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NFL Talk: Week 2 Picks

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With Week 1 of the NFL Season officially in the history books, we have a lot to see going into Week 2 especially as there was some serious surprises. My previous predictions for Week 1 weren’t horrible but not spot-on. The Patriots vs Kansas City Chiefs shocked everybody and considering how the rest went, I consider all analysts got fooled by this result. My current picks are at 9-6 after Week 1. Now moving onto Week 2, we will have the following games and they are in order of the days they will be broadcast:

Houston Texans @ Cincinnati Bengals: Winner - Bengals

Oh my goodness, this Thursday night game would be so much more entertaining if the Texans and Bengals didn’t get beat up hard in Week 1. I wonder how many football fans will be willing to tune in? But guessing numbers isn’t my best skill, but I am good at figuring what teams have that works and what doesn’t work. The Texans have a strong defense….their offense has virtually no answer right now at Quarterback and news of Deshun Watson starting over Tom Savage is good and bad news.

The kid is getting work under his belt but he still has so much he needs to fix still (ranging from footwork, read options, timing, accuracy etc.) despite his great athleticism. However, even though Andy Dalton threw for over 4 INTs last week, it was against the in-division rival Baltimore Ravens, who have always managed to play with an above average defense. Dalton will likely make a bounce back considering I currently still have some more faith in him as a QB then I would with a new hot rookie (who has already suffered through an ankle injury according to the latest reports) who is likely to become another part of Bill O’Brien’s QB misfortunes these last several years.

The main reason why their offense is always so poorly handled is BOB simply puts too much responsibility and reliance on his QBs and it ultimately makes the team fall apart. Despite the Houston defense likely to have a field day on the Bengals, there is no way I can see the Texans offense working when it’s starting Tight End is already injured (all three tight ends on the 53 man roster are already under concussion protocol) and JJ Watt is going to need to tackle tonight while his finger is basically jammed in. The Bengals can make a bounce back but this match up is honestly a coin flip. I would expect no less than a score of 16-14 for the Bengals to win.

Buffalo Bills @ Carolina Panthers: Winner - Panthers

Poor Bills. Despite winning in Week 1 to lead the AFC East, its very likely one of only few victories they will be celebrating. With the way that Carolina is bouncing back after their win against the 49ers, but the Buffalo Bills still have some fire power on offense in Running Back Lesean McCoy. With All-Pro Middle Linebacker Luke Kuechly, I feel more confident in Carolina’s run defense to stop the Bills’ running game. Based on overall talent, Cam Newton is far and away a better QB than Tyrod Taylor, and it should be 28-16 game win for the Panthers.

Chicago Bears @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Winner - Buccaneers

An interesting match up to say the least. Despite the Chicago Bears seeming to give the Atlanta Falcons headaches last week, its unlikely that this game will be quite that close. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a team that is very well-rest after having to deal with Hurricane Irma postponed their game last week, and while the team will be explosive offensively, their defense will need to handle the Bears’ running game with combination of break-out player Jordan Howard and rookie Tarik Cohen. While I think Mitchell Trubisky could become the starter later on this season, for now Mike Glennon is the confirmed starter. I believe that the Bears still can improve further but right now the Bucs have too much going for them here (even with their 2x Pro Bowl Running Back, Doug Martin still being under suspension). I have the Bucs winning 24-18 against the Bears. With their offensive weapons like WRs Mike Evans, DeSean Jackson (formerly of the Washington Redskins) and new rookie Tight End O.J Howard, the Bucs have the firepower to get points on the board.

Minnesota Vikings @ Pittsburgh Steelers: Winner - Steelers

The Minnesota Vikings have proven that they have a strong defense however, the Steelers have the Killer Bs (Big Ben Roethlisburger, Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell). That right there will be a challenge. Despite the fact that the Vikings having an advantage in terms of defense. I feel that the Steelers defense can give Sam Bradford and his team problems. The Vikings running game with new rookie Dalvin Cook (who broke Adrian Peterson’s rookie debut record that he earned in 2007), shows that they have some serious play makers including receivers like Adam Thielen or Stefon Diggs. However, beating the Steelers at home will not be easy and considering how well they adjust to their competition, its unlikely they will be beaten by the Vikings unless they can show a repeat performance of Monday night’s game. I have the Steelers winning 24-21 against the Vikings.

