It’s Friday and there’s no IndyCar this weekend. So here are my NFL picks for Week 4. I’m taking all bets in the comments section. But bet against me at your own risk.

I’m writing this edition of Lindypendent Thoughts listening to the Justin Timberlake version of “Hallelujah” — because it seems the most fitting song for Hobbson’s hiatus. That – and William Rast was just announced as primary sponsor for an Indy Lights car.

  HAPPY NEW YEAR!! 2010 … the Year of the Tiger. I’m actually more excited for this year than any of my previous 26. I have a good feeling about it. Okay fine … any of my previous 28. Happy now? Sigh … 29. Shut up. 

Let’s get right to this week’s picks. Favored team first, the spread in parentheses, and who I’m picking in bold. Me against Hobbson, loser gets filled with shame (and also donates $20 to the Lance Armstrong Foundation). School is now in session. Let the embarrassment begin.

This week, a limited crew is in Japan for IndyCar and I am not. Which is to say, I’m here preparing for the BYU/FSU football game and (hopefully) in the good graces of the people of Provo, Utah. My fingers are crossed, at least. After all, I’m abstaining from caffeine. And wine.

First things first: I must wish Bob Jenkins a big “Happy Birthday!” Each and everytime we’re on a conference call — or in the TV compound, or testing our microphones, sometimes even during commercial – we all say, “Hey! Happy birthday, Bob!” Although I’m not terribly sure why. And today, it really is his birthday. I think. Throws me off [...]

The incomparable Lindy Thackston shares her race-related — and race-unrelated — thoughts every Friday in these here parts. Such is the wonderful, productive power of blackmail. Lindy … the Pagoda is yours.   Predicted winner: Scott Dixon. He’s starting sixth, but he’s repeatedly been a force to be reckoned with on the ovals. He’s finished second [...]