It’s the most wonderful time of the week football fans. Because in just a short while, Week 4 in the NFL gets underway, and it appears as though we will be in for one incredible weekend of football. Since there are juggernaut matches that await us across the board. Complete with some games that are nothing more than a desperate gambit to save a season, and well… without further ado, let’s dive right in and look at all the juicy storylines and epic games that await us in Week 4 in the NFL.
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Can the Denver Broncos finally put it together on offense this weekend?
Something that every football fan was excited for this offseason, was the prospect of letting Russell Wilson cook in Denver. Simply because the Broncos offense is loaded to the gills with great receivers and a better line than Russ had in Seattle and that, combined with Nathaniel Hackett’s fresh approach to the game, led all of us to believe this team was going to light up the scoreboard. But alas, the offense has not clicked, and it has been messy at best. But there were flashes of hope at the end of Sunday Night Football that maybe it is about to come together, so is this the week where it finally does? I think so. Because the Las Vegas Raiders are just terrible, and their loose defense should let the Broncos find a rhythm and some confidence on offense.
 
Is this the week the Steelers put it all together?
Speaking of sloppy play, let’s talk about the Pittsburgh Steelers for a moment. Because not only is their offense atrocious as well, but the defense isn’t quite as solid as it once was, and both of those problems have put this team in a tough spot at 1-2. Which then does beg the question, can they too finally put it all together and enjoy a much-needed complete game? Well, this is another one where I think they will. Simply because… it’s the New York Jets coming to town, and Zac Wilson potentially starting or not, the Jets are in worse shape than the Steelers. So, there is a good chance that Pittsburgh will finally have the chance to accomplish some wonders on the field against a woefully inferior squad. 
 
Can the Niners rebound against the Rams?
Make no mistake about it, the supposedly amazing San Fran offense melted down in Denver last week. In large part because the Broncos defense is shockingly solid this year, but also because… the Niners weren’t mentally tough against them. They simply reacted and made stupid decisions in the process and well… that does leave one to wonder if they can shake off that ugly loss and rebound against the Rams, and sadly, I don’t think they will. Because the Rams also boast a great defense and clearly Jimmy G is not ready to run the offense right now because of all that time way. So, expect an ugly game for the Niners this week, one that will leave everyone in Santa Clara, scratching their head.

Normally a game involving such lopsided records would be one to avoid but uh… this one is of note. In large part because the Miami Dolphins are the toast of the NFL right now and refuse to back down when the odds are against them or a team is pushing to knock them off, and they’re facing off against a resurgent Bengals squad that is eager for another win and to find their footing in the standings. Which means, this is going to be a supremely intense game. One where the Dolphins will hit hard to keep their lovely win streak going and to silence their doubters, while the Bengals will give us their all to show that they are still the plucky group of underdogs that made it to the Super Bowl last year. But in the end, it is Miami that is likely going to win this game. Because they are the better team here, and fearless, and that will go a long way in securing another big win.

This is a game of note, simply because… both of these teams are eager to pad their win column. For they are both playoff contenders and this match might factor into seeding. But this game is also of note, because the Buffalo Bills are likely looking to take out their frustrations regarding last week’s loss against the Dolphins. Which means this is going to be an intense game as well. Because the Ravens don’t like being pushed around in their own house and Buffalo is simply furious over Miami upsetting them. Which means we are in for a high scoring affair most likely, the kind that will come down to a late game stop to lock up the game. As to who might be one to pull that off, is anyone’s guess, since both of these teams have had their vulnerabilities exposed, but all that matters is that the fans win here, since they’ll be treated to one fun game.

​This is a tale of two teams that are in a strange place right now. For the Chiefs once again saw their dominance be ruined by their defense and sloppy play in general, and they were clearly upset and rattled at the end of that game, and the Bucs… well they’re an offense in crisis mode. Since their production has been mediocre and best and frustrations are running high on this team for reasons that aren’t fully clear since uh… they’re 2-1 but breaking tablets along the way. Which means this is going to be a wild game for certain, as both of these juggernauts try to get their heads on straight. As to which team will do that, who knows. But the one that finally does settle down and bothers to play some fundamental football, will be the one to walk away with a win.

