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callum squires

Callum’s Week 14

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We’ve finally made it!! No more bye weeks!! Hallelujah. We’re really into the home straight of the season now, as the playoff picture gets ever clearer… except in the NFC East perhaps. The Rams strengthened their hold on the NFC West last night, and in doing so may have ended the dream for the Cam Newton-led Patriots team. It looks like Bill Belichick will be missing the playoffs for the first time since 2008, and the first time they won’t have a 10 win season since 2002. You really have to feel sorry for them right? (Spoiler – No, you really really don’t)… Anyway, after the Steelers’ inexplicable defeat to Washington (I still hate them) last week, the #1 seeds in both conferences are still in play, and only really the Packers, Saints and Chiefs appear to have their divisions all wrapped up. So much could change this week, and we’ve got a couple of GREAT PrimeTime games that we’ll discuss later. Here we go!

1st and Goal from the 1yd Line

This is my nailed on – has to happen – pick of the week. 

Last week, I wrote this about the Las Vegas Raiders: “What do you want when you’ve had a horrible loss the previous week? To face the New York Jets this week. That’s the right answer.” 

Now ADMITTEDLY it was a lot closer than it should have been, and were it not for Gregg Williams being either desperate to get fired or desperate to secure Trevor Lawrence for the Jets, the Raiders should have lost. However, now that the Jets have failed to successfully use their “almost win a game card,” you have to believe they’ll be fully committed to the tank.

So THIS WEEK we have to ride with Seattle. The Giants shut them down for some reason, and long gone are the “Russ for MVP” takes that everyone – myself included – were peddling in early October. However, I think they get back on the right track this week. Jamal Adams is going to be out for blood, and I think all things considered we get a pretty pissed off Seahawks team coming out here. Chris Carson running angry, DK Metcalf catching angry, Pete Carroll coaching angry… I see no chance the Seahawks don’t retaliate fiercely this week. And the Jets won’t mind a bit.

Seahawks to win.

45yd Field Goal

So the Seahawks just decided to forget how to play offense against the Giants last week sadly… this week, we’ve got a double, two slight underdogs, built around one team I believe in, and one team I’m just not buying.

Browns +2.0 & Raiders +3.0

Cleveland – in my opinion – are for real. No OBJ and still putting up 38 points in the first half against the Titans. Baker looked GREAT last weekend and their defense largely held Derrick Henry in check. If you can stop the run, you can have success against the Ravens. The Cowboys couldn’t do it… but the Browns can. Myles Garrett is ready for battle. Lamar is not the same Lamar as last season. I think Cleveland wins this game outright to solidify it’s playoff status, but I’ll gladly take the +2.0 for some safety and leeway. 

Equally, Indianapolis – in my opinion – are not for real. I think their defense is very very good, but Phil Rivers and the offense cannot be trusted. They should have lost to the Texans last week. I think Carr, Waller and the speed merchants on the outside for Vegas can cause them problems down the field. I like Vegas +3.0 for sure. I think the Colts fall behind the Titans in the race for the AFC South again, as the Raiders keep their playoff hopes alive with a win here. 

TD Treble

We went 2-1 last week, with Gesicki and Carson getting their scores but sadly TJ Hockenson failing to find the EndZone… This week we’re leaning on one breakout star, and two established Vets.

CeeDee Lamb – Dallas’ star rookie had a quieter game last week, but has developed a nice connection with QB Andy Dalton. I think the Bengals will zone in on Amari Cooper, leaving CeeDee plenty of space to work. He could repeat that incredible catch he had against the Vikings a few weeks back. CeeDee is going to be a big player in this league for years and years to come.

DeAndre Hopkins – I’m backing the Cardinals to get back on track this weekend, so I have to back their star receiver to find the EndZone again too. DHop has been stifled a bit as Kyler has struggled over the past few weeks, but not this week. The Giants don’t have anyone who can cover Nuk. Hopkins to score.

Michael Thomas – Thomas’ injury ravaged season is finally starting to get going. Thomas has built a decent repertoire with Taysom Hill in his first few starts with the Saints. He’s so good at getting open, he has to have a good chance of scoring, even when he’ll likely draw shadow coverage from Darius Slay. 

£10 on this treble pays about £160 depending on your bookmaker. At this price, I think this treble is well worth it.

If you don’t like the above options, I think Derrick Henry & Aaron Jones are equally good options, but with considerably shorter odds.

The Overs

Over 49.5 – Falcons @ Chargers – This is THE ultimate Choke-Off. I don’t know what would be more perfect than this game ending in a tie. Who knows. All I do know is that neither of these defenses are good. Points everywhere, for everyone. The Chargers need to rediscover their mojo following the embarrassment against New England, and I expect them to do so. The Falcons won’t have Julio, but will have Gurley, who will lend some balance to their offense. They also have a kicker who can make any kick on the field. Younghoe Koo has to be the Falcons’ MVP this year. You see that video of him hitting a Field Goal whilst doing a backflip?! I like that. I also like points in this game.

