Professional Football Wrap-Up

 

Injuries, Injuries, Injuries ... that sums of the week.  The End!  Ok, so I will include more, but that really was it.

Game of the Week

New England Patriots 29 Buffalo Bills 26.  Several games could qualify here, like the Chiefs over the Raiders in a battle of AFC West undefeateds, but the resurgence of the Patriots, maybe not to Super Bowl level like last year, but to a highly competitive level really is what puts this game over the top.  Nobody was surprised that Kansas City won on the road, but New England's victory is incredibly important not just for the Patriots and their fans, but for fans of the NFL in general who thought Buffalo was going to run roughshod over its division.

Best Team Performance

Chicago Bears.  Atlanta's stomping of New Orleans on Monday night was incredibly impressive, but check out these numbers:  (1) Jets gained only 178 yards total; (2) The Bears stopped the Jets on third down 7 times out of 7, (3) Chicago Bears possessed the ball for 42 minutes and 15 seconds; and (4) The Bears DID NOT PUNT!

Least Impressive Team Performance

Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  Tampa Bay hosted a bad Green Bay Packers team, and proceeded to lose 17-14.  The Jets and Dolphins were also contender here.

 

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Offense)

Tetairoa McMillan, WR - Carolina Panthers.  With Carolina running without Jalen Coker and Xavier Legette, its two other starting receivers, McMillan needed to step up - and he did.  14 catches for 192 yards and 2 TDs as Carolina defeated Detroit 32-26.  Kenneth Walker's 177 yards on 22 carries merits mention as well, with 2 TDs added-on.  Joe Burrow did throw for 428 yards, but his team lost, and he only threw 1 TD against 2 INTs.  In fact, the four highest passing yardage totals went to quarterbacks whose teams lost.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Defense)

Jacob Rodriguez, LB - Miami Dolphins.  Rodriguez had 18 total tackles in the game - 9 solo tackles and 9 assists, in the Dolphins 15-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Special Teams)

Will Reichard, K - Minnesota Vikings.  Reichard went 5-5 on Field Goals, the second time this year that he accounted for every single point scored by the Vikings.  

Most Impressive Team Performance (Premier League)

International Break.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Premier League)

International Break.

Goat of the Week

D'Andre Swift, RB - Chicago Bears.  Swift's fumble did not cost his team the game or anything, but he was benched, and in his stead Kyle Monangai had 30 rushes for 146 yards and 2 TDs.  This backfield is dangerously close to being a platoon, as this was Swift's second lost fumble of the season.

Goat of the Week (Premier League)

International Break.

Breakthrough Performance

Jacob Rodriguez, LB - Miami Dolphins.  Already stated above, Rodriguez had 18 tackles in the game against Minnesota.  We are witnessing the emergence of a tackling superstar.

Finally

 

Bayshul Tuten, RB - Jacksonville Jaguars.  Although he will never likely be a "bell-cow" back, especially with Trevor Lawrence throwing the ball, but his 17 carries for 73 yards, is a start for the Jaguars to make a legitimate-enough running presence to be a balnaced offensive attack.

Impact Injury

Lamar Jackson, QB - Baltimore Ravens.  It could be J'Marr Chase, but Cincinnati can get by without Chase way better than the Ravens can survive without Jackson.

Team Rising

Atlanta Falcons.  Such a different team with Michael Penix, Jr. at quarterback.  They have won two games in a row, scoring 35 and 45!

Team Falling

Houston Texans.  Even if we were to believe the statistical metrics that show Houston as a To-10 team in the league, the Texans are still 0-4, and it would take two minor miracles (or 1 major miracle) for them to make the playoffs at this point.

Best Teams

(All teams will be ranked by record, even if teams with more losses may be better than a team with fewer losses, since Bill Parcells always said that you are what your record says.  The inverse is true for the Worst Teams rankings.) (Yes, I know that you could have a worse record and be better, but we are working off record.)

1. San Francisco 49ers (4-0)

2. Kansas City Chiefs (5-0)

3. Minnesota Vikings (4-0)

4.  Buffalo Bills (3-1)

5. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-1)

Worst Teams

(All winless teams will be ranked here until all teams have at least 1 win, then I will rank them based upon which teams I think are the worst, regardless of record.)

32. Tennessee Titans (0-4)

31.  Miami Dolphins (0-4)

30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-4)

29. Los Angeles Chargers (0-4)

28. Houston Texans (0-4)

Middle Teams

15. Los Angeles Rams (2-2)
16. New England Patriots (2-2)

17. Cincinnati Bengals (2-2)
18. Philadelphia Eagles (2-2)

Last Week's Trivia Question/Answer

Which franchise drafted two Hall of Fame quarterbacks in the same draft?  Bonus if you can tell me which year and who the two QBs were.

Answer:  Kansas City Royals.  1979 - Dan Marino (4th round); John Elway (18th round).

The Royals other picks that baseball fans know - Atlee Hammaker (1st round); and Craig Lefferts (7th round).  That is it!

Preview - Game(s) of the Week

6.  Houston Texans v. Tennessee Titans - One of these teams HAS to finally (unless of course they tie!)  Just kidding!

6.  Indianapolis Colts v. Pittsburgh Steelers.  Two mediocre teams (2-2), but this game means A LOT, as it could serve as a tiebreaker for the last wildcard berth down the line.  Plus, Indianapolis seems to be playing well.

5.  Baltimore Ravens v. Atlanta Falcons - Yes, Baltimore is missing Lamar Jackson, but they still have Derrick Henry, and this Atlanta team has been exciting!

4.  Las Vegas Raiders v. New England Patriots.  They Raiders proved they could play in a close loss to the Chiefs.  The Patriots proved they could be good in a victory over Buffalo.  This game could led us know which team is a real contender.

3.  Arsenal v. Leeds United.  Two of the Top 5 in the Table, although it is early.  We might find out how serious of a contender Leeds United is.

2.  Chicago Bears v. Green Bay Packers.  More so because of the rivalry, but also because Chicago has been playing exciting ball, no matter who the quarterback is.

1.  San Francisco 49ers v. Seattle Seahawks.  The week's best game, by far, pitting two intra-divisional rivals that also are major contenders for the Super Bowl.

Trivia

The Bears had a 42 minute and 15 second time of possession against the Jets.  What team had the longest recorded time of possession in an NFL regular season game, and how long was that possession?

