NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Whenever I’m asked about a fantasy football lineup choice or a game prediction, I say I don’t want to be on the hook for your loss.
Nevertheless, I do have some thoughts beyond the predictions and proclamations we make on football Fridays on The Midday 180.![]()
As part of my new relationship with Pickers Vodka, the official spirit of PaulKuharsky.com, I offer these picks:
Tampa Bay +7 at New Orleans
I’m not buying that the 5-2 Saints are this good or that the 2-5 Bucs are this bad. New Orleans isn’t beating Tampa Bay by more than a touchdown, even at their dome. There is Jon Gruden talk in Tampa. Players rally for Dirk Koetter (who I know and like).
Falcons -2 at Carolina
Atlanta has burned me as I have overrated the Falcons all year. And I've underrated the Panthers. But here’s my thinking: When I see a number and think “that’s spread is not right” things usually pan out bigger in the direction I think is not right. This spread is not right, so while the gut says the Panthers should win, what’ll happen is the Falcons will win big.
Texas A&M +15 vs. Auburn
We know I am not a college football expert. That doesn’t eliminate me from gut feelings. Gut feeling is this won’t be a double-digit game.
And my Titans-related pick:
The Titans pull in three interceptions for the second week in a row. Statue Joe Flacco, makes a bad throw or two and also sees a big hit alter a ball that winds up in the Titans’ hands. At least one will be an over-ambitious throw for Mike Wallace.