The next pope - a few guesses:

So we're going to have a new Pope. To understand the state of play, it's worth considering a few things about Cardinal Bergoglio, the man who became Pope Francis:

He was a product of his upbringing in Argentina - he came of age under Juan Peron, the longtime dictator of Argentina, who was socialist in many ways but also a traditional caudillo in others. That experience framed Francis's world view - as I've said repeatedly in the past, you can take a Pope out of Argentina, but it's difficult to get the Argentina out of the Pope.

Francis was a Jesuit - if you compare the church to a deck of cards, the Jesuits are the Jokers. They wield a lot of power, but typically they have been independent operators. Where they are welcome, they can do marvelous things. Our country has a number of outstanding Catholic universities that are at least nominally under the control of the order. One place where the Jesuits were not welcome was in the Archdiocese of Minneapolis and St. Paul, which his why we have a diocesan university (St. Thomas), instead of a Marquette, or Creighton, or Loyola.

Francis was a reaction against currents within the Church. His two immediate predecessors, St. John Paul II and Benedict, were conservative in matters of doctrine and were somewhat ambivalent of modernism, especially as manifested in Vatican II. Francis was the opposite and he was able to  slow the conservative tide, but he didn't necessarily stop it.

Francis changed the composition of the College of Cardinals in two ways that don't necessarily travel together. He made it younger, and he made it far less European. What is interesting about that? Areas outside of Europe and North America are where the energy in the Church resides. But the energy of the youthful sectors of the Church tend to skew more conservative, especially on matters of doctrine. The future of the Church resides with the younger prelates, who mostly came up under JPII and Benedict, but most of those individuals are not yet considered papabile.

I believe the chances of another non-European pope are strong, for a number of reasons:

The primary energy in the Church is now elsewhere, especially in places that were once missionary territory. You could argue that Europe is missionary territory now, given the decline in Catholicism there. This decline is found within the Church but also within the mainline Protestant congregations, where in some ways the issue is even more dire. Our protestant brethren, especially of the more evangelical stripe, totally understand this - if you leave the parking lot of a Protestant church, you are likely see a sign when you leave the parking lot that says "You are now entering the mission field." The evangelicals believe this and are taking action. Catholics face the same issues and the younger prelates are the ones taking action.

I think Energy is important right now - the last two Popes have been elderly and JPII, while young when first elected, was quite elderly when he passed away. Many of the individuals considered papabile are in their 70s, so a younger Pope would very much be a sign that the Church leaders have made a decision about the future and want a leader who will have a papacy similar to JPII.

As for the specific candidates, I'd say the following:

There has not been an African pope since Pope Gelasius, who served from 492-496. Could we have an African pope this time? I think it's a strong possibility. There are fairly strong candidates

Peter Turkson -- currently at the Vatican, he is originally from Ghana. He is fairly liberal but not obviously so. He is also 76 - he was mentioned as a candidate in 2013 and might have been a stronger candidate then.

Fridolin Ambongo -- he is the Archbishop of Kinhasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He is considered a powerful leader and thinker, but it is unclear where he stands on a number of issues. He is also among the younger candidates at age 65. Certainly a possibility

Robert Sarah -- emeritus Vatican official. He's from  Guinea and is probably the most conservative possibility. He is dynamic, but he's also likely too old. He will turn 80 this year. 

Other non-European candidates include:

Luis Antonio Tagle  -- currently in the Curia. Started out as a Jesuit but became a diocesan priest. He is a Filipino and clearly both a liberal and an acolyte of Francis, but he does stray a bit from the leftist orthodoxy and as a result fell out of favor a bit. He is younger at age 67. He has to be considered a strong possibility.

Charles Maung Bo --  currently the Archbishop of Yangon in Myanmar (Burma). He has a tough assignment and has managed it well. In terms of doctrine, he's significantly more conservative than Tagle, but he's also significantly older at age 76. He shares much in common with JPII, including being a playwright. He'd be excellent, I think.

Malcolm Ranjith  -- currently the Archbishop of Colombo (Sri Lanka). He is a conservative but pro Vatican II. He's a skilled communicator and speaks 10 languages, which shows both his intelligence and his engagement with the world. I see him as a potential compromise candidate; he is age 77, but if the Conclave is not prepared to chose a direction and is looking for a transition figure, Ranjith would be a good choice.

There are two possible US candidates

Raymond Burke -- in Rome, but not part of the current hierarchy following a split with Francis. He's originally from Richland Center, WI. Was Bishop of Lacrosse, WI, then St. Louis. He built a big shrine in LaCrosse for Our Lady of Guadalupe. He's conservative, brilliant, and humble. I think at age 76 he's unlikely to get the nod, but his career is fascinating. 

Timothy Dolan -- Archbishop of New York. Dolan is an old school Irish priest and he's genuinely popular among the flock and doctrinally conservative, but there are questions about his "gravitas." At age 75, I would consider him a longshot.

European candidates

Matteo Zuppi  -- currently the Archbishop of Bologna. He's pretty far left, and if he were selected would essentially a continuation of Francis. He's actually tied closely to leftist political parties in Italy. Age 69; if he is chosen it signals that the liberal wing has won the argument.

Jean-Marc Aveline -- currently the Archbishop of Marseille. He is a friend of Francis; he was born in Algeria, which would technically make him an African pope, but he's spent most of his life in Europe. He is also pretty far left. Age 66.

