Baltimore Ravens @ New York Jets
Two teams that started the season with playoff aspirations will face off in a de facto elimination game as the Baltimore Ravens travel to take on the New York Jets.
The Jets have played better of late, but with the competitiveness within their own division, a fifth loss so early in the season could sink their championship dreams.
"The way I see it, every game is the National Championship for us now," rookie wide receiver Braxton Miller said. "I'm not used to losing and I see it now like another turn at Ohio State for me - we win everything moving forward - no excuses."
Miller has been a revelation for New York fans (and Sam Bradford) with his big plays and sure-hands catching the football.
The Ravens have been pedestrian on offense all year and have also struggled to keep teams off the board.
"It's been turnovers for us," John Harbaugh said. "We have got to take care of the football."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: The youthful and energetic Jets seem to like Miller's call to get back to their college roots as players had a spirited practice wearing their own 'throwback' jerseys mid-week.
PREDICTION: Jets win 28-17
Buffalo Bills @ Miami Dolphins
Not since Jim Kelly and Dan Marino were locking horns has a Buffalo/Miami matchup been so widely anticipated throughout the country.
"This is great for our league," commissioner Roger Goodell said. "I love that those two fanbases are getting some time to shine."
After last year's unexpected run to the Super Bowl 50 championship, many around the league looked for a huge drop for Miami in 2016. With New England, New York, and Buffalo all stocked with talent, it was an easy assumption.
But, after a 6-0 start heading into their clash with Aaron Rodgers and the Bills, the Dolphins could be here to stay.
"We've been disrespected every day since playing in that game (Super Bowl)," Earl Thomas said. "We don't need extra motivation, but I see them (Buffalo) trying to get in on that trash-talking game too - that's not a good move for them."
In their last meeting, the Bills completely shut down the Miami rushing attack. The only points scored by the Dolphins were on defense (three turnovers returned for touchdowns) in Buffalo's 28-21 victory.
"They are a little bit sensitive over there," Rodgers said. "Any time we answer a question about Miami, the next day one of them is talking about 'disrespect' and 'being angry.' I'm not one to gush and fawn over opponents. They are a good squad and great at being one-dimensional - I'm confident our defense can shut down their single dimension again."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Fist fights and ejections. No, seriously.
PREDICTION: Bills win 24-23
Wednesday, October 19, 2016
Friday, October 14, 2016
2016 Season - Week #6
San Francisco 49ers @ Buffalo Bills
1 2 3 4 FINAL
SAN FRANCISCO 0 0 0 0 0
BUFFALO 3 10 5 7 25
BUFFALO – All summer long Rex Ryan boasted about how his team would lead the league in defense. When pundits asked if his confident attitude was a backhanded slight towards their friends south in Miami, Ryan would flatly say 'Yes.' After Buffalo's (5-1) 25-0 shut out win against a hapless San Francisco squad, Ryan may have been right.
"We will see who the best defense in the league is next week," Ryan said. "I'll give them (Miami) credit for getting a championship last year, but there's no way they get out of next week undefeated."
Luke Kuechly and company allowed only 110 yards of total offense by the 49ers on the day.
To put that into perspective: Runningback Todd Gurley had 110 yards rushing himself for the Bills in the same game.
"We really are hitting a groove," Gurley said. "We are set up for a first place showdown next week - I'm excited to start watching film for sure."
Wide receiver Tyler Lockett also continued to grow as a primary target for Aaron Rodgers with 110 yards receiving and a touchdown.
In the NFL Game of the Week, Buffalo heads to Miami to face the undefeated Dolphins.
"We will see who the best defense in the league is next week," Ryan said. "I'll give them (Miami) credit for getting a championship last year, but there's no way they get out of next week undefeated."
Luke Kuechly and company allowed only 110 yards of total offense by the 49ers on the day.
To put that into perspective: Runningback Todd Gurley had 110 yards rushing himself for the Bills in the same game.
"We really are hitting a groove," Gurley said. "We are set up for a first place showdown next week - I'm excited to start watching film for sure."
Wide receiver Tyler Lockett also continued to grow as a primary target for Aaron Rodgers with 110 yards receiving and a touchdown.
In the NFL Game of the Week, Buffalo heads to Miami to face the undefeated Dolphins.
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Miami Dolphins
1 2 3 4 FINAL
PITTSBURGH 3 7 0 3 13
MIAMI 0 7 7 7 21
MIAMI – In their first true test of the season, the Miami Dolphins (6-0) stifled the Pittsburgh Steelers 21-13 on Sunday afternoon in the Sunshine State.
With time running out in the first half and his team trailing for the first time all season, quarterback Jacoby Brissett stayed cool in the pocket hitting fellow rookie Laquon Treadwell with a 39-yard touchdown strike to make the score 10-7 at halftime.
"My number doesn't get called often," Treadwell said. "But it's my job to get out there and block and to go get it when the opportunities present themselves."
