The film focuses on Justin and Adrienne Snow and neighboring rancher Jack Payne, whose operations are among eight ranches affected by the expansion authorized by Congress in the December 2022 National Defense Authorization Act.

The documentary examines the economic challenges facing multigenerational ranching families and the consequences of losing grazing land that has supported their operations for decades. It also explores the relationship between privately owned ranch property, federal grazing permits, water rights, livestock, and investments in rangeland improvements.

“It’s not a question of if they’re going to take it; they’ve already taken it,” said Justin Snow. “We need to agree on fair compensation so we can relocate to land that will work for our family’s ranching business. If we don’t come to a fair agreement soon, we’ll be done in this business.”

The Snows contend that the Navy's compensation offers do not adequately account for the long-term economic losses associated with the withdrawal of grazing lands. The film explores their concerns about replacing grazing capacity, maintaining livestock operations, and preserving ranches for future generations.

“We didn’t speak out just to make one wrong right,” said Adrienne Snow. “We spoke out because family ranches like ours are disappearing, and most people, including the ones making these decisions, don’t understand what’s at stake or how steep the price is for families who are losing what took a lifetime to build.”

Former Nevada state Sen. James Settelmeyer also appears in the documentary, discussing the challenges of determining compensation for grazing losses extending over the 100-year federal land withdrawal.

The film addresses the Navy's stated need for expanded military training capabilities and national security, while examining the ranchers' concerns about the effects on their livelihoods. It also follows efforts to bring the compensation dispute to the attention of federal officials, including U.S. Sen. Jacky Rosen.

Fenced Out was produced by Consider It Done Productions and Launch Velocity Media, with Adrienne Snow serving as executive producer. John Cruz and Bryan Evans directed the documentary, which was written by Annie Burns.

The documentary also features Woody Worthington, Kelli Kelly, and Settelmeyer.

Watch the Fenced Out trailer: https://youtu.be/c5zqYpI2p4M?si=OhSUSIn9KIZ54_Z6

Related reporting: Read more about the Snow family's grazing losses and compensation dispute in the Great Basin Sun: https://www.thefallonpost.org/article/10350,fenced-out-fallon-ranchers-fight-for-their-family-s-future

Ayla is a nearly 3-year-old American pit bull terrier looking for a loving home. This spayed girl is housetrained, uses a doggy door, and doesn't try to escape the yard. She may pull on her leash at first but settles into walks. Ayla is cautious around new people, but treats can quickly win her friendship. She loves playing in water and considers herself a stuffed-toy surgeon, determined to remove every squeaker. Ayla does not do well with other dogs and would be happiest as the only dog in her new home.

Meet Tahoe and Babydoll

Tahoe and Babydoll are 3-year-old sisters looking for a loving home together. This bonded pair came to FAWG after their previous owner entered hospice care, leaving them facing a difficult adjustment.

Babydoll is the more outgoing sister. She enjoys being petted and is learning to ask for attention. Tahoe is more reserved and finds comfort in staying close to her sister.

Both enjoy playing and treats. They would do best in a quiet, patient home where they can adjust at their own pace. Their compatibility with dogs is unknown.

Both are spayed, vaccinated, and microchipped.

CCHS

Churchill County High School recognized students Oct. 22 for academic achievement and attendance during the spring 2026 semester. The school awarded 231 honor roll certificates to students who earned grade point averages of 3.5 or higher, including 71 ninth-graders, 65 10th-graders, and 95 11th-graders.

Eight students were recognized for perfect attendance: Rhett Beach, Bryce Debrie, Rocky Heater, Kenneth Managbanag, Shelia Miller, Emma Serna, Dillon Stacey, and Adan Roman Montes. The school congratulated the students on their accomplishments and encouraged them to continue their success.

CCMS

Churchill County Middle School students explored three-dimensional art in Art 2 by designing and constructing tunnel books. They used multiple layers to create depth and perspective in scenes viewed through each layer.

Students also celebrated positive choices by decorating Halloween-themed cookies during the Spooky Cookie Decorating Reward, part of the school’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program.