The Ole College Try

 

Many big, big games among ranked teams in conference play this week - and many of those were ... DUDS!!!  But that is how you separate the true contenders from the pretenders.  Welcome to the Ole College Try, which is my take on college football via a weekly column on college football after each weekend's games.  The column is meant to be a recap of the season to date, with an emphasis on last week's games.

As another reminder, I write this column as if every player is a Heisman Trophy candidate. Why? Because it is ridiculously ludicrous (is there any other kind of ludicrous, besides Ludacris?) that the networks, including the World-Wide Leader, nay, especially the World-Wide Leader, emphasize the Heisman Trophy race all season at the expense of everything else.  Consider this my sarcastic homage to stupid reporting.

I cannot promise that I will post every week, but so far so good.

Heisman Watch

Quarterback Edition

Favorite - Darian Mensah - Miami - A relatively bad game for Mensah, who ONLY went 18/27 for 227 and 1 TD, and he know has 6 more incompletions that touchdowns on the season.  And, he has yet to throw an interception.  He has been the best quarterback in the NCAA this year, and it is hard to criticize a performance in which the offense still scored 41 points.  

Rising - Julian Sayin - Ohio State - It helps when you are throwing to the best wide receiver (See Mensah, Darien), but it is hard to discount a 20/27 for 324 yards and 3 TD performance at Iowa!  He has 13 TDs to just 1 interception on the season.

Sleeper - Bear Bachmeier - BYU - His passing stats do NOT pop off the paper (11-24 for 64 yards) in a 17-10 victory over TCU to keep the Cougars undefeated, but his size and running ability (66 yards on 15 carries for 2 TDs) do pop-off the highlight film.

Falling - LaNorris Sellars - South Carolina - He has all of the talent in the world - (20/36 for 226 and 2 TDs, 17 rushes for 147 yards against Kentucky), but this team is sooooooo bad, nobody is going to get any credit.  I wouldn't be surprised if 4 or 5 players from this team get drafted with fans asking, "Who?  Why?", and they excel way more than for the Gamecocks.  (I was going to put Kamario Taylor for Mississippi State here, but he already took a beating at the hands of Alabama!)

Running Back Edition

Favorite - Jaden Baugh - Florida - The favorite right now among running backs is still Jaden Baugh, but he had a rough - and I mean ROUGH outing against Missouri (12 carries for 13 yards) which is why he is also falling!

Rising - Jamal Roberts - Missouri - Sixth in the NCAA in rushing at 606 yards (Baugh is 5th with 613 for reference, the leader is Dylan Riley from Boise State with 685), and he clearly won his showdown with Jaden Baugh, outrushing Baugh 211-13 (with 3 TDs!!!).

Falling - Jaden Baugh, Florida - See above.

Sleeper - Turbo Richard - Indiana - Took a back seat to Lee Beebe, Jr. last week, and was out-carried by Beebe 18-13 in the 47-15 win over Rutgers, but finished with 204 yards and a TD on those 13 carries.

Wide Receiver Edition

Favorite - Jeremiah Smith - Ohio State - Caught 11 passes for 206 yards and 2 TDs to extend his lead as the overall Heisman favorite!

Falling - Malachi Toney - Miami - Again, he is still 1A to Smith's 1, but his 5 catches for 40 yards were both season's low for Toney - although he did have another TD called back (the third this year), this time on a very questionable illegal shift call, as they called Miami's TE for being in motion while Cooper Barkate was only set for .9 seconds, not a full second.  

Rising - K.J. Duff - Rutgers - Only 4 catches for 78 yards as Indiana defeated Rutgers, but Smith, Toney, and Duff are the ONLY wide receivers people should be writing about.

Sleeper - Nathan Bailey - Harvard - OK, so not eligible to win the Heisman as he plays in the FCS, but boy did he have a game!!!  He hauled in 16 catches for 197 yards, including 2 big, big catches in the Crimson's last-minute drive.  But, that wasn't even what made the highlight reel!!!  Bailey was the "Ladder" in the "Hook-and-Ladder" on the last minute Hail Mary from Charlie Smith.  Bailey received the pitch from tight end Teegan Pelletier at the five and immediately dashed-and-dove for the corner pylon as Harvard turned a 17-14 defeat into a 20-17 victory!!!

Defensive Edition

5.  Kenyatta Jackson - EDGE - Ohio State - Playing against Iowa - the team that was supposed to have the vaunted defense - Jackson's pressure kept Iowa on its heels.  Even though he was only credited with 1 tackle - a sack at that - Jackson forced Iowa's play and constantly disrupted the timing of the Hawkeyes offense.

4.  Jason Dowell - DT - Missouri - Only finished with 3 tackles (including 1 sack and 1 tackle for loss), but dominated the interior line for Missouri in its 45-17 win over Florida.

3.  Dijon Lee, Jr. - CB - Alabama - Technically only credited with 1 tackle, and that is only because he was blanketing people so that his receiver was never thrown the ball - or at least not unless Lee could get his hands on it!!!  He also scored a TD and returned kicks!

2.  Nicholas Rodriguez - LB - Missouri - Missouri gets the love because they earned the love.  Rodriguez finished with 11 tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss, as the TIgers defense completely bottled up the high-flying Florida offense.

  

1.  Xavier Esqillion - Edge - Georgia State - Esqillion had 3 sacks, forced 2 fumbles, and finished with a 27.3% pressure rate, a 22.7% knockdown rate, and an unbelievable 38.1% pass-rush win rate!!! (Thanks PFF!)

Player(s) to Watch

DeSean Bishop, RB, Tennessee.  Bishop is having a great year as he has led Tennessee to a 4-1 record, and given hope to a Volunteer squad of making noise in the SEC!  He gained 220 yards on 34 carries with 3 TDs in Tennessee's 24-14 victory over Alabama this weekend, and his 540 yards and 7 TDs rank him 11th and Tied-6th respectively in the NCAA's!!!

My New Favorite Player
Austin Simmons - QB, Missouri - The former 5-star recruit who enrolled early at Mississippi at age 16 - YES 16!!! - played behind Jaxson Dart for a year and then lost his job to an injury to none other than Trinidad Chambliss, is finally getting his chance after transferring, and did he have a game!!!  He was 23-30 for 340 yards and 2 TDs as the Tigers annihilated the 8th ranked Florida Gators. 

Players of the Week (Just Week 4)

6.  DeSean Bishop - RB - Tennessee - 34 carries, 220 yards, 3 TDs over Auburn.

5.  Jeremiah Smith - WR - Ohio State - 11 catches, 206 yards and 2 TDs, all lower than last week if you can believe that!!