The score seemingly flipped momentum and got the Miami defense back on track holding the Steelers to three points over the final two quarters.
Defensive end Courtney Upshaw, having been benched for second year player Danielle Hunter, came in to start the third and immediately changed the game.
"I was disappointed not to start," Upshaw said. "But I'm glad they gave me a chance there in the second half."
Upshaw and the Dolphins will stay home to face their rivals from Buffalo in a showdown for first place in the AFC East.
With time running out in the first half and his team trailing for the first time all season, quarterback Jacoby Brissett stayed cool in the pocket hitting fellow rookie Laquon Treadwell with a 39-yard touchdown strike to make the score 10-7 at halftime.
"My number doesn't get called often," Treadwell said. "But it's my job to get out there and block and to go get it when the opportunities present themselves."
The score seemingly flipped momentum and got the Miami defense back on track holding the Steelers to three points over the final two quarters.
Defensive end Courtney Upshaw, having been benched for second year player Danielle Hunter, came in to start the third and immediately changed the game.
"I was disappointed not to start," Upshaw said. "But I'm glad they gave me a chance there in the second half."
Upshaw and the Dolphins will stay home to face their rivals from Buffalo in a showdown for first place in the AFC East.
New York Jets @ Arizona Cardinals
1 2 3 4 FINAL
NEW YORK 3 6 6 10 25
ARIZONA 10 0 14 15 39
ARIZONA – With the New York Jets (2-4) sitting at the Arizona 2-yard line with :12 seconds on the clock, it seemed as if Sam Bradford was poised for yet another last second miracle for the turnaround Jets squad.
On 4th-and-goal, Bradford completed a pass to Jamison Crowder who fell inches short of the goal line - reminiscent of the Tennessee Titans near miss against the (then) St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXIV.
To add insult to injury, the Cardinals' Dion Lewis took a meaningless handoff 99-yards for a touchdown to run out the clock, putting the final score at 39-25 in favor of Arizona.
"What man, you want me to lay down," Lewis said. "If you don't want me going all the way, put a hand on me at least."
The loss, to a talented Cardinals team, puts a significant burden on Todd Bowles and company as they try to steer their way to the playoffs.
"A lot of football left in the season," Bowles said. "We've played the toughest schedule in the league - and it only gets tougher from here."
After losing runningback David Johnson for the game with an ankle injury, the steadily improving Bradford paced the way for the Jets offense with 313 yards through the air.
However, too many New York possessions ended with Nick Folk hitting field goals instead of Jets players scoring touchdowns.
"There were some points left on the field," Bradford said. "No one in this locker room is a quitter - we'll keep grinding."
The Jets will head home to face the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.
Wednesday, October 12, 2016
Week #6 AFC East Preview
San Francisco 49ers @ Buffalo Bills
It is baffling how a team with Rex Ryan as coach, Aaron Rodgers as quarterback, and Luke Kuechly leading the defense can go as unnoticed and under-appreciated as this Bills squad has gone since their loss to New England.
Fans and sportswriters seemingly gave up on the preseason Super Bowl favorites after one game.
Certainly the team must believe they could be sitting at 5-0 heading into their date with the 49ers, but this focused squad is enjoying life at the moment.
"Championships are won on the field," Clay Mathews said. "People threw a lot of doubt at us after a loss and have been poking holes in our team, but we are getting stronger every day. I love being overlooked."
San Francisco's Chip Kelly was having none of the overlooking when asked about his team's chances against the Bills.
"You guys must be crazy to doubt that team over there," Kelly said. "We are growing our program here and I don't mean to disrespect any of our guys, but we may have only two or three players that could start over there at this point."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: James White in the second half. Most Buffalo starters should be resting by the 4th quarter, so we're expecting a late fantasy surge from White in mop up duty.
PREDICTION: Bills win 45-14
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Miami Dolphins
Last year, as the AFC's #1 seed, the Pittsburgh Steelers had it all: The NFL's #1 offense, a raucous home crowd waving their terrible towels, and a one-dimensional warm weather team flying into town as a mini speed bump towards an inevitable Super Bowl run for the AFC North Champions.
The Steelers ended up as a one-and-done playoff team as they were upset by the double-digit underdogs from Miami who rode a late season run all the way to the Super Bowl 50 title.
"Not a day goes by that I don't remember that game," Antonio Brown said. "It was back and forth until the end. I've been waiting for this game for a long time."
Brown suffered a concussion from a blatant late hit by Calvin Pryor on the game's final drive that has now saddled the safety with the label of being a dirty player.
"They cried a lot after that hit man," Pryor said. "They were just bitter - watch the film, I've checked it out about 100 times, he just got clocked man."
Neutral NFL fans have circled this game as a potential backyard brawl that could turn into must-see TV.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: The revenge factor. Many have predicted this as the end of Miami's undefeated run. Ben Roethlisberger and company are faster and more skilled than Miami on the outside - the streak ends here.