Arizona Cardinals @ Indianapolis Colts: Winner - Cardinals

The Cardinals I bet on last week and lost badly against the Detriot Lions but that is pretty obvious when they have a QB who led the league in 4th quarter comebacks. Mean while, the Indianapolis Colts are quite possibly in the worst situation possible at the QB position. Andrew Luck is unlikely to make a return till October, the Colts offense won’t be able to function, its clear that Scott Tolzien and Jacoby Brissett (traded from the New England Patriots) are not ready to handle the playbook and with how bad Head Coach Chuck Pagano was after his team lost against the LA Rams (and somehow managed to confuse them with the San Fransisco 49ers?). Just based on the situation here, I would have to go with the Cardinals even with the massive loss of David Johnson on offense and the regression of Carson Palmer. The Cardinals shortcomings and losses are significant but nowhere as significant as the absence of Andrew Luck, he literally is the glue that holds that offense together. I expect this to be an ugly 21-18 win for the Cardinals on the road.

New England Patriots @ New Orleans Saints: Winner - Patriots

Quite an interesting matchup. Both Tom Brady and Drew Brees are already locks to make their busts in Canton, Ohio but they both need to finish their careers before then. The New Orleans Saints got exposed on Monday night game, and while the Patriots can be said for the same thing, it can be argued that miscommunications especially on the defense caused that loss on Thursday. However, the New Orleans Saints had difficulties offensively especially with the three headed running back threat of Adrian Peterson, Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara in the mix. Despite their poor showing, I feel the Saints will show up to play at home (this will be the best way to test how the Patriots’ secondary has changed from Week 1) but the Patriots are masters at game planning and I feel that when it comes down to who will have their players on the same page, it will be a Bill-Belichick led team. The Patriots will win 31-24 against the Saints.

Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens: Winner - Ravens

Man, people really slept on the Ravens (including myself) but they shut out the Bengals last week and I have a feeling the Browns will not be that much different here. Despite the Browns showing some promise, they are not a team that can get consistency on the offensive side of the ball (even with the rumors of Josh Gordan potentially being reinstated), but the Ravens defense will be key here. They have a solid front seven (led by OLB Terrell Suggs), but many of what the Ravens are capable of on offense ultimately comes down to Joe Flacco being able to get the ball down field and Kicker Justin Tucker being able to get his field goals in. (Considering he had nearly a perfect record scoring last year, with the exception of the Patriots blocked field goal) The Browns I like a lot but the reality is that the Ravens have always had their division rivals number and the Browns are no exception. I see the Ravens winning this 23-17.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Kansas City Chiefs: Winner - Chiefs

The Philadelphia Eagles are a team that has alot of potential to make some news in Kansas City but the fact is Arrowhead is one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL. This will be a tough game to see them winning and with the Chiefs red hot after their historical beat down on the New England Patriots, I doubt they will stop here. While Wentz might have an easier time getting the ball down the field compared to Tom Brady as Chiefs’ top Safety Eric Berry is reported to be out for the entire 2017 season. The Chiefs are likely to not replicate the same performance they had in Week 1 but nonetheless home field advantage is a real thing (just look at the complaints that Seahawks fans had after the Green Bay game) and the Chiefs with the running game that Kareem Hunt had should be something to also watch out for (how well he will do against a front seven consisting of Fletcher Cox, Brandon Graham or Derek Barnett can be difficult). The Eagles can generate a lot more pressure compared to the Patriots pass rush (which exclusively was on Trey Flowers). I see the Chiefs winning 30-24 against the Eagles come Sunday.

Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars: Winner - Titans

What a surprise the Jaguars were against the the Houston Texans last Sunday. While the Titans couldn’t manage to get over the hump like the Raiders did in their game, I feel that the Jaguars will struggle more against the Titans O-line then they did against the Houston Texans’ O-line (which led to Tom Savage getting sacked back-to-back). The Titans are still a team that has several key advantages (obviously Mariota vs Bortles goes to the Titans in this case). While I love the Jags young secondary consisting of Jalen Ramsey and AJ Bouye (both whom have missed practice for the 2nd straight time this week with ankle and illness). The Jags main offense is centered around new rookie Leonard Fournette who is seemingly a huge candidate for rookie of the year. At this point in time, I would say that the Jags have an advantage when it comes to their defense but the Titans have a solid running game in DeMarco Murray (who at one point was thought to be a Top 5 player in the NFL several seasons ago). Right now, I need to see more from the Jags to be completely sold on Tom Coughlin’s influence as the new executive vice president of the team. I will once again, ride with the Titans to make a win this week over the Jaguars 20-17.

