I can’t believe we are at week 9 and this is going to be my first post here. I’ll start off by saying I hate the fact that my bet is going to make Andrew happy. I don’t have much to write about before posting my picks except for the fact that Tee Higgins is a bum. Out again costing Joe burrow fantasy points. Hopefully this week goes well and I’ll be posting again next week.

Commanders -4/ I mean do I have to explain this pick much? When was the last touchdown pass Daniel Jones threw at home? Sure he may be due but I refuse to believe it. Jayden Daniels looks like he’s going to win rookie of the year and the Commanders sit at 6-2. They just came out with an article yesterday that people wanna play for Washington. I expect the Commanders to do enough to cover the 4 points.

Underdog- Browns ML/ I’ll be honest I’m not too confident in this pick. But Mr krab legs is starting and that’s enough for me to take them after the big win last week. I just don’t know if I trust the Chargers yet. In my opinion they haven’t done anything to make me believe in them. Jameis will give a pregame speech and get those boys playing. He may throw 5 interceptions, but he will counter with 5 touchdowns. Give me the Browns and Winston to show Cleveland how bad Watson really was.

Lions -2.5/ I mean I just think the Lions are one of the best teams in the league. Goff is completing what feels like every pass. Gibbs and Montgomery are running wild, the teams winning games. The only thing that I see going wrong could be Dan Campbell being a moron. Could he run some fake punt and lose them the game sure. Love isn’t healthy and I don’t like what the cheeseheads showed me last week. Give me the lions

Week 9 is here people which means like it or not we’re already halfway through the regular season. After a somewhat disappointing 2-2 Week 8, we’ve managed to grind our way to a 19-17 record on the season. Admittedly I felt a little lucky with our wins last week and surprised by our losses. For our hits Jameis stunned the Ravens on his way to covering the Over and the Colts somehow covered for Dawg with Richardson at QB. Meanwhile the Pack decided to play with their food failing to cover for the Lock and once again I made the mistake of betting Denver in any capacity so the Triducken died with Javonte Williams. But to be entirely honest despite these losses I’m smiling through all of it because of the greatness that is Jayden Daniels. The kid is quite literally performing miracles on the field so crazy that I wouldn’t believe them if I saw them or if I had to have my dad give me the play by play on the phone. But hey since Washington is doing the impossible, maybe just maybe we can perform a miracle of our own and have a perfect week here at Bick’s Picks. So say a few Hail Marys and let’s get into it.

Life’s Too Short to Bet the Under

Broncos @ Ravens (46.5)

I know I know I shouldn’t bet Denver, but I just simply can’t stop betting Baltimore Overs. They’re 7-1 on the season and sure this opponent and this number give me pause but I’ve always been a ride it till the wheels fall off kinda guy so here we are. To their credit the Broncos have done well with Overs sitting at 5-3 on the season. This is partly due to Bo Nix starting to look like a real QB over the last month, during which he has Denver averaging over 27 points a game. I really debated whether or not to give the Broncos another chance but I figured third time’s the charm right? And hey maybe the Ravens are pissed off enough after that Browns upset to cover this total all by themselves.

Over 46.5 (-110)

Fade Dawgs

Cowboys(+3.5) @ Falcons

Another week and another slate of games with big spreads. Once again we got at least 5 games with spreads at a TD or more and frankly I’m having a hard time telling Vegas they’re wrong. Which is why even though one of those dawgs will undoubtedly cover I found myself circling a smaller spread. I admittedly feel gross about this one because of my own biases but I can’t shake the feeling that Dallas is gonna win this game. I really want to believe the Cowboys are dead but Kirk is just the QB to give them life. I could provide some fancy stats but the thought of giving Dallas flowers makes me sick so let’s just hold our noses and make the pick.

Cowboys +3.5 (-118)

Touchdown Triducken

Anytime TD Parlay: Rhamondre Stevenson, Josh Allen, Nick Chubb

The Triducken has been a source of frustration all season and I doubt that changes any time soon so why not have some fun with it. Rather than go for sure things I went with plum picks this week and these all jumped out. Rhamondre has been running hard since his “benching”, my doppelganger Josh always plays Miami well and I think Chubb goes off today in a rock fight with the Chargers. I didn’t go for the “sure thing” this time but not like those were hitting so let’s get nuts.