PREDICTION: Steelers win 35-25
New York Jets @ Arizona Cardinals
NFL head coaches are always looking for an edge. Bruce Arians wears funny hats and cracks jokes. Up until this season, Todd Bowles simply coached well and knew a lot about creating havoc on defense. But now, after his team's 2-3 start (and potentially leaving at least two wins on the table), Bowles has a new mantra.
"Finish," Bowles said. "It's as simple as that: Our goal is to finish everything. Every game, every play, every practice. We must finish."
The message has taken a firm hold on his team as FINISH-themed shirts have been popping up all over the Jets locker room.
After the team held on late against one of the NFL's elite on the road against Pittsburgh last week, the team's motto has also began to show up on the field as well.
"That's all I kept thinking about at the end - to finish," Aaron Donald said. "That's the only thing on our minds in everything we do right now."
It was easy for writers across the country to view New York as an after thought sitting at 1-3 a week ago. Now, with a west coast trip to Arizona looming, the Jets have a chance to start a run that could end with them getting back into the playoff hunt.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Pressuring Palmer. An angry and motivated Jets team is scary for any quarterback - Even Carson Palmer.
PREDICTION: Jets win 22-21
It is baffling how a team with Rex Ryan as coach, Aaron Rodgers as quarterback, and Luke Kuechly leading the defense can go as unnoticed and under-appreciated as this Bills squad has gone since their loss to New England.
Fans and sportswriters seemingly gave up on the preseason Super Bowl favorites after one game.
Certainly the team must believe they could be sitting at 5-0 heading into their date with the 49ers, but this focused squad is enjoying life at the moment.
"Championships are won on the field," Clay Mathews said. "People threw a lot of doubt at us after a loss and have been poking holes in our team, but we are getting stronger every day. I love being overlooked."
San Francisco's Chip Kelly was having none of the overlooking when asked about his team's chances against the Bills.
"You guys must be crazy to doubt that team over there," Kelly said. "We are growing our program here and I don't mean to disrespect any of our guys, but we may have only two or three players that could start over there at this point."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: James White in the second half. Most Buffalo starters should be resting by the 4th quarter, so we're expecting a late fantasy surge from White in mop up duty.
PREDICTION: Bills win 45-14
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Miami Dolphins
Last year, as the AFC's #1 seed, the Pittsburgh Steelers had it all: The NFL's #1 offense, a raucous home crowd waving their terrible towels, and a one-dimensional warm weather team flying into town as a mini speed bump towards an inevitable Super Bowl run for the AFC North Champions.
The Steelers ended up as a one-and-done playoff team as they were upset by the double-digit underdogs from Miami who rode a late season run all the way to the Super Bowl 50 title.
"Not a day goes by that I don't remember that game," Antonio Brown said. "It was back and forth until the end. I've been waiting for this game for a long time."
Brown suffered a concussion from a blatant late hit by Calvin Pryor on the game's final drive that has now saddled the safety with the label of being a dirty player.
"They cried a lot after that hit man," Pryor said. "They were just bitter - watch the film, I've checked it out about 100 times, he just got clocked man."
Neutral NFL fans have circled this game as a potential backyard brawl that could turn into must-see TV.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: The revenge factor. Many have predicted this as the end of Miami's undefeated run. Ben Roethlisberger and company are faster and more skilled than Miami on the outside - the streak ends here.
PREDICTION: Steelers win 35-25
New York Jets @ Arizona Cardinals
NFL head coaches are always looking for an edge. Bruce Arians wears funny hats and cracks jokes. Up until this season, Todd Bowles simply coached well and knew a lot about creating havoc on defense. But now, after his team's 2-3 start (and potentially leaving at least two wins on the table), Bowles has a new mantra.
"Finish," Bowles said. "It's as simple as that: Our goal is to finish everything. Every game, every play, every practice. We must finish."
The message has taken a firm hold on his team as FINISH-themed shirts have been popping up all over the Jets locker room.
After the team held on late against one of the NFL's elite on the road against Pittsburgh last week, the team's motto has also began to show up on the field as well.
"That's all I kept thinking about at the end - to finish," Aaron Donald said. "That's the only thing on our minds in everything we do right now."
It was easy for writers across the country to view New York as an after thought sitting at 1-3 a week ago. Now, with a west coast trip to Arizona looming, the Jets have a chance to start a run that could end with them getting back into the playoff hunt.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Pressuring Palmer. An angry and motivated Jets team is scary for any quarterback - Even Carson Palmer.
PREDICTION: Jets win 22-21
Thursday, October 6, 2016
2016 Season - Week #5
Tennessee Titans @ Miami Dolphins
1 2 3 4 FINAL
TENNESSEE 0 7 0 7 14
MIAMI 14 21 0 3 38
MIAMI – The Tennessee Titans were severely outmatched against the undefeated reigning Super Bowl champions from Miami (5-0) in their 38-14 loss Sunday. Marcus Mariota provided the only bright spot on the day for the Titans with an 89-yard run from his team's own 1-yard line late in the first half.