Pietro Parolin -- currently the Vatican Secretary of State. His background is quite similar to Pope Paul, serving much of his life as a diplomat. He is also controversial because of his role in brokering a deal with the Chinese communist party, which ceded important control to the government in order for the Church to continue to operate there. He was doing Francis's bidding, but now that Francis is gone he may have trouble with those who disagreed with the initiative. Age 70. 

Willem Eijk  -- currently the Archbishop of Utretcht (Netherlands). Eijk is very well regarded generally and is a fairly consistent conservative. I like him a lot, but he also presides over a very secular archdiocese and he's spent much of his time fighting secularism to limited effect. He's 71.

Peter Erdo  -- currently the Archbishop of Budapest. He is generally considered a  conservative to moderate; he's been successful. Having come of age in communist Hungary, he has some similarities to JPII. I could see him becoming a compromise choice. Age 72.

Pierbattista Pizzaballa   -- currently the Archbishop of Jerusalem. While his amusing surname has brought him attention, he's actually an intriguing candidate. He has served with great distinction in a tough neighborhood and has done well to protect the Church and his flock in the Holy Land. He's considered a moderate but has some conservative leanings. He's also one of the youngest papabile at age 60. Do not be surprised if he emerges.

My guess: who knows? I expect a reaction against some of Francis's excesses, but the question is whether or not a conservative will have the votes in the Conclave. Ranking the possibilities:

If a liberal wins:   Zuppi, Tagle, Aveline, Parolin. I think the number of liberals could split vote, perhaps lessening the chance that any one of them actually wins.

If a conservative wins:  Sarah, Eijk, Bo

If a compromise candidate: Turkson, Ranjith, Erdo

If a wild card is selected:       Ambongo, Pizzaballa

I fully expect to be wrong. If you want more information on the cardinals, The College of Cardinals Report is about as comprehensive as you'd want.

RIP, Pope Francis

 Francis has left us. A few thoughts:

• Popes are teachers, leaders, administrators. They wield enormous power. They are human beings and sinners, despite the majesty of the seat they hold. I never believed Francis was duplicitous, but I believed he was wrong about many things. As such, his passing affords an opportunity for a better future for the Church.
• Speculation always abounds when it's time to select a new pope. This site  provides a pretty good overview of potential successors, suggesting 22 names as papabile. The most familiar of these, by far, is Cardinal Raymond Burke, who grew up in Richland Center, Wisconsin and served as a bishop in LaCrosse and later St. Louis, among other places. He also became enmeshed in a significant feud with Francis and was essentially fired, although he maintained his rank as a cardinal. It would be a significant surprise if he were to be selected, but it would also be a welcome decision in my view.
• I have no idea who, or what, is coming next. I do know that while Francis did his level best to re-establish the Vatican II liberal/secular worldview to the Church, the energy within the Church lies elsewhere and signs are everywhere. Traditional Latin Mass is coming back all over and young people are the ones who are clamoring for it. The places where Vatican II was embraced are now falling to secularism and more energetic competing faiths, especially Islam. The Vatican may be situated on the European continent, but the future of the Church is elsewhere and we're already seeing that the traditional home of Christianity is now mission territory. The new Pope will need to recognize these trends and respond accordingly.

I haven't been writing much lately and I may not write a whole lot, but this moment does have my attention and we'll see if there is a renewal of this feature as a result.

Benster and D Pick Your Games--------The Super Bowl Nobody Wanted Once Again Edition

 So, we get a Super Bowl matchup that once again nobody wanted. The Chiefs and Eagles again isn't exciting. But thanks to the Bills and Commanders not getting the job done, we are here. 

And yet, it's seemed inevitable for a long time. The Chiefs always seem to find a way and the Eagles were looking like a juggernaut by the end of the season.

Also, the Chiefs winning means that the Packers would lose the distinction as the only NFL franchise to get 3 straight NFL titles. That is why Lombardi and Lambeau are our GOAT coaches. Nothing against Andy Reid, but you all know that I am a gigantic Packer fan.

This Chiefs team feels like the 1967 Packers team; flawed but still able to win when it comes down to it. Don't know if it means anything more, but I guess we find out tomorrow.

I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYPPEEEEEE! and ready to pick this game. Watch me work.

Kansas City Chiefs (-1.5) vs. Philadelphia Eagles, in New Orleans Two years ago was a great game between these two teams that came down to a questionable PI call that allowed the Chiefs to win. By the way, Tom Brady needs to have a great broadcast. Despite him getting better, if he does worse than Greg Olsen two years ago there will be some grumbling. I feel like as good as the Chiefs have been, they have relied on the Texans and Bills melting down instead of winning on their own merits. The Eagles look a lot more confident, and their power running game with Saquon has been decisive. I also feel like the Eagles defense has been a lot better, as they have made Jordan Love, Matthew Stafford, and Jayden Daniels all look very ordinary. I look for the Eagles to get off to a great start and finish the job they didn't do last time. Eagles 36, Chiefs 29.

When I look at this game, I think the Eagles have a better overall team, but they are lacking in two of the most important facets of football - quarterbacking and coaching. Jalen Hurts is a good quarterback, but Patrick Mahomes is an all-timer. The Eagles have a good overall coaching staff, but Andy Reid is an all-timer. The formula for the Eagles is simple - get an early lead and then ride Saquon Barkley to glory. It's worked all season. In theory, the Chiefs should struggle with that construct. But I don't know that it will ever get there. I think Mahomes will do enough to make Jalen Hurts have to beat him. And I am skeptical Hurts has it in him. Chiefs 28, Eagles 25.

