Here we are at the midway point of the NFL season, and the Sports Guy needs to make a move soon to catch the Sports Dog.

Bill vs. Bailey

Seems like everybody thinks they can handicap NFL games, so Page 2 has decided to turn to its two experts in the field of prognostication. Each week we'll have Page 2 columnist Bill Simmons, the Sports Guy, go head-to-head with Bailey the Sports Dog. Simmons is a die-hard Boston sports nut who represents the common fan. Bailey is a Samoyed husky-black Labrador cross with a nose for pigskin. He's lived in Colorado, Chicago and Seattle while loyally following college and pro football for the past 14 years. Each week, Bill and Bailey will select their four best choices against the spread. We'll also keep a running score throughout the season. Simmons will use his extensive football knowledge, the Internet and key newspapers to come up with his can't-miss picks. Bailey will choose between two dog treats representing teams in each matchup. Of course, these are only predictions and not recommendations for wagering.

Bailey the Sports Dog can smell the playoffs -- if there were such a thing for pigskin prognosticators -- or at least more treats if he keeps up his winning pace.