"Obviously that was a great play," Mariota said. "But we couldn't make enough of them today."
In addition to stifling the Tennessee offense throughout the game, the Dolphins scored another defensive touchdown after Bobby Wagner picked up a Mariota fumble and taking it to the house.
"I'm not trying to sound like an a****** or anything," Wagner said. "But we are all mad about that long run we gave up. We are greedy about yards and that shouldn't happen."
Chris Ivory continued his torrid start to the season with 174 yards rushing and a pair of touchdowns.
Miami next plays host to the Pittsburgh Steelers from the AFC North.
"Obviously that was a great play," Mariota said. "But we couldn't make enough of them today."
In addition to stifling the Tennessee offense throughout the game, the Dolphins scored another defensive touchdown after Bobby Wagner picked up a Mariota fumble and taking it to the house.
"I'm not trying to sound like an a****** or anything," Wagner said. "But we are all mad about that long run we gave up. We are greedy about yards and that shouldn't happen."
Chris Ivory continued his torrid start to the season with 174 yards rushing and a pair of touchdowns.
Miami next plays host to the Pittsburgh Steelers from the AFC North.
New York Jets @ Pittsburgh Steelers
1 2 3 4 FINAL
NEW YORK 0 16 3 9 28
PITTSBURGH 3 3 0 21 27
PITTSBURGH – For all the talk of Sam Bradford being just a game manager, the often-ridiculed signal-caller came up clutch for the New York Jets (2-3) as they beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 28-27 in the Steel City.
Bradford led his team on an 8-play, 80-yard drive before hitting Jamison Crowder from 7-yards out for the game-winning score with :08 seconds remaining.
"It felt great,"Bradford said. "It's my second week with the team, but we'll keep growing together."
In what was easily the most complete game of the Todd Bowles era, the New York defense completely neutralized Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell throughout.
The Steelers, often the bullies on the field, uncharacteristically struggled with turnovers and 3rd down efficiency against an inspired Jets team.
"That's a squad they've got over there," Mike Tomlin said. "I obviously don't like the outcome, but that was a playoff game here today and we'll learn from it."
Linebacker Navorro Bowman scored the first touchdown of the day for the Jets on a 44-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the 2nd quarter - the score was Bowman's second of the season.
Despite a poor, by his standards, performance with only 65 yards rushing, David Johnson kept a positive attitude looking forward to the team's showdown with Arizona next week.
"I left a lot of points on the field for us today," Johnson said. "I missed some easy reads, but the holes were there."
Kicker Nick Folk was a fantasy hero with five field goals, including a 62-yarder to end the first half.
Bradford led his team on an 8-play, 80-yard drive before hitting Jamison Crowder from 7-yards out for the game-winning score with :08 seconds remaining.
"It felt great,"Bradford said. "It's my second week with the team, but we'll keep growing together."
In what was easily the most complete game of the Todd Bowles era, the New York defense completely neutralized Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell throughout.
The Steelers, often the bullies on the field, uncharacteristically struggled with turnovers and 3rd down efficiency against an inspired Jets team.
"That's a squad they've got over there," Mike Tomlin said. "I obviously don't like the outcome, but that was a playoff game here today and we'll learn from it."
Linebacker Navorro Bowman scored the first touchdown of the day for the Jets on a 44-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the 2nd quarter - the score was Bowman's second of the season.
Despite a poor, by his standards, performance with only 65 yards rushing, David Johnson kept a positive attitude looking forward to the team's showdown with Arizona next week.
"I left a lot of points on the field for us today," Johnson said. "I missed some easy reads, but the holes were there."
Kicker Nick Folk was a fantasy hero with five field goals, including a 62-yarder to end the first half.
Buffalo Bills @ Los Angeles Rams
1 2 3 4 FINAL
BUFFALO 0 17 14 0 31
LOS ANGELES 0 0 0 7 7
LOS ANGELES – If Jeff Fisher is fired Monday morning, he can thank defensive tackle Geno Atkins for putting the final nail in the coffin of his Los Angeles Rams coaching tenure. Atkins spent the majority of the game in the Rams backfield dominating each and every offensive lineman in front of him as the Buffalo Bills (4-1) righted their ship with a resounding 31-7 victory.
"It's not about me man," Atkins said. "We dominated in all three phases. Last week woke us up."
Atkins finished with 3 sacks and 3 tackles for loss.
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers looked like the MVP we've come to know with a 20-23, 256 yards, and 3 TD day. More importantly, Rodgers and the Bills did not turn the ball over once compared to seven last week.
"Last week really kicked us in the rear," Rodgers said. "It was nice to get out here to get back to basics."