Anytime TD Triducken: Rhamondre Stevenson, Josh Allen, Nick Chubb (+1008)

Bick’s Stone Cold Lock of the Century of the Week

Commanders (-4) @ Giants

Full disclosure that Hail Mary has my head the size of a hot air balloon so take this pick with a grain of salt but simply put I’m done being scared of Daniel Jones and the New York Giants. I won’t hide from the fact that Danny Pennies turns into Danny Dimes vs Washington as he has a 5-2-1 record against us but I don’t care. Frankly I’m done being concerned about that because this team isn’t those teams and last week was a perfect example of why. Sure it took a miracle but in the end they won the game and avoided what would’ve been an excruciatingly familiar loss. Everything about the vibe of this team feels different and simply put they should blow out New York. The Giants are 0-4 at home and averaging a measly 7.8 points a game which is the fewest in the NFL. Now they did keep things close Week 2 by holding JD5 and company to field goals but we also scored on every possession so that’s buying into. Of course I can imagine us blowing this game because I’ve seen it so many times in the past but I’m convinced this team is different. Jayden Daniels is different. So let’s bet on Washington to give my dad a very happy birthday. 

Commanders -4 (-112)

Week 8 is here people and there’s no bye weeks which means we got a full slate of games to choose from. Even with the bye weeks we’re hitting our stride here at Bick’s Picks and after another 3-1 we’ve got ourselves a winning record. Last week the TD Triducken finally got a win, Mahomes remained easy money as a Dawg and even Washington covered for the Lock after losing Jayden on the first drive. However I did not like that the Falcons and my old QB prevented us from going 4-0 by falling just short of the Over. Even though the perfect week seems ever elusive, after sifting through this week’s big spreads I think I see some potential wins to keep the good times rolling so let’s get into it.

Life’s Too Short to Bet the Under

Ravens @ Browns (44.5)

Even though I was quick to blame Kirk in the end, my arrogance of picking a total over 50 twice in a row was the mistake and don’t worry we won’t be making that mistake again. Instead I’m turning to a reliable friend of the Over. Baltimore has hit the Over in 6 of their 7 games largely due to their ability to seemingly score at will. The two headed monster of Lamar and Henry is nearly unstoppable and has me seriously questioning what NFL franchises were thinking letting it happen. It’s no surprise they have the most potent rushing attack in the NFL but on top of that a top 5 passing offense making them the most dangerous offense in football. But that’s enough ball-washing for Baltimore as I’ve buried the lede for the real reason I love this pick and that’s the death of Deshaun and the return of Jameis. Cleveland has been desperate for a change at qb and this has to inject some life into their offense. So advise the Ravens to hide their crab cakes so that Jaboo just steals enough points for the total and doesn’t eat the W too.

Over 44.5 (-115)

Fade Dawgs

Colts(+5) @ Texans

I won’t lie I really wanted this game to be a Washington pick as we were +3 most of the week but now that Jayden looks like he’ll play now we’re -1 so the Colts are the play instead. After that vote of confidence I will say this was the dawg I liked the most. Even though this week we have 6 spreads of a touchdown or more I kept coming back to this game. The main reason is that no matter the circumstances the Colts tend to play the Texans tight. Over the past decade Indy is 10-1-1 against the spread in Houston and add that with Stroud being 3-8 against the spread as a favorite, that’s my kind of math. Plus the Colts are getting Jonathan Taylor back so I’m betting they control the ball most of the game and keep what I’m expecting to be an ugly rock fight close.

Colts +5 (-112)

Touchdown Triducken

Anytime TD Parlay: Jahmyr Gibbs, Kareem Hunt, Javonte Williams

Hey, would you look at us? The Triducken got a win. Who would’ve thought. Certainly not me. My disbelief aside, I’m gonna do what I did last week and that’s K.I.S.S. Keep it simple stupid. Last week I picked the bell cow backs for heavy favorites and this week I’ll do the same. Gibbs, Hunt and Javonte should all find paydirt and if they don’t I’m sure I’ll be blaming Ben Johnson and David Montgomery.

Anytime TD Triducken: Jahmyr Gibbs, Kareem Hunt, Javonte Williams (+449)

Bick’s Stone Cold Lock of the Century of the Week

Packers (-3.5) @ Jaguars

I’ll keep this short and sweet because I overslept and I’m rushing the crap out of this blog but pun intended I absolutely LOVE the Pack in this game. Jordan Love should shred this secondary and although I’m sure he’ll throw a pick he’ll hopefully throw 3 or 4 TDs to make up for it. On the flip side I don’t know how you can trust the hapless Jags. Sure they beat the Pats last weekend but they also went down 10 points quick and if they pull that against Green Bay I highly doubt their ability to come back. I’m betting the Packers roll and make Jacksonville regret not staying over in London.

