Looks like I have some catching up to do. It’s still early in the season, but no risk = no reward. So let’s get started. Balance after week 1 remains at $1000.

Browns (+3.5) at Bengals

I don’t like either team, frankly, but at least the Browns have a couple of pieces of the puzzle in place. A great offensive lineman and some high-caliber weapons, plus Derek Anderson fighting for his job (and Brady Quinn ready to take it in case he continues to suck) leads me to put $150 on the Browns.

49ers (+5.5) at Saints

Call me crazy, but the 49ers are improving. This O’Sullivan kid may not blow the doors off the statheads, but thus far he’s been a decent quarterback. Even before Jeremy Shockey went down, the Saints were struggling. Reggie Bush still isn’t being utilized properly, and the defense is still full of holes. $100 on the 49ers.

Vikings (+3) at Flaming Thumbtacks

The Flaming Thumbtacks are the best team in the AFC right now. Yep, a Kerry Collins-led team is better than the Patriots, Colts and Chargers. Gus Frerotte is certainly an upgrade over Tarvaris Jackson (excuse my language), but he isn’t going to beat this defense on the road. $150 on the Flaming Thumbtacks.

Bills (-8) at Rams

Is there any room left on the Bills wagon? If not, I’ll just make my own and call it the “holy god the Rams are awful” wagon. I don’t think the Bills are as good as their record indicates, but I do think the Rams are every bit as atrocious as they’ve looked. $100 on the Bills.

Ravens (+5) at Steelers

Ben, meet the guys. This is Ray, Bart, Haloti, Trevor and Terrell. Guys, this is Ben. Don’t worry about the five fat dudes in front of him. They might look like they’ll do something to you, but they won’t. $150 on the Ravens.