Well football fans, once again… we were treated to a wild weekend of NFL Football. The kind that once again saw upset after upset and we also saw some teams make it clear just how bad their season is going to be, and of course… we saw heroes rise and fall and with all of that in mind… the time has come to dive right in and reflect upon Week 3 in the NFL and all the wonder it sent our way.
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The Pittsburgh Steelers are in desperate need of a spark on offense.
It wasn’t that long ago, that the Steelers were a steady and consistent team on offense, in fact, it was a year ago with Big Ben at the helm. But his retirement is beginning to make it clear just how critical he was in keeping that smooth offense rolling. Because right now, the Pittsburgh Steelers O is a joke, and can barely muster a handful of points and well, it’s obvious the team needs to shake things up on that side of the ball. Does that mean Kenny Pickett needs to come in? Or do they need to shuffle around staff or maybe get a new OC in there? It’s hard to say, but Mike Tomlin needs to do something and fast, or he will be enduring the first losing season of his career.
 
Looks like the Denver Broncos might be turning a corner.
Amidst three quarters of slop on Sunday Night Football, because that game WAS rough to watch, there were some silver linings to be found. For instance, hiring a game management coordinator aided Nathaniel Hackett a great deal as a coach and helped him to learn and grow on the job. Plus, the penalty problem in Denver was fixed for Week 3 and to top it all off, the Denver offense finally found its stride. Because that fourth quarter drive from Russell Wilson was utterly brilliant. Also, that defense is legit. Which means, there is reason for hope in Broncos Country and if this turning of the corner continues in the right direction, the Broncos will be a force to be reckoned with this season.
 
The Miami Dolphins might be a contender after all.
It is definitely safe to say, that we all expected the Dolphins to lose on Sunday. Because the Bills have been obliterating their opponents and while Miami has indeed improved, there was just no way they would have been ready to hang with Buffalo, right? Welp. Turns out we were all wrong about that, because Miami not only held its own against a Super Bowl Contender, but they also beat them. It wasn’t easy by any means, but they pulled it off and made it clear, they are legit this year and might be a postseason contender at the very least. Either way, at this point, we’d be foolish to count this team out again, and it will be interesting to see what other surprises they have in store for us as the season rolls along.
 
Tampa Bay is quickly falling to pieces.
Make no mistake about it, there is something very rotten happening at Raymond James Stadium, and everyone with the organization and its fanbase needs to be concerned. Because on Sunday, the Bucs were beyond sloppy. They were also lethargic and uninspired on the field, and it wasn’t until the fourth quarter that they showed any play worth a damn, and even then… it fell short. So, hopefully Head Coach Todd Bowles hits the panic button and starts having some hard conversations with his coaches and his players. Because this team is not ready to roll right now, and it is up to him to inspire everyone, including his moody and embattled QB, to get moving now before this whole season falls to pieces.
 
The Las Vegas Raiders need to fire Josh McDaniels.
I know, this is probably a supremely hot take this early in the season, but it is the right one. Because look… Josh McDaniels is a joke of a coach. Not only did his ego and poor moral core, bring forth all kinds of disasters when he was the coach of the Denver Broncos, including a cheating scandal that he likely instigated, but he skipped out on a job when he committed to it because of selfish reasons and well, he’s now coaching the Raiders into oblivion. Because this team looks like trash on the field, and they’re 0-3 for a reason, him. So, the wise thing for Owner Mark Davis to do is fire this clown now and get him out of the game and start over. Because this storied franchise deserves better than a coach that thinks he’s smarter than everyone in the league and hasn’t accomplished squat without Tom Brady as his QB.

Just like that football fans, we are in the thick of the 2022 NFL Season. Where teams are starting to find their groove and where others are beginning to panic at the results. And of course, as is apparently now tradition, we’ve been privy to some horrific beatdowns and some epic upsets. All of which, is life in the NFL now and it is most certainly music to our ears and a feast for our eyes and lo and behold, it’s time for more of the magic that is NFL football. For Week 3 awaits us all and with that in mind, it is time to preview the top stories and the top games to watch from this weekend’s upcoming slate of games.
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Will the Tampa Bay offense play well without Mike Evans in the lineup?
Regardless of the fact that the Buccaneers are 2-0 right now, they’re a team in turmoil. For Tom Brady is in a weird place mentally right now, and tempers continue to flare on the field for some reason. To the point where Mike Evans won’t be available this week and that does lead one to wonder if they’ll be okay without him in the lineup this Sunday and honestly… this might be a problem. Simply because they’re going up against Green Bay, a team that is solid through and through and can score often. Which means that Tampa has to respond in kind and having one less weapon, might make life difficult for #12. But then again, he has pulled off miracles with less on the field, so we really won’t know the answer to that question until the score is locked in with all zeroes on the clock.
 