Over 43.0 – Saints @ Eagles – This is a risky one, as the Saints D shut down our over bid against the Falcons last week, but Philly HAS to try and win this one to have any chance of sneaking into the playoffs. It’s Jalen Hurts’ first start in the NFL… so it could be AWFUL. BUT he looked good in relief of Wentz last week, and NEARLY brought them back into the game against the Packers. I still see the Saints winning this game, but I think Hurts is good enough to get the Eagles 20+ points… that should be enough to hit the over in this game. 

The Parlay

Who felt like an idiot last Sunday after backing the Chargers? Yep, me. I did. Also, heartbreak for the Texans fumbling at the 1… madness. Let’s reload:

Cowboys -3.5 – No doubt in my mind about this one. Andy Dalton revenge game!!! Zeke looked a bit better against the Ravens on Monday… Cowboys NEED this (and a lot of other things to go their way… but… you never know). 

Texans -1.0 – They really should have beaten the Colts last week. The Colts are MUCH better than the Bears. Therefore, the Texans are a no-brainer pick. Bears are dead.

Panthers -3.0 – Looks like no McCaffrey for another week sadly – the world is just a better place with RUN CMC doing ridiculous things in the NFL – but I still like the Panthers here. Teddy Bridge loves to cover, and Mike Davis has been a good fill in for the aforementioned McCaffrey. Robby Anderson has had a fantastic season since reconnecting with his college coach Matt Rhule, but I have no belief in the Broncos. Drew Lock just isn’t the guy. Sure they played the Chiefs close, but did you EVER seriously think Mahomes wasn’t winning that game!? Panthers please.

Titans -7.0 – Derrick Henry is going to run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run run all over the Jaguars. Tractorcito Szn.

49ers -3.0 – Washington are NOT a good team. They’re not. I do not believe in them. Don’t get me wrong – I’m DELIGHTED that Alex Smith has found his way back and found some success. But every single bounce that could go their way DID go their way against the Steelers. The Niners D just got worked by Josh Allen and will be out for vengeance. 

£10 on this five-fold returns about £238 depending on your bookmaker.

The Full English (Season Record: 65-29)

9-6 last week; not the best, not the worst. Still keeping our winning record I’m getting progressively more and more proud of. 

Cardinals @ Giants – Cardinals 

Cowboys @ Bengals – Cowboys (It’s the Andy Dalton revenge game! If results go their way – like I think they will this weekend – then the Cowboys are somehow still alive…)

Broncos @ Panthers – Panthers

Texans @ Bears – Texans

Chiefs @ Dolphins – Chiefs (Maybe the most quietly interesting game of the weekend, as we might really learn if the Dolphins are at all for real. I think the Chiefs win, but I hope the Fins are able to keep it tight)

Vikings @ Buccaneers – Buccaneers

Titans @ Jaguars – Titans

Colts @ Raiders – Raiders (I don’t believe in the Colts. I’m sorry, I just don’t)

Jets @ Seahawks – Seahawks

Falcons @ Chargers – Chargers

Packers @ Lions – Packers (Rodgers wants that Bye. The Lions have no Golladay… think this is a straightforward Packers win)

Saints @ Eagles – Saints

Washington @ 49ers – 49ers

Steelers @ Bills – Bills (I think this is the day the Chiefs really start to sniff the #1 seed in the AFC, as Pittsburgh loses their second straight)

Ravens @ Browns – Browns

Week 15

Next week, we get the lesser spotted Saturday night NFL game! Fine, it IS the Bills at the Broncos, but it’s still the NFL on Saturday!! Furthermore, the Dolphins seek to confirm the end of the Patriots AFC East dominance, and – perhaps the best game of the entire regular season slate – as the Chiefs face the Saints. It should be electric. As always, I’m @CallumJDSquires on Instagram and Twitter. Come say hey. Have a great week. Stay safe and healthy. 

Callum Squires is a London based writer, Dolphins fan, and all around good guy. 

Callum’s Thanksgiving

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THE PICKS SIX THANKSGIVING SPECIAL

Well, Corona has REALLY officially ruined 2020. As I was writing this, we’ve been hit by breaking news in Baltimore. Ravens-Steelers is postponed to Sunday… and we’re down to just TWO Thanksgiving football games. Sad. Obviously… there are much more important things. It’s absolutely the correct decision to keep everyone safe, but it is sad we’re losing a third of our Thanksgiving slate. 

As far as we’re concerned here at Picks Six, Sunday was a bit of a down day. An 8-5 record on the games was a bit disappointing – a couple of rogue upsets were thrown in there. I’ll update my season stats for this weekend’s column after these two games on Thursday. 

