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Weekly NFL and College Football Picks
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 17 NFL Picks
Week 16 Results:
ALL TIMES EASTERN
Wednesday, December 25
Kansas City Chiefs (-2.5, 43.5) at Pittsburgh Steelers, 1:00 pm (Netflix) - The Chiefs need just one more win to wrap up the first round bye and secure home field for the playoffs. A win here means they can rest some players in Week 18, which might work out well for them and the Broncos, hosts for the January 5 game.
While the Chiefs have already wrapped up the AFC West, the Steelers have also secured a playoff spot, but, after two straight losses, are in danger of falling from tops in the AFC North to a wild card. Both teams have plenty of reasons to want a win here, but the Chiefs are deadly dangerous in December.
Coin Flip: Kansas City
Fearless Rick's Pick: Chiefs 27 Steelers 17
The Ravens are rolling after their Week 14 bye, knocking off the Giants, 35-14, and last week, the Steelers, 34-17, putting them in a position to capture the AFC North division. It should not be a problem for them if KC knocks off Pittsburgh earlier in the day. They host Cleveland next week.
Unseemly as it may sound, the Texans may lay down on this one.
Coin Flip: Baltimore
Fearless Rick's Pick: Ravens 31 Texans 12
Seattle Seahawks (-4, 43.5) at Chicago Bears, 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - Seattle is still alive in the NFC West race, a game behind the Rams, who they visit next week, so this is a must win for them if they envision the post-season.
The Bears have packed it in long ago, now having lost nine straight.
Coin Flip: Chicago
Fearless Rick's Pick: Seahawks 26 Bears 17
Los Angeles Chargers (-4, 42.5) at New England Patriots, 1:00 pm (NFL Network) - While the Patriots have lost five in a row, their last encounter, at Buffalo, was much improved, losing a 24-21 decision. The last time they played at home, the Patriots feel to the Colts, 25-24. Rookie QB Drake Maye has proven he can compete at this level and Kayshon Boutte is emerging as a threat to any secondary.
The Chargers have great depth and a win here puts them in the playoffs. They come off a 34-27 win over Denver which followed defeats to Tampa Bay and Kansas City. At 9-6, a win here or next week at Las Vegas secures a wild card.
The long trip cross-country and possible cruel weather conditions don't favor the visitors from warm San Diego. New England may stun them.
Coin Flip: New England
Fearless Rick's Pick: Patriots 24 Chargers 21
The Bengals, at 7-8, need to win both of their final two games and get some help. A glaring problem with Cincinnati is that they have yet to win a game against a team with a winning record. Also, they're just 2-5 at home. On the plus side, they've won three straight.
Coin Flip: Denver
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 30 Bengals 24
In all likelihood, the Rams will be expecting a struggle. Arizona smothered them in Week 2, 41-10, but much has changed since then, especially the health of LA's offense. Bear in mind the Rams started 1-4 and are 8-2 since then, including wins over Minnesota, Seattle, New Orleans and Buffalo, and their defense has given up just 15 points in back-to-back wins over the 49ers (12-6) and Jets (19-9).
Coin Flip: Los Angeles Rams
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rams 34 Cardinals 20
New York Jets at Buffalo Bills (-10, 47), 1:00 pm (CBS) - At 10-3, Buffalo looks very much like the #2 seed in the AFC, behind Kansas City and ahead of either Baltimore or Pittsburgh. QB Josh Allen was injured slightly against the Patriots last week, but he's almost certain to start. A win here means many of the starters could rest in their rematch with the pesky Patriots next week.
Simply awful this season, the Jets did manage to lose by only a field goal (23-20) when these two met up Week 6 in New York. Buffalo's defense has shown some holes, so it's not certain they can win this by much. However, Aaron Rodgers may be a bit hobbled by an MCL injury, though he intends to play.
Look for the Bills to end speculation and wrap up the #2 seed.
Coin Flip: New York Jets
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bills 35 Jets 20
Coin Flip: New Orleans
Fearless Rick's Pick: Raiders 16 Saints 13
Expect heavy doses of Jonathan Taylor (218 yards last week) and another dull effort from the Giants.
Coin Flip: New York Giants
Fearless Rick's Pick: Colts 27 Giants 6
The Eagles suffered a blow to their egos and chance for a first round bye when upset last week by the Commanders, 36-33. The upside is that they play the Giants next week.
Dallas is out of the playoffs thanks to Washington's win, but they've put in some good work lately, winning four of their last five, including wins over Washington and Tampa Bay. Their 34-6 loss to the Eagles November 10 was the first week after Dak Prescott's injury. QB Cooper Rush has improved markedly since then. Lots of ways this could go against the Eagles.
Coin Flip: Philadelphia
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cowboys 23 Eagles 20
While Tampa Bay hosts New Orleans next week, they have to focus here because Carolina has been resurgent. Over their last seven games, the Panthers are 3-4, but only one of those losses was by more than six points (Dallas, 30-14). Also, Tampa Bay defeated the Panthers in Week 13, but it was in OT, 26-23. Upset looms large.
Coin Flip: Tampa Bay
Fearless Rick's Pick: Carolina 30 Buccaneers 20
Titans should even up the score.
Coin Flip: Jacksonville
Fearless Rick's Pick: Titans 23 Jaguars 10
Miami still has a technical shot at the playoffs, and should dominate, plus a win gets them to .500, at 8-8, which is something in itself.
Coin Flip: Miami
Fearless Rick's Pick: Dolphins 38 Browns 14
Green Bay, with a win, could help themselves move up a spot, given the Vikings play the Lions next week while the Packers host the lowly Bears.
Both teams have been lights most of the season. Minnesota won their first meeting, 31-29, so this figures to go down to the end again.
Coin Flip: Minnesota
Fearless Rick's Pick: Packers 30 Vikings 27
This will be a rookie quarterback showdown between Jayden Daniels and Atlanta's Michael Penix Jr., who got his first start and first win last week, 34-7, over the Giants.
Should be a close one.