Rodgers twice hit a steadily improving Amari Cooper with long touchdown passes. The second year pro ended up with 3 catches for 125 yards with the two TDs.
In a game that was never in doubt, Buffalo again solidified their place as one of the NFL's elite.
The Bills head home to host the San Francisco 49ers a week from today.
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
Week #5 AFC East Preview
Tennessee Titans @ Miami Dolphins
In last year's meeting, former Dolphins quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo famously Floppolo'ed his way into management's doghouse during a 41-24 loss to the Titans.
Garoppolo is now resting quietly across the division in New York, while first-year signal-caller Jacoby Brissett has systematically gained the respect of his teammates by putting his ego aside.
"Last year is last year," Brissett said. "I'm not the type to dance or do any of that stuff. My job here is to simply get us the right play called at the line and take my shots when I get the chance to."
The NFL's 2nd leading scoring offense has been overshadowed (and rightly so) by the play of the the NFL's toughest defense.
Tennessee's Mike Mularkey was more than praiseworthy of Miami's style of play in his Monday press conference.
"I talked all summer about playing defense and running an exotic smash-mouth style of football," Mularkey said. "They (Miami) are the gold standard for both over there. This will be a tough matchup for us but also a great learning experience."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Marcus Mariota the hunted. This Miami defense loathes giving up points and yards to opposing teams. That 42-point effort from a year ago has to give them some motivation leading up to the game.
PREDICTION: Dolphins win 33-10
New York Jets @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Ben Roethlisberger, the wise veteran that he is, correctly summed up a consensus around NFL circles regarding the slow start by the New York Jets this season: Don't count on it lasting.
"I've had to watch a lot of film over the years," Roethlisberger said. "That is a great team over there - they've just had some bad breaks."
The Jets righted their 2016 ship with a statement win versus the Seattle Seahawks last week.
To continue their winning ways they will have to defeat one of the AFC's elite on the road in Pittsburgh.
"I like the challenge," Aaron Donald said. "We came into the season with people trying to crown us. We are now being talked about as down and out - we'll take the motivation if you want to slight us."
Quarterback Sam Bradford will need to erase his three-turnover first half memories against the Seahawks and build off his strong second half when he led his team back from the brink of an 0-4 start.
"There is a lot to build off of from last week," Bradford said. "We will be ready."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: If it's Pittsburgh, then you can only talk about Antonio Brown. If he twerks once, New York can win. If he's twerking two or three times: Game Over.
PREDICTION: Steelers win 30-20
Buffalo Bills @ Los Angeles Rams
Although he's been his typically cool self with the media all week, Aaron Rodgers has to be counting down the seconds until kickoff after his poor performance last week at New England.
Rodgers will be back in his home state playing in the LA Coliseum with a chance to get his team to 4-1.
"Any time you get to play an NFL game you're excited," Rodgers said. "After last week it will be nice to get out there and play some better football."
Todd Gurley, widely projected to be drafted by the Rams two years ago, has kept the team loose all week in practice before their California adventure.
"I've been begging coach (Rex Ryan) to let us go to Disneyland or even that Hollywood sign man," Gurley said. "I've never been to LA, I can't wait to play in such a great stadium and to see the sights."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Despite this being a cross-country trip for the Bills, they exist as the highest of the Week 5 favorites in the NFL. Coming off a difficult loss, it would be hard to get the team to overlook any opponent. Rex Ryan should have his troops loose and ready to face the Rams.
PREDICTION: Bills win 42-21
In last year's meeting, former Dolphins quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo famously Floppolo'ed his way into management's doghouse during a 41-24 loss to the Titans.
Garoppolo is now resting quietly across the division in New York, while first-year signal-caller Jacoby Brissett has systematically gained the respect of his teammates by putting his ego aside.
"Last year is last year," Brissett said. "I'm not the type to dance or do any of that stuff. My job here is to simply get us the right play called at the line and take my shots when I get the chance to."
The NFL's 2nd leading scoring offense has been overshadowed (and rightly so) by the play of the the NFL's toughest defense.
Tennessee's Mike Mularkey was more than praiseworthy of Miami's style of play in his Monday press conference.
"I talked all summer about playing defense and running an exotic smash-mouth style of football," Mularkey said. "They (Miami) are the gold standard for both over there. This will be a tough matchup for us but also a great learning experience."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Marcus Mariota the hunted. This Miami defense loathes giving up points and yards to opposing teams. That 42-point effort from a year ago has to give them some motivation leading up to the game.
PREDICTION: Dolphins win 33-10
New York Jets @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Ben Roethlisberger, the wise veteran that he is, correctly summed up a consensus around NFL circles regarding the slow start by the New York Jets this season: Don't count on it lasting.
"I've had to watch a lot of film over the years," Roethlisberger said. "That is a great team over there - they've just had some bad breaks."
The Jets righted their 2016 ship with a statement win versus the Seattle Seahawks last week.