Stone cold munching

Thanks again for reading this feature all year. Enjoy your football this weekend. For the final time this season, Ben out.  

Benster and D Pick Your Games----Please Beat the Chiefs Edition

 I think that I speak for a lot of people when I say that I really hope someone beats the Chiefs. 

That does seem to be the prevailing sentiment. And it's one I share.

I'm also happy for Ryan Day. Look, I am far from a Buckeye fan. But seeing him get to stick it in the faces of those crazy Buckeye fans that sent death threats to him and his family after the Michigan game was pretty awesome. And it really confirms that the Big Ten has changed the narrative surrounding the SEC. You do love to see it. 

While it remains to be seen if it's going to be a long-term trend, I am certainly okay with Big Ten teams winning championships, although maybe it would be cool if it weren't the resident Death Stars once in a while. The most heartening thing was seeing Indiana finally get a moment in the sun.

I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYPPEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work. 

Washington Commanders (+6) vs. Philadelphia Eagles I wasn't shocked that the Commanders went into Detroit and ripped the soul out of the Lions. I do appreciate Brad giving me props for being right on the 45 points that Jayden Daniels put up. The Eagles are a very complete team and were able to shut down the Rams last week in bad weather. What I believe the key to this game is that the Commanders are playing with house money. Nobody had this team making the NFC title game, and all of the pressure is on the Eagles. I believe that Jalen Hurts is going to struggle a bit, and the Commanders are going to pull up another impressive road upset. I am getting some 2007 Giants vibes from the Commanders. Hail to the Commanders 26, Cry Eagles Cry 24.

That's an interesting comparison. I have to say that Jayden Daniels has surprised me. He's dynamic in all the right ways but he seems to have an advanced understanding of the game and rarely makes bad decisions. My concern with him will be injuries, because he plays in a style that leaves him susceptible to getting rocked by the ill-intentioned linebackers. Which brings us to the Eagles, who have guys like that on their squad. This game will turn on Washington's ability to slow down Saquon Barkley. Hey, bold observation, right? The Communards (or whatever we're calling them) do have have a stout defensive line, which helps. The Eagles are huge and wear teams down; that's what they did to the Packers and the Rams. It may be a more difficult assignment this time. Eagles 27, Community Notes 21.

Buffalo Bills (+2) vs. Kansas City Chiefs The Chiefs and Bills both were able to get past a couple of game opponents. I will admit that the Texans complaints about the zebras feel like an attempt to cover up that CJ Stroud and the Texan special teams really didn't rise to the occasion. That being said, Patrick Mahomes really seems to be going looking to draw a flag in the same manner as James Harden does. The Bills gutted out a tight win against the Ravens thanks to Lamar making a throw that needed to be a bit better. You still have to catch that if you were Mark Andrews, and now you know why I was disappointed with the results when I drafted him as my tight end in fantasy football. This Bills team feels different. It seems that Sean McDermott has decided to let Josh Allen really take the lead, and the Bills were able to beat the Chiefs straight up. This seems like the year that the Bills finally are able to have the breakthrough that they want. Something tells me that Tim Russert is going to be smiling in heaven Sunday night. Nobody Circles The Wagons Like The Buffalo Bills 42, Chiefs Fatigue 36.

The difference this year? Buffalo can run the ball when they need to. That makes a big difference. Josh Allen can take charge because he has options he didn't have before. Having said that, the Chiefs are different, too. This is not a high-flying offensive team, although they can score. The Chiefs win with defense and they have been doing it all season long. Buffalo will need to score early and score consistently to win this one. I don't see 42 points as being possible. 28? Maybe. And will that be enough? Buffalo 28, Kansas City 27.

And now, it's time to laugh at the Lions. All of this talk about how the Same Old Lions weren't back, and how you were going to win the Super Bowl. The problem -- this is the NFL, and nothing is promised. As a Packers fan, I know for a fact how hard it is to win a Super Bowl and this is the type of loss you don't recover from. Congrats on winning 15 games and not winning a playoff game. The bottom line is that Dan Campbell didn't learn a thing from the Niners meltdown. Calling a wide receiver pass when you were down was a bad call, and not knowing that there were 12 men on the field on that 4th down was coaching malpractice. You may know how to build a great culture, but the bottom line is that the Lions failed. Jared Goff ended up showing why the Rams got rid of him. He played horribly, and I honestly don't know where he goes from here. After laughing at the Packers and the Vikings, the Lions had the chance to back up all of the talk. They didn't. I got flashbacks to the 2021 disaster that my Packers had against the Niners. Now the Lions need to understand that things might go south without their coordinators. Instead of trying to run all of these cool trick plays from Madden, why don't you take a good look at if Dan Campbell can manage a game? Because at the end of the day, he didn't put his team in a position to win. Putting your team in a position to win is the most important thing about being a head coach. Like LaFleur and KOC, Campbell has to answer to that. 

I will be interested to see what happens. Campbell has delegated a lot of work to his coordinators, which on balance is a good approach, but he'll need individuals of similar quality to keep things humming in Detroit. The division is still going to be tough next year and if da Bears can find a way to overcome their bumbling ways, especially in the front office and ownership boxes, they could be trouble, too.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games------Is The NFC North Frauds Edition

Remember when the NFC North was called the deepest division in NFL history? Yeah, that take didn't age well. And thankfully, I got a working laptop again, so my brilliance will flow stronger than ever. 

