX) - The Wildcats of Arizona managed to beat Utah, 23-10, a few weeks ago, but losses to Kansas State and Texas Tech throw up some red flags. BYU boasts wins over SMU, Kansas State, and Baylor, all pretty good teams, and they should hold the Wildcats to only a few good scoring attempts.

BYU QB Jake Retzlaff has to avoid interceptions. If he does the 5-0 Cougars could cruise to another victory.

Coin Flip: Arizona

Fearless Rick's Pick: Cougars 31 Wildcats 14


7:00 pm Florida at 8 Tennessee (-14, 57.5) (ESPN) - The two best teams the Gators have faced this season, Miami and Texas A&M, both handled them with relative ease. The Hurricanes blew them out, 41-17, and the Aggies won, 33-20, both games at Florida.

This time the Gators are on the road against another quality foe, but the Vols just don't appear to be exactly on top of their game, and the quality of freshman QB Nico Iamaleava hasn't been that good (7 TDs, 2 INTs, 8 Sacs). The Vols lost at Arkansas last week, proving they may be overrated. Florida may not win this game, but they have won two straight and should make this one closer than the line indicates.

Coin Flip: Florida

Fearless Rick's Pick: Volunteers 27 Gators 20


7:30 pm 2 Ohio State (-3, 53.5) at 3 Oregon (NBC) - OK, we have #2 at #3, so this could be a playoff preview, though only one of these can win the Big Ten and get a first round bye.

Most of the best athletes for the Buckeyes are on offense, and, to be honest, Oregon's defense doesn't really impress. Neither team has played any significant opponent, except that Ohio State's win last week over Iowa, 35-7, was pretty impressive as compared to Oregon's 37-34 win over Boise State in Week 2.

Coin Flip: Ohio State

Fearless Rick's Pick: Buckeyes 31 Ducks 24


7:30 pm 9 Ole Miss (-3.5, 62) at 13 LSU (ABC) - At 5-1, the Rebels look darn good. They avenged their 20-17 loss to Kentucky with a dominant, 27-3, victory over South Carolina and have another road test this week at LSU, which, after losing to USC in their season opener, have won four straight.

By comparison, LSU won at South Carolina, 36-33, in a game many believe the Gamecocks got robbed by the refs. It would be nice to think that this game would be competitive, but LSU's four wins came against Nicholls, S. Carolina, UCLA, and South Alabama, not exactly a powerhouse lineup.

Coin Flip: Ole Miss

Fearless Rick's Pick: Rebels 34 Tigers 14


8:00 pm 11 Iowa State (-3, 53) at West Virginia (FOX) - The Cyclones have been moving up steadily in the polls since their comeback win over Iowa, 20-19, in early September. Since then, they've been dominating on both sides of the ball, last week running up a 43-21 win over Baylor.

The Mountaineers are only three-point dogs at home, maybe due to their last two wins, over Kansas and Oklahoma State, but, prior to those victories, losses at Pitt (38-34) and Penn State (34-12) tell a different story. At 3-2, West Virginia looks to be outclassed by the Cyclones.

Coin Flip: West Virginia

Fearless Rick's Pick: Cyclones 41 Mountaineers 24


10:15 pm 15 Kansas State (-3.5, 56.5) at Colorado (ESPN) - Kansas State was thumped, 38-9, by BYU on 9/21, turning the ball over three times and allowing a 90-yard BYU punt return. The week before that, the Wildcats hammered Arizona, 31-7, and, following their loss, ripped Oklahoma State, 42-20. The 4-1 Wildcats should do well against the Buffaloes, also 4-1, and their high energy offense.

Where Colorado is deficient is on defense, and the Wildcats may be able to control the clock with their patient offense and good mix of run and pass.

Coin Flip: Kansas State

Fearless Rick's Pick: Wildcats 34 Buffaloes 27


Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 6 College Picks

All Times Eastern

Week 5 Results: Rick: 6-8; Flip: 5-9 Cumulative: Rick: 32-45; Flip: 40-37

Friday, October 4

9:00 pm Michigan State at 6 Oregon (-23.5, 52.5) (FOX) - The Spartans have lost two straight: 23-19 at Boston College and 38-7, last week at home to Ohio State.