Coin Flip: Washington
Fearless Rick's Pick: Falcons 27 Commanders 25
Detroit Lions (-3.5, 50.5) at San Francisco 49ers, 8:15 pm (ESPN/ABC) - Nothing about this game speaks to a win by the 49ers. The Lions have the #1 offense in the league and SF has already been eliminated from post-season consideration.
The Lions host the Vikings next week, so they need to focus on getting the road win here.
Coin Flip: San Francisco
Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 28 49ers 17
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 16 NFL Picks
Week 15 Results:
ALL TIMES EASTERN
Thursday, December 19
Denver Broncos at Los Angeles Chargers (-3, 41.5), 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - In he first meeting back in October, the Chargers scored a 23-16 win at Denver, but the Broncos have won four straight and are a game up on the Chargers, who have lost their last two, including a humbling 40-17 home loss to Tampa Bay last week.
Denver appears to have momentum and while LA's defense is still one to respect, the offense sometimes is less than fully efficient.
Even a loss here doesn't eliminated the Chargers. It's likely that both teams will be in the playoffs along with either Pittsburgh or Baltimore.
Coin Flip: Los Angeles Chargers
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 24 Chargers 17
Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs (-3, 41.5), 1:00 pm (NBC) - Patrick Mahomes is likely to play, which spells trouble for the Texans, who have already clinched the AFC South and really have little to gain, win or lose.
The Chiefs, however, are coveting the first round bye if they can maintain their lead over the Bills, though they do have a one-game cushion (13-1 vs. 10-3). Should Buffalo and KC end up with identical records, the Bills would get the bye, due to their 30-17 win on November 17. Kansas City still has two road games - at Pittsburgh and Denver - remaining, so they will be looking to win their home finale.
Coin Flip: Kansas City
Fearless Rick's Pick: Chiefs 23 Texans 13
A win by more than three points gives the Ravens a leg up, and they are likely to dominate at home and win by possibly quite a bit more.
Coin Flip: Pittsburgh
Fearless Rick's Pick: Ravens 30 Steelers 14
New York Giants at Atlanta Falcons (-9, 42.5), 1:00 pm (FOX) - The Falcons are going with Michael Penix Jr. at QB as he appears to be the future for Atlanta and he should fare well in his first NFL start.
The Giants are just miserable at 2-12 and injuries to a multitude of starters with at least 12 listed as questionable, including both QBs, Drew Lock and Tommy DeVito.
This may not be very much fun to watch unless you're a die-hard Falcon fan or Giant hater. The Falcons are just a game back of Tampa Bay in the division, so they should be motivated. Could very well be the UNDER game of the week.
Coin Flip: Atlanta
Fearless Rick's Pick: Falcons 23 Giants 6
Arizona remains a game back of the Rams and Seahawks in the NFC West and can still win the division, which looks like the most likely path to the playoffs. They are at the Rams next week and home for the 49ers in Week 18, so this is a game they really must win.
Coin Flip: Arizona
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cardinals 28 Panthers 17
The Bengals are just 1-6 at home, having last won on their own field on November 3, topping Las Vegas, 41-24, but they've had just one home game since, a 44-38 loss to Pittsburgh.
Joe Burrow and gang should give the fans something to smile about.
Coin Flip: Cincinnati
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bengals 31 Browns 17
That 23-20 loss on Thanksgiving was a complete fluke. Don't expect the Lions to give Chicago any chance at making this another close game. Coach Dan Campbell has lit a fire under his players after last week's loss to Buffalo.
Coin Flip: Chicago
Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 38 Bears 13
It's hard to say which team is worse, the 3-11 Titans or the 5-9 Colts. Looking for Tennessee to win the turnover battle for a change and maybe get Calvin Ridley loose in the secondary.
Coin Flip: Tennessee
Fearless Rick's Pick: Titans 24 Colts 20
A few things are certain here, however. The Jets are not going to the playoffs. The Rams need to keep winning and take the NFC West, currently tied at 8-6 with Seattle, whom they've already beaten once and host in Week 18. LA should win this one as they are 4-3 on the road and 3-1 against AFC teams.
Coin Flip: New York Jets
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rams 27 Jets 20
The Eagles are eyeing the first round bye, currently tied with the Lions and Vikings at 12-2, but they would lose out to Detroit as both they and Minnesota have two conference losses while Detroit only has one. Of course, the Lions and Vikings play in Week 18, which could determine everything.
Considering the implications and the fact that Philly already beat Washington, 26-18, in Week 11 (and their 10-game winning streak), the Eagles should come out on top here.
Coin Flip: Washington
Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 27 Commanders 16
While Geno Smith has done well leading the Seahawks to an 8-6 record and a tie with the Rams in the NFC West, the Vikings are eyeing the #1 spot in the division and a first round bye.
Usually, Seattle is solid at home, but they're only 3-5 this season, while Minnesota has lost just once on the road, to the Rams, 30-20, October 24, but have since won seven straight.
Coin Flip: Seattle
Fearless Rick's Pick: Vikings 31 Seahawks 21
The Jaguars are 1-6 in road games this season, but at least they have a win in the last three weeks (10-6 at Tennessee) and a healthy defense.
Coin Flip: Las Vegas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Jaguars 17 Raiders 10
Coin Flip: New England
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bills 38 Patriots 10
Honestly, because nobody really cares, this one might as well just be a coin flip, so we'll go with that. Probably going to come down to turnovers and which team is the least discouraged.
Coin Flip: Miami
Fearless Rick's Pick: Dolphins 27 49ers 23
The Cowboys are at Philly next week and close out against the Commanders. Baker Mayfield is questionable with a knee injury. If he starts, that helps, but other key players on offense are also on the injury list and questionable to play.
If Mayfield is out, Kyle Trask would likely go. This looks like a war of attrition. The Cowboys are 1-6 at home; Tampa Bay 5-2 on the road. Not certain, but Tampa would be in a good spot with a win.
Coin Flip: Tampa Bay
Fearless Rick's Pick: Buccaneers 23 Cowboys 16
New Orleans Saints at Green Bay Packers (-14, 42), 8:15 pm (ESPN, ABC) - New Orleans has Spencer Rattler replacing Derek Carr at QB, who appears done for the season. The Saints will be fortunate if they can find the end zone twice against the Packers, who will clinch a playoff spot with a win, having wins over both the Rams and Seahawks, the only teams capable of tying Green Bay.
