English Premier League Predictions: Week 28 (2/26-3/1)

I've been busy this week, so I didn't have time to put together my power rankings (Arsenal continue to inch closer to United at the top). Still, I have the predictions for the week. Let me know what you think.

MATCH OF THE WEEK

Chelsea 1 Manchester United 0: I admit it. This pick has a little bias. Look at it though! United had a tough draw in the Champions League on Wednesday, they play on Saturday, and they are going on the road. Chelsea took care of their Champions League match, have the weekend off, and they are inviting United into Stamford Bridge. To me, it looks like things are adding up for a Chelsea victory. They haven't been in form for a majority of the season, but if they defeat Manchester United twice, they will only have to make up six points in their other ten matches (and drastically help Arsenal). If Chelsea are to make a serious run at the top, a win this week is necessary, and I think this do or die attitude will light a fire under the Blues at home.

OTHER MATCHES

Aston Villa 2 Blackburn 1: After a good run of form, Aston Villa have taken a small step backward. They haven't won in February, and it would be a great finish to the month if they are victorious. Blackburn have only won twice on the road since October, and I don't think this weekend will change anything.

Everton 1 Sunderland 0: Both teams are reeling, but Everton should be able to build off an F.A. Cup victory that eliminated Chelsea. Sunderland have now dropped three in a row, and I don't think things are going to get much better for them. Gyan is trying his best, but at times, it looks like he's all alone up top. If Sunderland don't fix that, their fall will continue.

Newcastle United 3 Bolton 1: Bolton have only won twice away from home this year. I think that's enough to reason why Newcastle are going to win this match. Factor in Newcastle's inspired play at St. James' Park (four matches of four-plus goals), and I think this could be a blowout.

Wigan Athletic 1 Manchester United 2: This just screams trap game. Manchester United can't let it happen. Wigan will be at home, against the top team, fighting to avoid relegation. Meanwhile, United will be licking its wounds after a rough visit to Marseilles on Wednesday, could overlook a low team, and be looking forward to a big showdown at Stamford Bridge. Despite their road woes, United should win this game. Key word: Should.

Wolves 1 Blackpool 0: I know this looks like a low-scoring game for a Blackpool match, but they will be on short rest and without Captain Charlie Adam (yellow card accumulation suspension). Consequently, I think Wolves should be able to slow down the match and prevent Blackpool from playing their free-flowing game. If Wolves can manage this, they will find themselves victorious at home.

West Ham United 1 Liverpool 3: This may seem like the obvious choice, which is why I was reluctant to pick the Reds. Although they have 14 points in their last six matches, they went winless in 10 of their first 11 road matches. I understand that it is a new-look team, but don't be surprised if the Hammers steal a draw.

Manchester City 2 Fulham 1: I seem to be back and forth every week on Manchester City. One week, they're actually legit. Next week, they are pretenders that are taking advantage of the extra match. No more talk of City. They are too tough to explain. Last time out, Fulham held tough against Chelsea, and they should have stolen three points at Craven Cottage (Dempsey missed a PK in stoppage time). While they are a different team at home, Fulham should still put up a good fight this weekend. That being said, it is much too tough for me to bet against Carlos Tevez.

Stoke City 2 West Bromwich Albion 1: West Brom are struggling. Big time. They have been outscored 10-0 in their last four road matches, and they haven't looked competitive. The one goal I have is more out of hope that Odemwingie scores to help my fantasy team. If Stoke City play their game, they should roll.

Last Week: 7-1-6 (W-L-D)

Season: 111-65-62 (W-L-D)

Thanks for stopping by. Hopefully, I'll have enough time to put together my power rankings for next week, but we will just have to wait and see. Let me know what you think.