Anyway, on with the matter at hand. This is the first Thanksgiving I’ll have spent in the UK since 2012… I’m very sad about it, but determined to make the most of the day and make sure I do the 3 most important things on any Thanksgiving – Give many thanks, seriously over eat, and watch 9 hours of uninterrupted NFL football… guess it’s only gonna be about 6 hours this year. 

One of the bonuses of Thanksgiving football is that each game can receive your undivided attention. I usually live in the world of RedZone, and as a result miss out on some of the nuances of the “not so often on prime time” teams. So – a little bit different from the norm – let’s take a more in depth than usual look at both games on Thursday.

Houston Texans @ Detroit Lions

The Texans are still probably too far back realistically to get back into the AFC Playoff race, but beating the Patriots will always feel good. Surely Houston will be riding high following Sunday’s exploits? The Lions on the other hand… yikes. Matthew Stafford was shutout for the first time in his career, and not by one of the most elite defenses in the league. Happily, I donthink Detroit will shake off their atrocious offensive output vs Carolina on Sunday and help this one be a fun game. Both teams are better offensively than defensively, but the X-Factor in this matchup had to be Deshaun Watson. I correctly called a “Watson” game on Sunday as he pushed the Patriots deeper into the mire. Duke Johnson was held in check, but Brandin Cooks and Will Fuller are such a threat down the field that Houston can still be expected to score lots of points even without a typical run game. This game just feels like a classic Detroit Thanksgiving game where they’re just simply outmatched and not good enough to win. The return of Swift to their back field will help, but I don’t think their pass rush is good enough to stress Watson throughout the game. Houston should win this comfortably enough.

Washington Football Team @ Dallas Cowboys

Welcome back into playoff contention Dallas Cowboys. The big upset against Minnesota has breathed life into a season that looked a lost cause just a few weeks ago. On the other side of the coin… I am completely befuddled by the fact that Washington found a way to win 3 games this year – they might not win any more – but you have to credit Ron Rivera for instilling some drive and grit in this team. I think their defensive stats are a little skewed – Washington claims to have a top 5 pass defense, but the truth is teams have been up on them in almost every game and stuck with the run as a result – but Chase Young is already proving to be the game-wrecker he was advertised to be. The Cowboys hopes fall largely on being able to contain the Washington pass rush and give Andy Dalton time to find his weapons. Those weapons WILL find a way to be open, but that pocket needs to hold long enough for a play to develop. Yes, they should lean on Zeke, but when a pass is needed Dalton must be protected. Their defense appeared to take a big step forward against the Vikings and, with all due respect to Washington, Terry McLaurin and Antonio Gibson are nowhere near Adam Thielen and Dalvin Cook. I’m taking the Cowboys every which way here and actually think they have enough left in the tank to get to 6-10, and win the NFC East. 

Picks

Okay, so, it’s a holiday… we deserve entertainment… we’re definitely backing both overs. Fill up with Turkey, then fill up with points. I’m a little biased with my past history of having lived in Texas, but it’s really hard not to see a double for the Lonestar State come Thursday. Texans and Cowboys both to win.

Thanksgiving Thursday Picks:

The Double Over –

Over 51.5 (Houston @ Detroit)

Over 46.0 (Washington @ Dallas)

The Texas Double Spread –

Houston Texans -3.0 

Dallas Cowboys -3.0

The Quad Touchdown Special –

Both Players to score a TD – TJ Hockenson & Brandin Cooks

Both Players to score a TD – Ezekiel Elliot & Antonio Gibson

£10 on this pays £165 depending on your bookmaker.

(Bonus Special Tip) – 

If you’re in the U.K., SkyBet are offering this at 16/1 which I LOVE with a capital L.O.V.E.

Brandin Cooks 100+ rec yds & Ezekiel Elliot 100+ rush yds.

Week 12 Sunday 

Obviously, thanks to the postponement, we now get Steelers-Ravens on Sunday, which adds itself to a pretty tasty slate already! Titans-Colts, Chiefs-Buccaneers & Packers-Bears (always guaranteed drama) as a Sunday nightcap is a very tasty way to spend an afternoon and evening. As always, I’m @callumjdsquires on Twitter and Instagram. Come say hi, and have a very happy Thanksgiving wherever you are. 

Callum Squires is a UK based writer and friend of NFL in London. 

Callum’s Week 11

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Hello! Welcome back to another edition of the Picks Six. Last week, we had some good (both Overs), some bad (Nick Chubb running out at the 1yd line…), and an 11-2 record in the Full English section! Pretty good. This week, there are genuinely the most games for a while where I’m scratching my head saying “I really don’t know which way I think this will go.” This is a dangerous position to be in, because I could either be perfect or awful due to these toss ups. I’m concerned, but excited. Let’s go. 6 sections, lots of picks and tips, have fun and enjoy. 