To continue their winning ways they will have to defeat one of the AFC's elite on the road in Pittsburgh.
"I like the challenge," Aaron Donald said. "We came into the season with people trying to crown us. We are now being talked about as down and out - we'll take the motivation if you want to slight us."
Quarterback Sam Bradford will need to erase his three-turnover first half memories against the Seahawks and build off his strong second half when he led his team back from the brink of an 0-4 start.
"There is a lot to build off of from last week," Bradford said. "We will be ready."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: If it's Pittsburgh, then you can only talk about Antonio Brown. If he twerks once, New York can win. If he's twerking two or three times: Game Over.
PREDICTION: Steelers win 30-20
Buffalo Bills @ Los Angeles Rams
Although he's been his typically cool self with the media all week, Aaron Rodgers has to be counting down the seconds until kickoff after his poor performance last week at New England.
Rodgers will be back in his home state playing in the LA Coliseum with a chance to get his team to 4-1.
"Any time you get to play an NFL game you're excited," Rodgers said. "After last week it will be nice to get out there and play some better football."
Todd Gurley, widely projected to be drafted by the Rams two years ago, has kept the team loose all week in practice before their California adventure.
"I've been begging coach (Rex Ryan) to let us go to Disneyland or even that Hollywood sign man," Gurley said. "I've never been to LA, I can't wait to play in such a great stadium and to see the sights."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Despite this being a cross-country trip for the Bills, they exist as the highest of the Week 5 favorites in the NFL. Coming off a difficult loss, it would be hard to get the team to overlook any opponent. Rex Ryan should have his troops loose and ready to face the Rams.
PREDICTION: Bills win 42-21
Friday, September 30, 2016
2016 Season - Week #4
Miami Dolphins @ Cincinnati Bengals
1 2 3 4 FINAL
MIAMI 7 17 3 14 41
CINCINNATI 0 10 3 6 10
CINCINNATI – Thursday Night's Color Rush affair was more of a one-sided washout and was over by halftime as the Miami Dolphins (4-0) continued their dominating start to the season with an emphatic 41-10 thrashing of the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Miami defense once again stole the show allowing only 33 rushing yards while sacking Andy Dalton 5 times on the night.
Byron Jones took at tipped Dalton pass 42-yards to the house late in the first half to give the Dolphins defense a touchdown scored for a 4th consecutive game.
"When we get our hands on the ball, we are looking to go all the way," Jones said. "Every day we practice that man, we are trying to stop you and outscore you."
For the season, Miami has scored 37 points on defense and through the special teams return game while allowing only 51 total points on the year.
"People give us flack for our lack of a passing game," Adam Gase said. "But with the way this defense is playing we can afford to pound the run game, wear teams down, and rely on our D to get the ball back or put points on the board themselves."
On offense, Miami relied heavily on Chris Ivory for the short week.
Ivory finished with 166 yards rushing with a pair of long touchdown runs.
"We like to spread the love each week," Ivory said. "Sometimes it's Thomas (Rawls), other times it's Duke (Johnson). It was my turn tonight."
Miami will take their undefeated act home to face the Tennessee Titans on Sunday.
The Miami defense once again stole the show allowing only 33 rushing yards while sacking Andy Dalton 5 times on the night.
Byron Jones took at tipped Dalton pass 42-yards to the house late in the first half to give the Dolphins defense a touchdown scored for a 4th consecutive game.
"When we get our hands on the ball, we are looking to go all the way," Jones said. "Every day we practice that man, we are trying to stop you and outscore you."
For the season, Miami has scored 37 points on defense and through the special teams return game while allowing only 51 total points on the year.
"People give us flack for our lack of a passing game," Adam Gase said. "But with the way this defense is playing we can afford to pound the run game, wear teams down, and rely on our D to get the ball back or put points on the board themselves."
On offense, Miami relied heavily on Chris Ivory for the short week.
Ivory finished with 166 yards rushing with a pair of long touchdown runs.
"We like to spread the love each week," Ivory said. "Sometimes it's Thomas (Rawls), other times it's Duke (Johnson). It was my turn tonight."
Miami will take their undefeated act home to face the Tennessee Titans on Sunday.
Seattle Seahawks @ New York Jets
1 2 3 4 FINAL
SEATTLE 7 16 0 7 30
NEW YORK 0 13 13 11 37
NEW YORK – For all the heat head coach Todd Bowles has been facing, you cannot fault him for lack of effort.
Sitting in the locker room down ten heading into what seemed to be another second half of misery, Bowles took fate into his own hands.
"I'm not an alarmist or someone who overreacts," Bowles said. "But it was time for a change."
Bowles gave an impassioned speech alongside defensive captain Joe Haden. The much-maligned coach informed his team that he would take over all defensive play-calling duties moving forward.
"It had to be done," Bowles said. "I told the offense their only job was to not (expletive) turn the ball over anymore."