4-0 Oregon continues to improve, winning their last two games by convincing margins, although the competition was suspect (Oregon State, 49-14; UCLA, 34-13). This appears to be a very uncompetitive affair unless Oregon makes grievous errors.

Coin Flip: Oregon

Fearless Rick's Pick: Ducks 45 Spartans 14


9:00 pm Syracuse at 25 UNLV (-6.5, 58.5) (FS1) - Somewhat surprising to see 3-1 Syracuse nearly a TD underdog. Their only loss was a 26-24 defeat in the dome to Stanford. Ohio State QB transfer Kyle McCord has put up outstanding numbers (1,459 yards, 14 TDs, 5 INTs).

At UNLV, QB Matthew Sluka redshirted himself after three games, leaving Jajj-Malik Williams the starter last week against Fresno State. All Williams did was throw three TDs and runs for 119 yards in a 59-14 blowout of Fresno State, setting up an interesting match-up on Friday night.

Coin Flip: UNLV

Fearless Rick's Pick: Orange 30 Rebels 27


Saturday, October 5

12:00 pm UCLA at 7 Penn State (-27.5, 46.5) (FOX) - A sleeper for the national championship, the Nittany Lions appear to be properly ranked among the best in the country, with four convincing wins, the latest a 21-7 triumph over the Fighting Illini.

The Bruins have experienced a rough ride thus far. After a 16-13 win at Hawaii, three straight losses, by large margins, to Indiana, LSU, and Oregon. Penn State's defense may keep them out of the end zone for the full 60 minutes.

Coin Flip: UCLA

Fearless Rick's Pick: Nittany Lions 41 Bruins 6


12:00 pm 9 Missouri at 25 Texas A&M (-2.5, 48.5) (ABC) - There may be a rash of upsets and close calls in the SEC this week, but this one - with the 4-1 Aggies favored over the 4-0 Mizzou - might just be the first.

While the Tigers had to go to overtime to defeat Vanderbilt on 9/21, they managed, and have had an xtra week to work out any issues. The Aggies opened their 2024 campaign with a 23-13 loss to Notre Dame, but have won four straight since, the latest a 21-17 tussle over Arkansas.

This should be tight until the end.

Coin Flip: Missouri

Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 27 Aggies 24


12:00 pm SMU at 22 Louisville (-6.5, 56.5) (ESPN) - Two quality teams, both 1-0 in the ACC, leads off Saturday's gridiron action. Louisville looks to rebound after a 31-24 loss at Notre Dame, while the Mustangs are probably wondering why they're not ranked, being 4-1, their only loss, 18-15 to BYU three weeks ago.

Both teams can light it up. SMU's 66-43 win over TCU and last week's 42-16 rout of Florida State stamped them as a serious contender in the ACC.

Coin Flip: Louisville

Fearless Rick's Pick: Mustangs 48 Cardinals 35


3:30 pm Iowa at 3 Ohio State (-18.5, 45) (CBS) - Don't be fooled by the mammoth line offered here. Iowa, oddly enough, unranked at 3-1, their only loss a one-point defeat at the hands of in-state rival Iowa State, which is ranked #16.

Ohio State may be 4-0 and their average margin of victory 42 points, but they've played Akron, Western Michigan, Marshall, and Michigan State. Iowa's defense is stout and the Buckeyes may find it difficult to sustain drives. If Iowa can muster up two TDs, they may find themselves alive come the 4th quarter.

Coin Flip: Iowa

Fearless Rick's Pick: Buckeyes 24 Hawkeyes 14


3:30 pm Auburn at 5 Georgia (-23, 52) (ABC) - After Auburn's narrow, 27-21 loss to Oklahoma last week, Georgia better bring their best, despite a possible hangover from last week's loss at Alabama.

