Doc has enjoyed two solid weeks in a row on the picks and is starting to feel pretty good about his grasp on the NFL. Of course, every time one thinks that is the case, that’s when the league pulls the proverbial rug out from under you and everything you think you know about the league changes. Still, Doc likes his picks and has provided them for you below.
(ATS = Against the Spread, SU = Straight Up)
Doc’s lock for Week 9 is a play off what happened last week. Doc incorrectly predicted the Raiders would fall to the New York Jets, but this is the week they go down. They’re coming off a couple of really nice wins and now have to go across country to face a tough Steelers team that has come off two losses in a row. Pittsburgh needs this game and will get it, especially with Big Ben settling into his second start since returning from injury.
Doc is also in the minority in picking the Tennessee Titans plus the points. Yes, the Saints have looked great and their offense has been pretty awesome lately as they have won three in a row. Doc realizes that. But the Titans’ defense has had good enough showings three of their past four games. They also made a coaching change, will get Marcus Mariota back, and the new offense may let the former Oregon Ducks QB run a little like he did in college. At least that’s what Mike Mularkey has said. They should be able to back door a cover.