Packers -3.5 (-115)

I can hardly believe it myself but we’re already a third of the way through the football season and what a wild season it’s been. Despite how crazy this season has been, we’re starting to get a sense for what teams are frauds and which ones are contenders. As a result we’re starting to figure things out here at Bick’s Picks and after a 3-1 Week 6 we’re back to .500 on the season. Last week we were Broncos backdoor cover away from a perfect week as our Over, Lock and Drake Maye Parlay all hit. For this week against my better judgment and because I’m on vacation and too lazy to come up with something else clever, the TD Triducken is back. My lack of creativity and apprehensions about the TD parlay aside I definitely see some wins on this slate of games so let’s get into it.

Life’s Too Short to Bet the Under

Seahawks @ Falcons (51.5)

Breaking my rule again this picking a total over 50 but hey rules were made to be broken right? Admittedly both teams give me pause because of my own biases but I can’t deny both have shown they’re capable of putting up points. Seattle has scored 20 or more in each of their games so they should cover their half. Meanwhile Kirk has Atlanta cooking hitting the Over each time during their 3 game win streak. I don’t which of these teams comes out on top but I’m betting it’s a shootout.

Over 51.5

Fade Dawgs

Chiefs(+2) @ 49ers

I’m going to spare you the Thanos quotes and comparisons to Brady because I’m sure you guys got enough of those during their Super Bowl run last season. But simply put I can’t pass up a chance to bet Mahomes as a dawg. Coupled with the fact Kyle Shanahan and the Fraudy Niners like to find ways to throw away games in the 2nd half I had to roll with the Chiefs. 

Chiefs +2 (-112)

Touchdown Triducken

Anytime TD Parlay: James Cook, Kyren Williams, Brian Robinson Jr

I won’t pretend like I’m super confident with these picks because the TD Triducken hasn’t hit all season but even a blind squirrel finds a nut eventually. Cook, Kyren and BRob are the bellcow backs for their heavily favored squads so they should find the endzone right? Right?!? Fingers crossed they do but follow at your own risk and here’s hoping the “safe” play pays off.

Anytime TD Triducken: James Cook, Kyren Williams, Brian Robinson Jr (+387)

Bick’s Stone Cold Lock of the Century of the Week

Commanders Team Total: Over 34.5 (+164)

Jayden Daniels. Need I say more? I suppose I should but in short I expect JD5 and company to score points in bunches so I’m picking a team total instead of a spread. Carolina is arguably the worst team in football and has been giving up at least 34 points in 4 of their 6 games. Sure you can get 31.5 at -102 but screw that fortune favors the bold! Is bold the right word? Either way I’m betting Washington will score and get a win to celebrate Darrell Green’s number retirement.

Commanders Team Total: Over 34.5 (+164) 

Alright before I start my weekly sermon about Washington’s lord and savior Jayden Daniels I gotta address the elephant in the room, which is that the TD Triducken has been an absolute dud. With no wins on the season I suppose I have only myself to blame for my failures but much like Aaron Rodgers I’m certainly not doing that. So instead the Triducken goes on the commissioner’s exempt list with the cocaine wolverine. Now don’t worry unlike Peppers it’ll be back this season and in its stead I got something fun cooked up. My complaints about the TD parlay aside, we did get a couple wins last week as the Over and the Lock came through so it wasn’t all bad. Maybe it’s just because I’m all fired up for the Battle of the Beltway but I like this Week 6 slate a lot. I think some potential easy wins that will help get Bick’s Picks back over .500 so let’s get into it.

Life’s Too Short to Bet the Under

Commanders @ Ravens (51.5)

Come on you knew this game would be featured so why not get it out of the way early? Now I’ll be the first to admit I typically avoid anything over 50 but if there’s any teams that can cover that high a total it’s these two. If you’ve been following all season you’d know that I’ve made a habit of featuring both these teams and it’s paid off as both are 4-1 against the Over. There’s obviously a good reason these teams are hitting their Overs as both feature the hottest offenses to start the season. As a Washington fan it’s surreal that I can actually say they are the highest scoring team in football but it feels good I tell you what. Now unlike last week I don’t expect Jayden Daniels to cover this total on his own unfortunately I’m anticipating that he’ll be trying to keep pace with Baltimore all afternoon. It needs to be mentioned that Lamar is 21-1 against the NFC and even when Lamar is fumbling the snap he’s somehow throwing touchdowns. Oh and when you’re not worrying about Lamar you might just get run over by Tractorcito. On top of what these teams can do offensively on the flip side neither has been that dominant on defense with both being susceptible to the big play. So whether it’s JD5 or LJ8 that comes out on top we should see plenty of points today and maybe just maybe an upset win for Washington.