New York Jets @ Oakland Raiders: Winner - Raiders

J-E-T-S! JETS! JETS! JETS! Oh man, this team is such a dumpster fire its not even funny. The Jets can play hard ball but the sad truth is that the Raiders have this game locked. I already have them winning this game 30-14. The Jets have quite possibly the worst roster in the NFL and their defensive line is their only real highlight and considering the Raiders offensive line is one of the most paid positions on their team, I will find it hard to see the Jets putting enough pressure on Derek Carr when he is passing off a TD pass to Amari Cooper, Michael Crabtree or just handing it off to Marshawn Lynch to run it for a touchdown. This will be an ugly game to watch for any Jets fan, that much is a certainty.

Miami Dolphins @ Los Angeles Chargers: Winner - Dolphins

What a game to watch I must say. While I normally side with Philip Rivers over Jay Cutler in most cases, I need to look at the rest of the team to see who to pick. This can almost a coin flip game for me but I am taking the Dolphins do to the same reasons as the Bucs. Have had extra time to get their roster healthy, plenty of time to get their defense ready (the Dolphins defensive line is one of the best in the NFL) with Nadmukong Suh, Kiko Alonso and Cameron Wake all set to play. I like the Chargers defense alot to and that is where this game will ultimately decide the winner. I love Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram on the defensive line but the problem is that they rely on turnovers and I just can’t see Adam Gase willing to let Jay Cutler fly loose with this offense while he has a running back like Jay Ajayi in his backfield. I see the Dolphins winning this game close with 24-23.

Dallas Cowboys @ Denver Broncos: Winner - Cowboys

I said the same thing last week, the Broncos need help on the offensive side of the ball. While, I went with the Chargers (which was a missed flied goal away from going straight into OT, I think the Dallas Cowboys will have a much better time handling the Broncos No Fly Zone defense better than the Chargers. The Cowboys have the best O-line in football and Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliot are likely to make some serious noise at Mile High. I still think that Sean Lee will have a much easier time keeping his eyes on Trevor Siemian than he did with Eli Manning and will have the defense locking down the Broncos offense but the game will be held for a low scoring game. I have the Cowboys going 27-24 against the Broncos.

San Fransisco 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks: Winner - Seahawks

Time for a bounce back for the Seahawks after last week’s game against the Green Bay Packers where they made the Seattle O-line look…well no different then it was last year. Some thought that with more time and experience the O-line would get somewhat better but based on that game, I found it doubtful. The 49ers got smashed big time last week and I foresee a repeat performance coming. The 49ers are still in need of help on several key positions and Brian Hoyer got sacked five times against the Carolina Panthers….how many sacks can the Seahawks create on Sunday (I wouldn’t want to find out). While Russell Wilson will have some difficulties with the defense, he will put up more points then I expect the 49ers offense too. I see the Seahawks going 28-14 against the 49ers for Week 2.

Washington Redskins @ Los Angeles Rams: Winner - Rams

I would normally say that the Redskins should have something of change up going into this game but the Rams looked shockingly good. And right now, Kirk Cousins confidence levels are quite low after that miserable performance from last week against the Eagles defense. I know the Rams don’t have as good a front seven as the Eagles, but they have the best Defensive Tackle in the NFL, in Aaron Donald. While I think that Kirk Cousins and Terrle Pryor’s connection should become something, I think that the Skins are going through some more growing pains right now. I think with the new Head Coach, new offensive line, Todd Gurley finally getting back to his rookie year form and his improved wideouts like Sammy Watkins and Cooper Kupp, Jared Goff should make a good showing and add a 2-0 to the Rams record for the NFC West. I have the Rams winning 24-21.

Green Bay Packers @ Atlanta Falcons: Winner - Packers

I would normally say that the Falcons should win this with the new stadium, upbeat crowd that want to see a comeback after the most humiliating loss in Super Bowl history. However, Green Bay has had the NFC under his thumb for a long time and while Aaron Rodgers is one of the best in the league, he is going against a team led by the reigning league MVP. The Packers defense looked great last week but of course they were against arguably the worst offensive line league (shockingly, there was A LOT of bad o-line play this past week). People will have questions about whether or not the Packers defense is legitimate and this will be the best way to test it. The Falcons played very close with the Chicago Bears but I felt it was them playing down to their competition, this will be the game that shows us whether the Super Bowl hangover is real with this team. However, I have the Packers winning this game close 30-27 against the Falcons.