Oddsmakers say the Bulldogs can win this by more than three TDs. Others may have different opinions

Coin Flip: Georgia

Fearless Rick's Pick: Bulldogs 34 Tigers 26


3:30 pm 12 Ole Miss (-9.5, 53.5) at South Carolina (ESPN) - Ole Miss, and especially their offense and QB Jaxson Dart were taken out to the woodshed last week by visiting Kentucky in a 20-17 defeat, proving once again how tough the SEC is.

South Carolina comes in off a 50-7 blowout of Akron on 9/21, after losing a heartbreaker to LSU, 36-33, a game many believe was the result of some questionable calls by the refs. The Gamecocks will be jacked for this having already pounded Kentucky, 31-6, earlier. Plus, Lannoris Sellers is expected back at QB for SC.

Coin Flip: South Carolina

Fearless Rick's Pick: Gamecocks 28 Rebels 24


7:00 pm 15 Clemson (-14.5, 46.5) at Florida State (ESPN) - 1-4 Florida State was ranked as high as 10th preseason, but they look like the absolute patsies of the ACC.

Clemson should run roughshod over this overrated bunch of crybabies.

Coin Flip: Florida State

Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 54 Seminoles 14


7:30 pm 4 Tennessee (-13.5, 57) at Arkansas (ABC) - Tennessee had better be careful here. The Razorbacks are 3-2, but those two losses were to Oklahoma State, 39-31, in double overtime, and last week a 21-17 loss to Texas A&M, so they're in good company.

The Vols proved they could go toe to toe with just about anybody when they last hit the field two weeks ago, winning at Oklahoma, 25-15. This being the SEC, nothing comes easy, and a two touchdown win by the Vols appears to be a formidable task.

Coin Flip: Arkansas

Fearless Rick's Pick: Volunteers 34 Razorbacks 27


7:30 pm 10 Michigan at Washington (-2.5, 41.5) (NBC) - Logic would dictate the Huskies slight favoritism despite their 3-2 record. Losses to Washington State and Rutgers were by 5 and 3 points, respectively.

4-1 Michigan doesn't offer much in the passing department, so if Washington can contain their run game and produce some short possessions, their offense could come alive. Mainly, this appears to be headed for a close, low-scoring affair. Michigan struggled to hold on against USC and Minnesota their last two outings, scraping by with a pair of 27-24 wins.

Coin Flip: Michigan

Fearless Rick's Pick: Huskies 21 Wolverines 17


7:30 pm 11 USC (-8, 49.5) at Minnesota (BTN) - USC's only loss was at Michigan, 27-24, and last week they dispatched Wisconsin, 38-21, so they appear to be finding offensive fire as mid-season approaches.

Minnesota has had trouble keeping drives alive, and, while USC's defense isn't special, they are probably good enough to limit the Gophers scoring opportunities.

Coin Flip: USC

Fearless Rick's Pick: Trojans 34 Golden Gophers 16


7:30 pm Baylor at 16 Iowa State (-13, 44.5) - 2-3 Baylor keeps hanging around in games but never seems to quite find the right combinations to win. They're 0-2 in the Big 12, though the defeats haven't been by much, 38-31 at Colorado, and 34-28 against BYU last week. This trip to Iowa is a challenging one.

Iowa State has only allowed 29 points in their four wins without a loss, and 19 of those were to Iowa, in a 20-19 victory that elevated their national profile. Last week's 20-0 win at Houston was a defensive masterpiece.

Coin Flip: Baylor

Fearless Rick's Pick: Cyclones 38 Bears 20


10:30 pm 8 Miami (-10.5, 53.5) at California - The Golden Bears are somewhat of an enigma, managing to go 3-1, with one of the wins at Auburn (21-14), while losing last week at Florida State, 14-9. They would appear to be easy pickings for the 5-0 Hurricanes, despite the cross-country trip they're making.

Miami was less than impressive in their 38-34 win over Virginia Tech last Friday night, but that's now ancient history and Cam Ward and his pals should be able to hit pay dirt on multiple possessions.

Coin Flip: Miami

Fearless Rick's Pick: Hurricanes 35 Golden Bears 21


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