Over 51.5 (-110)

Fade Dawgs

Chargers @ Broncos(+3)

There were a handful of dawgs that I liked this weekend but none of them barked as loud as the Bo and the Broncos. Maybe it’s just those Orange Crush throwbacks but I gotta tell you I’m ready to believe in this Denver win streak. Sure you can definitely be critical of what they can do on offense but their defense led by All Pro corner Patrick Surtain is no joke. Their lockdown secondary paired with a relentless pass rush that leads the league in qb pressures should be trouble for Herbert all afternoon. As for the Chargers even though they’re coming off a bye they remain a really banged up team and frankly a rather unremarkable one. They seem limited by a lack of weapons and committed to run heavy game scripts. I think this plays right into Denver’s hands as long as they can avoid giving them any short fields. Honestly at the end of the day the cherry on top for me was that the Chargers haven’t won in Denver since 2018 and that alone makes me think Broncos Country keeps riding.

Broncos +3 (-115)

Maye Day Parlay

Drake Maye Over 166.5 Passing Yards, 25+ Rushing Yards, 1 Passing TD

Much like Jacoby Brissett, the TD Turducken has been sat down on the bench to think about what’s done. So why not celebrate these benchings by embracing the arrival of Drake the Snake. Now I’ll admit that because of the past failures of the Triducken parlay I did set the bar rather low for Maye’s debut but I’m hoping he gets us an easy win. To be honest these benchmarks are around what Jacoby was farting out every week so I’m thinking the kid blows by them. I won’t go as far as to say the Pats get a win but maybe Maye will give them something to believe in.

Maye Daye Parlay: Drake Maye Over 166.5 Passing Yards, 25+ Rushing Yards, 1 Passing TD (+248)

Bick’s Stone Cold Lock of the Century of the Week

Lions (-3.5) @ Cowboys

I will be up front in saying that this goes directly against something I said I wouldn’t do again after the NFC Championship last year and that’s bet on the Lions. Ben Johnson is dead to me and I’ll never be convinced that Jared Goof isn’t a tall glass of mid. But that was the past and in the present the Cowboys are kinda ass so I’m gonna bet against them. Dallas is a mess on defense because of injuries and frankly haven’t looked all that great without Dan Quinn calling plays. Obviously the Cowboys passing attack will move the ball but hopefully Detroit can slow down their one dimensional offense and force the timely turnovers Dak loves to give up so often. Inevitably we’ll sweat this one out but in the end I think we’ll be having knee caps for dinner.

Lions -3.5 (-102)

I don’t know about the rest of you but it’s really starting to feel like fall. The leaves are changing colors, there’s a chill in the air and the NFL is once again subjecting us to London games. On top of our first game across the pond it’s our first bye week so we’ll have even less games to choose from than usual. Here’s hoping with less choices we can make the right picks because I’ll admit things could be going better in that regard. Once again the football gods saddled us with another 1-3 week here at Bick’s Picks. The Over suffered its first loss of the season, Travis Kelce did everything but score a TD and I definitely should’ve listened to the sharps when it came to the fraudulent 3-0 Steelers. Now we did get one win last week but I’ve been told this is turning into too much of a Washington blog so I won’t peacock too much about the forty burger JD5 served to Kyler and company. That said, wake up people there’s football on and we got losses to chase so let’s get into it.

Life’s Too Short to Bet the Under

Browns @ Commanders (43.5)

Oops maybe people were right when they said this was a Washington blog. Oh well I just can’t help but talk about Jayden Daniels. There simply aren’t enough superlatives in the dictionary to describe how great he’s looked so far and as a result Washington’s offense is suddenly one of the best in football. They’ve scored 80 points on the road over the last two weeks with no signs of slowing down. On the other side, scoring has been difficult for Cleveland as they’ve yet to surpass 18 points in a game but even though I hate to say it I think they have a chance to do so against Washington’s defense. This is a game I expect JD5 and company to win but the offense will have to show up to do so. It obviously wasn’t hard for me to pick my guys to score points but what really put a bow on this pick for me was that Overs in Cleveland road games are 8-2 since the start of last season. So let’s keep the good times rolling and get the Over back in the win column.

Over 43.5 (-112)

Fade Dawgs

Dolphins @ Patriots(+1.5)

This isn’t simply a pick, it’s a call out. The Pats NEED this game. After a big Week 1 upset against the Bengals things have gotten progressively worse for New England and they’re starting to look like the talent deprived team many expected them to be. Jacoby Brissett is running for his life every play and the team is turning Antonio Gibson of all people for ball security because Rhamondre has turned into Stevan Ridley. On top of that one of the team’s own reporters said that the locker room is “teetering on mutiny”. Yikes. Obviously none of this is ideal and it’s no surprise that since that report the line moved from Pats -1 to +1.5. Now I promise I didn’t write this blog just to dump on the Patriots. I’ve actually convinced myself that they’ll win this rock fight in Foxboro. The reason is as bad as things might be for New England, they’ve somehow been worse for Miami. The Dolphins are the only team in football to that hasn’t led a game with time left on the clock and their offense is a complete shell of itself without Tua. The Fins are 1-6 all time without him and his current replacement Snoop Huntley looks like he’s throwing a medicine ball out there. I’ll admit this is probably a better Under bet than anything but call me crazy I think this team responds to all the noise and delays the arrival Maye Day just a little longer. Per usual I’ll probably take the points but the ML is there for those bold enough.