The 1st & Goal from the 1yd Line. (Season Record: 6-2) 

The Packers tried their best to make us sweat a little on this one last weekend, but managed to repel the surprisingly stubborn Jake Luton and the surprisingly stout Jacksonville defense in the end. We’re on a bit of a roll here in this section – so let’s keep it going!

After a brief one week break… We’re back to picking against the Jets gang!! It’s too easy – but how can you go against it? Justin Herbert has been great in his rookie season, and the Jets have been nothing short of abysmal almost from start to finish. The Chargers aren’t the most normal or reliable of teams – every game with them involved seems to have some weird quirk or another – but they’re more than talented enough to beat New York here. LA Chargers to win.

The 45yd Field Goal (Season Record 1-7)

CURSE YOU, NICK CHUBB. Running out at the ONE YARD LINE? This failure to cover Browns -3.5 ruined many people’s Sundays – not just mine – and also ruined my 2-0 bid in this category last weekend. Fortunately, Alvin Kamara was on hand to FINALLY drag us to a win!! The Saints -10.0 would not be denied, even with a somewhat concerning injury to Drew Brees. 

Anyway – finally – we’re on the board. This week, there are quite a few tight games across the board. I like TWO very slight underdogs. They are listed below:

Packers to win (@Colts)

I’m really unsure why the Colts are favoured here. Yep, they’re riding high off a nice win against the Titans, but their offense hasn’t really been electric this season. They’re relying on their defense to hold the opposition close and allow Rivers and his RBs (mainly) to slowly chip their way down the field. This week, Aaron Rodgers (who WILL have Davante Adams active) comes to town to try and tear down their castle walls. For me, that Packers offense is good enough to breach the Colts’ D. It is a toss up, but I’m leaning Cheese-Head. Packers to win.

Bengals to win (@Washington)

Joe Burrow is a big time player. He’s had an up and down first season in terms of results, but has shown more than enough to get the Cincinnati faithful excited about their future with Joey B as the face of the franchise. Conversely, Washington still seem to be struggling to find their identity. Yes, it’s great to see Alex Smith back starting games. I’m delighted he’s back healthy. However, it does also show that the Football Team are on their third starting QB of the season, and haven’t yet found the stability they would have hoped under first year head coach Ron Rivera. I’m riding the Bengals this weekend, largely because I trust Cincy’s QB, and don’t trust most of Washington’s team at all. Bengals to win.

The Hail Mary Touchdown Treble
(Season Record 0-2, Individual TD Picks 1-6)

This is my longshot from half field. Unlikely, but you never know. A Touchdown scorers Treble.

AB, Ruggs & Andrews all failed to find the endzone last week – frustrating and annoying! This week, we’re riding some Tight Ends to success…

Jonnu Smith (Titans, @ Ravens) – The Ravens HAVE to load the box to stop Derrick Henry. This opens up play action. Smith is very athletic and a great red zone target. I see it. 

Austin Hooper (Browns, vs Eagles) – This is the riskiest leg here, based on the weather and Cleveland leaning on the run, but Baker sure loves a TE target in the end zone. We saw Harrison Bryant catch two from Mayfield a few weeks ago, and Hooper is an elite receiver when given targets. Let’s ride it.

Taysom Hill (Saints, vs Falcons) – The Joker of week 11. You think Sean Payton is going to start his mobile QB and not have a couple QB runs scripted in the game plan for the red zone? No chance. Gimme Taysom to score (and probably throw for another couple too!).

£5 on this treble pays £140 depending on your bookmaker.

The Overs (Season Record: 5-4-1)

2-0!! We went 2-0!! The “Hail Murray” may have stolen the headlines, but Bills vs Cardinals was always guaranteed points, and TB12 on a bounce back against the Panthers didn’t let us down either. It’s nice when both the tips win!! This week…

Over 50.0 (Falcons @ Saints) – THIS is maybe the most intriguing game of the week. I was BUZZING to see Jameis Winston turned loose in Sean Payton’s offense… until they announced he wasn’t starting!? And… Taysom Hill IS?! It’s some strange voodoo down in NOLA… but maybe it might work?! I think Hill has shown enough in flashes to suggest he could be an interesting offensive weapon – best believe I’m starting him in multiple fantasy leagues this weekend – and the Falcons LOVE scoring and conceding points. I have no idea what to expect from Taysom, but I expect points from these two teams.

Over whatever the line is (Lions @ Panthers) – So at the time of writing, this game is “off the board,” which makes including it in my picks very difficult. Anyway – whatever the line is – I like the over. Matt Stafford is confirmed to be playing, looks like Teddy Bridgewater will be also. Both QBs are having good years, and both defenses are fairly suspect. I’d envisage the line being somewhere around the 50 mark, maybe a little below, but I like that. Detroit tried their best to let Washington steal one last week, and even without DeAndre Swift AND Kenny Golladay, they should have enough weapons (I’m looking at you both, TJ Hockenson and Marvin Jones…) to push this total up and over.