Can the Jacksonville Jaguars make it two in a row?
It’s been a long time since Jacksonville has done anything meaningful in the regular season. To the point where something as simple as a two-game win streak seems like an impossibility. But Jacksonville has slowly been improving this season, leading us to wonder if maybe… they can actually pull off a tiny win streak by beating the Chargers this weekend. And it is possible, provided Trevor Lawrence can take to the air and torch the sometimes-soft Charger defense. But in reality… it is more than likely that Los Angeles is going to win the day come Sunday. For the Jaguars just aren’t ready to start to have that kind of success, simply because they are still working toward jelling together as an actual team for a change. 
 
Can the Bengals finally land a win this weekend?
Make no mistake about it, Cincinnati’s 2022 campaign has started off downright awful, with two ugly wins that have everyone wondering if last year was a fluke. Which means they are undoubtedly eager to fix that perception and they’ll need a big win to do so and well, they’re taking on the Jets this weekend, so there is hope. But perhaps not as much as usual. Since the Jets surprised everyone last week with their epic comeback, so they cannot be counted out here. But when one considers how hungry the Bengals are right now, they are likely going to feast this weekend and walk away with that all-important first win of the season. 

You always have to love a primetime AFC North matchup and this one looks as though it might be quite entertaining. Simply because these two teams have once again become bitter rivals in the past few years and of course, they’re in transition at quarterback and beatable. Which means the team that wants this one more and executes, will be the one that walks away with the win. The only question is… who? And honestly, there’s no good answer there. Because this really is an even matchup, one that features two so-so journeymen quarterbacks and two defenses that bend and sometimes break. But regardless of who wins in this game, it’s the fans that really benefit here. For being able to enjoy one wild ride. 

A year ago, this is a game that no one would have paid any mind to. Because the Bills were very good and the Dolphins were very, very, bad. But a year does make a difference and just like that… we are now looking at a powerhouse divisional matchup between these two teams. For the Dolphins are aggressive and enjoying the thrill of winning in 2022 and the Bills, well they are even better than they were last year. Which means this will be an actual clash of the titans, where these two teams duke it out for early AFC East supremacy and that means we are in for one incredible treat. As to who wins, I think Buffalo has the edge because of depth and skill. But don’t count Miami out, since they came back from a huge deficit to beat the Ravens on the road. 

​This is a game of note, simply because two men involved in this game have a lot riding on it. Jimmy Garoppolo needs to have an amazing game to show the league that they were wrong in not trading for him in the offseason, preseason and at any point in this season. Because he wants to be a starter and putting on a show here will go a long way in potentially putting him into that role again, since he is clearly gone from San Fran in ’23. As for Denver, well the man with pressure on his shoulders in this game is Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett. Because he has been struggling with his new role this year and the fans have not been kind in the slightest. Which means, he needs a clean game from his players and a smooth offensive night to silence his critics and well, it will be interesting to see which of these two gents gets what they want in this evenly matched game.  

Another week, another batch of amazing football games. For once again we saw titans fall, underdogs rule the day and epic wins and heartbreaking losses. The kind that has some fans deeply concerned about the future of their team in 2022 while others are now quite hopeful about their chances, and well… with that in mind, it is probably best we get down to recapping all the amazing and devastating moments that took place over the course of Week 2 in the NFL.
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The Miami Dolphins might be the real deal.
It wasn’t that long ago… that the Miami Dolphins were a team that everyone was expecting to suffer through some tough times in 2022, regardless of hiring another dynamic and plucky new coach in Mike McDaniel. Simply because it looked as though franchise QB Tua Tagovailoa was a bust and anyone that inherited him needed to invest in bulk in Tums. But something special is happening in Miami, for Tua looks like a polished pro and he is making incredible things happen on the field and that surprise combined with McDaniel’s aggressive style of playcalling… has led to the Dolphins to an epic 2-0 run. One that has included a massive comeback win against the Ravens. Which means this team might be the real deal and if they can keep this up, they will be a force to be reckoned with. 
 
The Cincinnati Bengals appear to be experiencing a Super Bowl Hangover.
It is definitely safe to say that football fans in the city of Cincinnati were expecting their boys to come out swinging in 2022. After all, they bolstered the leaky offensive line in the offseason, had most of the returning pieces from their Super Bowl run present, so they should be dominating right now. But instead, they’re 0-2, the defense is a mess and QB Joe Burrow is struggling to get plays executed and throw it downfield. Giving rise to the reality, that this team is still feeling the impact of losing the Super Bowl and until they realize it is a new season with a new chance to win it all, this is what we will get from this team and hopefully they snap out of it soon or else this team is going to feel that Super Bowl hangover all year long. 
 