If you do say so yourself. I dunno. Philly is a tough place to win. The Rams played well. I wouldn't minimize what the Packers and the locals did this season, but yeah, Detroit needs to represent. That's called foreshadowing

The NFC North can go and join the SEC in the overhyped in 2024 party. You can see Greg Sankey and SEC hype men Clay Travis and Paul Finebaum looking upset at the buffet. 

Is it the breakfast buffet at the Drury? Because that's usually pretty good.

No, and besides you know you're not supposed to eat all those biscuits. And trust me on this - where Sankey, Travis and Finebaum eat is more likely a place where everything is deep fried. But enough food references - I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYPPEEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work.

Houston Texans (+8.5) vs. Kansas City Chiefs I think that I speak for most of America when I am begging for someone to beat the Chiefs. The Patriots may have fallen into a rebuild, but the idea of the Patriots wasn't killed. I think that the Chiefs are like the 2011 Packers. The record is very impressive, but the Chiefs have needed either some Mahomes magic or some late game mistakes by their opponents to get that record. The Texans are a sneaky good outfit. They looked great against the Chargers, and I think that Stroud is ready to take the next step in his evolution as a star. Remember, the weather isn't going to be great in Kansas City tomorrow. I trust Joe Mixon to be the difference maker. Texans 36, Chiefs 29.

I would love that, but I don't see it happening. Cold weather will work to the advantage of the Chiefs. I think Stroud learned some things this year that will help him be a top echelon quarterback in the league in the future, but as a group the Texans are not there yet. Chiefs will win this one. Chiefs 27, Texans 17.

Washington Gridlocks (+9.5) vs. Detroit LOLions I think Dan Quinn should be getting more consideration for Coach of the Year. Don't get me wrong, KOC winning is something that I can agree with. The argument for Quinn is that a defensive minded coach was able to have Jayden Daniels become a star, build a great culture, and show that there is a chance that his career isn't defined by 28-3. The Lions are going to be a lot healthier, and are a year wiser with the playoffs. The thing is, Dan Campbell has to show that he is willing to manage the game better if things get tight. I'm not saying that he is a bad coach, as he has delivered the goods. What I do question is whether can he learn from the decisions he made against the Niners last January? If the Lions lose, then the NFC North might be the biggest bunch of paper tigers in NFL history. 3 double digit teams and an 0-3 playoff record would be terrible. Also, Detroit isn't a cursed sports city. The Red Wings and Pistons have been winners in my lifetime, and the Tigers have made a couple of World Series. Hail To the Commanders 45, LOLions Gonna LOLions 0.

Uh, no. Love you to death - you are my son after all - but that pick is ludicrous. The Lions are in Detroit and they have been the best team in the NFC consistently all season long. They are getting healthier, as you mentioned. The Commanders are a nice story, but they are not going to go into Detroit and win. Lions 31, Commanders 17.

Los Angeles Rams (+6) vs. Philadelphia Eagles So I talked to Mrs. D, aka Mom. She is a Vikings fan, and she said that she was surprised at how easily the Rams were able to get to Sam Darnold last week. I agree with her, and think that the Rams winning that comfortably was jarring. The Eagles made more plays than the Packers, who needed to play a perfect game last week to have a chance. Sadly, that a terrible performance by the players and coaching staff. I think that the Eagles are a team that is getting a bit slept on. They have Super Bowl experience from 2 years ago, and I feel like they match up well against any opponent on the NFC side. While the Rams are going to be up for this, the Eagles are just too well rounded. Eagles 31, Rams 17.

Hey, it's a sensible pick! I knew you had it in you! I could see the Rams giving the Eagles a game, but their defense is quick and small. That worked against a banged up Vikings offensive line, but it won't work against the earth movers in Philadelphia. And at some point, Saquon Barkley is going to break one. And that will break the Rams. Eagles 27, Rams 19.

Baltimore Ravens (-1) vs. Buffalo Bills This game is going to be a lot of fun. Both Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson are on a mission, and these teams are very exciting squads. Sean McDermott has been through the ringer the past couple of years thanks to suffering some brutal playoff losses, and he seems to have made some adjustments to his coaching style that have paid dividends. Josh Allen is a great player to have in your corner when you need magic, and I feel like with the Bills having home field advantage, they are going to finally win a big postseason game with the magic going in their favor for once. No more 13 Seconds, a game Bengals team, and a brutal miss by a kicker this time. Nobody Circles the Wagons 35, Ravens 34.

I don't have anything against the Ravens per se, but I'm tired of them. Buffalo has been on the verge of breaking through for a while now and it's time they do so. The only thing that makes me nervous is that the Bills defense is kinda ordinary and the Ravens can score. But it's at home and the Bills fans will be crazed. And Lamar Jackson, for all his brilliance, has a propensity to cough up hairballs, too. Bills 31, Ravens 27.