There are problems with backing the Packers, even in Green Bay. First, it is likely to be cold, possibly very cold, which will affect scoring negatively. Also, Rattler and the Saints nearly engineered an upset over the Commanders last week, and would have if they had converted their two-point conversion at the end of the game.
The Saints are also not completely eliminated from playoff contention, though they may be by game time. Packers should win, but may not cover.
Coin Flip: Green Bay
Fearless Rick's Pick: Packers 24 Saints 14
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 15 NFL Picks
Week 14 Results:
ALL TIMES EASTERN
Thursday, December 12
Los Angeles Rams at San Francisco 49ers (-3, 49.5), 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - After the way the Rams handled the Bills, one would be strongly encouraged to follow up with them as road dogs against NFC West rival San Francisco.
In Week 3, the Rams won a 27-24 score at home, so getting three points makes sense. The 49ers are coming off a 38-13 beatdown of the Bears, but they haven't won two games back-to-back since weeks 8 and 10, with week 9 a bye week. Meanwhile, the Rams have won three straight and are just a game behind Seattle in the division.
Coin Flip: Los Angeles Rams
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rams 30 49ers 24
Dallas Cowboys at Carolina Panthers (-2.5, 43.5), 1:00 pm (FOX) - The Cowboys could easily have beaten the Bengals last week, if not for a late 4th-quarter flub on a blocked punt that gave the ball back to Cincy and resulted in the winning touchdown.
At 5-8, they're still alive for a playoff spot while the 3-10 Panthers have been all but eliminated. They've played better of late, but they've lost their last three. If that trend continues, the Cowboys are a great choice.
Coin Flip: Carolina
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cowboys 23 Panthers 17
The Browns have won just once in their last five games and the smallest losing margin has been nine points. Just when you thought you had an angle on the Chiefs (haven't covered in seven weeks), they figure to come up loose and big.
Coin Flip: Cleveland
Fearless Rick's Pick: Chiefs 31 Browns 17
Miami is 6-7, so they qualify as a potential Houston victim. The Dolphins were fortunate to get past the Jets last week in OT, and now are on the road where they are just 2-4.
Coin Flip: Miami
Fearless Rick's Pick: Houston 27 Miami 23
With Mac Jones at QB, the Jaguars are just 1-3, but, outside of the 52-6 drubbing put on them at Detroit, their two losses were by three and five points and last week they won at Tennessee, 10-6. Hard to believe they're underdogs at home.
Coin Flip: Jacksonville
Fearless Rick's Pick: Jaguars 21 Jets 14
On December 1, Washington broke a three-game losing streak with a 42-19 win over Tennessee and then had a bye last week. At 8-5, they're in line for a playoff spot with Philly, Atlanta, and Dallas remaining on their schedule. Derek Carr is questionable for this game, but he could play. If not, Jake Haener or Spencer Rattler goes.
Overall, this line looks suspicious and the Saints may upset.
Coin Flip: New Orleans
Fearless Rick's Pick: Commanders 26 Saints 24
Baltimore is third in scoring league-wide. New York is, um, last. If nothing else, this is a third grade math problem, easily solved.
Coin Flip: Baltimore
Fearless Rick's Pick: Ravens 38 Giants 7
Now, the Bengals hit the road for a second straight game, which is usually trouble, but the Titans almost certainly will find a creative way to lose this game. At 3-10, they're in the hunt for worst team in the league, though there's ample competition.
Coin Flip: Cincinnati
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bengals 30 Titans 16
They may get a break with visiting New England. Under Drake Maye, the Patriots are just 1-6 and overall are 2-5 on the road this season. Maye looks like the future for the Patriots, but he's got a lot to learn and the AZ defense may force some mistakes.
Coin Flip: New England
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cardinals 34 Patriots 16
The is running out on the 6-7 Colts who have a -31 scoring differential whereas Denver is +71.
Coin Flip: Indianapolis
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 24 Colts 14
Thus, a win here is not a must for them as they're tied with Pittsburgh at 10-3 and the Steelers face a rough road the final four games. That said, the Bills still want to win this game, and since they're getting points, they get the nod.
Coin Flip: Detroit
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bills 34 Lions 31
Both teams appear playoff-bound, the Bucs as winners of the NFC South, the Chargers as an AFC wild card. Tampa Bay has the edge offensively. The Chargers are robust on defense. Hard to see this game not going right down to the wire.
Coin Flip: Los Angeles Chargers
Fearless Rick's Pick: Buccaneers 24 Chargers 23
It should be fun to watch Russell Wilson and Jalen Hurts ply their trades at QB, but the Eagles, in addition to home field, have more deadly weapons and should win going away.
Incidentally, Pittsburgh has Baltimore, KC, and Cincinnati remaining after this game. It's conceivable that they could lose all four games and still make the playoffs.
Coin Flip: Philadelphia
Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 27 Steelers 17
Giving Seattle points at home may be a big mistake even though they're just 3-4 in home contests this season. They've won four straight and are at the top of their game. The Packers lost, 34-31, at Detroit last Thursday, so they've had ample time to recover. Should be a tight one.
Coin Flip: Green Bay
Fearless Rick's Pick: Seahawks 29 Packers 28
Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings (-7, 43.5), 8 pm (ABC) - Minnesota's shown considerable grit trying to keep pace with the Lions in the NFC North, a game behind heading into week 15. Sam Darnold has brought his A game this season, not surprising with the talented duo of Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison on the receiving end.
Chicago has no such offensive might and has lost seven straight, the latest a 38-13 beatdown at San Francisco. Minnesota won the first meeting, 30-27, at Chicago in overtime, three weeks ago. Expecting the same result, a Vikings win, but by a larger margin.
Coin Flip: Minnesota
Fearless Rick's Pick: Vikings 31 Bears 13
Atlanta completely fell apart last week in the second half at Minnesota. Vegas, baby.
