tonytalkssports My Take on Sports, particularly the Yankees, Maple Leafs and Browns

NFL Week 4 Picks

Last week did not go very well as I went 1-2 to lower my season record to 4-6. If that phantom holding call wasn't made against the Bears, I would have won that one and Atlanta had numerous chances to pull their game out against Tampa Bay. But enough excuses. It's time to produce so here's my fearless picks for Week 4 in the National Football League:

* Cincinnati (+3) over Buffalo: The Bills are on a high coming off their big come from behind win over the Patriots. The Bills high powered offense has scored a ton of points but two of those games were against the Chiefs and Patriots who's defenses are terrible. The Bengals defense is not bad, in fact they are pretty good. The Bengals should be able to run the ball on the Bills and they should be able to give Andy Dalton some time to make some plays. The Bengals defense should keep this game closer than you think as the Bengal front four will be able to pressure Ryan Fitzpatrick. Buffalo 21 Cincinnati 20.

* Pittsburgh (+4) over Houston: The Steelers looked awful against the Colts and look like a team in trouble. While Houston has improved this year its hard to believe that they are a 4 point favorite over the Steelers. This is a big game and I can't see Pittsburgh losing and even if they do the game will be close. Pittsburgh 28 Houston 27.

* Minnesota (-1 1/2) over Kansas City: Kansas City played much better against San Diego last week however Minnesota has the better team in this game. The Vikings once again blew a lead losing in overtime to Detroit 23-20. The Viking defense will shut down the weakened KC running game putting pressure on Matt Cassel. In a nightmare season that might have the Chiefs in line to select Andrew Luck in the NFL Draft, Minnesota prevails on Sunday. Minnesota 27 Kansas City 17.

* New Orleans (-7) over Jacksonville: I hate to give 7 points on the road but this game is clearly a mismatch. Can't see the rookie Blaine Gabbert being able to match Drew Brees. Look for the Saints to score early and often. New Orleans 35 Jacksonville 14.

There you have it. Tomorrow a preview of the Yankee-Tigers series.