A School In Columbus (-8.5) vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish, in Atlanta I love that there is no SEC team in this game once again despite the fact this game is in the heart of SEC country. You really hate to see it. I am going to say this very bluntly about Ohio State. The fans who melted down after the Michigan game and insulted this team and coaching staff are not true Buckeye fans. I don't want to hear any fan who insulted the players, Ryan Day, or the coaching staff celebrate anything about this team. Ryan Day is a coach that 99% of college football programs would kill to have, and this Buckeye team has had to deal with a loud minority of fans that have decided to hold them to a standard that not even Woody Hayes could match. For those Ohio State fans that have supported this team all year long and have not engaged in that behavior, you are the true fans and deserve this. Those that haven't shouldn't be watching on Monday. 

Notre Dame has been very impressive. After a loss to NIU that looks worse every day, they have rallied. And remember, Marcus Freeman is in his third year as the coach of the Irish. The last 4 coaches at Notre Dame who have won a national championship did so in their 3rd year. I am no fan of the Irish, but I think that it would be deserving for a fanbase who supported their coach and team when the going got tough. Domers 26, Buckeyes 12.

Could Notre Dame win? Sure, I can see a scenario where it happens. Will they? I am skeptical. Ohio State has been crushing everything in its path since that Michigan loss and the win in Dallas was particularly impressive, because that was a very hostile venue. The Buckeyes have unbelievable skill players, as always - I would expect both of their top running backs and at least three of their wide receivers to be playing on Sundays in the future. They have a dominant offensive line and a nasty defense. Notre Dame can't match that. I think Freeman is an excellent coach and is building something that will wake up the echoes soon, but Monday is not the day. Ohio State 31, Notre Dame 24.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games - Wildcard Round with Handy AI Synopsis Edition

 So old dude, thanks for helping to get this posted this week - I am having some computer issues this week, so I'm relying on you to keep our vast audience informed!

I don't mind - I got the info you sent, along with a handy AI-generated synopsis that I'll share at the end. We'll have to see how accurate the AI is....

So quick programming notes about the college football semifinal games. I was busy this week dealing with my recalcitrant computer, and we ended up not picking them. That being said, Notre Dame vs. whomever wins in Dallas is going to be very interesting. 

Well, it looks like it's Ohio State, so it's a matchup among the most annoying fanbases possible, but it still means Paul Finebaum will have a sad.

I'm sad, and not very happy

And that's always good when Paul Finebaum has a sad. Meanwhile I’m interested to see how things shape out in the Wild Card round. So watch me work!

𝐋𝐨𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 (-𝟑) 𝐯𝐬. 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐞𝐱𝐚𝐧𝐬 This game is an underrated one to me. The Texans have had bad injury luck, and the offseason champion narrative isn’t conducive to winning. The Chargers of course are dealing with the horrible fires out in LA, and thankfully got out to Texas. While I think that Jim Harbaugh can’t win on a level playing field, Houston is going to win comfortably thanks to Stroud playing well and a bounce back effort from their defense. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐝𝐬 𝟐𝟑, 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐈𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝟐𝟎.

It's a tradition unlike all others - the Texans hosting a playoff game on Saturday afternoon! It seems to happen every year. I suspect the Chargers will be a contender for bigger things next year - although Jim Harbaugh is a weasel, he's a good coach. But I'm with you this time - Texans have incentive and the wherewithal to pull this one out. Houston 27, Chargers 24.

𝐏𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐬𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐡 𝐘𝐢𝐧𝐳𝐞𝐫𝐬 (+𝟏𝟎) 𝐯𝐬. 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐑𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐬 The Ravens are a team that I think has some unfinished business, and that will start on Amazon Prime? Why in the world are you putting a playoff game on Prime Video? Did you learn nothing from the Peacock debacle? What the heck did they spike your pizza with at the NFL lunchroom? Anyway, the Steelers are tough to watch on offense, and I don’t think they are going to have enough of their high end  defensive talent to steal a win. It’s time we have a serious talk about Mike Tomlin and if he is maintaining the Steeler standard. If you excuse me, I may have to hide from the Yinzers. 𝐑𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝟒𝟐, 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝟎

Don't worry about the Yinzers - your work has too many multi-syllable words so they won't be able to figure it out. But yeah, I think the Ravens are going to be a very tough out. What I worry about is that Justin Tucker, the previously invincible kicker, has had the yips all season It won't matter this week, but next week? Stay tuned. Ravens 28, Steelers 13.

𝐃𝐞𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐬 (+𝟗) 𝐯𝐬. 𝐁𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐨 𝟏𝟑 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐬 Denver making the playoffs is a nice surprise. Bo Nix certainly looks good, and it’s hard to think that Super Bowl 50 was the last time we saw them in the playoffs. Buffalo is a team on a mission. This Bills team feels different, and I get the sense that Josh Allen seems to think that it’s his time to get a ring. There is obviously one team I want to win, but if my team can’t get it done, Buffalo would be the best option. 𝐂𝐢𝐫𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝟕𝟎, 𝐎𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐡 𝟓𝟖

So bet the over? I think Buffalo wins, too, but Denver is coming. Kansas City has to be hearing hoofbeats. Bills 34, Broncos 23.

𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐲 𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 (+𝟓) 𝐯𝐬. 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐚 𝐄𝐚𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐬 Last week was unacceptable by the Packers. I get that the Packers were going to lose eventually to the Bears, but playing not to lose and some dumb coaching really bothered me. Thankfully both Jordan and Hurts are going to give it a go. What killed the Packers in Brazil was not stopping Saquon, and I would make Hurts win with his arm. At the end of the day, the Packers are playing with house money just like in Dallas a year ago. Though of course you know that I am a massive homer. 𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝟐𝟏, 𝐄𝐚𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝟏𝟔

The Eagles are good, but they are hardly invincible. The Packers get most of their defense back and they should be stout enough to give Saquon Barkley a challenge. Hurts is coming off a concussion and that could limit his ability to perform at the top level. The Packers need to get a quick start. If they do, they win. If not, it's going to be a long day. This time I choose to be optimistic. Packers 28, Eagles 23.

𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐬 (+𝟑) 𝐯𝐬. 𝐓𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐚 𝐁𝐚𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐬 Dan Quinn should be considered for Coach of the Year. The Commies doing this well wasn’t something I had on my bingo card. Tampa Bay has a strong defense, and Baker Freaking Mayfield takes a special pleasure in ruining people’s dreams. While I do like Jayden Daniels as a future star, he is going to have to wait for his first playoff win. 𝐁𝐮𝐜𝐬 𝟐𝟑, 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝟐𝟎

Tampa is a problem. And they will continue to be a problem. Would not be surprised if they find their way into the NFC Championship game, which means they beat whatever we're calling Washington these days and an NFC North team. Can they do it? Hard to say, but they win this week. Bucs 34, Commanders (I think that's what they call them these days) 24.

𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐭𝐚 𝐕𝐢𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 (-𝟐.𝟓) 𝐯𝐬. 𝐋𝐨𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐑𝐚𝐦𝐬, 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐨𝐧𝐚 I hope everyone in LA is doing well after what’s happened out there. As for the game, I was really frustrated with the Vikings. Thanks to Sam Darnold not showing up, I lost my chance at back to back fantasy titles. The Vikings are facing a team that beat them for reasons besides the refs, and Stafford is going to have his best weapons with game reps this time. The bottom line for the Vikings is that this is a game that they can’t lose. If they lose, then all of the hard work that KOC did goes up in flames. I also have a message to the Griddy Man. If you want to be the best wideout in football, you have to prove that the Vikings can have more success with you than they had with Diggs. Diggs has won 3 playoff games in Buffalo and could win one with Houston. You have won a grand total of 0 playoff games despite having a wealth of talent around you. Should the Vikings lose, then a ton of questions have to be asked about if they need to consider trading a big piece to get some draft picks that they need. The Rams have no pressure, as a lot of their leaders have their ring, and are playing for a city that needs something good to happen. 𝐑𝐚𝐦𝐬 𝟐𝟖, 𝐕𝐢𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝟏𝟒.

So you snuck a Very Special Comment into a regular comment? Very efficient of you! And your argument is actually fairly compelling. But I think the Vikings are better than the Rams. Expect this one to be a shootout and the Purple have more bullets than the Rams. Vikings 38, Rams 31.

So, the Yahoo email gave us a summary of this post! Here what it said:

Benster shares his insights on the college football semifinal games, expressing interest in Notre Dame's chances against the winner in Dallas and discussing the potential outcomes of the Wild Card round, while also offering opinions on various teams' chances and highlighting a message to the Griddy Man.

A message to the Griddy Man! That's actually right! Nice job, AI! But no, you don't get to write this feature. Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out.

Benster and D Pick Your Games-------Vikings And Lions Grudge Match Edition

It is incredible to think that either the LOLions or the Vikings could win 14 games this year and having to be a wild card team. 

There's never been anything like this in NFL history. And considering how often the NFC North has been suspect, it's amazing.

Meanwhile, the Packers are trying to determine if they are going to fly out to Los Angeles or Philadelphia. I would prefer to face the Rams, but will take my chances with the Eagles. 

Neither is a picnic lunch, but what are you gonna do?

Well, I'll tell you what I'm gonna do. I am ready to pick some games and am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYPPPPEEEEE! Watch me work.

Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck (+10) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers The bottom line for the Packers is that they lost last week because they once again dug themselves too big of a hole in the first half to overcome. Given that the NFC North race probably deserved to come down to a Vikings Lions showdown among themselves, I am not as mad as I could have been. Playing the starters is something that I agree with, especially because the Bears are going to be playing hard. Lest we forget, the Bears literally came within one hand of a dramatic comeback the last time. This won't be an easy game, but the Packers should win. Packers 32, Bears Still Suck 10.

The Bears will come hard, but there's a stench of death around that team that wasn't there when they played the Packers in Chicago earlier in the year. Packers are going to be motivated. Not sure some of the mercenaries on the Bears will be. Packers 28, Bears 16.

Minnesota Vikings (+3) vs. Detroit LOLions So it all comes down to this as it should be. The winner of this game gets the road to New Orleans coming through them, and the loser gets a tricky trip to the NFC South winner next week. The Lions won a back and forth game back in October, and rest assured they need the bye. Remember, the Lions got hit with an early bye, and have a bunch of injuries. I asked Mrs. D, aka Mom if she would feel confident beating Tampa if disaster strikes. She indicated that she would be fairly confident as a Vikings fan. This game is going to have a lot of hype to live up to, but I think it will. The magic of 1998, 2009, and 2017 seems to be coming back to the Twin Cities, and I think that the Vikings are going to take a gigantic step forward on Sunday. Vikings 39, LOLions Gonna LOLions 36.

The Lions are so nasty and the game is in Detroit. We'll find out a lot about the Vikings in this one. I think they are better situated to win in a lot of ways, but I don't know. I could see something weird happen to tip the balance to the home team here. So that's how I'm going to pick it. Lions 34, Vikings 31.

Yeah, sorry about not picking the Gopher road game. By the time this goes up, you will know if PJ is going to get mayo dumped on him. 