Detriot Lions @ New York Giants: Winner - Lions

This is honestly a very risky pick. Normally, I would say that the Giants should make a comeback here because Eli is a veteran on this team and is their leader, but he looked absolutely lost out on the field without ODB. (oh man, I can’t wait to see how ridiculously huge his contract is going to be after this season) He will defienitly do better than last week but I am not betting on him making anything more than 2 TDs at best. His defense with a firecracker like Jason Pierre-Paul on the defensive line but even he and the jackrabbit Janorius Jenkins and Landon Collins in the backfield will give any QB problems and Matthew Stafford has shown he is worth the highest paid contract in the NFL. (Heck, I didn’t bet on him stomping a team like the Arizona Cardinals with their secondary) As of right now, Manning is still trying to find his connections with his receiving core (especially Brandon Marshall). I don’t have alot of confidence in the Giants making this work without ODB being on the field and I am taking the risk and picking the Lions to win 23-20.

Quite a few picks here are very likely to be wrong but that is what makes the NFL so much fun. Anything can happen on any given Sunday. The first game of Week 2 will be the Houston Texans at the Cincinnati Bengals tonight at 8:25 PM EST and broadcasted on NFL Network.

Stephen is a Contributing Editor for Trifecta Sports Network and covers the New England Patriots and the NFL.

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NFL Talk: Week 3 Picks

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NFL Talk: Week 3 Picks

 

The NFL season is going to be here for awhile but fantasy and replays will keep football fresh for all of us who are currently waiting to see Thursday Night Football (I wonder how many that would be). However, week 3 is now here and teams are still somewhat trying to form their identity. Trying to guess any NFL team’s record by the end of this year usually 9 times out of 10 will look stupid. Doing it it week-by-week gives everyone a more in depth idea about how each team will look moving forward.I overall did remarkably better than last week. I guessed 12-4 correct for week 2, so that makes my current record: 21-10. Now let’s see how the rest of this week turns out.

 

Los Angeles Rams @ San Fransisco 49ers: Winner - Rams

 

I can understand why many people would say the 49ers are not being taken seriously enough. They have a  young Front 7 that on paper, could give anyone in the NFC West trouble. In terms of pressure they can generate at the defensive line, the 49ers are capable of giving Jared Goff issues. The reality is that Brian Hoyer is a player that has difficulties when dealing with zone coverage. He has a bad habit of locking down his receivers and while he is easily capable of noticing pressure, he tends to falter under it. The Rams defense has a defensive tackle like Aaron Donald who by himself can cause massive pressure on the field. Both teams could easily mess with either QBs to make this into a very low scoring game. So this will lead to the teams relying on their running backs. Carlos Hyde is easily capable of breaking 100+ yards (He made 169 yards against the Seattle defense which speaks volumes of his production) but so too is Todd Gurley III who was Rookie of the year in 2015. Hyde is having a tremendous opener to his year but the reality is that the 49ers offense has yet to score a touchdown this season. Now some people believe that this is a trap game as the 49ers seemingly are beat up after being exhausted against a strong Seattle defense that plays hard, but their defense also was playing against arguably the worst offense line in the NFC. With the improvements in the Rams offensive line, things could change here. The 49ers being underdogs in this game makes a lot of sense as their offense still seemingly needs time to gel but I think the Rams can pull it off even on the 49ers home turf. I have the Rams winning close 18-16 tonight at 8:25 EST.

 

 

Baltimore Ravens @ Jacksonville Jaguars: Winner - Ravens

 

The battle of London is here. One of the few away games that are overseas, this will be one of the early games to start our Sunday morning. Many people had the Jags as an a underdog team that was on the rise but due to injuries in the secondary cost them in their Week 2 game against the Tennessee Titans. And while I think the Jags are a young upcoming team, their main offense is centered around Leonard Fournette. Blake Bortles is a player that if left alone, can lead to turnover issues and that is why Fournette was drafted in the first place. However, the Ravens defense has been one of the most dominating so far into this season. I think the Ravens are legit, they are a team that has been plagued by the injury bug for the past couple of years (same can be said of the Los Angeles Chargers). While the Jags have a very productive running game and an upcoming defense, they are still trying to fight back injuries (Cornerback Jalen Ramsey was limited in practice with an ankle injury and Safety Tashuan Gipson didn’t participate in practice). Right now, the Ravens are in a prime moment to dominant and I believe their defense can help them win this game. Ravens win 21-14.

