Against the Odds - Week 11 Nov 14, 2008

Vinnie's picking an AFC team and an NFC team, one on the road and one at home, an underdog and a favorite. Finally another four-star pick after a couple weeks of lukewarm bets.

San Diego @ Pittsburgh (-4.5): Philip Rivers has been playing well, LT has not. They'll be put to the test in Heinz Field, and my bet's on the Steelers. Willie Parker and Mewelde Moore match up favorably. Ben Roethlisberger need only play adequate football to exploit San Diego's porous pass defense. It's the Steelers defense that we can count on most, though, to cover the spread. You better believe the loser of this game will be looking over its shoulder.

        Gimme Pittsburgh minus the points.

Detroit @ Carolina (-14.5):  Yes, I realize the Panthers are one of the better teams in the league right now, while the Lions may well go winless. And making matters worse for Detroit's already horrendous defense, both starting defensive ends are ruled out. And there's little to stop Carolina's defense from harassing Daunte Culpepper constantly. But it's difficult to accurately predict when any NFL team is going to beat its opponent by more than two touchdowns, especially when the underdog is as desperate to win as the Lions.

      Gimme Detroit plus the points.