Observations and Predictions... Week 17 (Happy New Year edition)

The start of a new year brings the end to a lot of teams seasons. That doesn't mean that week 17 has no drama, just that a lot of the games on the slate are being played for bragging rights. The AFC has 2 playoff spots up for grabs. The Jets and Ravens control their own destiny. If they win they're in. Texans, Broncos and Steelers need to win and get some help to get in. In the NFC, all the playoff positions are occupied. There is still some jockeying for position, but for the most part all is set.

Last week I went a very mediocre 9-7. Here are my week 17 picks. Colts over the Bills. Even with some starters resting, they should take care of the bumbling Bills. Browns over the Jags. I think the Browns play over the last month has saved Mangini's job. Niners beat the Rams. Steelers over the Dolphins. Vikings beat the reeling Giants. Falcons over the Bucs. Panthers over the Saints. Texans beat the resting Pats. Bears beat the struggling Lions. Ravens over the improved Raiders. Cardinals beat the Packers in a potential playoff preview. Chargers keep the streak alive over the hapless Redskins. Titans big over Seattle. I expect Chris Johnson to break 2,000, but not best Eric Dickerson. Cowboys in a close one over the Eagles. Broncos (without some big guns) beat the Chiefs. Jets over the resting Bengals.

There you have it. Its been a great regular season, I can't wait for the post-season.