NFL Bargain Bets: Week 6
October 9th 2008
by Old Man Winner

N.Y. Giants (-8) at Cleveland Browns 

Talent, Toughness, and Trend!

Yes, I hate giving points on the road. But, if any team has shown that they can excel on the road, it's the Giants.

They have far superior talent - at every skill position. Manning has been playing with great confidence and the 2007 Derrick Anderson has been locked away in a time capsule somewhere. "Earth, Wind, and Fire," as the Giants trio of running backs has been tabbed, has been nothing less than spectacular thus far. Jamal Lewis, on the other hand, must be playing in an even numbered year, cuz he looks heavy and slow. And, finally, at receiver, Burress, having only played three games, has still outscored Braylon Edwards who hasn't caught more than 3 balls in any one game or put up more than 32 yards. The Giants clearly have more talent.

Toughness is what overcomes road games. The Giants are tough. The Browns won last year on finesse play. Finesse can come an go, but toughness sticks. Even after the loss of key defensive lineman this year (Strahan & Umenyiora), the Giants lines on both side of the ball are tough. They have run blocking extremely well - witness the Giants at the top of the league in average rushing yards per game! However, they have also consistently given Manning time to throw the ball down the field. On defense their pressure has been good - often using just their front four to provide a push and allowing their backers to drop into coverage. The Giants clearly have more toughness.

As you know the 'Mo' is important in the NFL. Like in boxing, the fighter who struts into the ring knowing he is better and stronger than his competitor, usually wins. This attitude literally translates into a self-fulfilling prophecy. Guess who has the Mo in this game folks? The Giants clearly have more trend in their favor.

Don't get worried when the Browns come out and compete in the first half. However, I expect the adrenaline to wear off and the toughness of the Giants takeover this game about the middle of the 3rd quarter when they will begin to dominate.

Giants by 13.


Bargain Bets 2008 Record:  4-1