Numa

Students in Colleen Tutty’s fourth-grade class learned about the judicial process when Lane Mills, Chelsea Sanford, Wade Carner, and Sydney Barke of the Churchill County District Attorney’s Office visited their classroom Wednesday.

Using “Goldilocks and the Three Bears,” students participated in a mock trial to determine whether Goldilocks was innocent or guilty. They were sworn in as jurors, heard arguments from both sides, reviewed evidence, and listened to witness testimony. Superintendent Blake Cooper helped students weigh the evidence as they used inference and critical-thinking skills to reach a verdict.

The activity connected classroom lessons with an introduction to the judicial system.

E.C. Best

Students in Tracy Wagner’s class earn rewards for positive behavior through a program featuring creations made with a 3D printer Wagner received through DonorsChoose.

As part of the school’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program, students earn Bulldog Bucks for following the four Bs: Be Kind, Be Respectful, Be Responsible, and Be Safe. After collecting 15 Bulldog Bucks, students can exchange them for a 3D-printed item.

Available creations include Pokémon characters, dragons, glow-in-the-dark sharks, turtles, Bluey, and Stitch. The rewards give students an incentive to practice positive behavior.

Lahontan

First-graders in Olivia Lefort’s class spent a week learning about pumpkins, including their life cycle and the size of the world’s largest pumpkin.

The students concluded the lessons with a trip to Lattin Farms, where they visited the pumpkin patch and selected pumpkins of their own. The field trip connected their classroom learning with a fall tradition.

Veritas Preparatory School celebrated its annual Grandparents’ Day on Friday, Oct. 23, honoring the role grandparents play in students’ lives and sharing a glimpse of the school’s Christian education.

The morning began with grandparents and parents attending classes with students. Families saw classroom lessons firsthand, and in many cases, adults participated in the activities.

After class, families gathered at Parkside Bible Fellowship for student presentations. Students in fifth through eighth grades opened the program by performing “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee” on guitar.

Each class then gave a short presentation featuring classroom lessons or songs about grandparents. Mr. Springfield’s fourth-graders and Mrs. Felte’s third-graders presented a lesson on the Armor of God from Ephesians 6. Ms. Pustovrh’s fifth- and sixth-graders explained the symbolism of money. Younger students performed songs and recitations about the alphabet.

The program concluded with a salute to members of the armed services and a performance of the first-quarter school hymn, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.”

The celebration brought families together through classroom activities, music, and fellowship, reflecting the school’s emphasis on faith, family, and learning.

The time change marks the return to standard time, which will remain in effect until March 14, 2027.

Residents are also encouraged to use the time change as a reminder to check smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed.

As we launch this program, students will begin by taking a pretest to assess their current workplace and industrial knowledge and skills. This initial assessment will help establish a baseline as we explore how well our students are prepared to meet the demands of Nevada’s changing workforce.

What Is the NCRC?

The National Career Readiness Certificate is a nationally recognized credential designed to demonstrate essential workplace skills that employers value. The ACT WorkKeys assessments associated with the NCRC measure foundational skills that can help students prepare for employment, technical training, apprenticeships, and future career opportunities.

Why Does This Matter?

Today's students are preparing to enter a workforce that is constantly changing. Employers need individuals who can think critically, solve problems, interpret information, and apply their knowledge in real-world situations.

Through this pilot program, CCHS is taking another step toward connecting classroom learning with workforce expectations and helping students build skills that will benefit them beyond graduation.

Our goal is simple: prepare every student not just to graduate, but to be career-ready.

We look forward to learning from this pilot program and exploring how NCRC certifications can strengthen our Work-Based Learning and Career Pathways initiatives at Churchill County High School.

Numa Elementary School will host its Fall Book Fair and Family Literacy Night on Thursday, Nov. 5. The event will include a silent auction featuring themed gift baskets, with proceeds supporting educational opportunities for Numa students.

The school's parent-teacher organization is collecting donations for the baskets, with themes including game night, arts and crafts, cooking and baking, sports, and movies. Families wishing to contribute should submit donations by Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled for Friday, Nov. 6, at schools listed in the district newsletter. Families should check with their schools for specific schedules and information.