The result: New York outscored the Seattle Seahawks 24-7 over the final two quarters as the Jets (1-3) picked up their first win of the season 37-30.
"We needed this," Haden said. "It's on now."
Haden, who boasted to the media about becoming the league's best safety after his mid-week position change, picked up his first interception of the season during the second half turnaround.
Not to be lost in Bowles' defensive takeover was a dominating performance by the New York ground attack led by emerging star David Johnson.
For the day, Johnson rushed for 204 yards with three touchdowns on only 19 carries.
"I've been begging for this all year," Johnson said. "We got the big fella KB (Kelvin Benjamin) out there blocking like he's Zach Martin. Our o-line has got pride too and that's something we gotta keep leaning on."
Sam Bradford, after being acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles Monday, struggled mightily with three first half interceptions but settled down with two second half TD passes to go along with his 16-22, 200 yard performance.
"I'm still learning the offense," Bradford said. "But I want to be a quarterback in this league and I'd love to be here long-term. My job is to get this team to the playoffs."
The Jets will look to make it two in a row as they head to undefeated Pittsburgh Sunday afternoon.
Sitting in the locker room down ten heading into what seemed to be another second half of misery, Bowles took fate into his own hands.
"I'm not an alarmist or someone who overreacts," Bowles said. "But it was time for a change."
Bowles gave an impassioned speech alongside defensive captain Joe Haden. The much-maligned coach informed his team that he would take over all defensive play-calling duties moving forward.
"It had to be done," Bowles said. "I told the offense their only job was to not (expletive) turn the ball over anymore."
The result: New York outscored the Seattle Seahawks 24-7 over the final two quarters as the Jets (1-3) picked up their first win of the season 37-30.
"We needed this," Haden said. "It's on now."
Haden, who boasted to the media about becoming the league's best safety after his mid-week position change, picked up his first interception of the season during the second half turnaround.
Not to be lost in Bowles' defensive takeover was a dominating performance by the New York ground attack led by emerging star David Johnson.
For the day, Johnson rushed for 204 yards with three touchdowns on only 19 carries.
"I've been begging for this all year," Johnson said. "We got the big fella KB (Kelvin Benjamin) out there blocking like he's Zach Martin. Our o-line has got pride too and that's something we gotta keep leaning on."
Sam Bradford, after being acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles Monday, struggled mightily with three first half interceptions but settled down with two second half TD passes to go along with his 16-22, 200 yard performance.
"I'm still learning the offense," Bradford said. "But I want to be a quarterback in this league and I'd love to be here long-term. My job is to get this team to the playoffs."
The Jets will look to make it two in a row as they head to undefeated Pittsburgh Sunday afternoon.
Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots
1 2 3 4 FINAL
BUFFALO 7 7 7 0 21
NEW ENGLAND 7 3 7 25 42
FOXBOROUGH – As the team sat at 2-1, only one week away from getting Tom Brady back under center, the New England Patriots (3-1, 1-1 AFC East) shocked their rivals from Buffalo (3-1, 1-1) 42-21 at home Sunday.
Quarterback Brandon Doughty did not turn the ball over, a point of emphasis all week by head coach Bill Belichick, and shockingly outplayed Pro Bowler Aaron Rodgers throughout the night.
"They said some things during the week that could be viewed as disrespectful," Doughty said. "I think Rex (Ryan) was having fun calling me Shannon Doherty or something. Coach (Belichick) is big on us letting others say stuff during the week while we just get ready to play."
The afore-mentioned Rodgers played his worst game as a professional (and perhaps ever) with a combined seven turnovers (six interceptions and a fumble lost).
All night Rodgers seemed out of his element and unable make throws the league has come to expect from the future Hall of Famer.
"Obviously a lot went wrong," Rodgers said. "But look, we aren't going to quit. I was taking shots there at the end. I'm not a stats guy. Until there are zeroes on the clock, we'll keep fighting."
The biggest beneficiary of Rodgers' rough night was rookie Cyrus Jones.
The Alabama standout ended with three interceptions - two of those being returned for touchdowns.
"Coach is going to kill me for this," Jones said. "But I don't see what all the hype is about A-Rod over there. Deshaun (Watson) was way better than him (Rodgers) when I played him. I think I played like two or three better QBs each year in the SEC."
When asked about Jones' comments, Bill Belichick was less than impressed with his rookie corner's words.
"Cyrus could be out of this league in two years," Belichick said. "I'm pretty disgusted with him talking about a Hall of Fame caliber player like that to be honest. I will work with him (Jones) to not get too big a head over make a few plays tonight so he can turn football into a sustainable career."
Buffalo will look to get back on track as they travel west to face off against the Los Angeles Rams in the LA Coliseum.
