Weekend NFL Picks

Washington (+9.5) at Seattle. This is a tough one. The Redskins and their imposing defense are getting a lot of points but I still like the Seahawks. I'm going to say that Seattle's rookie middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu keeps Clinton Portis in check, leading to a collapse for Washington. Seattle-31, Washington-10. New England (+3) at Denver. The Broncos beat the Pats back in October, 28-20. The Broncos are undefeated at home this year. The Broncos will have Jake Plummer at quarterback on Saturday night against Bill Belichick's defense. Some facts mean more than others. New England-33, Denver-17. Pittsburgh (+9.5) at Indianapolis. The Colts are rusty and the Steelers will jump on them early. But Peyton Manning will lead a late charge to set up an AFC Championship Game against the Patriots. Indianapolis-38, Pittsburgh-31. Carolina (+2.5) at Chicago. What Panther team will show up? The one that embarrassed the Giants last weekend or the one that lost to the Bears on November 20? I say Da' Bears defense beats up a banged up Panther team with former Carolina wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad leading the Chicago offense. Chicago-16, Carolina-13.