Coin Flip: Las Vegas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Raiders 23 Falcons 20
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 14 NFL Picks
Week 13 Results:
ALL TIMES EASTERN
Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions (-3, 51.5), 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - The Lions looked like they were just going through the motions in the second half of their 23-20 win over the Bears on Thanksgiving, and they could have easily lost that game, most fans saying Chicago blew it by not even attempting a tying field goal in the waning seconds of the fourth quarter, a move that got their head coach fired.
Still, the Lions are 11-1, tied with Kansas City with the league's best record and are playing solid football.
Green Bay has won three straight and gets a second crack at Detroit after losing to them in week 9, 24-14, and that game was at Lambeau, so they'll have to do better in front of the rabid Detroit fans. Look for the lions to kick it up a notch and remain ahead of Minnesota in the division.
Coin Flip: Green Bay
Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 28 Packers 24
New York Jets at Miami Dolphins (-6, 44), 1:00 pm (CBS) - Miami's 30-17 loss at Green Bay was deflating, dropping the Dolphins to 5-7 and virtually out of the playoff race. However, they do get the Jets again, in New York, to close out the season and have Houston San Francisco, and Cleveland in between, so winning all five games would put them at 10-7 and into a possible wild card.
The Jets, well, they simply keep on losing. Their defense cannot stop the run and Aaron Rodgers is too long in the tooth to do it all himself. Could be blowout city for Miami.
Coin Flip: Miami
Fearless Rick's Pick: Dolphins 31 Jets 14
Minnesota continues to chase the Lions in the NFC North, remaining a game back after slipping by Arizona last week, 23-22. Their 10-2 mark virtually assures them at least a wild card, and their road gets tougher down the stretch, with the Bears, Seahawks, Packers, and Lions to close out the season.
The Vikings have won five straight but this looks like a close call as Atlanta is still in the hunt.
Coin Flip: Atlanta
Fearless Rick's Pick: Vikings 26 Falcons 24
This is as good a place to start, despite being on the road. Giants are 2-10 and looking forward to locking up the #1 or #2 draft pick. They've pretty much given up on this season.
Coin Flip: New Orleans
Fearless Rick's Pick: Saints 27 Giants 9
This one is on the road and it's against the no-nonsense Eagles, winners of eight straight and right behind Detroit for the top spot in the conference. Will they suffer a letdown after their 24-19 win at Baltimore last week? Doubt it.
Coin Flip: Carolina
Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 31 Panthers 10
Pittsburgh has to be considered one of the brighter stories of the season. Their 44-38 win at Cincinnati upped their record to 9-3 and they appear headed for the playoffs with a 1 1/2-game lead over the Ravens in the division. With the Eagles, Ravens, Chiefs, and Bengals ahead, they would be wise to make this outing a winning one. Jameis Winston may have better luck this time around and possibly upend the Steelers.
Coin Flip: Pittsburgh
Fearless Rick's Pick: Steelers 27 Browns 24
While the Raiders have lost eight straight, Tampa Bay still has trouble closing out games, having to go to overtime last week at Carolina for a 26-23 win. Could be a major setback for the Bucs against a Vegas team willing to roll the dice on every possession.
Coin Flip: Las Vegas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Raiders 24 Buccaneers 21
While the Jaguars are 2-10, the Titans aren't any better at 3-9, especially after their sloppy performance against Washington, a pathetic, 42-19 wipeout.
Coin Flip: Tennessee
Fearless Rick's Pick: Jaguars 26 Titans 16
Otherwise, the Seahawks could win their fourth straight and end the argument over how no team wants to win the division. Geno Smith has been lights out most of the year and they can make it two straight over the Cardinals and go two up with four to play.
Coin Flip: Arizona
Fearless Rick's Pick: Seahawks 23 Cardinals 17
All but two of Buffalo's wins have been by a minimum of six points. The Rams will be lucky to lose by less than 10.
Coin Flip: Buffalo
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bills 30 Rams 20
While the Bears have lost six straight, four of those losses have been by three points or fewer. Rookie QB Caleb Williams has found his best stride and is keeping Chicago in games. They could easily be 8-4 instead of 4-8 with a few breaks going their way and maybe better coaching. This could be over early.
Coin Flip: Chigao
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bears 27 49ers 17
The Chiefs won their first meeting in week four, 17-10, at Los Angeles, but the Chargers are seeking respect and are likely to get it in prime time.
Coin Flip: Kansas City
Fearless Rick's Pick: Chargers 28 Chiefs 24
Cincinnati Bengals (-5, 49.5) at Dallas Cowboys, 8:15 pm (ESPN/ABC) - The Cowboys are actually in better shape than the Bengals in terms of playoff hopes, at 5-7, Dallas may be thinking about the post-season. They have Carolina, Tampa Bay, Philly, and Washington remaining and a win here puts them at 6-7.
The 4-8 Bengals, on the other hand, despite the hype surrounding Joe Burrow, have proven they can lose in a multitude of ways, but mostly because their defense is near the bottom of the NFL heap. They've given up 34 or more points in six of their eight losses. Only Carolina has allowed more scoring than the Bengals, 366-340. That's pretty bad.
Coin Flip: Cincinnati
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cowboys 34 Bengals 23
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Fearless Rick & Coin Flip College Bowl & CFP Games Picks - December 31 - January 1
ALL TIMES EASTERN
Dec. 26-30 Bowls
Tuesday, December 31
RellaQuest Bowl
Alabama has probably the more elite athletes, but losing three SEC games would have been unacceptable under coach Saban. It speaks to preparation and commitment, or the lack thereof on the part of the Crimson Tide coaching staff and players.
Looking for Michigan to play tough defense and dominate the line of scrimmage.
Coin Flip: Alabama
Fearless Rick's Pick: Wolverines 24 Crimson Tide 20
Redshirts may play a bigger role in this game. Louisville has plenty of skill players, but not a lot of defense. Of their four losses, three were by a touchdown to each of Miami, Notre Dame, and SMU, some pretty good company. The other was a 38-35 loss at Stanford. The Cardinals were 9th in points scored nationally, at 36.6 ppg.