He did get the mayo bath, and it was glorious.

Coulda been worse, coulda been Chipotle queso

In my defense, I was watching the Badger basketball team take Iowa out to the woodshed. You love to see it, and you especially really hate to see Frantrum take a giant L. Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----Can The Vikings Win The NFC North Edition

The Vikings need to win both their games against the Packers and the Lions in order to win the NFC North. But the Packers are not going to be letting them do that without a fight.

The line has been moving back and forth a lot. Right now the Packers are dogs, but they've been favorites earlier in the week. Vegas knows something is up.

And we have some playoff quarterfinals to discuss. I am feeling the HYYYYYPPPEEEEEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work. 

Penn State Nittany Lions (-10.5) vs. Boise State Broncos, in Phoenix Penn State was able to derail the Pony Express in less time than Bill Clements and the NCAA did in the 1980s. I also heard that Penn State came to Arizona in gold Trans-Am cars that they got from Eric Dickerson's dealership. I have been a believer in Boise State for years, and Ashton Jeanty was able to give the Broncos the shot at the national title that was denied to Kellen Moore and company over a decade ago. The thing is, Penn State is a team on a mission to prove that James Franklin can win big games. As much as I like Boise State and understand their history at the Fiesta Bowl in particular, Penn State should win fairly comfortably. Happy Valley Believes Again 45, Smurf Turf 14.

There's Penn State history at the Fiesta Bowl as well. They've won every time, so something's gotta give. Boise remains a nice story and their continuity is impressive, but Penn State is a different animal. I agree with you. Penn State 34, Boise State 17.

Texas Longhorns (-13.5) vs. Arizona State Sun Devils, in Atlanta I wasn't surprised that Texas would have success in the SEC. The SEC homers who said that the Longhorns didn't want the SEC smoke forgot that both A&M and Missouri had success in their first couple of years. When someone who points out the SEC myth has to defend the Longhorns, that is a problem. Arizona State has been a team that shockingly came out of the Big XII, and they have the offense to keep up with Sark. I feel that this game is going to be tighter than certain people want. Sun Devils 34, Horns Down 33. 

Arizona State is a long way from Frank Kush, but I've always thought that, if they got the right coaching staff, they could return quickly to the top echelon. Things are looking good in Tempe, but Texas is also on a mission. Texas 34, Arizona State 24.

A School In Columbus (-2.5) vs. Oregon Ducks, in Pasadena I was glad to see that the Buckeyes were able to beat the Vols and cause the ESPN SEC homers to look bad after hyping up the Vols. Oregon beat Ohio State back in October out in Eugene, but the Ducks needed to exploit a clock loophole and have Will Howard lose track of time to get Dan Lanning his signature win. I think that this is a fitting Rose Bowl to start this new era, as it is a traditional Rose Bowl. This will be the best game of the quarterfinals, and feel that Oregon is going to win despite Ohio State's offensive line looking a lot better and Ryan Day realizing that he has great pass catchers. Ducks 32, Buckeyes 31.

This game should have been a semifinal, but here we are. OSU is tremendously talented and I am almost rooting for them to win just because I'm frightened for what will happen to Ryan Day if he loses. The Ducks have met every challenge so far, but a rematch with a desperate team is not the formula for success. Ohio State 38, Oregon 35.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish (+1.5) vs. Georgia Bulldogs, in New Orleans On the one hand, Notre Dame has struggled in bowl games despite getting numerous chances thanks to being overhyped all of the time. On the other hand, the Bulldogs are without Carson Beck. If both of these teams could lose, that would be great. Longtime readers know that I hate the SEC, and I don't like the Domers because of how much of their propaganda is shoved in my face every single year. I think that this Irish team is different, and it would be hilarious to see Marcus Freeman win a big bowl game in Brian Kelly's backyard. Rudy Was Offsides 23, Bulldogs 14.

Georgia is really good, but they have flaws. And without their starting quarterback, I think they're in trouble. Notre Dame is a long ways past their inexplicable loss to NIU and they've been a really good team the rest of the way. I am putting my oft-stated animus for the Irish aside and picking them to win. Notre Dame 31, Georgia 24.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+1.5) vs. Minnesota Vikings The Packers had a very good win against the Saints, and are getting ready for a game that is going to be different then the first meeting in September. Obviously, the Vikings need this one at home to keep pace with the Lions. While it is true that the Vikings dominated early at Lambeau, it's important to remember that Jordan Love was just coming back from injury. Noted football predictor Brad Carlson is right to be worried about the Packers, because they have been playing an impressive brand of football. But I admit that not having a lot of healthy secondary options to defend against the Vikings passing game is a scary thought. I also would be very surprised if the Vikings come out flat. I do think that KOC is probably Coach of the Year, and have no problem admitting that. The Packers would love nothing more than to play spoiler, and you already know that I am a delusional homer. Packers 56, Vikings 14.

Uh, no. I can see a number of scenarios where the Packers win this game, but they will have to earn it. One thing - I hope the Packers take the opening kickoff, because getting ahead of the Vikings early is the key to success on Sunday. Make them chase. The Vikings offensive line has improved this season; they will need to keep the Packers out of Sam Darnold's face. If they do, they win. Vikings 27, Packers 24.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games---------The Packers Finally Won In Seattle Edition

 While this doesn't erase the 2014 meltdown, seeing the Packers win comfortably in Seattle was very cathartic for me. And the Packers need a win to make sure that they are in the playoffs. 