Patriots +1.5 (-112)

Patriots ML (+102)

Touchdown Triducken

Anytime TD Parlay: Amari Cooper, Derrick Henry, Kenneth Walker III

I am out of carrots. I am out of sticks. The TD Triducken has time and again proven itself to be an unpickable bet, and a poor decision. I recommend it be removed from its position and re-assigned to Thanksgiving where it belongs. Now some might say it’s my judgment that is at least very seriously flawed but we don’t quit here at Bick’s Picks so until someone kills my $200 plasma screen tv we’re gonna keep trying. First I’ll start with the obvious pick which is whatever number 1 WR is facing Washington. I’m gonna follow that up with what has been a sure thing TD in Tractorcito. And I’ll end it with Kenneth Skywalker diving into the end zone against the Giants. Here’s hoping we finally get the dub the Triducken desperately needs.

Anytime TD Triducken: Amari Cooper, Derrick Henry, Kenneth Walker III (+554)

Bick’s Stone Cold Lock of the Century of the Week

Packers (-3) @ Rams

Much like the Triducken the Lock has fallen on tough times. Yet another loss with only one win on the season. But don’t worry, we’re not alone as this has been one of the most brutal betting starts for the public in decades. The betting public are 22-38-2 against the spread to start the season which is the worst start through 4 weeks in 20 years. I suppose that’s why they say to fade the public but I’m a slow learner, that’s why I’m taking the cheese and I’ll be riding with the public again. I’ve been on record saying that I’m not the biggest Jordan Love fan but I can’t deny he can sling it. Green Bay’s pass happy offense should be a big problem for a Rams defense that ranks dead last or towards the bottom in most every defensive category. On the flip side the Rams offense has been decimated by injuries at WR and OL resulting in Stafford taking the second most sacks (14) in his career through 4 games. Needless to say McVay might be wishing he took that broadcasting gig and his protege LaFleur might get him a little closer to that. LaFleur is 4-0 vs McVay and I’ve no reason to think he won’t be 5-0 when the clock hits triple zeroes. Gimme the Pack in a rout. 

Packers -3 (-118)

We’re quickly a month into the season as Week 4 is upon us folks. Not gonna lie to you people spirits are high here at Bick’s Picks. We rebounded with a 3-1 week of picks getting our record back to .500 on the season. On top of our success here, Jayden Daniels’ performance on MNF was nothing short of spectacular and I don’t think I’ve stopped watching those throws he made to Terry. Feels really good to think we might have the answer at quarterback, now we just have to teach him to slide so he’s not flying around like a crash test dummy. But as much as I’ve enjoyed basking in the glory of a primetime win, it’s time to get some more wins so let’s get into it.

Life’s Too Short to Bet the Under

Bills @ Ravens (46.5)

The Over has remained undefeated and I’m looking at the nightcap and some familiar faces to keep it that way. As soon as I saw this number down to 46.5 I had to jump on it. Simply put the Bills look like the best team in football through the first 3 weeks. You probably missed it because you were all too busy watching Jayden Daniels but the Bills were also destroying the floundering Jaguars 47-10 on MNF. Despite supposedly having all his weapons walk out the door Josh Allen looks better than ever and defenses can’t keep him off the field or out of the end zone. Now that’s enough fluffing for Buffalo, I actually also really like the Ravens in this spot as well. Despite being 1-2 Baltimore is still obviously one of the best teams in the AFC. Lamar has certainly been able to put up points and their 2nd half struggles shouldn’t deter us. The Ravens really need this one and I think this is a primetime spot where both these teams put on a show. It’s hard for me to not see both these teams scoring at least 3 touchdowns each. No matter who comes out on top I think we’re in for a great ending to our football Sunday.