4.  Nathan Bailey - WR - Harvard - 16 catches, 197 yards and 1 VERY BIG TOUCHDOWN!!!

3.  Leonard Farrow - KR - Florida Atlantic - Returned the first two Texas Southern kickoffs of the game for touchdowns!

2.  Aiden Flora - RB - Iowa State - Flora rushed for 212 yards on 22 carries and scored 3 TDs in Iowa States' 45-42 victory over West Virginia!  And if that was not enough - he was 2/2 passing for 48 yards and 2 TDs!!!

1.  Dante Reno - QB - Yale - What on earth would it take for me to even mention a Yale player in this blog, much less name him the player of the week.  Something Spectacular for sure.  And this entire post is dedicated to Dante Reno.  Reno went 22/39 for 298 yards a 4 TDs as Yale rallied from a 21-7 deficits to defeat Merrimack 41 - 24.  Reno's performance was all the more astounding as he - and the rest of the Bulldogs - took the field just 1 day after the school announced the passing of Dante's dad and former Yale Coach Tony Reno.  Obviously Tony and Dante shared a father-son bond over football, and Dante found some sort of respite on the football field with his teammates, but it is hard enough to deal with the passing of a parent and still have to play college football - and at as high a level as Dante did this weekend.  Lots of love and respect from this Harvard Crimson!

Goat of the Week (Player Edition)

John Love - K - Virginia Tech - Missed a potential game-winning 36-yard field goal with three second remaining and Virginia Tech trailing 35-33.  Love is listed here not so much for missing a relatively short kick (albeit at a ridiculous angle), but for the firestorm he elicited as it clearly looks like his kick may have cleared the upright, but the official standing immediately under the upright signalled "no good".

Goat of the Week (Coach Edition)

Shane Beamer - South Carolina - Not so much for any one specific thing that he did wrong, but his team's loss in OT to Kentucky, after giving-up a lead at home, may mean that he is going to get fired, and quite possibly during this season.  Maybe after Florida whips them?

Predicted Playoffs/Championship Match Ups

(1) Georgia v. (4) Miami/Notre Dame (2) v. Ohio State (3)

Final Unbeatens

Alabama, BYU, Duke, Georgia, Indiana, James Madison, Miami, Nebraska, North Dakota State, Notre Dame, Pittsburgh, Texas, Texas Tech, UCLA, Utah, 

Rant(s) of the Week
Why is video review of a made/missed field goal not allowed?

Under Performance of the Week
Florida. What a let down.  Again, losing to Missouri is not the thing, it was the way in which they lost.  But, a letdown sometimes can be expected after such an emotional win over Mississippi the week prior.  This is an identical statement to the one I wrote about Mississippi last week.

Last Week's Trivia Answer

The question was:  Colin Simmons, as you may have read here once or twice, finished the game against Tennessee with 5 sacks.  Who holds the NCAA record (Div I/FBS) for most sacks in a single game?

The answer is:  Ivan Pace, Jr. from Miami-OH in 2019 and Ameer Ismail from Western Michigan in 2006 with 6.  The Team record is 15 by TC over Nevada in 2000.

Trivia Question of the Week

Jeremiah Smith's consecutive 200-yard receiving performances inspired this question.  What is the most receiving yards in an NCAA game WITHOUT scoring a touchdown?

Match-up(s) to Watch

5. Harvard v. Cornell - So long as Harvard is undefeated, they will remain on this list.  Are the Crimson emotionally-spent after last week's Bailey Bailout?  Or will they use that springboard to a possible FCS playoff birth?  This game will tell us a lot.

4. LSU v. Kentucky - Kentucky is not at the same level as LSU, but they are also not the same old Kentucky team.  A loss here could go a long way to knocking LSU out of playoff contention.  Can they take care of business?

3. UCLA v. Oregon - Oregon's loss to Oklahoma State puts their back against the wall.  UCLA is a surprising 4-0 thus far; can they remain undefeated and be a serious contender in the Big 10?

2. Indiana v. Nebraska - Yes, Nebraska is unranked, but this week 6 game pits two undefeated conference foes against each other.  Is Nebraska for real?

1.  Georgia v. Alabama -Easily the biggest game of the weekend!

Special Mention of the Week

Florida Atlantic led Texas Southern 21-3 - BEFORE THE OWLS OFFENSE EVEN TOOK THE FIELD1!!  Leonard Farrow returned the opening kickoff for a TD.  Texas Southern then drove for a FG.  Leonard Farrow took the next kickoff for a TD.  On Texas Southern's next possession, the defense forced a fumble and returned it for a TD!!!

Picks of the Week - Week 4

 

Very weird week.  The late-slot games could have been very as I was up late in a couple.  The Arizona backdoor cover really got me, as that was my big bet.  San Francisco hold them there and I go from a losing week to a winning week.    Still, a pretty good week considering some of the craziness that occurred.  Week 4 - let's do this.  Remember, early game on Sunday in London!!!  A reminder, all bets are for $100 expect for the Big Bet, which is $250.  All losses incur a vig of 10%.  On to the picks.

Cleveland Browns +2 1/2 v. Pittsburgh Steelers

I thought this was an easy pick because selecting the Steelers would have violated two football gambling rules:  (1) Pick the home team on a short week; and (2) Never pick a road intra-divisional favorite.  But, more importantly, did DeShaun Watson remember he was once ... GOOD?!

 

Washington Commanders +4 against Indianapolis Colts in London (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium)

Neither of these teams have looked particularly great overall, but the Commanders did play well with Marcus Mariota under center last week in defeating Seattle.  So, the fact they are getting points in this game is important.  I will take them, for sure, especially since points are really hard to come by in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.  And yes, that is a dig at their soccer club.

Chicago Bears -4 v. New York Jets

I hate making this pick, even against the Jets because the Jets have a solid defense and the Bears are playing on a short week.  But, the opportunity to win their third game of the season with a third-different starting quarterback - since Tyson Bagent is expected to start, not Case Keenum - was just way too tempting.  If the Bears defense can play as tough as they have in the second halves of games, they should not just win, but cover.

Arizona Cardinals +2 1/2 at New York Giants

What a weird game, and a weird betting line.  Arizona is a mountain time zone team, not a pacific time zone team, but they do not observe daylight savings time in Arizona - and thus, they are three hours behind New Jersey and playing in the early afternoon time slot.  So, I should just pick the Giants.  But it just seems like Jameis Winston will make a key turnover at a key time in the game.  And the alternative is J.J. McCart ... ha, ha, ha!!!  