(SECRET PICK – I refuse to bet Unders on principle, but the weather is supposed to be bad in Cleveland again this weekend… so Under 47.5 Eagles @ Browns feels like a great pick. BUT life’s too short to bet the under. It really is)

The Parlay (Complete Parlays 0-5, Correct Legs 14-10-1)

3-2 last week… would’ve been 4-1 if not for, y’know… Nick Chubb… The Seahawks laying an egg vs the Rams was a surprise but softened the Chubb blow a bit. Anyway, the parlay…

Browns -3.0 (vs Eagles) – I KNOW, I KNOW, I KNOW. But yes – we’re back on the Browns. No Myles Garrett is a bit annoying, but the rest of that defense has stepped up in recent weeks, and the two-headed monster of Chubb and Kareem Hunt in the run game should be enough to dominate a subpar Philly team. Don’t be surprised if Baker looks good with play action after the run’s been established too. Browns please.

Bengals +1.0 (@ Washington) – As previously mentioned, I believe in Joseph Burrow. I don’t believe in Washington. It’s really that simple. I’m surprised that the Bengals are the underdogs, though I guess the lack of Joe Mixon contributes to that. Washington are the team that just refuse to die; they’re down 14 at half time every week, and end up coming back. This week, I think Burrow will want to outshine Chase Young – a battle of the 1 & 2 picks from last year’s draft – and light the Football Team up. Tee Higgins looks set to play which helps as well. Gimme the Bengals.

Titans +5.0 (@ Ravens) – Lamar needs a bounce back… but I don’t think this is the team he wants to face. The Titans are coming off a mini bye (haven’t played since last Thursday), and completely bamboozled the Ravens in the playoffs last year. There may also be no Calais Campbell for the Ravens run defense, which leaves so much opportunity for Derrick Henry to really start rumbling. The Ravens may well find a way to get some revenge for last year and win this one, but I think Tennessee will keep it close regardless. Take the Titans and the points.

Dolphins -4.0 (@ Broncos) – If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The Dolphins are roooooooooolling. Now, has Tua played in altitude before? I dunno. Are the Broncos still bang average at best? Absolutely. Brian Flores is putting together a “Coach of the Year” season resume, and the Dolphins should be 7-3 after Sunday. 

Chargers -9.5 (vs Jets) – We’ve already touched on this;I like the Chargers… So, let’s not waste time. Despite the fact that last time out, Joe Flacco pushed the Patriots close… and the Chargers seem incapable of winning a game in normal fashion… which makes this is perhaps the secretly riskiest pick in the parlay this week. That said, it’s still the Jets. They’re 0-9. Justin Herbert wants to come out and make headlines for something other than his haircut. Believe in LA this week.

£10 on this Parlay pays around £270 depending on your bookmaker. 

The Full English (Season Record: 48-18)

A nice 11-2 again last week pushes the season record to a (even if I say so myself) respectable 48-18. A little over 72%. Decent all things considered. 

Here’s the week 11 slate:

Falcons @ Saints – Saints (This is the weirdest game of the week. Who knows what Taysom is going to do, but I believe the Saints are a good enough team to win without Drew Brees).

Bengals @ Football Team – Bengals

Lions @ Panthers – Panthers

Patriots @ Texans – Texans (I think this might be a “Deshaun Watson” game. Texans would be better off if they lost, but Deshaun ain’t up for tanking)

Eagles @ Browns – Browns

Steelers @ Jaguars – Steelers (10-0, perfect season alert, not sure if they make it to 16 wins, but they’ll add a 10th this weekend. 

Titans @ Ravens – Titans

Dolphins @ Broncos – Dolphins

Jets @ Chargers – Chargers

Cowboys @ Vikings – Vikings (But I wouldn’t be surprised if there WAS a little upset here… the cowboys are due for a bounce back and are not as bad as their record suggests they are)

Packers @ Colts – Packers 

Chiefs @ Raiders – Chiefs (they’re just too good)

Rams @ Buccaneers – Buccaneers

Week 12

Moving forward, week 12 gives us BOTH Thanksgiving Football AND NO BYE WEEKS! A full slate for our feast. I will endeavour to be back with a Thanksgiving Special (three interesting games!) before Thursday, and then the regular column for next weekend. 

Anyway, thanks for taking the time to read my thoughts. As always, I’m @callumjdsquires on Twitter & Instagram. Enjoy week 11! Stay safe, stay healthy. 

Callum Squires is an English writer, former NCAA athlete and Miami Dolphins fan. 