Over 46.5 (-110)

Fade Dawgs

Commanders (+3.5) @ Cardinals

I mean did you really think I wasn’t gonna talk Jayden Daniels some more? Cards on the table this is as homer a pick as they come but I’m not afraid to admit it. The NFC’s Offensive Player of the week is fresh off arguably the best performance we’ve ever seen from a rookie quarterback finishing 21-of-23 passing for 254 yards 2 TDs through the air and another of course on the ground. Not to mention Washington hasn’t punted since Week 1 scoring on every single possession, aside from kneel-downs. Not too bad for a college offense if you ask me. Now I will admit that the defense for Washington remains a problem and I’m predicting we’re gonna struggle to stop Kyler Murray all day. Hopefully we’ll get enough bend don’t break defense from Washington that’ll give JD5 a chance to respond. In a typical letdown spot for us I’m betting the good times keep rolling.

Commanders +3.5 (-115)

Touchdown Triducken

Anytime TD Parlay: Jalen Hurts, Marvin Harrison Jr, Travis Kelce

Yikes. The Triducken is 0 for 3 on the season and was 0 for last week as well. Needless to say things could be going better. The thought has crossed my mind to retire the Triducken till Turkey Day but I’m stubborn. Speaking of stubborn yes I did include Jalen Hurts again this week. The Eagles will be without their top wide receivers and with everyone expecting the Saquon show I’m looking to Hurts to sneak one in. Next is Marvin Harrison Jr which should be an obvious one. No matter how over the moon I am for Jayden Daniels that won’t stop our defense from leaving the opposition’s number 1 wide open. Evans, Nabers and Chase all found the end zone with ease so I expect no difference for Harrison until Washington’s defense can prove otherwise. Last leg of the Triducken will be Taylor Swift’s boyfriend. Not necessarily the best reason to pick him but I feel like he’s due. Watching the Chiefs I feel there has been an effort by Reid to draw up plays for him in the red zone and think one of them is successful today. Not to mention the Chargers will be missing Derwin James which should only help. Here’s hoping the quarterback, wide receiver, tight end combo finally helps a Triducken payoff.

Anytime TD Triducken: Jalen Hurts, Marvin Harrison Jr, Travis Kelce (+929)

Bick’s Stone Cold Lock of the Century of the Week

Steelers (-2.5) @ Colts

Everywhere I looked doing research for my picks everyone seems to have the Colts in this game. Sharps all love this as a letdown spot for the Steelers and the perfect time to fade Tomlin. The logic all tracks and there’s plenty of reason to be skeptical of a Justin Fields’ led offense but the reason I’m riding with the public on this one is I can’t trust Anthony Richardson. Unlike NFL Rookie of the Week Jayden Daniels, the Colts quarterback has been a turnover machine and I expect him to keep coughing up the ball against a defense that has been smothering so far. Now that smothering defense has been downplayed by others pointing to the quarterbacks they’ve faced early on but I just kept saying to myself how is Anthony Richardson any different? Sure he can throw it over a mountain but so could Jamarcus Russell. TJ Watt will be everywhere and the Ohio State Peanut will do enough to cover the spread and keep Russ on the bench.

Steelers -2.5 (-108)

Week 3 is often one of desperation where the 0-2 teams are desperately trying to right the ship as they feel the season slipping through their fingers. To be honest it’s no different here at Bicks’s Picks because I don’t know about the rest of you but we’ve been taking a bath here so far. Week 2 was full of upsets and we didn’t see any of them coming. We rode with the Rams and the Niners which was a complete disaster. Kyler and Darnold both took personal offense to my blog as both those chuckleheads not only covered their spreads they both outright won. Then there’s my TD Triducken which was dead on arrival as not a single QB featured found the end zone. Thankfully I’ve had some luck with the Over as it remains undefeated so far this season. Also I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that the 1st place Washington Commanders were the only team in the NFC East to win last weekend. Sure I didn’t write about it but much like Pats fans week 1 this is probably our Super Bowl so believe me I enjoyed it. That’s enough about celebrating low bars we need some wins to get Bick’s Picks back over .500 so let’s get into. 

Life’s Too Short to Bet the Under

Ravens @ Cowboys (47.5)

So far at Bick’s Picks the only thing we’ve been able to rely on is the Over. Sure it hasn’t been pretty and we’ve sweat out some low scoring first halves but a win is a win. Speaking of “hasn’t been pretty” we’re gonna be turning to two of the biggest disappointments from Week 2 to get us a win. The Ravens and Cowboys both suffered upsets at home BUT they also both reached the total. For all the hype these teams may have neither has been able to stop the opposition when it mattered most with both being bottom of the league in points allowed. I think a combination of bad defense and desperation to win will quickly turn this game into a shootout. Here’s hoping we get scoring early and often so the Over can stay undefeated. 