 

 

Denver Broncos @ Buffalo Bills: Winner - Broncos

Anybody who says that Trevor Siemian is a franchise QB is kinda overstating things a bit. He is a player that, if he gets consistent with the offense, can be a great game manager. CJ Anderson is the essential equivalent of a wrecking ball and once he went down with injury last year, they became reliant on the passing game, which hurt their season going forward (despite going 9-7 for the 2016 season). Right now, the Broncos look like they are getting things going and Siemian is able to advance the ball further down the field thanks to having a wide receiving core of Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders. The main highlights with the Buffalo Bills right now is in their running game but the Broncos have quite possibly the best secondary in the NFL so they will be difficult to beat just passing the ball but with Von Miller possibly out with injury (he has been seen only as questionable so this could change), it could mean that the Broncos defensive line will be significantly weaker but we will need to see how the defense steps up if he is out for Sunday’s game. Either way, I have the Broncos winning by a score of 27-18.

 

 

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Chicago Bears: Winner - Steelers

 

The Chicago Bears are a team that is still trying to form an identity and right now their greatest strength is their interior offensive line and elite running game. However, the Pittsburgh Steelers have both an elite passing and running game which makes them much more difficult to stop especially while on offense. The Bears defense isn’t like what it once was in in the 2000s. In addition, Kyle Long is limited in practice along with starting running back Jordan Howard and rookie Benny Cunningham. This could lead to problems for Mike Glennon on the offense as they have been plagued with injuries in their wide receiving core as well. The Steelers are the healthier team and while Big Ben Roethlisburger may not be as good on the road, i think this team is built to win. Steelers win against the Bears 28-10.

 

 

New Orleans Saints @ Carolina Panthers: Winner - Panthers

 

This is one game that I usually will say could go either way, but with the addition of injuries including Jeremy Cash and Charles Johnson on the defensive line, the Panthers will need to put extra pressure on Drew Brees in order to get him to falter. The Panthers also lost Greg Olsen, their starting TE to severe injury and is now out for quite possibly the whole 2017 season. This will put extra pressure on the receiving core including Kelvin Benjamin. However, I don’t feel confident with the Saints defense, many thought this defense would step up this year, but its arguably stepped back from last season. Brees is going to have a tough time with an inconsistent running game (including a heated Adrian Peterson who has been limited in snaps these last two weeks) and his receiving core being without Willie Snead until Week 4. In addition, their starting corner backs Sterling Moore and Marshon Lattimore are both potentially out for next week and with the addition injuries on the defensive line, which includes: Trey Hendrickson, Bryan Braman, and Devaroe Lawrence. I just can’t see this defense stopping the Panthers, especially rookie running back Christian McCaffery who will likely have a huge game on Sunday. I see the Panthers winning around 24-20.

 

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Minnesota Vikings: Winner - Buccaneers

 

Man oh man, poor Sam Bradford. Guy might as well be called Mr. Glass at this point in his career, guy was red hot to start his season and then falls to injury. Now the Vikings have no choice but to bring out…Case Keenum as their starting QB (If Bradford of course is as badly injured as the reports have stated). Vikings fans I am so sorry.  While the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are definitely a team that has the firepower to compete against their defense, I think the Vikings will be more reliant on their running game, which can be bad for the Bucs as Gerald McCoy and Brent Grimes are listed as questionable. It comes down to which team can perform at a higher level I think that the Bucs are capable of this under Jameis Winston. I have the Bucs winning 24-14.

 

 

Cleveland Browns @ Indianapolis Colts: Winner - Colts

 

Literally had to think about this one and it ultimately came down to a coin flip because these teams are so godawful. The Cleveland Browns are without Cory Coleman now, Myles Garret is still a big question mark due to not participating in practice. Deshone Kizer is starting to look more normal now especially as he is showing severe inconsistency in the passing game. Jacoby Brissett, former New England Patriot, is still going through some growing pains but he is showing that his time in New England isn’t wasted, he is filling for Andrew Luck (who is unlikely to be back till October). The young man still has a lot to prove and if he can get connections with his receiving core, he might be able to put some points on the board (he pushed the Cardinals into overtime, whose defense is much better than the Browns right now). Due to losing play makers like Jaime Collins Sr. due to injury, the Browns are unlikely to get through this game without potentially losing it. I think this game really is a close one that will be decided by who gets a touchdown only. I see the Colts winning by a score of only 16-14. This game will be potentially close but I think if given the right opportunity, the Browns could be a surprise come Sunday.

