The Money Round

My apologies for the recent lack of activity, but I've been locked away furiously studying NFL statistics and trends. You think it's easy picking weekly upsets? This is a serious job, performed by serious people. OK, maybe not. Anyway, my crack team of advisers is helping me get ready for the last few weeks of this bizarre but compelling season. I don't want to toot my own horn, but this feels like the week I achieve perfection. So ladies and gentlemen, I present "the money round:"

• San Francisco over Tampa Bay: Who would have dreamed that a third-string quarterback could save Mike Singletary's season. Troy Smith has the 49ers back on track, eliminating many of the mistakes of his predecessors. Despite an embarrassing 0-5 start, the Niners are back in the playoff hunt. A win over the Bucs today will get them one step closer.
• NY Giants over Philadelphia: Mike Vick has to come back to Earth sooner or later. I pick sooner, and I think the Giants athletic front four will frustrate and harass the Comeback Kid. Look for Eli and company to control the clock and the game with a balanced attack.