Lahontan Elementary School has also scheduled a kindergarten Pink Day for Nov. 5 as part of its classroom color activities.

The Churchill County Board of School Trustees will hold its next regular meeting Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 5:30 p.m. at the district office.

Information for Families

The district is reminding families that most school bus routes are full and waiting lists are in place. Parents who have not received confirmation of transportation should arrange alternate transportation until a seat becomes available. Families may complete the annual transportation application to be placed on the appropriate waiting list.

The district also continues to accept applications for free and reduced-price school meals. Families can apply through LINQ Connect at linqconnect.com, where they can also manage student meal accounts and make payments.

Parents can receive school announcements, classroom updates, event reminders, and other information through ParentSquare, the district's communication platform.

Additional information and school announcements are available through the Churchill County School District's online newsletters.

Hindi Marciniak of Empowered Ventures read first during the morning session, sharing “Red: A Crayon’s Story” by Michael Hall. The book follows a blue crayon mistakenly labeled red as it discovers its identity. Empowered Ventures helps women entrepreneurs gain visibility, education, connections, and opportunities.

Brad Dolan of the Churchill Fire Department followed with “No Dragons for Tea: Fire Safety for Kids (and Dragons).” The story turns a dragon’s flame-filled tea party into a fire safety lesson. After reading, Dolan showed children the inside of Engine 2, and Sparky stopped by to greet them.

Whitney Goligowski of Biggest Little Stories read first during the afternoon session, sharing “The Littlest Airplane.” Goligowski served six years in the Air Force as a boom operator, refueling aircraft in flight, and hosts the Biggest Little Stories open mic event in Reno. The rhyming picture book shows how even the smallest airplane can get the job done.

Anita Pepper, a public information officer with the Nevada Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety, followed with “Clifford Takes a Walk” by Norman Bridwell, a story about friendship and sharing. Pepper represented Zero Fatalities Nevada, which encourages safe driving to reduce deaths and serious injuries on the road.

Crystal Bowman and Jesse Morrow thanked the volunteers who read on Sundays throughout October, with special thanks to Spread the Word Nevada for supplying more than 100 books in English and Spanish to local children.

They also thanked Victoria Doehla for her help, the Churchill Fire Department and Sparky for teaching children about fire safety, and Banner Hospital emergency medical technicians for bringing an ambulance and answering questions.

Local business owners had an opportunity to showcase their services, meet potential customers, and make connections during the Small Business Expo hosted by the Fallon Chamber of Commerce on Oct. 21 at the Fallon Convention Center.

Held in conjunction with National Chamber of Commerce Day, the expo brought together businesses offering services ranging from real estate and business financing to sewing machine repairs and handmade products.

Representatives from Sierra Nevada Properties shared information about buying homes, managing properties, and renovating existing homes. The company also helps clients connect with licensed and insured vendors.

Rural Nevada Development Corporation, established in 1992, provides financing and other resources to help businesses start or expand. The nonprofit organization serves 15 rural Nevada counties and Native American tribes.

Among the exhibitors was Dana Hutchison, owner of O Sew Creative, who repairs sewing machines ranging from antique Singer models to long-arm quilting and embroidery machines. She also provides embroidery and sewing services for military uniforms.

Hutchison and her mother, Barbara, make small stuffed animals for children whose parents are deployed, adding a personal touch to the services offered by their business.

The expo gave visitors an opportunity to learn about businesses operating in the Fallon area while providing exhibitors a chance to introduce their services and connect with the community.

Helen and Mike McKnight celebrated the soft opening of La Mère Breads & Bakes at 1410 Cedar Drive in Fallon on Oct. 17.

The business, a member of the Chamber of Commerce, specializes in sourdough bread, cookies, and scones made with organic ingredients. The bakery bakes twice a week, and customers are encouraged to preorder to ensure their selections are available.

The soft opening also featured gluten-free desserts from Deep Roots Bake Co., owned by Helen Shaw. Offerings included Belgian chocolate cake, cookies, and doughnuts.