The Buffalo Bills are scary good right now.
If there’s one particular lesson that every team needs to learn about building a championship caliber team, is that it goes beyond having a top-tier quarterback on your roster. You need a complete offense, a stout defense, solid special teams and above all… depth. You have to have those guys that can step in when injuries happen and not miss a beat and well, it would seem Buffalo has learned that. Because those three key aspects led them to an incredible win over Tennessee on Monday Night Football. But what matters more, is that when the second unit came in, they too continued to dominate and put-up points. Which just reinforces the fact that Buffalo wants to play in the big game, and they’ve loaded the roster this year for a run and when one considers how shockingly good, they are right now, they might be the team to beat in the AFC.
 
Something is wrong with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  
It has often been said that winning solves everything in the NFL, and there is a lot of truth to that statement. After all, it creates momentum, and it pushes everyone on a winning team to be better, and it prompts everyone to overlook flaws because the wins are so exciting. But it doesn’t solve everything, as evidenced by the strange place the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in right now. Because while this team is indeed 2-0 something seems quite amiss. Their star QB, a legend really, is temperamental and moody and having temper tantrums on the sidelines, and his teammates are getting into fist fights on the field. Giving rise to worry for certain, simply because something is wrong here and if this team doesn’t start to cool that strange underlying anger they seem to exhibit and play as one, it won’t be long before the wins go away and the ugly takes over.
 
Broncos Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett just needs to take a deep breath, and coach.
We often talk about how rookies tend to struggle in the NFL and rightfully so. Because it is an overwhelming change to go from college to the pros and one has to adjust, and the advice rookies hear now and again regarding that, is to just live in the moment and play and ease into the league. But we don’t talk that often about how coaches must make a similar adjustment when they go from coordinator to head coach. Because that too is a big adjustment, one that comes with a lot of pressure, and clearly, Denver Broncos Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett is letting that pressure get to him. Since he’s making boneheaded calls and mistakes that have the fans up in arms. But much like a player, he just needs to take a minute, realize he has the job and time to adjust, and maybe take a breath as well, and just coach. He knows how to do it, he’s been doing it a while in this league and once he figures that out, the problems should start to smooth out and hopefully he does this soon. Because Broncos Country is no longer a patient place, not when the team’s General Manager goes all in on getting this town what it needs to wi

There was a time, not that long ago, where Thursdays were an awful day. Because it meant that we had to still endure Friday at the workplace and slog through that before the weekend would bring us calm, but not complete joy. Because not that long ago, football was off the air. But now, Thursday and the weekend leave us excited. For it is the beginning of a new week of NFL Football and if this week is anything like the last, we are in for a true treat and well… with that in mind… let’s talk at length about Week 2 in the NFL and all the wonder it will be sending our way.

Will Broncos Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett lead his team to victory?
Make no mistake about it, Week 1 in Seattle was just too much for Denver Broncos Rookie Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett to handle and understandably so. A legend returning home? On Monday Night? For your first game as an NFL Head Coach? That’s a lot to handle mentally. But thankfully, that game is over, the nerves are hopefully out of his system and now we are all wondering if he can guide the talented Broncos to victory and I think he will. Simply because he obviously learned that he let the moment get to him and made mistakes in doing so, and a coach that learns that… is one that won’t let the game get away from him again.
 
Can the Jaguars finally put it together this week?
Obviously, the coaching change in Jacksonville last year was a true necessity. Because man, Coach Meyer was a dunce, and his system just wasn’t helping the mighty Trevor Lawrence play his best football. But what’s wild, is that even with a change and a sense of competition, this team still couldn’t put away the lowly Commanders, leaving one to wonder what it will take for this team to put together a complete game. Which in my humble opinion, would involve one key element on offense. For the wide receivers had too many drops last week or just missed easy balls and that left a lot of points on the field. So, if they can get their act together… Jacksonville might finally win a game. As to whether or not they will, is anybody’s guess.
 
Can the Patriots rebound from that ugly loss?
Truly, one of the saddest and most shocking losses of Week 1, was watching the New England Patriots get beat down by the Miami Dolphins. Because they were a shell of their former selves and looked lost and desperate on the field. Leaving all of us to wonder if they will rebound this week and honestly, I don’t think they will. Because the new system isn’t working in Foxboro and Mac Jones appears to be regressing and the Steelers are just kicking tail and taking names right now. So, expect New England to go 0-2 this weekend as they continue their pathetic and unsettling downward slide after spending so many years dominating the league.