Washington, last season's national championship runner-up to Michigan, was supposed to fall off significantly. In some ways they did, scoring only 22.5 points per contest, though the defense was usually more or less adequate. They finished 6-6.
Coin Flip: Washington
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cardinals 34 Huskies 18
South Carolina, also 9-3, played a much tougher schedule, their only blowout loss a 27-3 setback against Ole Miss back in October. A 36-33 loss to LSU was controversial because of the many penalties assessed the Gamecocks, and they nearly scored an upset at Alabama, losing 27-25.
The Gamecocks have the making of a top 10 team in 2025 and will strut their stuff here.
Coin Flip: Illinois
Fearless Rick's Pick: Gamecocks 30 Fighting Illini 10
Baylor, like LSU, finished 8-4, though they were never ranked. They've won six straight heading in, though the competition wasn't very challenging other than Kansas, which they blew away, 45-17. Baylor's explosive offense (34.7 ppg) is likely to be more than the Tigers can handle.
Coin Flip: Baylor
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bears 42 Tigers 21
Tuesday, December 31
Fiesta Bowl
Penn State has evolved into a dynamic team with excellent defense and a solid running game. Speaking of running, Boise State features the best back in the country, Ashton Jeanty. No team has been able to completely shut him down and its doubtful that Penn State can keep the Heisman runner-up corralled all game long. No team has managed to hold him under 120 yards.
Giving Boise 11 points in a game that very well might be of the ball control, field position variety could prove costly, which is why the Broncos are the pick to upset.
Both teams lost to Oregon, but Boise's loss was by the slimmest of margins, 37-34, back in September. It's very likely that they're a better team, top to bottom, now.
Coin Flip: Boise State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 24 Nittany Lions 18
Peach Bowl
The Sun Devils have won six straight, including a 45-19 thrashing of Iowa State in the conference championship. They've also beaten ranked teams, Kansas State and BYU.
Texas lost just twice in 2024, both times to Georgia, the last a 22-19 overtime affair in the SEC championship. The Longhorns hold wins over ranked (at the time) teams Michigan, Oklahoma, Vanderbilt, and Texas A&M. They also topped Clemson in the CFP first round, 38-24 and have not been completely impressive on offense though their running game took its toll on the Tigers a week ago.
While the Sun Devils are well down the list of points allowed (21.3 ppg), they've held opponents to 21 or fewer points six times, five of them in their last seven outings. Giving them almost two touchdowns is asking a lot, even from a talented Texas squad.
Coin Flip: Texas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Longhorns 27 Sun Devils 20
That's not really a solid assessment because the Volunteers were completely outmanned on both sides of the ball, looking largely unprepared to match Ohio State's emotional level and they made numerous mental and physical errors.
The same will not happen with Oregon, ranked #1 since their 32-31 win over Ohio State in mid-October. They've had an extra week off and are going to be well-prepared to move on to the next level. They are the champions of the Big Ten and in any other year, QB Dillon Gabriel would have won the Heisman Trophy (3,558 yards, 28 TDs).
Coin Flip: Oregon
Fearless Rick's Pick: Ducks 34 Buckeyes 30
Notre Dame is likely to keep Stockton in the pocket and not allow him much running room. They will apply pressure throughout. Offensively, the Fighting Irish can be like a juggernaut, with a run-pass balance that puts them in an elite class this season.
Georgia's very slight favoritism is oxymoronic. Any time a team doesn't have its regular starting QB, they're usually the underdog. Notre Dame has the skills and weapons to put a solid beatdown on the Bulldogs.
This one may be over by halftime.
Coin Flip: Georgia
Fearless Rick's Pick: Fighting Irish 31 Bulldogs 10
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip College Bowl & Playoff Games Picks - December 26-30
Dec. 20-24 Bowls & CPF 1st Round
Thursday, December 26
GameAbove Sports Bowl
Pitt lost its last five games of the season. Nate Yarnell has replaced Eli Holstein at QB and he has not won a game yet. Pitt was 3-5 in conference games; The Rockets were 4-4, but were not solid on defense or in their rushing game.
Coin Flip: Pittsburgh
Fearless Rick's Pick: Panthers 31 Rockets 21
The Scarlet Knights didn't play Ohio State, Oregon, Michigan, Indiana, or Penn State, so their record may be misleading. USC smothered them, 42-20, and Illinois won, 38-31, at Rutgers.
Coin Flip: Kansas State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Wildcats 34 Scarlet Knights 21
Arkansas State allowed more points than they scored, which is generally not a good sign.
Coin Flip: Bowling Green
Fearless Rick's Pick: Falcons 31 Red Wolves 17
Armed Forces Bowl
The Sooners didn't fare well their first season in the SEC, going 6-2 to finish 6-6 overall. Oklahoma is challenged offensively, whereas the Midshipmen can light it up. If the Sooners get behind, it may be a long afternoon.
Coin Flip: Oklahoma
Fearless Rick's Pick: Midshipmen 26 Sooners 21
Georgia Tech's reliance on a ground attack may prove to be a difference-maker.
Coin Flip: Vanderbilt
Fearless Rick's Pick: Yellow Jackets 23 Commodores 17
Coin Flip: Texas Tech
Fearless Rick's Pick: Razorbacks 27 Red Raiders 20
Syracuse kept plugging away and fine-tuning their game all season, finishing on a high note with a 42-38 win over Miami and a 9-3 record. Could be blowout city if the Orange can win the turnover battle. Syracuse had one of the most proficient offenses in the country, averaging 456.1 yards per game (9th) and scoring an average of 32.6.
Coin Flip: Syracuse
Fearless Rick's Pick: Orange 44 Cougars 24
The Aggies lost their final three SEC contests, but still finished 5-3 in conference and 8-4 overall. QB Marcel Reed should provide engouh spark for the offense and the defense won't wear down against USC's offense.