According to information provided for the opening, the bakery is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 3 to 5 p.m., or until sold out.

Clarity Game Nevada LLC purchased the property in April 2025 and undertook extensive renovations, including improvements to the heating and cooling systems, flooring, plumbing, kitchen, and bar.

Capone said the casino has 200 slot machines, more than half of which are new. Plans also include reopening the steakhouse early next year. In the meantime, the former restaurant space will be available for event rentals during the upcoming holiday season.

The renovation project involved contractors from Fallon and Fernley. Capone thanked the local businesses that helped complete the work, including Just In Time Heating and Air LLC, which installed heating and cooling systems during the first 60 days of ownership.

Kent's Supply provided hardware and materials needed throughout the renovation, while Nevada Flooring replaced the carpeting and Quality Tile completed tile work throughout the building.

CJ Plumbing repaired and updated sewer lines and added hot-water access to the bar. Oasis Painting and Handyman repainted the building's interior.

Capone said the renovated kitchen and bar now meet applicable regulations.

The luncheon also included a look at Stockman's history, presented by Vaughna Bendickson, co-owner of Blue Legacy Property Solutions.

According to Bendickson, the business opened July 4, 1955, as Childers' Drive-Through under owner Al Childers. She said Wayne Whitmore purchased the property in 1965.

Bendickson also shared her family's connection to the business. Her in-laws, Ken and Glenda Bendickson, were among the property's owners beginning in 1969.

She recalled several hamburgers served during that period, including the Haymaker, Westward Hoe and Moonlighter.

More than 70 years after its beginnings as a drive-through, Stockman's remains part of Fallon's business community, with renovations completed and plans underway for the return of its steakhouse.

Saul Diosdado-Gonzalez, in state custody on two Lander County cases, appeared for sentencing on two felony counts of Making, Uttering, or Possessing with Intent to Utter a Fictitious Bill, Note, or Check.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Chelsea Sanford described the offense as “a crime of opportunity and strategy.” She explained that a local business had provided check-cashing services for its customers but discontinued the service because of incidents such as this one, in which Diosdado-Gonzalez cashed a forged paycheck.

Sanford requested $2,285.28 in restitution and noted that it had not been paid. “We need to send a message to this defendant that this will not be tolerated in our community,” she said. The state requested consecutive sentences of 12-34 months in prison. Sanford did not request extradition costs because Diosdado-Gonzalez was indigent.

Churchill County Alternate Public Defender Wright Noel told the court that his client would be deported, “and I think prolonging the time of his stay in Nevada does nothing to help him or to help the State of Nevada.” Noel requested two concurrent sentences of 12-30 months in prison, also to run concurrently with the Lander County sentences.

Speaking through an interpreter, Diosdado-Gonzalez apologized to the court.

“More than anything I would like to offer an apology for what I did … From the bottom of my heart, I want to ask for forgiveness for those … which I should not have done.”

He explained that his behavior changed when he was using drugs. “But honestly, I am not like that. I love my family. I like to work … forgive me; from the bottom of my heart.”

Judge Stockard imposed two sentences of 12-40 months in prison, to run concurrently with each other but consecutively to the Lander County sentences. Diosdado-Gonzalez was also ordered to pay $2,285.28 in restitution.

LaTanya Karimu Stiner, also known as Tanya Ruth Stiner, pleaded not guilty to Embezzlement of $25,000 to Less Than $100,000, a Category B Felony punishable by 1-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Judge Stockard set trial for May 26-28, 2027.

Nicholas Andrew Thompson pleaded guilty to Non-Support of a Spouse, Former Spouse, or a Child, a Category C Felony punishable by 1-5 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Pursuant to plea negotiations, Judge Stockard continued sentencing to Nov. 23, 2027, to allow Thompson time to demonstrate that he can and will make appropriate child support payments.

Nancy Griffiths failed to appear for her scheduled arraignment.

The defense requested a one-week continuance, while the state asked for a bench warrant. Court Services reported that Griffiths had a history of several failures to appear.