Buffalo Bills -7 v. New England Patriots

The Patriots defeated the Bills last year, but this team is a far cry from last year's squad.  Their defense is still pretty stout (6th in scoring and overall), but the Bills have a very balanced top offense (1st in scoring, 4th in rushing and total offense, 9th in passing - and in a huge stat 3rd in third-down conversion).  I am taking the Bills until New England starts to play like last year (which may not occur).

Houston Texans -3 v. Dallas Cowboys

Houston might be the most disappointing team in the NFL so far this year.  But, even as disappointing as they are, they still have the better defense in this game (duh?) but their offense has also been better than that of Dallas.  Given this shocking stat, I will give up the points, where I was very close to just taking the points here.

Los Angeles Rams -4 at Philadelphia Eagles

This is a battle of competing gambling laws:  Pacific Team in the early slot on the east coast (should select Philly) versus Eagles on a short week (should pick the Rams).  I am taking the Rams because Puka Nacua is back, and that opens up this entire offense.  And don't you think Matthew Stafford is a better quarterback than Case Keenum?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers +3 v. Green Bay Packers

Yes, Baker Mayfield is injured and not playing, and we no little to nothing about Jalon Daniels (he's from Kansas).  But, what I do know is that both of these teams have struggled, and in those games I take points.  Also, Green Bay is a road, intra-divisional, favorite, so I will pick Tampa Bay, and not like it.  But to be fair, I would not like it if I had selected Green Bay either.

Tennessee Titans +11 1/2 at Baltimore Ravens

No, I do not think that Tennessee is going to upset Baltimore.  It is just that 11 1/2 is A LOT of points in the NFL, and the road team has historically been successful in this series, regardless of the stature of the programs when they play.  I will take double-digit points and like it.

Jacksonville Jaguars +2 1/2 at Cincinnati Bengals

You can go back and ready my picks, and I have been higher on Cincinnati than most, especially with their two new defensive tackles (and they are 9th in the NFL against the rush!).  But, the rest of the defense is well below par (and not in the golf way) (27th overall and 28th against the pass) and Trevor Lawrence enters the game with a 107.8 rating.  AND I get points?! 

Minnesota Vikings -9 1/2 v. Miami Dolphins

It is possible that Brain Flores will be disappointing if they give up a SINGLE POINT to his former employers.  They may not.

Kansas City Chiefs -4 at Las Vegas Raiders

A road intra-divisional favorite Pepster?  Yes, when that favorite is second in the NFL in offense and 4th in total defense.  Although the Raiders are showing progress, and are an amazing 3-0 on the season, they are just 17th in total defense and 20th in total offense.  That is not going to get it done against this revitalized Chiefs offense with Kenneth Walker carrying the rushing load.

Los Angeles Chargers +7 at Seattle Seahawks

Do I believe that the Chargers are finished with Harbaugh and that this is his last season as head coach?  Yes, I do.  Do I believe that they will beat Seattle?  No, probably not a motivated Seahawks team coming off a surprising loss to Washington last week.  But do I think the Chargers are too talented to stay winless?  Also yes.  And that is why this game should at least stay closer than a TD.

San Francisco 49ers -2 1/2 v. Denver Broncos

I am riding with San Francisco until the stop looking like San Francisco has looked this season.  That, coupled with the fact the Broncos are 29th in total offense and 30th in total defense, this game could get out of control.

Detroit Lions -4 at Carolina Panthers

I have also been higher on Carolina than most people, especially since their offense is 1st overall in passing, and 6th in total offense, and they are 5th in passing defense.  But, Detroit is still Detroit with their one loss being to Buffalo Bills, one of the best two teams in the NFL in my estimation (at least as of right now).  So I believe Detroit rolls into Carolina and takes care of business.

New Orleans Saints -1 1/2 v. Atlanta Falcons

This is incredibly hard to judge given that we have only seen one Atlanta game with Michael Penix, Jr. at quarterback - and they were spectacular.  I think that we are going to get an amazing game, offensively exciting, and New Orleans pulls it out on a Tyler Shough to Juwan Johnson capitalizing on the emotion of the night as the 20th-anniversary of the opening of the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina - the Steve Gleason game!

BIG BET OF THE WEEK

Minnesota Vikings -9 1/2 v. Miami Dolphins

It is possible that Brain Flores will be disappointing if they give up a SINGLE POINT to his former employers.  They may not.

I really, really, really wanted to roll with San Francisco here, especially since they are only giving up 2 1/2 whereas Minnesota is giving up 9 1/2.  But, this Minnesota Vikings defense is LE-GIT, (2nd in scoring defense, 4th in rushing defense, and 1st in third-down defense), so the offense could score 17 to 21 and still cover this spread.

Results: 

Last Week Record: 7-9

Last Week Big Bet:  0-1

Year-to-Date Record: 21-26-1

Year-to-Date Big Bet: 1-2 

Last Week Winnings (Losses): ($455)

Year-to-Date Winnings (Losses): ($940)

Professional Football Wrap-Up

 

I am not going to lie; I missed A LOT of the games this weekend as I chose to watch our great come-from-behind victory in the President's Cup from the comfort of my home, since I knew sports bars and the like would not reserve even one television set for the match.  That being said, I did keep my ear-to-the-ground, and I did watch the second half of the Sunday's late-slot games, as well as the night game and of course, the Monday night game (Bear Down!!!)  So I am somewhat informed, but not greatly informed.

Game of the Week

Baltimore Ravens 34 Dallas Cowboys 31 (Rio de Janeiro) - The NFL put on a show before our Brazilian brethren, and in a weekend of close games, the fact that there were 2 - count 'em 1, 2 - field goals in the last 10 seconds of the game was amazing!!! 

Best Team Performance

Jacksonville Jaguars.  With both potential playoff teams coming into the game 1-1, it seemed like this game could be HUGE for the loser.  Jacksonville made that New England's issue, trouncing them 35-6, and starting panic throughout the northeast corridor.

Least Impressive Team Performance

Tennessee Titans.  A feeble performance against a Jaxson Dartless squad who themselves only managed to score 12 points.  Tennessee managed only 181 yards in the air and 81 on the ground, and ended up losing to a Giants squad that lost Brian Burns for the year and only gained 256 yards themselves.