Over 47.5 (-112)

Fade Dawgs

Eagles (+3) @ Saints

Hey this segment is called FADE Dawgs for a reason right… Well I certainly hope y’all faded my Rams pick because good lord. Forget +1 we would’ve needed +31 for that bet to even be a push. Of all the upsets that happened Week 2 we weren’t in on any of them which doesn’t feel great. Hey speaking of not feeling great, how bout this Week 3 slate huh? Not one matchup that I really scratch my head and wonder how a team isn’t favored. However this is the only matchup that comes close. The thing is I know why the Eagles aren’t favored. They showed us why they aren’t against Primetime Kirk on MNF. Also in case you missed it Kamara just scored again because the Saints are the most explosive offense in football so far. The key word being so far because I’m fading the recency bias. My big reason for jumping on this game is how much the line moved. Before Week 2’s outcomes the line for this game was -3 Eagles not +3 Eagles. That kind of line action is something I can’t ignore and honestly the only Saints fan I know suggested I hang em up after last week so you know what that means? Call me Richard because I’m being petty.   

Eagles +3 (-124)

Touchdown Triducken

Anytime TD Parlay: Jalen Hurts, Zay Flowers, Tyreek Hill

Whelp I have only myself to blame for last week. I knew the QB TD parlay was a risk but all three missing hurt. This week I’m back on my QB TD bullshit with Hurts but I think that’s a much safer bet than the 3 I chose last week. I chose Zay because he’s been absolutely peppered with targets the first two weeks and I don’t think that changes in a matchup where I expect lots of scoring. Last pick is a bit of a sketchy one simply because it’s really hard to trust someone named Skylar. My apprehensions about the Dolphins QB aside I think there will be an effort to get Hill involved and at +195 I couldn’t resist tossing him in the parlay.

Anytime TD Triducken: Jalen Hurts, Zay Flowers, Tyreek Hill (+1612)

Bick’s Stone Cold Lock of the Century of the Week

Ravens (-1) @ Cowboys

Your eyes don’t deceive you. I am making two picks from the same game. Sure some might say this against some unwritten rule but guess what I make the rules and I can’t stay away from this game. There’s just too many reasons to like the Ravens in this spot. Get the obvious out of the way, Lamar doesn’t lose to the NFC. He’s 20-1 straight up in his career against the NFC and on top of that he’s 22-7 as an underdog or favorite of three or fewer points. Not to mention the Super Bowl aspiring Ravens are 0-2 for the first time in a decade and I just can’t see them falling to 0-3. Now personally I have learned my lesson moving the line but man it’s tempting to sprinkle a little on -6.5 or heck even -13.5. You know why? Because fuck the Cowboys that’s why.

Ravens -1 (-112)

Wanna Get Nuts? LET’S GET NUTS: Ravens -6.5 (+208), Ravens -13.5 (+488)

Alright before I dive into excuses let me give credit where credit is due, tip of the hat to Jerod Mayo and the Pats. I honestly thought there was no chance they’d cover, let alone outright win. Sure the Gatorade bath at the end was excessive but starting off a new era 1-0 must feel real good. Personally, I wouldn’t know as the Dan Quinn era was the one that started with a wet fart. That new look Washington’s defense I yammered on about couldn’t stop a nose bleed, letting Baker throw for 4 TDs. JD5 at least looks like the Lamar 2.0 some expected him to be, as he showed off his dynamic ability to run the ball and his eerily similar inability to find wide receivers. Our TD Triducken was also a miss because Ceedee was the only Cowboy that didn’t wanna score against the Browns but hey at least the Over hit in that game so that’s something. That’s enough dwelling on last week though we got some money to make so let’s get into it.

Life’s Too Short to Bet the Under

Raiders @ Ravens (41)

Just like last week there’s several games hanging around at this 41 number and it worked last week so why not come back for more. Similar to last week this is a line that has dropped since it came out and 84% of the bets are on the Under, so you know what that means? Time to fade the public. Those reasons aside I expect this game to get to this total because the Ravens will blow doors. They’ve been stewing with that loss to the Chiefs on opening night and I’m expecting them to beat the bag out of the Raiders and run up the score. So here’s hoping the Ravens are wearing their white cleats and cover this Over all by themselves.

Over 41 (-112)

Fade Dawgs

Rams (+1) @ Cardinals

I gotta admit finding a Dawg this week that I loved was a little tricky. Several teams were considered but as expected with underdogs there were reasons to question each of those picks. In the end even though this is practically a pick ’em I kept coming back to this game because the Cardinals were the favored team I trusted the least. The Rams are banged up coming off a tough OT loss to the Lions, but despite the loss of Puka and a couple offensive lineman I still like them more than Arizona. The Cards defense is still stinky and the Kyler to Harrison connection looks like it’s gonna need some time to develop. Not to mention Kyler is 1-7 all time against the Rams so I’m gonna trust McVay and company to get it done.

