NFL Picks for Week 15

I won't have time for this on Saturday, so here's my picks for Sunday and Monday's games:

Jets @ Vikings (3) = The Jets are playing better, last week's stinker against Buffalo notwithstanding. The Vikings are still alive in the pathetic NFC wild card race, but there are too many holes in their team that the Jets can take advantage of. Jets by 10.

Browns @ Ravens (12.5) = No contest for Baltimore this week, and a win gets them in the playoffs. The Browns, as always, are playing for next year. Ravens by 17.

Texans @ Patriots (12.5) = It has long been my contention that the Patriots are overrated. Even though the Texans blew a big lead at home last week, they will keep it close, and besides, the Patriots rarely blow teams out. Take the points. Patriots by 4.

Dolphins @ Bills (1.5) = This one's tough. Both teams are playing really well, and the loser is essentially out of the playoff chase. Bills at home in December are tough, though. Bills by 3.

Steelers (3) @ Panthers = The game of "What happened?" Both teams were pegged to be high-seeded playoff teams when the season began, but now, both teams seem to be in a tailspin that won't end any time soon. Delhomme likely won't play again, and the Steelers defence is still solid. Flip a coin, and take the Steelers. Steelers by 6.

Redskins @ Saints (10.5) = The Saints are a win away from clinching a very unlikely division title. The Redskins are going absolutely nowhere. This one seems easy... Saints by 21.

Jaguars (3.5) @ Titans = Two very hot teams right now, and it's hard to pick against either one. Even though I picked the Jags to win the AFC, there' s something magical about Vince Young this year. Titans by 7.

Buccaneers @ Bears (14.5) = A two touchdown plus spread sounds huge, but the Bucs are horrendous and the Bears don't let anyone score. That said, I don't think Rex Grossman will be able to put up many points in this one. I smell a shutout. Bears by 17.

Lions @ Packers (6.5) = The Packers are hard to figure. How does a team go down 31-0 at the half to the Jets (who promptly lose 31-13 at home to Buffalo) then beat the 49ers (who followed that up by stunning the Seahawks)? The Lions are easier to understand; they stink. Packers by 14.

Broncos (3.5) @ Cardinals = It certainly seems like the Broncos, still primed for a playoff spot, are playing for next year. The Cards are too, but they're better at it. Upset here. Cardinals by 7.

Eagles @ Giants (5.5) = Game of the day. Winner has the inside track to the playoffs. Veteran quarterback beats team fighting itself. Eagles by 3.

Rams @ Raiders (1.5) = Wait a minute...

Is that right?

Raiders are favoured?

Rams by 14.

Chiefs @ Chargers (9.5) = The Chiefs are in freefall, and the Chargers seem unstoppable. If this game was in Kansas City, it might be close. Chargers by 21.

Bengals @ Colts (3) = Very interesting game. The Bengals have seemed to get their act together, at least on the field, and the Colts seem to be falling apart. But let's remember that every Colts loss this year was on the road. Colts by 10.

Well, here' s hoping I get at least 3 or 4 right this week.