 

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Offense)

Michael Penix, Jr., QB - Atlanta Falcons.  His numbers don't pop-off the page (18/25 for 256, 1TD/1 INT), but the offense just looked DIFFERENT that the first two weeks.  Bijan ran for 194 on 29 carries, and he also could have won this award, but I suspect a lot of those yards would not have been gained if Tua was still QB.  Atlanta went from looking like the worst team in the league to a potential playoff team in its 35-14 victory over Green Bay.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Defense)

Gregory Rousseau, Edge - Buffalo Bills.  Rousseau had 8 total tackles and 2 more sacks to bring his NFL-leading total to 6.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Special Teams)

Tyler Loop, K - Baltimore Ravens.  It was almost Brandon Aubrey for the second consecutive week, as his field goal with 7 seconds left tied the game at 31, heading to overtime.  But, Baltimore's two-play drive culminated with Loop's 56-yard FG to win the game 34-31.  

Most Impressive Team Performance (Premier League)

International Break.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Premier League)

International Break.

Goat of the Week

Cowboys Defense.  Tie game, Baltimore has the ball at their own 35 after a touchback, 7 seconds left.  One 27-yard completion and a timeout later, sets the stage for Tyler Loop's 56-yard game winner.  Either play better defense where longer plays are covered more tightly, or hold up Zay Flowers to run the extra second off the clock before taking him to the ground.  Something.

Goat of the Week (Premier League)

International Break.

Breakthrough Performance

Kenyon Sadiq, TE - New York Jets.  All the talent in the world, but a preseason injury limited his practice time, so a slow start was expected.  But this week 3 7 catch, 105-yard, 1 TD performance is exactly what we can expect to see from Sadiq moving forward in his career.

Finally

 

Jahmyr Gibbs, RB - Detroit Lions.  Not "finally" as in we have been waiting for him, because he is already a great player, but "finally" in the way that it has taken since 1980 for a player to join Billy Simms to gain 300+ rushing yards, 150+ receiving yards, and 6 TDs through 6 games.  For those that don't know or remember, Billy Simms was a running back for the Detroit Lions.

Impact Injury

Brian Burns, Edge - New York Giants.  Lots more injuries, but the Giants lost Dart last week, and now likely their best - or at least most productive - defensive player for the season this week.  If they can challenge for a playoff spot - Jameis Winston should make it to the Hall of Fame!!!

Team Rising

Las Vegas Raiders.  This team may be the proverbial year away from being a year away, but they are 3-0.  That ain't nothing 

Team Falling

New England Patriots.  Falling not just because they are 1-2, as their losses have come to the Seattle Seahawks and Jacksonville Jaguars, both on the road and two of the better teams in the league, but because New England has just looked awful doing it!

Best Teams

(All teams will be ranked by record, even if teams with more losses may be better than a team with fewer losses, since Bill Parcells always said that you are what your record says.  The inverse is true for the Worst Teams rankings.) (Yes, I know that you could have a worse record and be better, but we are working off record.)

1. San Francisco 49ers (3-0)

2. Buffalo Bills (3-0)

3. Kansas City Chiefs (3-0)

4. Minnesota Vikings (3-0)

5. Las Vegas Raiders (3-0)

Worst Teams

(All winless teams will be ranked here until all teams have at least 1 win, then I will rank them based upon which teams I think are the worst, regardless of record.)

32. Tennessee Titans (0-3)

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-3)

30.  Miami Dolphins (0-3)

29. Los Angeles Chargers (0-3)

28. Houston Texans (0-3)

Middle Teams

15. New York Giants (2-1)
16. Cleveland Browns (2-1)

17. New Orleans Saints (1-1)
18. Los Angeles Rams (1-2)

Last Week's Trivia Question/Answer

Although early, Jaxon Smith-Njigba is currently the leader in receiving yards, a category in which he led the NFL last year.  When was the last time a receiver led the NFL in receiving yards in back-to-back seasons and who was that receiver?

Answer:  Calvin Johnson, 2011-2012.

Preview - Game(s) of the Week

6.  Atlanta Falcons v. New Orleans Saints - If last week's game was any indication, the Michael Penix-led Falcons are much different than Weeks 1/2 Falcons.  And, the Saints are fun.  Could be a lot of points scored, and it is Monday night.

5.  Pittsburgh Steelers v. Cleveland Browns - Can the Browns actually win 3 in a row?  Can THESE Browns actually win 3 in a row?  Watch only for that crazy possibility.

4.  Jacksonville Jaguars v. Cincinnati Bengals - Jacksonville absolutely dismantled New England.  Can Cincinnati's new defensive tackles bring them some defensive credibility to keep this close?

3.  International Break.

2.  Denver Broncos v. San Francisco 49ers - San Francisco is the best team in the NFL right now, to me. Denver, although 2-1, really needs a statement win

1.  Kansas City Chiefs v. Las Vegas Raiders - Two undefeated teams tied for first in the AFC West.  To stay undefeated and atop the division!

Trivia

I just heard this question and I absolutely love it.  Which franchise drafted two Hall of Fame quarterbacks in the same draft?  Bonus if you can tell me which year and who the two QBs were.

The Ole College Try

What a week of college football!  We had 6 - count them 6 - matchups between top 25 ranked teams, and most of that action was in the SEC.  I am going to try to wrap things up as best I can through The Ole College Try, which is my take on college football via a weekly column on college football after each weekend's games.  The column is meant to be a recap of the season to date, with an emphasis on last week's games.

As another reminder, I write this column as if every player is a Heisman Trophy candidate. Why? Because it is ridiculously ludicrous (is there any other kind of ludicrous, besides Ludacris?) that the networks, including the World-Wide Leader, nay, especially the World-Wide Leader, emphasize the Heisman Trophy race all season at the expense of everything else.  Consider this my sarcastic homage to stupid reporting.

I cannot promise that I will post every week, but so far so good.

Heisman Watch

Quarterback Edition

Favorite - Darien Mensah - Miami - Another ho-hum 23-27 with 3 TDs for Mensah.  For the season, he has 12 incompletions and 14 TDs!!!  Yes, the schedule has been light, but they have played two conference games already - meaning they have not loaded up on cupcake out-of-conference (not yet, anyway, and Wake Forest should be after beating Louisville this week.  

Rising - Keelon Russell - Alabama - He is really growing into the job, as evidenced by his 21-27 for 365 and 4 TDs against South Carolina.  And, if the team keeps cruising, how do you keep an Alabama, undefeated quarterback out of the conversation?

