in NFL Free Picks

Everyone and their dog had awful picks last week and I was no exception. It is disheartening, without doubt, but, no matter what the results are, I am going to stay the course. There will be no cutting and running from me, no way. I don't care what public opinion is, I will remain steadfast in my incorrect and often harmful ways, consequences be damned. Though my supporters have dwindled to a handful of obvious lunatics and most of the world despises everything I stand for, laughing at me behind my back and calling me awful names, I shall muster the forces at my disposal and plow on. Forget the thumpin I took last week, here are this week's winning picks:

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS +4.5 AT PITTSBURGH STEELERS -4.5

I am stunned to see the Steelers favored at anything right now. Especially with the way the Saints are playing this year, which is inspiring, to say the least. On the road, at home, in a pick-up game...anything...the Steelers bite. Their fortunes have fallen as if they were the Republicans of football, and I see no reversal of fortune in sight. God help them.

PREDICTION: Saints to cover

ST. LOUIS RAMS -3 AT SEATTLE SEAHAWKS +3

Is the Super Bowl loser hangover for real? This is the deciding game, I believe, for the Hawks and they should rise to the occasion. With a field goal given to them at home, this seems like a sure bet in what should be a very close game.

PREDICTION: Seahawks to cover

CHICAGO BEARS Pick AT NEW YORK GIANTS Pick

These Giants are for real, folks. So are the Bears, though. With the injuries to the Giants looming like a dark cloud over this NFC battle, I have to think the rest of the team will win on Sunday night and make their case for the best team in the conference. Last week, they seemed to believe their own hype. No more. The pass rush will be the difference here in favor of the Bears.

PREDICTION: Bears to win

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS +9.5 AT CAROLINA PANTHERS -9.5

Logic would dictate that the Buccaneers are going down this week because the Panthers usually get stronger as the season progresses. You've seen how logic has treated me thus far this NFL season. I am changing tactics mid-stride here and I am taking the Bucs to cover this large spread.

PREDICTION: Buccaneers to cover

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Blake Butterfeild is a freelance columnist and regular contributor to the BetUS.com Locker room.