 

 

Miami Dolphins @ New York Jets: Winner - Dolphins

 

Can’t believe I am back on the diabetic train with Jay Cutler on the Dolphins. However, the Dolphins actually have difference makers on both sides of the ball. The Jets, most definitely do not. The Jets defensive line is potentiality  top 10, but everything else especially on offense is hot garbage. Jay Cutler is middle of the road, but he is a guy who can get points on the board for the team and he will likely help his team stay atleast somewhat consistent. I won’t say that I am beating a dead horse here with the New York Jets but I also am not betting against a type 1 diabetic (Jay Cutler) either. The Dolphins should win this game 19-10.

 

 

Houston Texans @ New England Patriots: Winner - Patriots

I already explained my thoughts yesterday about this game. Right now, the Houston Texans I don’t trust offensively and Belichick eats rookie QBs alive. The team is built to handle most offenses and the Texans offense is still trying to work itself out. Right now, Deshaun Watson is still working out his issues but the young man has talent. However, the Patriots defense is still working on improvements as the New Orleans Saints got shut down hard last week. We will see if the performance this week will be the same. I see the Patriots winning 30-16.

 

 

Atlanta Falcons @ Detroit Lions: Winner - Falcons

 

I think betting against the Falcons is a mistake this time around. The Lions have shown they deserve to be recognized as a legit team. However, the Falcons still have a fast moving defense and a offense that is almost impossible to shutdown. They have play makers like Matt Ryan and Julio Jones (who finally emerged last season as the best receiver in the NFL). I like Matthew Stafford and what he is doing this season (most 4th quarter comebacks in league history last season), but the Falcons have too much firepower. Even though the Detroit defense i capable of holding its own, there is no way I can see them containing this Falcons offense, who are very hungry after the Super Bowl. I think hangover doesn’t describe this team at all, but rather, hungry for another shot at the Super Bowl might be a better description. The Falcons should win this game 32-24.

 

 

New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles: Winner - Eagles

 

The Giants don’t have an offense. Let’s make that clear. Brandon Marshall was suppose to help make this receiving core better between Evan Engram, Sterling Shepard and of course Odell Beckham Jr. However, this team’s offensive line is terrible (by the way, Ben McAdoo, cut Ereck Flowers, he is a waste of an offensive tackle at this point if he doesn’t get help). The Eagles front seven is going to have a field day with that offense and honestly, I think Wentz won’t feel too pressured since the Giants defense will be on the field more than their offense will. The Giants defense is easily a top ten defense in the league, but the issues with the offense are hurting the defense badly. Time of possession is a key factor in this game and I have more faith in the Eagles ability to create pressure on Eli Manning (who is already too old to scramble when out of the pocket). I think the Giants are going to let Eli have more control over the offense as it is clear Ben McAdoo doesn’t seem to understand how to get the team running under his scheme. The Giants will bounce back but I have a feeling that this team will go 0-3 to start this season. Eagles should win 24-18.

 

Seattle Seahawks @ Tennessee Titans: Winner - Titans

 

This is possibly my biggest upset for this week shockingly. The Seahawks defense is killer but I am already convinced that the Seahawks defense is becoming gassed out due to the offensive line being basically made out of paper. The Seahawks offense lives and dies with Russsell Wilson. Their team sadly has some serious issues due to how much was invested into their defense. The Seattle’s Legion of Boom defense is still as dangerous as ever, but the reality is that the offense has been underwhelming to say the least. Wilson’s ability to extend plays has been the saving grace for this team. However, the Tennesee Titans showed up last week against the Jaguars. And while I think Mariota will have difficulties with this Seattle defense, I feel that the team’s offense can manage to score just as much as the Seahawks can. I think this will be a very close game with the Titans barely winning 17-15 (I am secretly hoping the Seahawks get a double digit score but they have failed at getting above 10 this season).

 

 

Kansas City Chiefs @ Los Angeles Chargers: Winner - Chiefs

 

Man, the Chargers have been hit badly these last two weeks with back-to-back games ending with a  missed field goal. The Chargers are possibly the best team out of any that are starting 0-2 for the season but misfortune on both schedule and injury is hurting this team’s chances of making it to the playoffs this year. The Chiefs are currently the team to beat, with their new hot shot running back Kareem Hunt exploding onto the NFL season. The Chiefs without Eric Berry look like a legitimate Super Bowl contender this year. While the Chargers are still a very good team, if this a continuous affair of bad special teams, then there is a likely chance that the Chargers are in for alot of turnovers. The Chiefs should win 28-23.