Sleeper - Mason Heintschel - Pittsburgh - This is all about numbers.  26-37 for 403 yards and 6 TDs against Bucknell.  This is the second game in which Heinstchel has surpassed 400 yards and 6 TDs, having thrown for 453 and 7 earlier this year against Miami (Ohio).

Falling - Trinidad Chambliss - Mississippi - Mississippi followed-up its superb win over LSU with a vicious 52-28 lass to Florida, in which Chambliss was constantly harassed.  He ended up throwing for 298 with 1 TD and an Interception.

Running Back Edition

Favorite - Jaden Baugh - Florida - Going to be tough to pull him from this slot after performances like he had this weekend; 29 carries, 142 yards and 3 TDs.  The only downside is they cannot keep given him the ball 29 times in SEC play.  Florida may not have to because ...

Rising - Duke Clark - Florida = Gave Baugh some much-needed rest with 12 carries, for 126 yards and 1 TD himself.

Falling - Kewan Lacy - Mississippi - Injuries hurt - both literally and metaphorically.

Sleeper - Lee Beebe, Jr. - Indiana - The Hoosiers' third-string running back ran roughshod over Northwestern's defense, gaining 203 yards on 24 carries, including a 70-yard TD run.

Wide Receiver Edition

Favorite - Jeremiah Smith - Ohio State - Hauled in 12 catches for 217 yards and 4 TDs to - at least momentarily - take the lead at the WR position over Malachi Toney, who is ...

Falling - Malachi Toney - Miami - I mean, as much falling as going from 1 to 1A can be.  He made 6 catches for 120 yards and 1 TD, and had two touchdown catches erased because the referee could not tell if he extended the ball over the pylon, or outside the pylon (it was close either way) and because another thought he pushed off in making a magnificent grab in the back of the endzone and called offensive pass interference.

Rising - K.J. Duff - Rutgers - Duff has entered the chat.  He had 5 catches for 131 yards and 1 TD to cement himself as the third-best wide receiver in the NCAA, but he also is flashing some serious NFL round 1 potential!

Sleeper - Carlos Hernandez - Wake Forest - A second-straight amazing performance from Hernandez, who followed-up the Miami game with 9 catches for 194 yards and 1 TD in Wake Forest's 30-27 upset victory over Louisville.

Some other receivers may have excellent weeks, but these 4 are THE four this year, barring injury.

Defensive Edition

5.  EJ Smith - LB - Nevada - His 55 tackles lead second place by 9!

4.  Kingston Lopa - CB - California - No interceptions this week, but he still leads the NCAA with 5.

3.  Austin Romaine - LB - Texas Tech - He had pick-sixes on consecutive plays from scrimmage!!!

2.  Martin Dean - LB - UAB - Had a helluva game with 9 tackles, 2 1/2 sacks and 3 forced fumbles!!!  Ordinarily this would make someone number 1, but ...

1.  Colin Simmons - Edge - Texas - FIVE SACKS!!!  IN A GAME!!!  And this was at ranked, and previously undefeated Tennessee!

Player(s) to Watch

Dylan Raiola - QB, Oregon.  The former Nebraska starter had to enter the game when Dante Moore went out on a vicious, concussion-inducing, late hit.  He led Oregon to a 41-27 victory at previously undefeated USC by going 19-25 for 289 with 2 TDs.

My New Favorite Player

Wayshawn Parker-  RB, Utah.  First of all, his name is Wayshawn!!!  Second, the undefeated Utes are largely undefeated because of his running, including his 174 yards on 18 carries and 2 TDs in a 31-17 victory at Iowa State.

Players of the Week (Just Week 4)

5.  Austin Romaine - LB - Texas Tech - Pick-sixes on back-to-back plays! 

4.  Mason Heintschel - QB - Pittsburgh - 403 yards and 6 TDs!

3. Jeremiah Smith - WR - Ohio State - 12 catches, 217 yards and 4 TDs!

2.  Martin Dean - LB - UAB - 9 tackles, 2 1/2 sacks, 3 forced fumbles!  IN ONE GAME!!!

1. Colin Simmons - Edge - Texas - 5 Sacks.  FIVE!!!

Goat of the Week (Player Edition)

Colin Simmons - Edge - Texas - Received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty giving Tennessee a first down after simulating pissing on the field after a sack.  Good thing that didn't come back to haunt the team.

Goat of the Week (Coach Edition)

Pete Golding - Mississippi - If I am going to give Mississippi some love because of their win over LSU, then I have to show them some hate - not for losing to Florida - but for the way in which they lost.  This game wasn't even close.  Maybe we learned that home-field advantage does mean something in the SEC!

Predicted Playoffs/Championship Match Ups

Notre Dame (1) v. Alabama (4)/ (2) Georgia v. (3) Miami

Final Unbeatens

Alabama, BYU, Cincinnati, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, James Madison, Massachusetts, Miami, Mississippi State, Nebraska, North Dakota State, Notre Dame, Pittsburgh, South Florida, Texas, Texas Tech, UCLA, Utah, Virginia Tech

 
Rant(s) of the Week
Not from this week, but boy do I have rants on the "Protect College Sports" Bill, which passed the Senate today and goes to the House.  Rant is too long to really document here in full, but let's just say allowing an anti-trust exemption and limiting legal accountability is never really a good thing.

Under Performance of the Week
Mississippi.  What a let down.  Again, losing to Florida is not the thing, it was the way in which they lost.  But, a letdown sometimes can be expected after such an emotional win over LSU the week prior.

Last Week's Trivia Answer

The question was:  Miami QB Darian Mensah started the Wake Forest game going 24-24 passing before his first incompletion, 2 off the FBS record.  Who holds that FBS record of 26 consecutive passes completed to start a game?

The answer is:  Dominique Davis, East Carolina, on 10/22/2011 at Navy.  Davis finished the game 40-45 for 372 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs, in a 38-35 win.

Trivia Question of the Week

Colin Simmons, as you may have read here once or twice, finished the game against Tennessee with 5 sacks.  Who holds the NCAA record (Div I/FBS) for most sacks in a single game?

Match-up(s) to Watch

5. Colgate v. Harvard - The Red Raiders (4-1) travel to Cambridge to play the undefeated Crimson in their home opener.  Charlie Smith is slowly growing into his role as the starting QB, but will be challenged in this non-conference game, that is the type of game in which a win could have serious playoff implications.

4. Ohio State v. Iowa - Ohio State has the more talented team, and has the opportunity to knock-off an undefeated Big 10 team.  But, can Iowa defeat rivals Michigan and Ohio State in back-to-back game?