Rams +1 (-115)

Touchdown Triducken

Anytime TD Parlay: Jayden Daniels, Lamar Jackson, Justin Fields

Our Triducken came up one leg short last week because of Ceedee which was definitely a disappointment. I went with what I thought were sure things but alas it wasn’t meant to be. This week I’m getting a little spicy and we’re going all QB rushing TDs chasing the big payout. Is that the best idea? Probably not. But they’re my picks so deal with it. The age of the running QB is here and I’m aiming to profit off it.

Anytime TD Triducken: Jayden Daniels, Lamar Jackson, Justin Fields (+1794)

Bick’s Stone Cold Lock of the Century of the Week

49ers (-4.5) @ Vikings

Alright I learned by lesson last week picking against the Pats I gotta try to keep the spite and bias out of my locks. With that being said I certainly have no love for Kyle Shanahan but I can’t deny that once again they look like the class of the NFC. They dominated the Jets without CMC and frankly I got no reason to believe anything different will happen to the Vikings. Sure Minnesota is 1-0 and Sam Darnold looked more competent than expected but it was against the Giants. Not to mention any career resurgence Sam Darnold could be having is being quickly credited to the time he spent in San Fran last season. So I’m thinking if anyone can quickly turn Darnold back into a pumpkin it’ll be the Niners. I almost wanna tease this up to -6.5 but after last week I’ll take the -4.5 for an easy win.

Niners -4.5 (-110)

That’s right, I’m semi-unretiring here for Week 2 of the 2024-25 season. I can’t promise I’ll be back every week, but I’ll try to get some takes off when I can. I’ve heard the critics too, some of whom have been louder than others. They’re saying I’m washed up, that I don’t have a real job, that I “don’t have the balls to put my picks up every week.” It’s all disappointing to hear because it comes from someone who I have a lot of respect for in the take game, and that’s my protégé over at Bick’s Picks. Now we invite competition and shit-talking over here at Jake’s Takes so I’m all for it, but my man needs to remember who paved the way for Bick’s Picks, who pays Word Press every year so he can slander my Patriots, who edits the grammatical errors out of all his blogs. That’s right I’m still the King over here whether I’m blogging or not. It’s about time I once again neglect my duties as an Athletic Trainer and use my work computer for some good old fashioned blogging. So without further ado, Let’s get into some picks.

The “Suck My Bick” Hater Bet of the Week

Giants (+1.5) vs. Commanders

That’s right we’re fighting fire with fire in my return. I have absolutely no basis for this because the Giants STINK, but if you’re going to disrespectfully alt line the Bengals against the my Fighting Jerod Mayo’s up to -13.5, and then lose outright, I’m sure as hell betting against your team the next week no matter who they’re playing. The only difference is that I have the decency to not disparage Vegas and move lines around like a heathen, so we’re sticking with the spread here. I believe The Antithesis’ Jeff Young put it best when he called last weeks pick “an incredible piece of fiction,” and he was correct. Now after raining on their parade last week it’s time to add salt to the wound with a sad performance against Danny Dimes. Let’s hear it for the GGGGGG-MENNNNNN.

Charlie Murphy’s Habitual Line Stepper of the Week

Seahawks vs. Patriots (+3.5)

You know we had to bring back the Line Stepper in 2024 and what better team to do it with than the biggest outright underdog winner from last week. I actually like the Pats to keep this one close and maybe even pull out their second win in as many games. While the Seahawks have a scary looking receiving corps, the New England secondary is one of the best in the league led by and emergent Christian Gonzalez. I think the Pats can frustrate Geno Smith enough to keep this one within reach for the offense and they’re going to have to because Mike MacDonald’s defense is bound to give the Patriots offense fits at times in this one. If New England can control the clock offensively and turn this into a “rock fight” (that was for you Andrew) they’ll have a chance to win this game. I like this to be a low scoring affair, likely decided by a field goal, and I love seeing that .5 at the end of the 3 for the underdog in this one. Give me the Pats at home and just maybe let’s get to 2-0.

“They’re Eating Dogs” Favorite of the Week

Chargers (-4.5) vs. Panthers

Just like in Springfield Ohio, they’re eating dogs (underdogs in this case) in LA. I know taking a mid team to cover over a field goal on the road maybe isn’t the smartest thing to do, but man do the Panthers look awful so it’s hard not to. The Chargers will probably be my survivor pick this week as well so I’m looking for a blowout here. I think following the trend of “bet against the Panthers until Bryce Young looks like he knows how to play football” is probably the safe thing to do, and I could eat my words if he shows up big in this game, but after watching them last week it’s hard to have any faith. Chargers should dominate here.