 

 

Cincinnati Bengals @ Green Bay Packers: Winner - Packers

 

The Packers got beat up hard last week against the Falcons but the Bengals arguably got the worse beat down from the Houston Texans. The Bengals offense is UGLY. I mean, just plain ugly, this is a team that has been a disaster and has failed to score a single touchdown this season already. The Bengals went as far as to fire their offensive coordinator but I don’t think that will be enough to fix their problems. This is a team that has talent on the defensive side of the ball and has deep threat receiver like AJ Green. However, the Packers are the better from both a coaching and offensive perspective. The Bengals will need to sort out their problems but until then, I ain’t seeing them win this game. Packers should win 24-16. The Bengals are the only team in Aaron Rodgers entire career that he has never won against. This is a game that Rodgers will likely look forward to, but I can’t say the same for the Bengals who are looking to make a bounce back performance this week.

 

 

Oakland Raiders @ Washington Redskins: Winner - Raiders

 

While the Redskins are trying to keep their season alive, the Raiders are one of the hottest teams coming out of the AFC this year. With Marshawn Lynch seemingly back in form, and the offense looking solid, this Raiders team will have a big day against the Redskins, especially with Josh Norman (who was limited at practice today) on the other side of the ball. Kirk Cousins has struggled this season but he is out to prove he is worth a  long-term contract. While he is trying to get his connections with Terrelle Pryor, he is about to face an Raiders’ defense with Khali Mack on the other side of the ball (I will expect Trent Williams will be covering him to avoid Cousins from getting sacked). This is a match up that on paper should be good, but with the news of Jordan Reed not being available at practice, it seems that the Redskins will be without their starting Tight End. The Raiders had Amari Cooper limited at practice but he is one of many weapons on this offense. The Raiders should win 28-21.

 

 

Dallas Cowboys @ Arizona Cardinals: Winner - Cowboys

 

And finally the Monday night game where we will find the Cowboys being hosted at Arizona. While the Cardinals seem to be trying, this offense has lost its identity without David Johnson. Bruce Arians has been pushing this team far, but its clear that the 2015 season is in the rear view mirror at this point.  would suggest to just have Palmer ride out his contract, draft a QB in next year’s draft and just tank. The Cowboys had a bad game at Denver and everybody does sadly at Mile High. The cowboys got exposed by the Denver’s no fly zone defense but even so, there is no way that the Cardinals can replicate that blueprint with the players they have (They first of all need to have both corner backs play on the same level as Patrick Peterson and I only see one of him). The Cardinals low scoring, is a major concern and I think the Cowboys will win on the road to help get themselves back on track. I predict this to be a low scoring game but Ezekiel Elliot will show up at this game. Cowboys win 24-18.

 

 

 

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Patriots Talk: What To Expect For Week 3

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Patriots

With the Patriots made a great bounce back after the season opener. However, there is still much that the team needs to do going into Week 3. The Patriots will be essentially repeating last season, a Sunday game against the Houston Texans. The thing about the Texans is that their staff is full of ex-Patriots but their team is completely the opposite of the Patriots. The Texans rely much more on their defense than their offense.

Bill Belichick has managed a consist record against O’Brien’s Texans with their last encounters in three years (with Jacoby Brissett being the starting QB for one of them). Two of the games were in the regular season and one in the postseason.

  • 2015: 27-6
  • 2016: 27-0
  • 2017: 34-16

If we are basing the scores from across both teams’ history, the Texans are completely lopsided in this case as well. Since the team first came into existence in 2002 (that means the Houston Texans are only 16 years old, to put that into even further perspective, Bill Belichick has been the Head Coach of the New England Patriots since 2000, 2 years longer than the Texans have been a football team), the Patriots have been 8-1 against the Texans all-time. In terms of overall scores, the Patriots have never scored lower than 23 points against the Texans.

However, the Patriots shouldn’t just push the Texans aside. This is a football team that has never had a fully healthy JJ Watt to face against especially with a defense that has Jadeveon Clowney or Whitney Mercilus. This is a team that can give the Patriots offense problems. In their last meeting, Brady was only able to make 18 completions on 38 passing attempts with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. The only reason the Patriots won that last game was due to the team having massive headaches at the QB positions and just simple special team mistakes that resulted in two different turnovers.

In addition, the Patriots best weapon, Rob Gronkowski, is currently dealing with a  groin injury and while reports seem positive, that can all change on game day and that simple injury could turn into something much worse (Remember Gronk’s arm brace being a bit massive? It is because they need him to wear that for the rest of his career to prevent further infection or else Gronk would likely have been permanently crippled). It’s still early in the week and things will change as we get closer to game day but its always better to be cautious.

