Each week, I will pick National Football League (NFL) games against the spread. Below is a recap of my picks from last week, along with my picks for this week.
Last Week
I had yet another 1-2 week. I really have to pick my games more carefully. We are halfway through the season and my record is 12-14. I have yet to score a 3-0 week. Maybe now is the time? Here are my picks for this week.
Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3) at Cincinnati Bengals (6-2); Line: Steelers by 3 1/2
The Bengals have won five games in a row but look at who they have played. These recent opponents are not exactly elite teams in the NFL. The Steelers have had a tougher schedule. Two of their three losses were against the very tough Baltimore Ravens. Both defenses are good so this game will come down to the quarterbacks. I think Ben Roethlisberger will play well. But Bengals rookie quarterback Andy Dalton will struggle against the Steelers' defense. Pick: Steelers -3 1/2. Steelers 23, Bengals 16.
New York Giants (6-2) at San Francisco 49ers (7-1); Line: 49ers by 3 1/2
The Giants are playing well. They have a lot of confidence right now. I think they will play well in San Francisco this week. For some reason, the 49ers have struggled against the NFC East this year. They lost to the Dallas Cowboys and barely edged the Philadelphia Eagles. Now they face the top team in the NFC East. This will be a close game. I would not be surprised if the Giants win. Pick: Giants +3 1/2. 49ers 23, Giants 20.
New England Patriots (5-3) at New York Jets (5-3); Line: Jets by 2
I am sure Coach Bill Belichick had extra motivation to win this week. After the stunning loss to the Giants, the Patriots visit their rivals the Jets. The Patriots have lost two games in a row. I do not see them extending that streak to three. The Jets have played well of late but I have a feeling they will let their fans down in this one. Pick: Patriots +2. Patriots 24, Jets 23.
More from Edwin Torres:
My 2011-12 NFL Picks for Week 9 Against the Spread: Fan's Take
Edwin Torres has been a fan of the Dallas Cowboys since the days of Tony Dorsett and Roger Staubach. He enjoyed watching the Dallas teams of the 90s dominate opponents on both sides of the ball. Edwin also follows local teams such as the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles. As a longtime fan of the National Football League, Edwin follows many interesting games and stories each week.
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