I'm guessing they can find one.

Meanwhile, the Vikings are in the playoffs thanks to the Packers, and are going into Seattle to face a team that is angry and desperate for a win. The Vikings need this one, especially since they close with the Packers and the Lions. 

Will the Vikings find one?

I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYPPEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work. 

Minnesota Vikings (-3) vs. Seattle Seachickens The Seahawks were in trouble even before Geno Smith went down last week, and fell out of the NFC West lead. Both teams need this one badly. As I indicated before, the Vikings need to win out to have a chance at the top seed in the NFC, and the Seahawks need to win to keep pace in the NFC West race. How healthy Geno is going to be is an open question, and the Vikings haven't had a trademark Vikings Gonna Viking game. The thing is, the Vikings haven't won in Seattle since 2006. That's right, right around the time of the poison pill contract. As much as the Vikings propaganda department at KFAN would like to admit that they are going to catch the Lions, this game is going to be the reason why they won't. Seahawks 31, Vikings 10.

I watched the same game you did last week. Seattle never seriously threatened the Packers during the game. If you believe the Vikings are, at a minimum, the equal of the Packers, you would want to pick the Vikings to win the game. And I think they absolutely meet that threshold. And more. Vikings 31, Seahawks 10.

New Orleans Salary Cap Issues (+14) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers The Packers played very well for the most part out in Seattle. Props to all of the Packer fans who ended up taking over the stands and creating Lambeau West. The Saints are a scuffling team who are going to be banged up. That being said, this won't be easy. If you remember a year ago, Jordan Love had to orchestrate an unlikely comeback to help the Packers overcome a 17-0 deficit in the 4th quarter. I think that the Packers are going to win after pulling away in the 4th quarter. I hope I'm wrong, but something about this game is making me nervous. Packers 35, Saints 24.

What makes me nervous is the 14 point spread. You almost never see a spread that high. The Packers are playing very well right now but that spread is designed to draw money one way or the other. If the Packers can rattle Spencer Rattler, they'll win easily. But I do wonder. Packers 31, Saints 20.

Remember, if your family gathering turns into political arguments, watch some football. You will thank me later. Merry Christmas, and enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games-------Can The Packers End Seattle Nightmare Edition?

 The last four times the Packers have traveled out to Seattle, the best thing that happened was a very frustrating defeat. And in the case of the other two, I will never watch any highlights of those games. 

It's a frustrating place to play. But it's been a while since the Packers have been there and the team they will face is very different.

The Packers lost week because of their mistakes, and not because of the refs. Some of my fellow Packers fans need to admit that. They didn't play well enough on defense on the last drive, and I also thought that they started too slowly and gave the Lions enough momentum early on. 

I agree with that, too. Is this the dawning of a new, more sensible Benster? Read on to find out!

I am feeling the HYYYYYPPEEEEEEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work. 

Glorious Green Bay Packers (-2.5) vs. Seattle Seahawks The Packers are going to be healthier coming off the mini bye, but there is danger in this trip out to the Pacific Northwest. The Packers haven't won in Seattle since 2008. For reference, that was Aaron's first season as the starter. The Seahawks are very much in the thick of the NFC West race, and already know that the Rams got a key divisional win this week. What I want to see from the Packers is a fast start, and for Jordan Love to continue to take care of the football. What gives me hope is that the Packers have won games this year in both LA and Nashville, which were cities in which they have historically struggled. Packers 33, Seahawks 21.

Seattle is a pretty good team, but not a great team and certainly not the Super Bowl contender that the Packers have faced in previous trips to the PNW. Geno Smith is a solid quarterback the Seahawks have offensive weapons, but I have a better feeling about this one, especially since Seattle's primo running back Kenneth Walker likely won't go. Packers will score enough to win. Packers 28, Seahawks 20.

Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck (+7) vs. Minnesota Vikings I was very disappointed to see the Vikings fans boo Kirk last week. Kirk didn't trash the Vikings, and both sides simply moved on. The Vikings have a good chance to get right back in the mix for the NFC North given that the Lions are in a coin flip game at Buffalo. The Bears played the Vikings tough in Chicago, but this is going to be in Minnesota. As much as you would think that this is the stage for a classic Vikings letdown game, even I am not delusional to say that it will happen. Vikings 43, Bears Still Suck 21.

Da Bears got boat raced last week by a team that looked dead in the water yesterday. I would be very surprised to see the Bears put up much resistance on Monday night. Williams is going to be a problem in the future, but the Vikings will figure out ways to get to him this time and I think Sam Darnold is going to be shouting "show me the money" after this one. Vikings 35, Bears 17.

And now, time for some thoughts on the Hoodie going to coach in college. I certainly didn't see that coming. What I am going to be curious to see is how he handles recruiting and NIL, given that we haven't seen the Hoodie in the college ranks. The Tar Heels aren't the top football dogs in the ACC, but I think that it will be interesting to see how the Hoodie coaches college kids and he could get them to 10 wins. 

It's an interesting experiment to be sure. Basketball is king in Chapel Hill, so while there will be some pressure it shouldn't be onerous. The college game is quickly morphing into a quasi professional Wild West floating crap game and since everyone who plays wants to be in the NFL, having one of the most successful coaches in NFL history will get the attention of recruits. The ACC just got more interesting.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out.