The Patriots will be playing against the Houston Texans on Sunday, September 24th, at 1:00 PM EST at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA.  The game will be broadcast on CBS, and both teams are currently 1-1 to start the regular NFL season into Week 3.

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New England Patriots

Patriots Have A Two-Headed Monster In BackField

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Patriots

Following an embarrassing week 1 loss, the Patriots returned to the field seeking redemption. They trounced the New Orleans Saints 36-20, this past Sunday. Ah, sweet misplaced aggression. From Bill Belichick’s offense, we saw a multi-faceted passing attack that was redolent of the good ol’ days.

Tom Brady stood immovably strong in the pocket, going through his progressions with laser-like precision. We saw him make crafty check-downs to receivers manifold. An unleashed Rob Gronkowski ran crossing routes like a human-boulder, tearing the Saints secondary to shreds. It all made for a beautiful sight to see.

As prolifically as Tom Brady threw the football, it was the effectiveness of our running backs that was most surprising. In this department, offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels hit the Saints with a dual-pronged weapon. Power runner Mike Gillislee scored his 4th rushing TD of the season, while finesse halfback James White pulled in 8 receptions for 85 yards. In tandem, they were absolutely dynamic. And with all our injuries, we’re going to need them to be just that going forwards.

The continued performance of this two-headed monster will arguably be the most critical thing to the Patriots’ success this year. White and Gillislee, early on, have mirrored each other in a productive manner. But beware: The utilization of this duo could become rather calculable. Our one-two punch is going to have to learn to play outside of their respective comfort-zones.

A Tale of Two Tailbacks

When appraising the Patriots backfield, Mike Gillislee and James White should be viewed as a single entity. There’s a mutually beneficial marriage between these two players. They are polar-opposites, who collaborate to produce a formidable rushing attack.

Disclaimer: Some may say that I am negligent to not mention the contributions from Dion Lewis and Rex Burkhead. But if this backfield was a cheeseburger, Lewis and Burkhead would merely be the condiments that make it taste just a tad better. There’s no doubt that Gillislee and White are the featured athletes here.

As many Patriots fans would admit, calling James White a “running back” is sort of inappropriate. This is his formal title, yes, but it’s a misnomer of a title. Go back and watch last year’s Super Bowl. White should just be listed as a wide receiver on the depth chart. That’s what we’ve always used him as. In the absence of Julian Edelman, he may be our most dependable option on passing 3rd-downs.

This year, White is on track to haul in 88 receptions for 920 yards, while racking up an additional 392 rushing yards. That type of production would be invaluable. His hands are immeasurably better than any other RB’s on this Patriots team. Opposing defenses cannot commit to defending one facet of his game or the other, at least so far. But on Sunday afternoon, we saw a pattern being established.

Chances are, if White’s on the field, Tom Brady is going to be throwing the football. It’s no secret. James White has only 12 rushing attempts, this season. Here is where Mike Gillislee comes in. He’s the jelly to White’s peanut butter; the ying to his yang.

Gillislee is off to a fast start, with his new team. He is a virtual inversion of James White. Gillislee is a durable smashmouth back, who acts as a battering ram on the goal line and on rushing downs. Currently, he’s on track for 912 rushing yards and 32 rushing TD’s.

But again there is an appreciable formula, in regards to how Mike Gillislee is leveraged. This is something that will not be overlooked by our future opponents. Since the start of last year, Gillislee has 0 receptions. That’s right, a big fat goose egg. When Gillislee is on the field, 99% of the time he’s going to be hitting his holes as the running play is designed.

Variety is the Spice of Life

It’s odd that both White and Gillislee play such singular roles, because they are physically comparable. James White is slightly more compact, at 5’9” 204 lbs. Mike Gillislee is a rugged 5’11” 208 lbs. But concerning their speed, they’re almost interchangeable. Just look at their 40-yard dash times. White runs a 4.57, while Gillislee runs a 4.55. This is encouraging: They should be able to learn how to imitate each other.

Bill Belichick doesn’t allow any of his players to become complacent. Such comfort could compromise the Patriots playbook. In the coming weeks, look for Mike Gillislee to be a part of more passing formations, and for James White to run the ball more frequently. The Pats have to keep their opponents honest and unprepared.

A live-action attrition has been induced in the Patriots’ leading receivers. Chris Hogan, Danny Amendola, and Rob Gronkowski are currently banged-up. Whether these guys are sidelined or active, the Patriots will be using them minimally. Hence the importance of the running game. Our backfield, with James White and Mike Gillislee at the helm, will certainly be carrying more of the load than anyone expected.

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