Callum’s Week 10

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Hello! Welcome back to another edition of the Picks Six. Last week, we came AGONISINGLY close to winning our first 5-Game Parlay, but the Patriots decided to play like idiots and make the Jets look somewhat competent and Joe Flacco look like Joe Flacco from 8 years ago. Ah well. Still – went 11-2 last week on the Full English and overall on picking games for the season we’re now 37-16. Stay positive. We go again. There isn’t really a BIG marquee matchup this week, but there are plenty of interesting ones to get the pulse racing on Sunday night. Let’s go. 6 sections, lots of picks and tips, have fun and enjoy. 

The 1st & Goal from the 1yd Line. (Season Record: 5-2) 

The Patriots managed to get me another win in this category last week… but also managed to kill my parlay by failing to dominate the Jets… we’ll get to that later. Anyway, I’m feeling good about the simple ones. This week, with the Jets on bye, I can’t simply pick whoever is playing them, so instead we’re looking elsewhere for our lock of the week.

But look no further than another team that is failing to win it’s game on a weekly basis. Enter: the Jaguars. Jake Luton put together a fairly impressive debut against Houston last week, but much of it came in an attempted garbage time comeback as the Texans – in a touching tribute to Bill O’Brien – did their best to throw the game away at the last moment. This week, the Jags face a much stiffer task, in Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. The Pack have – aside from a toothless performance in Tampa – been ruthless so far this year and I expect that to continue on Sunday. I even like the big spread (Packers -13.5), but for now let’s just take Packers to win. 

The 45yd Field Goal (Season Record 0-6)

This is admittedly becoming a little embarrassing… it’s almost impressive that I’ve managed to pick the wrong side of the spread six times in a row. Last week, I’ll say I was very unfortunate the Jake Luton somehow brought the Jaguars back into the game late against the Texans, and that the Cowboys suddenly decided to play some defense and hold the Steelers to a tight game. THIS week, things must change. I feel great about these choices. Two picks, let’s get two wins. 

Browns -3.5 (vs Texans) – I looooooove this one. I love this so much in every single direction. I love this so much it scares me a little (spoiler, this is also in the parlay) but let’s believe. The Browns – I’m just gonna go ahead and say it – are a GOOD football team. Not GREAT, but definitely GOOD. Baker has just had a week off to focus on this game, Nick Chubb is expected to be back, they’re getting some pieces back on defense… and they’ve still got Kareem Hunt, Jarvis Landry, Austin Hooper and more catching passes. Against the Houston defense who tried to let Jacksonville steal a game last week? By 3.5 points?! I wish the line was still -2.5 (like it was earlier in the week)… but… even so… yes pleaseeeeee Cleveland.

Saints -10.0 (vs “very injured” 49ers) – This line is high and maybe I haven’t learned my lesson from the Steelers last week… but ALSO the Saints looked grrrrrrreat against the Bucs and the Niners looked D.E.A.D…. DEAD against the Packers. I don’t believe in Jimmy G, let alone Mullens or Beathard, especially lacking weapons like they are right now. I’ll take the Saints to run up the score on Sunday. 

The Hail Mary Touchdown Treble (Season Record 0-1, Individual TD Picks 1-3)

This is my longshot from half field. Unlikely, but you never know. A Touchdown scorers Treble.

So I’m hitting the reset button on this segment, after going 1-4 last week on TD scorers, I’ve decided we’re gonna limit it to 3 selections and do a TD Treble each week. Shoutout Brandin Cooks for stepping up last week. You have my respect. This week, we’ve got a 

Antonio Brown (Buccaneers @ Panthers) – I reeeeeally liked how often Tom Brady looked to AB last week. Mixed results, admittedly, but with the amount of other targets available, Brady’s eyes being drawn by Brown bodes well long term. He’s also massively overpriced in my opinion, so let’s ride with him.

Henry Ruggs (Raiders vs Broncos) – I expect Carr and the Raiders to test the Broncos deep, early and often, like the Chargers tried to with Williams and Guyton a few weeks back. Ruggs’ speed is insane. If he catches one in just a single yard of space – he goneeeeeeee.

Mark Andrews (Ravens @ Patriots) – I think New England will sell out to stop the run here. Even though everybody knows Andrews is the clear #1 aerial target for Lamar in the RedZone, that doesn’t make him easy to stop. Gimme the big Sooner. 

£5 on this treble pays £150 depending on your bookmaker.

The Overs (Season Record: 3-4-1)

So we went 1-1 last week… should have been 2-0 but Tompa Bay decided to score THREE points. That’s it. Awful. Thankfully the Raiders and Chargers combined for 57 for us. This week, I’m loving the biggest line, as well as a mid range one.

Over 56.5 – Bills @ Cardinals – Yup. It’s a huge line. Yup. It’s a risk. Yup. This is Josh Allen vs Kyler Murray. We’re getting points. I’m craving another desert shootout after the Kyler vs Tua duel we lucked into last weekend. Let’s ride. Give us points.