Coin Flip: USC
Fearless Rick's Pick: Aggies 28 Trojans 21
Fenway Bowl
The Huskies, playing as an independent, went 8-4, and other than their opener, a 50-7 loss at Maryland, they held their own against ACC teams, losing to Duke, 26-21, Wake Forest, 23-20, and Syracuse, 31-24. They should be fired up enough to notch a ninth win.
Coin Flip: UConn
Fearless Rick's Pick: Huskies 31 Tar Heels 27
Boston College should wallop them. The Eagles were 4-4 in the ACC and 7-5 overall, with notable wins over Michigan State, Syracuse, and Pitt. They have plenty of offense and a more than adequate defense.
Coin Flip: Boston College
Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 44 Cornhuskers 27
QB Ben Wooldridge, the Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year, who missed the Cajuns' final three games and the championship with a broken collarbone, will start against the Horned Frogs.
TCU also went 8-4, including a 6-3 record in the Big 12, winning five of their last six. QB Josh Hoover threw for 3,697 yards and 23 TDs, so expect both teams to really air it out. Given 12 points, Louisiana looks to upset.
Coin Flip: TCU
Fearless Rick's Pick: Ragin' Cajuns 42 Horned Frogs 40
Iowa State was 10-3 in the Big 12, losing in the championship game to Arizona State, 45-19. They have a fairly balanced run-pass offense and reliable defense. Miami will not likely be able to stop them much at all.
Coin Flip: Miami
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cyclones 38 Hurricanes 34
The RedHawks went 8-5 (7-1 in the MAC), but got hammered by Ohio, 38-3, in the conference championship game. Considering how many of the bowl games this season have been extremely competitive, take the Rams in a close one.
Coin Flip: Miami (OH)
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rams 24 RedHawks 21
Considering that NC State was 3-5 in the ACC, 6-6 overall, and allowed 366 points in 12 games, whichever tam has the ball last is likely to win this shoot-out.
Take the Pirates and the points, matey!
Coin Flip: NC State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Pirates 37 Wolfpack 34
The two teams didn't meet in 2024, but the -4 line favoring the Buffs is probably the result of hype and hope. BYU could easily triumph.
Coin Flip: BYU
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cougars 34 Buffaloes 24
Army, which led the nation in rushing yards, will likely roll to a huge victory, looking to make amends for their 31-13 flop against Navy.
Coin Flip: Louisiana Tech
Fearless Rick's Pick: Black Knights 31 Bulldogs 17
Music City Bowl
Sullivan will start against the Mizzou, with Stratton as backup. Iowa's defense is the key. The 8-4 (6-3, Big Ten) Hawkeyes were ninth in tthe nation in points allowed (17.1 per game).
9-3 Missouri rates a slight favorite out of the SEC, where they were 5-3. Losses at Texas A&M, 41-10, and Alabama, 34-0, stand out. The other loss was at South Carolina, 34-30. Wouldn't be a surprise if Iowa tramples them.
Coin Flip: Iowa
Fearless Rick's Pick: Hawkeyes 27 Tigers 13
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip College Bowl & Playoff Games Picks - December 20-24
Dec. 17-19 Bowls Results: Rick: 3-1; Flip: 3-1
All Times Eastern
Friday, December 20
Cure Bowl
The Bobcats held opponents to 10 points or fewer in five of their victories. Both the offense and defense improved as the season wore on.
Jacksonville State comes well-prepared after winning the Conference USA championship game, 52-12, over Western Kentucky just a week after losing at the Hilltoppers home, 19-17. QB Tyler Huff and RB Tre Stewart lead an explosive Gamecock offense that led the conference in scoring with 306 points and 477 overall in a 9-4 season (7-1 in conference).
Coin Flip: Ohio
Fearless Rick's Pick: Gamecocks 34 Bobcats 27
Tulane's Green Wave rolled through most of the season, posting a 9-2 mark, but failed in crucial games at season's end, losing their final two games, to Memphis, 34-24, and Army, 35-14. Tulane doesn't have the kind of team that could even compete in the SEC, so Florida should roll right over them.
Coin Flip: Florida
Fearless Rick's Pick: Gators 38 Green Wave 10
Monday, December 23
Myrtle Beach Bowl
UTSA comes out of the American Athletic with a 6-6 record, though they finished strong, topping Memphis, North Texas, and Temple before losing their finale, 29-24, at Army.
Considering that Carolina is playing virtually on their home turf, the big spread indicates that the Roadrunners may just run away and hide.
Coin Flip: Coastal Carolina
Fearless Rick's Pick: Roadrunners 38 Chanticleers 20
Fresno State was up and down all season, closing out their season by losing three of their last four. Their best win was probably the 33-10 win over San Jose State; the worst, a 59-14 beatdown by UNLV.
Not much to like either way, leaning toward Northern Illinois to play better defense and squeeze out a win.
Coin Flip: Northern Illinois
Fearless Rick's Pick: Huskies 24 Bulldogs 17
Hawaii Bowl
South Florida went the opposite way when Bryce Archie took over at QB from Byrum Brown mid-season. Following a 21-3 loss to Memphis in mid-October, the Bulls closed out the season with a 4-2 mark.
Neither team defends well, but the Bulls seem to be headed in a better direction.
Coin Flip: San Jose State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bulls 36 Spartans 28
Friday, December 20
8:00 pm 10 Indiana at 7 Notre Dame (-7, 51) (ABC, ESPN) - The weather will play a big factor in how this game goes. It's expected to be near-blizzard conditions in South Bend, which will affect all aspects of play, but probably favor Notre Dame's defense and running game.
The Irish haven't missed a beat since losing their second game of the season, 16-14, to Northern Illinois. Ten straight wins, many in dominating fashion rates Notre Dame a tough out.
The Irish schedule may not have been very rigorous, but wins over Texas A&M, Louisville, Army, Navy and USC stand out.
Indiana benefitted from the expanded Big Ten conference, racking up 10 straight over the likes of Maryland, UCLA, Northwestern, Nebraska, and Michigan State, until meeting up with Ohio State and getting buried, 38-15. They do not appear to have the depth or experience to challenge Notre Dame.