3. Miami v. Clemson - This Clemson team has looked different since freshman Tait Reynolds has taken over at quarterback.  Can he lead Clemson back to the top of the ACC?  This home game would be a great start, but as against Miami the question all year is going to be which defense can stop them.

2. Florida v. Missouri - Florida, who jumped into the playoff discussions with a big win versus Mississippi faces a tough, SEC, road test in Missouri.  If Florida can leave Columbia with a win, then look out Texas and Georgia - their next big tests.

1. Alabama v. Mississippi State - A big, big SEC matchup, as Keelon Russell faces Kamario Taylor and both teams fight to stay undefeated. Will the cowbells rattle Russell?

Picks of the Week - Week 3

 

First crashout week of the season for me - and virtually every person that selects the entire slate.  At the very least I won my NFL confidence pool (which is straight up/with confidence points assigned to each pick).  Let's move on and try to learn from last week.  A reminder, all bets are for $100 expect for the Big Bet, which is $250.  All losses incur a vig of 10%.  On to the picks.

Green Bay Packers -4 1/2 v. Atlanta Falcons

Home team/short week.  But, apparently I overestimated how bad Atlanta was, as they are a different team with Michael Penix.

Kansas City Chiefs -10 1/2 at Miami Dolphins

Double digits are always big concerns, especially on the road, but I am just going to bet against the Dolphins until the start covering.

Carolina Panthers -2 1/2 at Cleveland Browns

No way the Browns show up like they did last week in consecutive games.  Carolina could be in the playoffs this year.

Tennessee Titans +2 1/2 at New York Giants

Not just because of the Jaxson Dart injury, as Jameis Winston can sling the ball and make games interesting, but the Giants are going to have to do this on a short week.

Jacksonville Jaguars -2 1/2 v. New England Patriots

This is essentially a pick 'em, as Jacksonville is only giving points because they are the home team.  And, I have picked three road teams already this week, so given that this is a toss-up - I'll take the home team.

Buffalo Bills -7 1/2 v. Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers may already be done this season, and Harbaugh may be done as the head coach, but they just don't know it yet (Schrodinger's coach, anyone?)  And to top it all off, the Chargers are a Pacific time zone team playing in the 1:00 slot on the east coast.  I'll take the team playing the best in this game, too - Buffalo.

Detroit Lions -6 1/2 v. New York Jets

I don't like this line at all, but Detroit IS the better team, even though the Jets are clearly improved (but that isn't saying much).

Houston Texans -1 1/2 at Indianapolis Colts

I am violating the NFL gambling rules here - by takin a road intra-divisional favorite, but I cannot pick the Colts with such a small spread.

Seatle Seahawks -7 1/2 at Washington Commanders

West coast team playing in the 1:00 slot on the east coast, but Sam Darnold is returning, and Jayden Daniels is not.  This game could get ugly.

Cincinnati Bengals -3 1/2 at Pittsburgh Steelers

Another road favorite in an intra-divisional game, but I have to do something to counteract last week's results.  It seems like violating the gambling rules might be the way to go, especially with Aaron Rodgers playing worse than Jordan Rodgers.

 

San Francisco 49ers -7 1/2 v. Arizona Cardinals

San Francisco is just playing better than anyone else in the NFL through the first two weeks, and that team should annihilate Arizona.

Minnesota Vikings -1 1/2 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay may not score.

New Orleans Saints -3 1/2 v. Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders ARE 2-0, but they still have not looked as good as New Orleans and the Tyler Shough to Chris Olave combination.

Baltimore Ravens -3 1/2 versus Dallas Cowboys in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Baltimore rebounds from the loss to the Saints in a big way.

Denver Broncos +1 1/2 v. Los Angeles Rams

The Rams are on a short week, and at altitude.  That has to have some affect, right?

Chicago Bears +3 1/2 v. Philadelphia Eagles

I do not necessarily think that the Bears are going to win here, but with their running game, they can keep it close, especially if Case Keenum ends up getting the start!

BIG BET OF THE WEEK

San Francisco 49ers -7 1/2 v. Arizona Cardinals

San Francisco is just playing better than anyone else in the NFL through the first two weeks, and that team should annihilate Arizona.

I am not going to lie, most of my favorite picks are visiting teams, and I absolutely had to have a visiting team as my "Big Bet."  I also don't like giving up more than a TD for my Big Bet, but this is the home team that I like the best, so go 49ers.

Results: 

Last Week Record: 5-11

Last Week Big Bet:  0-1

Year-to-Date Record: 14-17-1

Year-to-Date Big Bet: 1-1

Last Week Winnings (Losses): ($875)

Year-to-Date Winnings (Losses): ($485)

Professional Football Wrap-Up

 

Alright, two weeks down, and two consecutive weeks of this column.  We are on a roll.  To be honest, was at a family wedding last Sunday, so I did not have the opportunity to watch much football, other than the last quarter/OT of the Sunday night game and the entirety of the Thursday and Monday night games, but that never stopped me from having an opinio!

Game of the Week

Kansas City Chiefs 33 Indianapolis Colts 30 (OT) - If you get an OT game with at least one quality team, that usually means that the game was pretty good.  No jaw-dropping numbers from anyone on Indianapolis, as the Colts spread the ball around well (5 separate players with at least 1 rush attempt and 6 players with a reception).  The Chiefs resurrected Travis Kelce who had 9 catches 101 yards and 1 TD, and Kenneth Walker might end up being the difference in this season, as he rushed for 117 yards.  And yes, I know that if you win the toss in overtime you should want the ball second, because then you know if you need a FG to win or a TD, and can game-plan accordingly (for example, if down 7 then you will call plays on third down knowing you will go for it on fourth every time as necessary).  But, that also means if the game is even after one possession each, Patrick Mahomes will likely make you pay.  Two OT drives, two FGs to win. 

Best Team Performance

Los Angeles Rams.  It could have been the San Francisco 49ers for the second consecutive week as they trounced the Miami Dolphins 35-13, or it could have been Seattle, with a 31-7 win over Arizona, but the Rams gave up only 183 yards (131 in the air and 52 on the ground) total to the New York Giants, who lost Jaxson Dart - likely for the season - and Malik Nabors.