Over 50.5 – Buccaneers @ Panthers – Not only am I giving Mr. Brady a chance to redeem himself this week, but I fully expect him to do so. The Buccaneers have reacted to strongly to their defeats so far this season, throwing up point after point in seeming anger. On the other side, good Ol’ Teddy Bridge has an impressive knack for covering the spread (this game is TB -5.5), so even without CMC I think Carolina keeps this close and pushes the total up. This goes over. 

The Parlay (Complete Parlays 0-4, Correct Legs 11-8-1)

So close last week. 4-1. Just needed Cam and the Boys -8.5 against the Jets… ugh. You’re tacky and I hate you @ThePatriots. Let’s win it this week.

Browns -3.5 (vs Texans) – You already know.

Dolphins -1.5 (vs Chargers) – Miami are rolling. The Chargers always find a way to lose. Tuaaaaaaa.

Raiders -4.0 (vs Broncos) – Always hate these lines that are just over 3… but the Broncos are – for me – frauds, and shouldn’t even have the 3 wins they do. I’m not a Drew Lock guy. Give me Gruden and his Gang this week. 

Seahawks +2.0 (@ Rams) – Aside from the fact that the Rams are coming off a Bye… this line makes ZERO sense to me. I think the Seahawks will get back to normal and win this outright. I’ll take +2 to be safer.

Vikings -2.5 (@ Bears) – The Monday Night Game again… but I love how the Vikings are playing right now… by limiting Kirk Cousins’ involvement. I also think the Vikings D is strong enough to stress Nick Foles into a couple of mistakes, especially as it looks like they MIGHT be without David Montgomery. Let’s hope we’re all winning by 4am Tuesday morning.

£10 on this Parlay pays around £250 depending on your bookmaker. 

The Full English (Season Record: 37-16)

Texans @ Browns – Browns

Jaguars @ Packers – Packers

Eagles @ Giants – Giants (Underdog pick of the week… they’re scrappy and the NFC East makes no sense so let’s go with it)

Buccaneers @ Panthers – Buccaneers

Football Team @ Lions – Lions (all day long)

Bills @ Cardinals – Cardinals

Broncos @ Raiders – Raiders

Chargers @ Dolphins – Dolphins 

Bengals @ Steelers – Steelers

Seahawks @ Rams – Seahawks

49ers @ Saints – Saints

Ravens @ Patriots – Ravens (Lamar to start his late season kick on Sunday night?!)

Vikings @ Bears – Vikings

Week 11

Moving forward, week 11 starts with a bang on Thursday night with Seahawks vs Cardinals, though sadly that won’t be relevant for us here on Picks Six. But the Sunday slate has a few interesting revenge games, as the Ravens look to avenge last year’s playoff defeat to the Titans, and the Chiefs seek to erase their only loss of the season so far in the return match with the Raiders. Plus the Packers vs Colts could be interesting after the Colts decided to find some offense this week! Anyway, thanks for taking the time to read my thoughts. As always, I’m @callumjdsquires on Twitter & Instagram. Come chat and tell me why I’m deluded to think the Dolphins will be 8-3 in three weeks time. Believe in Tua!! Have a good one.

Callum Squires is a London based writer, and Miami Dolphins fan. 

Callum’s Week 9

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Welcome back to another edition of The Picks Six! Six sections of NFL Tips and Picks for the weekend ahead.

Week 9 is poised to be one of the best of the season so far. One legitimate blockbuster game (Saints-Bucs), plus numerous intriguing matchups that might tell us a lot about the playoff contenders and playoff pretenders. Seahawks-Bills, Dolphins-Cardinals, Bears-Titans, Ravens-Colts… tasty!! Let’s dive straight in and see if we can improve on our 26-14 record on picking games straight up! 

The 1st & Goal from the 1yd Line. (Season Record: 4-2) 

This is my lock of the week. A sure fire winner surely.

It’s got to the point in the season where you can almost pick teams to lose, rather than teams to win. So you might see a pattern to two develop in my “lock of the week” picks. This week, the hapless New York Jets face the wounded New England Patriots on Monday night. Cam and Bill find themselves at 2-5, trailing not just the Bills, but also the Dolphins(!!) in the AFC East standings. Patriots by a billion on Monday night. 

The 45yd Field Goal (Season Record 0-4)

This is my mid-range, around even odds, toss up of the week.

Embarrassingly, 0-4 on toss ups. Yeeesh. Let’s rectify that please. We’ll go for 2 this week and hope to halve our deficit. 

