L.J.’s Picks

Lock: Cincinnati (-6) over Tampa Bay

The Bengals were beat down by the Patriots two weeks ago and will come back from their bye week on a mission. The Bucs have really struggled and can’t seem to hold late leads. This game is in Florida, but Chad Johnson must love South Beach. Bengals should win this one easily.

Upset Special: Kansas City (+7) over Pittsburgh

The Chiefs have looked good since getting beat opening week, and the Steelers have looked pretty bad overall. Ben Roethlisberger definitely tried to come back too soon from his appendectomy, and it will cost the Steelers. The defending champs will have to fight hard just to make the playoffs, and the Chiefs seem to be getting it together.

Game 1: Seattle (-3 1/2) over St. Louis

Sticking with the “playing better coming off a loss” theme, Seattle was embarrassed last week by the Bears and will be looking to bounce back this week. The Rams had to fight and claw just to beat the Packers, and are the biggest fluke of a 4-1 team in the NFL, with wins against Green Bay, Detroit and Arizona, and a loss to San Francisco. Seattle should run away with this one.

Game 2: Philadelphia (-3 1/2) over New Orleans

After a strong start, the Saints are starting to show some weaknesses and they can’t stay perfect at the Superdome forever. Philly has been playing well as a unit, as they played great in beating Terrell Owens, I mean, the Cowboys, last week. Donovan McNabb should get lots of credit for bringing out the best in his young receivers, and will lead the Eagles to a victory.