Judge Stockard issued a $5,000 cash-only bench warrant and set a status hearing for Oct. 27.

Mario Alberto Antunez-Morales appeared for arraignment on Abuse, Neglect, or Endangerment of a Child Not Causing Substantial Bodily or Mental Harm, a Gross Misdemeanor punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.

Antunez-Morales initially pleaded guilty. However, after the factual basis for the charge was presented, Judge Stockard asked whether the allegations accurately described his actions. Antunez-Morales said they did not.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Chelsea Sanford told the court that the state would file an amended information containing multiple counts of Category B Felony Child Abuse.

Judge Stockard continued the arraignment to Oct. 27 to address the amended information.

Dakota Lee Hampton pleaded guilty to two gross misdemeanor charges: Indecent or Obscene Exposure and Attempt to Capture an Image of a Private Area of Another Person. Each charge is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.

Pursuant to plea negotiations, sentencing on the Indecent or Obscene Exposure charge was set for Oct. 19, 2027. On the charge of Attempt to Capture an Image of a Private Area of Another Person, Hampton was provisionally placed in the Western Nevada Regional Drug Court, with sentencing set for Nov. 3.

Judge Stockard placed Hampton on Court Services supervision, requiring daily check-ins and random testing.

Autumn Rae Yungk pleaded guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine), a Category E Felony punishable by 1-4 years in prison.

Judge Stockard ordered a presentence investigation (PSI) and set sentencing for Dec. 15.

Damariz Lizveth Menchaca pleaded not guilty to Battery Causing Substantial Bodily Harm, a Category C Felony punishable by 1-5 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Menchaca waived her right to a speedy trial, and Judge Stockard set a jury trial for Feb. 3-5, 2027.

A criminal settlement conference was set for Dec. 18. The conference allows the prosecution and defense to explore a possible resolution with the assistance of a senior district court judge from another jurisdiction. If no agreement is reached, the case will proceed to jury trial.

Lisa Renae Johnson pleaded guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine), First or Second Offense, a Category E Felony punishable by 1-4 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000 with mandatory probation.

Senior Deputy Public Defender Jeff Weed told the court that his client's only criminal history was a DUI from 1990. Weed requested a minimum suspended sentence of 12-32 months in prison.

Judge Stockard granted probation on a suspended sentence of 12-32 months in prison.

Christopher David Middleton pleaded guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance, First or Second Offense, a Category E Felony punishable by 1-4 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

Churchill County Alternate Public Defender Wright Noel reminded the court that Middleton was a co-defendant of Lisa Johnson, who also appeared for sentencing that day. Noel said his client had taken responsibility for the drugs and requested a minimum suspended sentence with probation.

Middleton told Judge Stockard that he and his girlfriend were passing through Fallon while traveling from California to Washington and that he was unaware of Nevada's laws.

Judge Stockard granted probation on a suspended sentence of 12-36 months in prison and ordered Middleton to obtain a substance abuse evaluation.

Dylan James Irwin Schostag, in custody, pleaded guilty to Abuse, Neglect, or Endangerment of a Child, a Category B Felony punishable by 2-20 years in prison.

Schostag must undergo a psychological risk assessment and be determined not to be at high risk of reoffending before probation can be considered.

Judge Stockard ordered a presentence investigation report and set sentencing for Jan. 12, 2027.

In late June, Chiaratti and his daughter were involved in a collision with a semitruck hauling a wide load while traveling from Fallon to Middlegate. Chiaratti suffered serious injuries that required multiple medical procedures and several months of hospitalization. He has since returned to his home in Middlegate, where he previously worked as one of the main cooks at Middlegate Station.

Chiaratti grew up in Gabbs and graduated from Gabbs High School, where his mother, Georgene Chiaratti, continues to work.

Connie Stinson, who manages the Gabbs Community Library, organized the fundraiser with help from Charity Brown, a former PTO president with experience organizing merchant bingo events. The two contacted businesses and community members in Gabbs and Fallon for prize donations.