Steelers -14.0 – This line is big, but the Cowboys… against THAT Steelers defense!? Not for me. Don’t see how the Cowboys can score enough to keep up… or stop Big Ben enough to stay close… AAF legend Garrett Gilbert set to start for Dallas?? Ezekiel Elliott doesn’t look like himself?? They REALLY miss Dak… Pittsburgh for sure this weekend. They remain undefeated.

Texans -7.0 – Deshaun Watson deserves better than the record this Texans team has. No Gardner Minshew for the Jaguars means this should be a fairly straightforward Texans win. I wish the line was -6.5 of course, but even at -7.0 it’s hard not to believe in Watson (and his weapons) having enough to take the Jags apart. Texans please.

The Hail Mary (Season Record 0-3)

This is my shot from half field. Unlikely, but you never know. 

Went 2-2 on my under dogs acca last week, not too bad. Let’s try something different again this week. A little Touchdown Scorers acca.

Marquise Brown (vs Colts) – The Colts’ run defense is stout and they’ll be challenging Lamar Jackson to throw, whilst trying to take away Mark Andrews. I think that leaves Hollywood open for a score, especially after they connected in the endzone last week vs the Steelers.

Brandin Cooks (vs Jaguars) – I think the Texans run this score up quite a bit here. Watson has a great connection with Will Fuller, but quietly Cooks is putting together a nice season too. I’ll take Cooks vs a suspect Jags Defense.

Darius Slayton (vs Football Team) – Danny Dimes’ favourite target is due for a score, and the Washington defense scares me a lot more up front than on the back end. I see this game being back and forth and lots of throwing. A couple EndZone targets for Slayton is very possible. 

DeVante Parker (vs Cardinals) – Tua was mediocre last week but still managed to connect with the Dolphins’ top receiver for a Touchdown. I’m hoping he can repeat the trick in this game where Miami are likely to need to throw to keep up with Kyler and DHop. 

This acca pays around 52/1 depending on your bookmaker.

The Overs (Season Record: 2-3-1)

Saints @ Buccaneers – Over 50.5 – Sunday Night Football is supposed to be a shootout. If I’m staying up until 4:30am, I expect a Seahawks-esque 37-34 game, not a boring “blowout” like the Eagles-Cowboys last week. These two teams are explosive and Brees and Brady will want to outduel each other. Antonio Brown’s Buccaneers debut? Michael Thomas finally returning and wanting to make a statement? Both teams squabbling over the lead in the NFC South? I’m taking the over. 

Raiders @ Chargers – Over 51.5 – The Raiders burned me last week by shutting down the Browns, but I can legitimately blame that somewhat on the weather too. Justin Herbert and Derek Carr both like to push the ball down the field to their big threats; Henry Ruggs and Mike Williams really help this. But both these teams need a win. The Chargers seemingly have no problem running up points… but can’t stop leaking them at the back either. I like this over a lot.

The Parlay  (Complete Parlays 0-3, Correct Legs 7-7-1)

Baltimore to win – Jackson needs a statement win. This would be that.

Giants +2.5 – Giants pushed Brady close. Washington are well below average (that’s being kind). Giants should be favoured in my opinion…

Patriots -8.5 – As previously stated… it’s the Jets. Patriots. By. A. Billion.

Titans -6.5 – Tennessee bounce back game? Yep. Losing to Cincinnati will have pissed off Derrick Henry. Bears can’t stop Tennessee.

Falcons -4.0 – Broncos are Frauds. Falcons have the weapons. If Matt Ryan can hold it together, Atlanta should win with ease.

This parlay pays about 24/1 depending on your bookmaker.

The Full English (Season Record: 26-14)

Ravens @ Colts – Baltimore

Panthers @ Chiefs – Mahomes City

Bears @ Titans – Tennessee

Broncos @ Falcons – Atlanta (you can be DAMN sure I’m not picking against the city of Atlanta or the state of Georgia this week!!)

Lions @ Vikings – Minnesota

Texans @ Jaguars – Houston

Giants @ Football Team – New York

Seahawks @ Bills – Seattle

Raiders @ Chargers – Las Vegas

Dolphins @ Cardinals – Arizona 

Steelers @ Cowboys – Pittsburgh 

Saints @ Buccaneers – New Orleans (Give me the Brees upset with Michael Thomas having a big game. AB to score a TD though…)

Patriots @ Jets – New England 

Week 10 to Come:

Highlighted by Colts-Titans on Thursday night, plus Ravens-Patriots, Rams-Seahawks, and 49ers-Saints on Sunday, Week 10 should be another doozy, as the Steelers also face the Bengals trying to stay perfect. The playoff field will really start to take shape. As always, I’m @callumjdsquires on Twitter & Instagram. Follow me for Man Utd-related panic tweets, Joe Biden gifs and Dolphins’ fandom. Have a good one.

Callum Squires is a freelance writer, former collegiate athlete in America, and all around good guy. If you want to write articles for NFL in London, get in touch.