ESPN's NFL Live Crew Makes Unanimous Texans Pick, Stirring Memories of Eagles Blunder
Mina Kimes, Ryan Clark, Hannah Storm, Dan Orlovsky, and Marcus Spears have spoken. The entire ESPN NFL Live panel has picked the Houston Texans to defeat the New England Patriots in their upcoming AFC Divisional Round clash.
This unanimous decision immediately sparked memories of a similar scenario. Just weeks ago, the same crew all chose the Philadelphia Eagles to beat the San Francisco 49ers. The result was a painful 19-23 loss for Philadelphia.
Fans React with Skepticism and Humor Online
Cybercitizens wasted no time sharing their thoughts on social media platform X. Many viewed the panel's unanimous vote as a potential bad omen for Houston.
"No, not with Nico Collins out. I know Houston's D is good, but I don't think they're gonna beat the pats," declared one user, highlighting the absence of Texans wide receiver Nico Collins. Collins is officially out with a concussion and did not practice all week. Christian Kirk will step into the WR1 role.
Another fan pointed to the unusual alliance between two famously opposing analysts. "It's a bad omen when Dan Orlovsky and Ryan Clark are on the same side," they commented, referencing the pair's history of fiery debates.
A third user called the unanimous pick "the ultimate bulletin board material for an opponent," suggesting it could motivate the Patriots. Meanwhile, a fourth simply shared a screenshot of the crew's failed Eagles prediction with the caption, "Remember this?"
Patriots Supporters See Opportunity in Disbelief
Several fans believe the lack of faith in New England could work in the Patriots' favor. One user noted, "The full panel sweep is the ultimate kiss of death in this league. Patriots being 3-point favorites at home and nobody taking them is wild."
They added that even without legendary coach Bill Belichick, the "'nobody believes in us' energy in Foxborough is gonna be through the roof now," potentially fueled by Stefon Diggs's fiery leadership.
Another supporter predicted a strong performance from MVP-candidate Drake Maye. "31-17 Pats, Texans gonna get exposed on defense by the MVP," they wrote confidently.
Some reactions were more humorous. One user joked, "And they get paid for this. Go pats," while another simply stated, "Pats about to make 'em pay for that love."
A History of Unanimous Picks Going Wrong
The panel's recent track record adds weight to fan skepticism. Their unanimous selection of the Eagles over the 49ers proved incorrect, ending in a four-point defeat. This precedent has many wondering if history will repeat itself at Gillette Stadium.
Will the CJ Stroud-led Texans defy the potential curse of the unanimous pick? Or will Drake Maye, Stefon Diggs, and a motivated Patriots defense capitalize on the perceived slight? The answer will unfold on the gridiron this Sunday.
For now, the ESPN crew's bold prediction has certainly provided ample bulletin board material and ignited a lively debate across the football world.