Coin Flip: Indiana
Fearless Rick's Pick: Fighting Irish 28 Hoosiers 13
12:00 pm 11 SMU at 6 Penn State (-8.5, 52.5) (TNT, MAX) - Playing conditions have been cited as a factor favoring Penn State, though playing at home is probably a bigger element.
The Nittany Lions lost just twice, to Ohio State, 20-13, and Oregon, 45-37, both playoff participants. Their overall 11-2 record speaks of their quality and especially their defense, holding seven opponents to under 14 points.
SMU was the choice over Alabama, based upon their quality season (11-2) and their narrow loss to Clemson (34-31) in the ACC championship. The Mustangs scored 31 or more points in eight of their 13 games and late in the season, the defense began to pick it up in wins over Virginia (33-7) and Cal (38-6).
It would be a mistake to write off SMU. They play hard and to the finish and may upend Penn State.
Coin Flip: SMU
Fearless Rick's Pick: Mustangs 30 Nittany Lions 26
The Longhorns lost just twice, both times to Georgia, which adds to their allure. The last was a 22-19 loss to the Bulldogs in the SEC championship. Other than those two games, Texas has answered the bell every time.
Clemson might consider themselves lucky to be in the playoffs, but they earned it by winning the ACC championship, 34-31, over a game SMU squad. They are the only team with three losses in the tournament. Georgia, Louisville, and South Carolina each defeated the Tigers.
The pressure is clearly on Texas and that may work against them. Clemson may not win, but a loss might be by a very small margin.
Coin Flip: Clemson
Fearless Rick's Pick: Longhorns 20 Tigers 16
Before that, the Buckeyes had only one loss, 32-31 to #1 Oregon and they were on the verge of getting a chance for revenge in the Big Ten championship. The Michigan loss changed everything. Oregon knocked off Penn State in the championship while the Buckeyes could only watch.
Tennessee will be a touch opponent for Ohio State. The Vols won some big games, including victories over Alabama, Oklahoma, Florida, and Vanderbilt. Their two losses were to Georgia and Arkansas, both on the road. The Vols running game and stout defense will challenge Ohio State.
Tennessee's been knocking on the door the last there years under head coach Josh Heupel. This may be the year they break it down.
Coin Flip: Tennessee
Fearless Rick's Pick: Volunteers 24 Buckeyes 20
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip College Bowl Game Picks - December 17-19
Week 16 + Bowls Results: Rick: 1-2; Flip: 3-0
Tuesday, December 17
Frisco Bowl
West Virginia finished mid-pack in the Big 12, 5-4 in conference play and 6-6 overall. The defense completely collapsed in their last three losses, 45-18 against Kansas State, 49-35 to Baylor, and 52-15 at Texas Tech.
While it appears the Mountaineers need more help on defense, offensive coordinator Chad Scott will serve as the interim head coach in place of Neal Brown, who was fired after going 37-35 over six seasons. Rich Rodriguez will return as head coach for the 2025 season.
Tough spot for WVA. Memphis can wrap up its best season in years with a win and an 11-2 mark.
Coin Flip: West Virginia
Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 38 Mountaineers 21
Boca Raton Bowl
The Hilltoppers were 8-5 and 6-2 in Conference USA play, losing the championship at Jacksonville State, 52-12, just a week after beating them 19-17 at home. Having had some rest, they should rebound and keep this close or [possibly spring an upset.
Coin Flip: James Madison
Fearless Rick's Pick: Dukes 26 Hilltoppers 24
UNLV missed out on a chance to make the national playoffs, losing to Boise State, 21-7 in the MWC championship, but they had a solid season overall, with a 6-1 record in the conference and 10-3 mark overall, two of those losses to Boise, the other a 44-41 OT loss to Syracuse.
Both teams have proven they can keep games close. UNLV rates a slight edge with senior QB Majj-Malik Williams (17 TDs, 5 INTs, 1,845 yards).
Coin Flip: UNLV
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rebels 30 Golden Bears 21
New Orleans Bowl
Georgia Southern will be hard-pressed to keep Sam Houston in check and thus in danger of falling behind and having to rely on their passing attack. The Eagles were 6-2 in the Sun Belt and 8-4 overall, but all of their losses were by 10 points or more.
Sam Houston's defense may get a turnover or two, helping to ground the Eagles.
Coin Flip: Sam Houston
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bearkats 27 Eagles 20
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 16 College Picks
Week 15 Results: Rick: 2-4; Flip: 3-3
Bowl Games overlapped Week 16 in college football, resulting in three games on Saturday, with the Army-Navy tussle sandwiched between the first two bowl games, one at noon, and one at 9:00 pm ET, which are presented below.
Saturday, December 14
3:00 pm Navy Midshipmen vs. Army Black Knights (-6.5, 39.5) - The game is bing held this year ar Northwest Stadium, in Landover, Maryland, which is close to being a home game for Navy, and the Middies will need all advantages if they hope to upend the Knights, who led the nation in rushing at an impressive 314.4 yards per game.
Both teams were capable of putting up big scores. Navy averaged 32.3 points per game, just behind Army, at 32.9. Navy's offense is a bit more balanced than Army's, QB Blake Harvath rushed for 895 yards and also threw for 1,154, with 11 TDs.
By comparison, Army QB Bryson Daily, aka Captain America, hit the ground for 1,480 yards and passed for 877. Army, in particular, often goes full halves without throwing a pass, but they are relatively proficient. Daily threw only 78 passes in 2024, completing 45, with eight going for scores. He threw only one pick all season.
Army won the AAC championship just a week ago, blasting Tulane, 35-14, improving their record to a stellar 11-1, the only loss to Notre Dame. The Black Knights were 8-0 in conference play and scored 35 or more points eight times.
Navy's offensive numbers are no less impressive. Highlights of the regular season include a 56-44 win over Memphis, a 34-7 victory at Air Force, and a 51-17 trouncing of Charlotte. However, Navy didn't always deliver, losing to Notre Dame, Rice, and being completely overwhelmed by Tulane in a 35-0 loss.
Taking into consideration just the huge difference in the teams' performances against Tulane, Army rates a sizable advantage.
