[R23k]

Cowboys @ Vikings
Line: Minnesota by 2 ½
Minnesota was the beneficiary of a very gratuitous schedule. Having defeated just one team with a winning record outside of its division, Cincinnati, aided the Vikings and QB Brett Favre in both stats and perceptions. Over the past decade or so, Favre has been a late season and playoff slumper. He has entered the post-season with far better teams than this one but has found his way to quick exits, largely due to his own ineptitude. No. 4 has failed against teams with less talent than these Cowboys. Dallas has it going on right now and it’s no fluke. The defence has been stifling. Over the past four weeks, the Cowboys have recorded two shutouts, held the Saints to 17 points and spanked the potent Eagles twice. Conversely, the Vikings have struggled by losing three of five with final victory occurring against a disinterested Giants squad. One of the more notable defeats occurred against the Panthers and that was due largely in part by constant pressure applied by defensive end Julius Peppers. The Cowboys have an equally talented Demarcus Ware all ready to chase down No. 4 and with Anthony Spencer infiltrating from the other side, the Vikings can expect havoc in its backfield all afternoon. Dallas has weapons on both sides of the ball and they will all be deployed against this mediocre opponent.
TAKING: Dallas +2 ½
RISKING: 2 units

Jets @ Chargers
Line: San Diego by 7
We hear a lot about New York’s No. 1 defence. While we respect what Rex Ryan has done since arriving as the head man, this will be a better barometer of how far his squad has come. Much of New York’s noticeable defensive stats were accumulated in the second half of the season. In that latter stage, the Jets faced the futile Bills, Bucs, Falcons and Panthers under Delhomme and his four interceptions before completing the season against two teams that rolled over. New York was impressive in its wild card win last week against Cincinnati. QB Mark Sanchez was efficient and went into the ‘manage the game’ mode quite well. This will be different. This is not the Bengals. This opponent is not lying down. The Jets will be asked to travel across the country to face the league’s hottest team. The Chargers have won 11 straight and are considered by many to be the league’s best team. Philip Rivers is one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks, having thrown for more than 4200 yards and 28 touchdowns. Rivers is well aware of the Jets defensive prowess but despite all of its success this year, New York does not have a impact end rusher to pressure San Diego’s leader. Give Rivers time and he’ll burn you. Give the Chargers the lead against a novice quarterback on the road and we like our chances.
TAKING: San Diego –7
RISKING: 2.02 units to win 2

[ZBOIZ]

Cowboys going home!