Least Impressive Team Performance

Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  It would be easy to jump on the Giants here, but they have significant injuries.  It also could/should be the Chicago Bears, except they had the ball at the 12 with a play to win the game in the fourth quarter.  But Tampa Bay lost 23-19 to the Cleveland Browns, who had a remarkable performance (not great, just remarkable) from DeShaun Watson, who was 24-30 for 2 TDs and 0 INTs, and also let the team in rushing (granted it was only 22 yards).  You cannot pretend to be a playoff-caliber team and give this type of performance against the Browns - AT HOME even.

 

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Offense)

Josh Allen, QB - Buffalo Bills.  The runner-up last week, went 20-31 passing for 248 yards and 3 TDs, while adding another 2 TDs and 69 yards on the ground as the Bills defeated the Detroit Lions 41-31.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Defense)

Devin Lloyd, LB - Carolina Panthers.  One week after being torched by the Chicago Bears for 59 points, Carolina bounced back with a 34-3, and Lloyd was at the forefront with 9 total tackles, 1 sack, and 2 interceptions.  Talk about all around play! 

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Special Teams)

Brandon Aubrey, K - Dallas Cowboys.  Good on all 7 of his kicks (3 FGs, 4 PATs), including a 60-yarder!  You kick from 60, you usually get mentioned.

KaVontae Turpin, KR/PR - Dallas Cowboys.  He returned four kicks for 122 yards - a 30.5 average - with a long of only 35, meaning he was incredibly consistent.  Added 9 punt return yards as well.  

Most Impressive Team Performance (Premier League)

Brighton & Hove Albion.  Second week in a row, as they defeated previously unbeaten and untied - and defending league champions - Arsenal.  Three separate goal scorers for BHA as they climbed to third in the table.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Premier League)

Antoine Semenyo, F - Manchester CIty.  Scored a brace and added an assist in Manchester City's 5-3 victory over Sunderland, as the Citizens ascend to the top of the table with the win and Arsenal's defeat.

Goat of the Week

Justin Herbert, QB - Los Angeles Chargers.  Listen, we know that Jim Harbaugh grates on players and teams and wears out his welcome quickly.  But these are professionals, and 15/27 with 2 picks won't cut it - even against teams that are rebuilding like the Las Vegas Raiders.

Goat of the Week (Premier League)

Entire Franchise, Tottenham Hotspur.  This team spent way too much money to be 0-2-3 in the first 5 games of the season.  

Hit of the Week

Really the best non-hit of the week, well, most important anyway.  Hammy, Caleb Williams.  The entire midwest gasped when Caleb Williams went down with a non-contact injury.  Even if you are not a Chicago Bears fan, you know this team's games are going to be exciting generally with Caleb Williams running Ben Johnson's offense - this week's 9-3 loss notwithstanding.  Luckily, it seems as if Williams is not going to miss too much time.

Breakthrough Performance

Tyler Shough, QB - New Orleans Saints.  He has shown flashes before, but in the fourth quarter against the Baltimore Ravens he went toe-to-toe and the Saints outscored the Ravens 15-0 in the last period, with Shough going 12-14 for 119 yards and 1 TD and rushed for the second as the Saints secured a 7-point victory.

Finally

 

Trent Tucker, WR - Las Vegas Raiders.  This "finally" is really about something that the player himself has finally done, as Tucker has been a solid NFL receiver, but the finally is about when is a receiver going to emerge in Las Vegas besides TE Brock Bowers.  We may have our answer.

Impact Injury

Jaxson Dart, QB - New York Giants/Jayden Daniels, QB - Washington Commanders.  Both likely gone for the season; thus edging out Caleb Williams' near-dangerous hamstring.

Team Rising

New Orleans Saints.  Yes, it is just a 1-game winning streak, as they beat the Baltimore Ravens 24-17, but their week 1 loss was to the Detroit Lions 31-30 in Detroit, and in which the Saints looked every bit the part of a contender.  Shough to Olave is going to win people fantasy leagues, and they are going to win lots of games for the Saints. 

Team Falling

Los Angeles Chargers.  Jim Harbaugh may be a great coach, but he is also a grate coach, if you know what I mean.  That is why his stints at places are relatively short, and even then they are a year or two longer than they should be.  Harbaugh is dangerously close to losing this team.

Best Teams

(All teams will be ranked by record, even if teams with more losses may be better than a team with fewer losses, since Bill Parcells always said that you are what your record says.  The inverse is true for the Worst Teams rankings.) (Yes, I know that you could have a worse record and be better, but we are working off record.)

1. San Francisco 49ers (2-0)

2. Buffalo Bills (2-0)

3. Kansas City Chiefs (2-0)

4. Seattle Seahawks (2-0)

5. Minnesota Vikings (2-0)

Worst Teams

(All winless teams will be ranked here until all teams have at least 1 win, then I will rank them based upon which teams I think are the worst, regardless of record.)

32. Atlanta Falcons (0-2)

31. Washington Commanders (0-2)

30. Miami Dolphins (0-2)

29. Indianapolis Colts (0-2)

28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-2)

Middle Teams

15. New Orleans Saints (1-1)
16. Chicago Bears (1-1)

17. Green Bay Packers (1-1)
18. Carolina Panthers (1-1)

Last Week's Trivia Question/Answer

In Week 1, each of the 16 NFL contests was decided by a different margin of victory.  When was the last time this occurred during a 16-game schedule?

Answer:  Never.  It has never happened before.

Preview - Game(s) of the Week

6.  Los Angeles Chargers v. Buffalo Bills - This is a game to watch because the slate is not terribly interesting.  But the Bills have a chance to extinguish a team that most thought could challenge Buffalo for the AFC.  And this could be the end of Jim Harbaugh and/or Mike McDaniel in LA.

5.  Baltimore Ravens v. Dallas Cowboys - Only because both teams NEED this game, despite the fact that Baltimore has looked much, much better than the Cowboys have looked so far this year.

4.  Philadelphia Eagles v. Chicago Bears - Honestly, how are the Bears going to fare without Caleb Williams?  Can Ben Johnson work his magic?  Will Tyson Bagent clear concussion protocol or will Case Keenum get the start?  Don't even have to watch this game, just see who starts!

3.  International Break.

2.  New England Patriots v. Jacksonville Jaguars - One of these teams is going to be really good, but also fall to 1-2.

1.  Los Angeles Rams v. Denver Broncos - The only truly interesting matchup of the week.

Trivia

Although early, Jaxon Smith-Njigba is currently the leader in receiving yards, a category in which he led the NFL last year.  When was the last time a receiver led the NFL in receiving yards in back-to-back seasons and who was that receiver?