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Week #4 AFC East Preview
Miami Dolphins @ Cincinnati Bengals
In last year's AFC Wild Card round, the Bengals were humbled and humiliated by the eventual Super Champions from Miami 50-14. To a man, each Cincinnati player on the field for January's debacle have talked about that game as motivation heading into Thursday Night's clash.
"I hate them," Vontaze Burfict said. "I'm coming for them all - put me on offense too man, I'm ready."
Miami players have made little reference to last year's game and have instead focused on continuing their run of strong defensive play, holding opponents to 13.3 points-per-game to start the season.
"They can say what they like, but at the end of the day we are all pros," Courtney Upshaw said. "They are hungry, but so are we."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Andy Dalton has a lot to prove after laying an egg again in last year's matchup. Look for him to finally take the 'next step' at home on Thursday Night.
PREDICTION: Bengals win 31-30
Seattle Seahawks @ New York Jets
In an effort to keep his job for at least one more week, Todd Bowles worked with his general manager to shake up the NFL landscape. The Jets moved on from Ryan Tannehill while picking up Sam Bradford. The team also acquired wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin after dealing defensive line stalwart Kawann Short to the Cowboys. It was a busy week indeed.
"We are all on notice," Bowles said. "I could be fired at halftime. If you don't perform, you are gone, simple as that."
The Seahawks, in addition to traveling across the country, will also have the added difficulty of preparing for a team making a flurry of moves.
"We don't even know who will be on the field," Pete Carroll said. "There may have been a trade while we are talking in here."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: New York's defense versus the porous Seattle offensive line. This has to be the week the Jets soar...right?
PREDICTION: Jets win 22-18
Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots
In the much anticipated matchup against the bitter division rivals, Rex Ryan pulled no punches to start his press conference.
"Wait until their quarterback, whoever it is, plays a legitimate defense like ours," Ryan said. "They won't sneak by any longer playing those cupcake defenses."
To be fair, New England has faced Arizona, Miami, and Houston - all top defenses in the NFL, but Ryan's crew does add the ability to score points along with their stout defensive play.
Bill Belichick was very praiseworthy of quarterback Aaron Rodgers throughout his mid-week press conference.
"He is one of those guys that you can't fully prepare for," Belichick said. "He can do everything and it will be tough for us."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Buffalo to hit the 'next level.' Despite their 3-0 record, the Bills have shown flashes of a team lacking the ability to play their game for all four quarters. Against New England (without Tom Brady), Buffalo has no excuses and should come out and make a statement.
PREDICTION: Bills win 35-17
In last year's AFC Wild Card round, the Bengals were humbled and humiliated by the eventual Super Champions from Miami 50-14. To a man, each Cincinnati player on the field for January's debacle have talked about that game as motivation heading into Thursday Night's clash.
"I hate them," Vontaze Burfict said. "I'm coming for them all - put me on offense too man, I'm ready."
Miami players have made little reference to last year's game and have instead focused on continuing their run of strong defensive play, holding opponents to 13.3 points-per-game to start the season.
"They can say what they like, but at the end of the day we are all pros," Courtney Upshaw said. "They are hungry, but so are we."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Andy Dalton has a lot to prove after laying an egg again in last year's matchup. Look for him to finally take the 'next step' at home on Thursday Night.
PREDICTION: Bengals win 31-30
Seattle Seahawks @ New York Jets
In an effort to keep his job for at least one more week, Todd Bowles worked with his general manager to shake up the NFL landscape. The Jets moved on from Ryan Tannehill while picking up Sam Bradford. The team also acquired wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin after dealing defensive line stalwart Kawann Short to the Cowboys. It was a busy week indeed.
"We are all on notice," Bowles said. "I could be fired at halftime. If you don't perform, you are gone, simple as that."
The Seahawks, in addition to traveling across the country, will also have the added difficulty of preparing for a team making a flurry of moves.
"We don't even know who will be on the field," Pete Carroll said. "There may have been a trade while we are talking in here."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: New York's defense versus the porous Seattle offensive line. This has to be the week the Jets soar...right?
PREDICTION: Jets win 22-18
Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots
In the much anticipated matchup against the bitter division rivals, Rex Ryan pulled no punches to start his press conference.
"Wait until their quarterback, whoever it is, plays a legitimate defense like ours," Ryan said. "They won't sneak by any longer playing those cupcake defenses."
To be fair, New England has faced Arizona, Miami, and Houston - all top defenses in the NFL, but Ryan's crew does add the ability to score points along with their stout defensive play.
Bill Belichick was very praiseworthy of quarterback Aaron Rodgers throughout his mid-week press conference.
"He is one of those guys that you can't fully prepare for," Belichick said. "He can do everything and it will be tough for us."
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Buffalo to hit the 'next level.' Despite their 3-0 record, the Bills have shown flashes of a team lacking the ability to play their game for all four quarters. Against New England (without Tom Brady), Buffalo has no excuses and should come out and make a statement.
PREDICTION: Bills win 35-17
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