This is it, folks — the final week of what has been an abysmal season of picks against the spread. After going 8-7 against the spread in Week 17 (including 1-2 in the top three picks of the week), Del has officially eliminated himself from having a shot at picking above the 50-percent mark on the season. All we’re looking to do is salvage a little dignity in the final week of the season. Here are Del’s Week 17 Picks. Check back later in the week for Doc Brown’s picks.
For the top three picks this week, we’re looking to determine which teams have something to play for and which teams will be packing it in. That’s what lead me to the Ravens getting six points on the road against the Bengals. Cincinnati has been phenomenal at home this season, but they only have an outside chance of earning a first-round bye if the Patriots lose to the Bills in New England. Baltimore, on the other hand, can sneak into the playoffs with a win and a Dolphins’ loss. The Ravens should be playing with more urgency, which should be enough to keep the game close.
Speaking of the Dolphins, they have much more to gain than the Jets in Miami this weekend. If the Dolphins beat New York, they’re in the playoffs. The Jets are already eliminated from contention. We’ll really get a chance to see how much Rex Ryan’s players want to win for him and want him to return next season. Regardless, Miami should be able to cover a six-point spread.
And finally, I’m riding the Kyle Orton train on Sunday Night Football. The loss of Tony Romo hurts the Cowboys, but they are still playing at home. Orton can’t be any worse than Romo in the fourth quarter, and Philadelphia’s defense hasn’t been able to stop anyone all season. If nothing else, this game should be a shootout and remain close. The Eagles may win, but it will be tough to cover six points on the road — Orton or no Orton.