Organizers were uncertain how many people would attend, so they prepared the library to accommodate approximately 50 guests. The fundraiser was promoted through flyers, social media, and The Fallon Post.

At least 30 people attended, including volunteers. Stinson was moved to tears by the community’s response.

The evening featured two bingo games. Stinson and Derrick’s father, Tim Chiaratti, oversaw a children’s junk food bingo game, while Charity Brown, Georgene Chiaratti, and Shania Brown led the main game.

Local businesses and individuals donated more than 50 prizes for the fundraiser.

As the evening ended, Georgene Chiaratti expressed her gratitude to those who supported her family.

“We can’t thank you all enough for tonight,” she said.

The Gabbs Community Library and the Chiaratti family thanked everyone who attended, volunteered, donated prizes, or helped promote the event. The more than $700 raised will help support Chiaratti during his recovery.

Fundraiser Contributors

The following individuals, businesses, and organizations contributed prizes or other support:

Lee Green (R & D’s Bar), Charity Brown (Scentsy and other donations), Connie Stinson, Gabbs Community Library, Leslie Green, Robert Courtney, Krystal Sprague, Rachel Dahl (RANGE Media Co.), Christina Rodarte, Middlegate Station, Lahontan Valley Veterinary Clinic, Archie Wood (Battle Born Tattoo), Frey’s Ranch, JD Fenison, Stephanie Winder (Myles of Memories), Ivoree Dummar (Nails by Ivoree), Annette and Chris Zumwalt (Sudden Impact Pistol Grips), Momma’s Meat Company, Fallon Theatre, Shania Brown Design, Lucy Carnahan, Financial Horizons Credit Union, Samantha Horning, Michelle Gabiola-Rogers, Samantha Larson, Darcie Spero (Battle Born Broncs), Ava Case, Churchill Armory, Vonda Norcutt, and 7 Sisters Co.

The program provides fuel gift cards to eligible residents to help offset the cost of traveling to medical appointments and treatments.

Churchill County residents undergoing cancer treatment may request assistance by emailing rhiibel@gmail.com. Assistance is based on eligibility and demonstrated need.

Donations to support Fuel the Fight are welcome. For more information about the program or how to contribute, contact a Fallon Lions Club member.

St. John's Lutheran Church will host its annual Holiday Craft Fair on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 6-7, at 1170 S. Taylor St. The fair will be open from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

The Nevada Community Alliance will host its Christmas Craft Fair on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 13-14, at E.C. Best Elementary School, 750 E. Williams Ave. Hours are noon to 6 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. The event will feature local vendors and holiday shopping.

For information about the Nevada Community Alliance fair, call 775-315-6571 or visit NevadaCommunityAlliance.com.

The presentation is designed to help participants improve their understanding of personal finances.

The workshop is part of the library’s free November programming.

For additional information, contact the Churchill County Library at 775-423-7581.

Tony

Oh, my goodness, my college picks were solid last week, going an impressive 3-0, all winning easily. We won’t talk about the NFL. There is an interesting slate of games this week in both college and the NFL. Remember, please don’t listen to me and lose your money.

Florida vs. Georgia (-10.5): The world’s largest cocktail party is back, just not in Jacksonville. Florida is one of the biggest wild cards this season. Play well one week, look like crap another. Georgia has its sights set on a national championship. Georgia 38, Florida 20

Nevada (+22.5) at UCLA: N-E-V-A-D-A, Nevada! Look at the boys up on North Virginia Street. There are signs of life for the Wolf Pack. UCLA is ranked No. 7 in the nation and has been one of the biggest surprises of the season under first-year head coach Bob Chesney. The weather could be iffy. UCLA 31, Nevada 21

Northwestern (+3.5) at Oregon: What was set to be one of Oregon’s best teams has cratered into a season to forget. Oregon’s season was over when Dante Moore was hurt on the brutal hit against USC in September. It has been disfunction ever since. The nerds go into Eugene and beat the party school. Northwestern 28, Oregon 21

