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 was 2-1 again last week. That evens my record at 16-16. The end of the season is in sight so I need to make a run soon. For that reason, I have thrown in a bonus pick for Week 12. Here are my four picks for this week.
Chicago Bears (7-3) at Oakland Raiders (6-4); Line: Raiders by 3 1/2
The Bears have won five games in a row. But now quarterback Jay Cutler is out with a broken thumb. I know Cutler is only one player, but he is the quarterback. Backup quarterback Caleb Hanie has attempted just 14 passes as a pro. The offense will stall without Cutler and the defense will be on the field too much. Pick: Raiders - 3 1/2. Raiders 27, Bears 13.
Buffalo Bills (5-5) at New York Jets (5-5); Line: Jets by 8
Both teams are 5-5, but the Jets are the better team. The Jets played last Thursday so they have a few extra days to prepare for this game. The Bills conclude their horrid road trip at MetLife Stadium. They were blown out at Dallas and at Miami in the previous two road games. Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has struggled. He has thrown seven interceptions in the past three games. This will be another long day for the Bills. Pick: Jets -8. Jets 27, Bills 13.
Houston Texans (7-3) at Jacksonville Jaguars (3-7); Line: Texans by 3
The Texans are one of the most talented teams in the NFL right now. They are playing like it too. The Jaguars are playing out the season at this point. I am not sure why the spread is so low. Lay the three points and expect a comfortable win by the Texans. Pick: Texans -3. Texans 24, Jaguars 16.
And now for my bonus pick…
Denver Broncos (5-5) at San Diego Chargers (4-6); Line: Chargers by 6 1/2
I am not sure how a team that has lost five games in a row is suddenly a 6 1/2-point favorite. On the other hand, the Broncos have won their last three games and are as hot as any team in the NFL. I guess the critics are still not sold on Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow. But I am. The Broncos are the better team right now. Take the points and do not be surprised if the Broncos win. Pick: Broncos +6 1/2. Broncos 22, Chargers 21.
More from Edwin Torres:
My 2011-12 NFL Picks for Week 11 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. As a longtime fan of the National Football League, Edwin follows many interesting games and stories each week. For more articles, follow him on Twitter @FlipPoker.
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