In the 124 meetings since 1890, Navy holds a 62-55 advantage with seven games ending in ties. From 2002-2015, Navy won every time, 14 straight. Army has captured the last two, and six of the last eight, including last season's 17-11 victory at Foxboro, MA.
Army appears poised and fully armed to take home the Commander-In-Chief's Trophy.
Coin Flip: Navy
Fearless Rick's Pick: Black Knights 24 Midshipmen 10
It ought to be an entertaining game as both teams are riding extensive winning streaks - 9 straight for the Tigers, 8 straight for the Bulldogs. - and both teams feature high-scoring offenses and stingy defenses.
Stingy is putting it mildly for Jackson State, which has allowed 50 points in its last five outings. As for high-scoring, SC State has pounded opponents for a whopping 238 points in its latest five games.
The line on this game moved significantly, opening at Jackson State a 1.5-point favorite, to the current line of the Bulldogs -2.5, so trend followers can see where this is going. More than likely, this will come down to turnovers and late-game defense, of which Jackson State has an edge. However, there are no certainties especially in bowl games other than underdogs often coming through in big ways, which is why we like the Tigers, but especially the over.
Coin Flip: Jackson State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 34 Bulldogs 27
The Jaguars averaged 35.3 points per game and allowed 25.3, and their offense is dangerous, having put up a score of 87-10 - one of the worst blowouts of the season - on Northwest State back in September. Running back Fluff Bothwell averaged 7.5 yards per carry and scored 13 TDs for S. Alabama.
The Broncos will need to be stout on defense, but even that may not be enough. They scored 29.4 points per game, but allowed 31.4 during the regular season, and though the defense improved late in the year, their best effort was giving up 16 points to Central Michigan, though losing, 18-16. Field goals won't cut it for them. The Jaguars have too much offense and will wear them out.
Coin Flip: Western Michigan
Fearless Rick's Pick: Jaguars 42 Broncos 27
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 15 College Picks
CHAMPIONSHIP WEEK
Week 14 Results: Rick: 11-7; Flip: 10-8
All Times Eastern
Friday, December 6
8:00 pm 20 UNLV at 10 Boise State (-4, 58.5) (FOX) - Mountain West conference championship. Boise State projected to win, but UNVL could throw a curveball into the selection committee of the College Football Playoff by actually winning a football game. Imagine that.
The Rebels have lost just twice, against 11 wins. One loss was to Syracuse, 44-41 in overtime, back in early October. The other was to this same Boise State team, 29-24. This time, they'll be meeting on Boise's blue turf, which is usually anathema for visiting teams. However, considering how close the last meeting was, taking the points doesn't seem to be a bad idea because even if UNLV loses, it's not likely to be by much, plus, who says they can't win and get in? There's plenty of motivation.
Coin Flip: UNLV
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rebels 30 Broncos 26
Army was unbeaten in conference play. At 10-1, their only loss was a complete drubbing by Notre Dame, 49-14, just two weeks ago. The Black Knights shrugged off that defeat and held on for a 29-24 win over UTSA last Saturday. While this is a big game, the Cadets still have Navy next week in the annual clash of service academies.
Tulane blew their chance at making the CFP last week, losing the biggest game of the season to Memphis, 34-24. How well they can put away that disappointment will help determine their success here. Somewhat surprising to see them so heavily favored, leading to taking Army, which will execute with more discipline than what the Green Wave demonstrated last week.
Coin Flip: Tulane
Fearless Rick's Pick: Black Knights 28 Green Wave 23
12:00 pm 16 Iowa State at 15 Arizona State (-2, 50.5) (ABC) - The winner of this Big 12 championship game will make the CFP. Seems the committee had their hearts set on BYU, but both of these squads finished up 10-2 overall and 7-2 in the Big 12, with Arizona State actually ending BYU's hopes November 23, defeating the Cougars, 28-23. (BYU lost to Kansas, 17-13, the week prior).
The Sun Devils put on quite a show last week, dropping rival Arizona like dead weight, 49-7. This program has tons of upside and Iowa State defenders may not be up to the task of stopping their very balanced attack.
The Cyclones, led by QB Rocco Becht, lost just twice, to Texas Tech, 23-22, and at Kansas, 45-36, and have shown lapses on both sides of the ball at times. They should be ready for their best, but the Sun Devils appear to be just a touch more talented.
Coin Flip: Arizona State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Sun Devils 27 Cyclones 21
The Longhorns were the choice to win the conference preseason and they've lived up to expectations, even getting backup Arch Manning into the mix for a change of pace on occasion. He scored a TD on a nifty scamper in last week's 17-7 win over Texas A&M.
One has to wonder how much the eight overtimes it took to beat Georgia Tech last week will affect the Bulldogs. That grueling marathon might have some players not at 100% when they need to be. Texas should prevail, erasing that October bad memory.
Coin Flip: Texas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Longhorns 24 Bulldogs 17
Penn State's only loss was to Ohio State, a 20-13 setback at home in Happy Valley. Since then, they've hammered Washington, Purdue, and Maryland, and slipped by a solid Minnesota team, 26-25, on the road.
The Ducks are the only undefeated team in the nation (12-0), and one gets the feeling they're not likely to remain such. After beating Ohio State, 32-31, they've cruised, other than a close call, 16-13, at Wisconsin November 16. Long trip for the Lions, but they should be up to it, having improved all season.
Coin Flip: Oregon
Fearless Rick's Pick: Nittany Lions 34 Ducks 28
The Tigers hurt their chances three ways: First, losing to Georgia, 34-3, in the season opener, losing to Louisville, 33-21, for their only ACC loss, and last week, being out-played by South Carolina, 17-14.
11-1 SMU has run up nine straight wins since their only loss of the season, 18-15, to BYU in September. Other than a close call, 28-27, at Duke, they've dominated their opponents, winning their final two regular season games, 33-7 at Virginia, and 38-6 over Cal. There's every reason to believe the Mustangs have so much momentum that Clemson won't be able to keep pace.
Coin Flip: Clemson
Fearless Rick's Pick: Mustangs 34 Tigers 21
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