Cardinals at Cowboys (-7.5): How bout them Cowboys! Are they fully back? We will see. However, the Cardinals are the Cardinals and Dallas should easily win. One of these days, the Cowboys’ defense will actually play up to their ability. Just run the ball. Meanwhile, Arizona is the same old story. Cowboys 31, Cardinals 13

Bears at Seahawks (-3.5): This very well could be a preview of the NFC Championship. These are two of the better teams in the NFL. The Bears’ Caleb Williams is the real deal at QB. Seattle is one of the toughest places to play and their defense is elite. If this game was in Chicago, it could be the opposite outcome. Seahawks 24, Bears 20

Ravens at Bills (-3.5): Will the real Baltimore Ravens team please raise your hand. What is going on? Where is Lamar Jackson? Do you play him? Is he completely healthy? We have no answers to those questions. The Bills are the better team and playing at home. Bills 28, Ravens 17

Last week

College: 3-0

NFL: 0-3

Season

College: 11-16

NFL: 7-12-1

Robert

East Carolina (-4 ½) over Temple: After Temple lost 38-31 to Charlotte two weeks ago, Temple head coach Casey Keller called it the single most embarrassing game of his career. Charlotte was 0-6 and had scored 55 points in five games against FBS opponents, averaging 217 yards per game, but got 449 yards and those 38 points against Temple. Maybe the Temple players are equally as embarrassed, but that defense also gave up 505 yards the week before to UConn and 536 to Toledo. East Carolina has blown leads and lost in overtime two consecutive weeks. I’m not high on the work of new offensive coordinator Jordan Davis so far, but I am high on the leadership of head coach Blake Harrell and I believe the Pirates play their best game of the season here. 

San Diego St. (-2 ½) over Washington St.: Freshman QB Stone Saunders got his first start last week and the Aztecs scored 49 points in a 56-49 loss to Colorado St. So why am I laying 2 ½ with a team that just gave up 56 points? Partly because, if you discard a game against Duquesne, Washington State hasn’t scored 56 points combined in any two games this season. Running back Lucky Sutton is back for the Aztecs after missing a couple games; youngster Javion Kinnard has emerged as a good RB2 and now that the Aztecs found someone who can complete a pass, I think they’re undervalued. The Cougars don’t run or pass well and the Aztecs will keep them winless against FBS opponents.  

Fresno St. (+6) over Oregon St.: This very well could be a fool’s errand, betting against a 5-2 Oregon St. team that is 6-1 against the spread, with the only non-cover coming by a half-point against Washington St. I really like Oregon St. coach Jamarcus Shepherd, and it’s possible they’re just going to steamroll the rest of the new Pac-12, at least until they run into Boise St. in a couple of weeks. But the best team they’ve beaten is Montana, and the forecast calls for rain Saturday night in Fresno. QB Braden Atkinson had astounding numbers as a freshman last year at Mercer and even better this year at OSU, but if he can do it in the rain in a hostile road setting and win by a TD or more, then I’ll tip my cap.

Lions (-3 ½) over Vikings: Just like almost everyone expected, the last unbeaten team is the one with Kyler Murray at quarterback. Of course, they’re only 24^th in the NFL in scoring and 29^th in yards per game, but they’ve done it by allowing only 12 points per game. But nothing stays the same in the NFL for long. An early Lions’ score, a couple of Kyler Murray interceptions, and nobody is undefeated anymore.

Raiders (+1 ½) over Jets: Coming off of four consecutive losses, the Raiders have a fever, and the cure is more cowbell. Oops, sorry, I mean the cure is facing the Jets. Got a little carried away there watching some old YouTube videos. Even in a couple of their defeats, the Raiders have been feisty, and facing the feeble Jets offense should be just what the Raiders need to get back in the W column.

Chiefs (-1) at Broncos: The Chiefs got smacked by a Seahawks team that had lost two consecutive games and was playing in front of its frenzied 12s in prime time. But now they’re back in the AFC West they have dominated until Mahomes’ injury wrecked last season. 

Last Week

College: 2-1

NFL: 2-0-1

Season

College: 15-12

NFL: 14-6-1