orioles

This has been an odd season; I keep seeing spreads that should be an automatic points grab, but still find myself taking the favourite, and this is a case in point.

Coming off the ban, the Brady bunch have been so far ahead of everyone else that they already look a lock to win it all. I backed the Steelers and I've forgotten that £2 plunge a month ago.

If the Seattle defense was ripping it up and Wilson wasn't almost completely immobilised (notwithstanding a decent showing against the Bills) I'd look at the visitors more favourably, but the Pats' offense is functioning beautifully and while the defensive front is underwhelming (there's barely a pass rush to speak of) New England's secondary is a highly competent unit. The Seahawks need a run game, alas it's a mess.

Pick: Patriots -7.5 @ 2