​It’s a new era for football tonight, for this week’s Thursday Night Game is exclusively on Prime Video, ushering the NFL into the streaming era and boy, they could not have picked a better game to kick things off. Because you can never go wrong with an AFC West Matchup in Primetime and this one looks to be a doozy. I mean come on, Justin Herbert v Patrick Mahomes? Epic. Just Epic. That means we can expect a lot of scoring tonight, and some big time plays through the air. But of course, you’re dying to get some idea of who might win and honestly, I think it will be the Chiefs. Just because Mahomes slays in the regular season and knows the Chargers defense well. So, while it might be a close game, expect the Chiefs to come out on top in this one.

Speaking of great divisional matchups, let’s talk about this AFC South scorcher. Because it features Jameis Winston. Who has finally found his groove under center in the Big Easy, and he played a great game in Week 1 and he is looking to cement his legacy as the next great quarterback of the Saints, and of course, Tom Brady is also part of this game, and he has all the records and all the wins and he is hoping to snag another ring at the end of what might be his farewell tour. Which means that this is going to be an intense battle royale, one that could go either way since both teams are mostly evenly matched. But… don’t be shocked if the Saints pull off quite the win, simply because the one flaw present here for Tampa Bay is that patchwork O-line and if they can’t protect #12, then the win goes to New Orleans.

​Yup. That’s right, we have ANOTHER divisional matchup to discuss. Because this one has the potential to be an instant classic. Because whether you love or hate Justin Fields, you cannot deny he had a hell of a game against the Niners in Week 1, by leading an epic comeback win against a team he had no business in beating. And he’s taking on a slightly stunned Green Bay squad that once again embarrassed themselves in a season opener they should have won. Which means that both teams here will be hungry for a big win and both QBs will be giving the audience their all. So, expect an intense game here, one that I think Green Bay will win. Just because Aaron Rodgers tends to own the Bears on a regular basis and his team is quite hungry for a win and that’s bad news for the Chicago Bears.

Just… wow. What a weekend, am I right? Because every single game in Week 1 was just plain epic. Not to mention there were upsets galore and of course, the revenge games were compelling. But most important of all, we finally have football back and you can never go wrong with being surrounded by something you love. But I digress, because aside from the joy that has returned to our world, a lot happened around the league and with that in mind, let’s recap Week 1 in the NFL and all the big moments it sent our way. 
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Big upsets are becoming the norm in the NFL.
Something that happened often last year, were epic upsets after epic upsets. The kind that saw teams that had no business losing big, lose in a supremely embarrassing and painful manner and well… guess what? Those kinds of losses are back for this season. Because week one saw a lot of upsets take place and that likely means we need to prepare ourselves for more of such stunning upsets. Because we are simply entering a new era in the NFL, where the underdog believes they have a chance and will take every opportunity that comes their way, and it will be incredible to see which titans fall at critical times this season as this new mantra of anything can and will happen… takes control of the NFL.
 
The Baker Mayfield Revenge Tour stopped before it started.
Usually the revenge game, where a cast-off player takes on his former team… is the definitive moment that determines who made the right call, in parting ways, and well… that can be quite the embarrassing moment for certain. Because no one in the NFL likes to be wrong, especially about a player or their own quality of play and unfortunately for Baker Mayfield… he looked like quite the fool on Sunday. For his epic revenge game against the Cleveland Browns, wasn’t epic in the slightest. In fact, it was a low energy disaster that reinforced Cleveland’s decision to toss him aside, and it definitely made Carolina fans worry about the future of their team. Because #6 might just be mediocre after all, and that means the Panthers will continue to languish and lose.
 
Nathaniel Hackett learned some valuable coaching lessons on Monday Night.
There was definitely cause to be angry on Monday Night if you are a Broncos fan. Because the Russell Wilson Revenge Bowl ended in a painfully embarrassing manner. With his new head coach calling for a field goal instead of giving him the ball to try and beat his old team. A move that made it seem as though Denver didn’t have faith in the guy, they traded tons of draft picks for and signed to a mega-deal. But in retrospect, none of that was the case. This was nothing more than a boneheaded mistake from a rookie head coach. Who simply let the night get the better of him and made a frantic decision. And if you don’t believe me, just check today’s press conference where he admitted to making the wrong call. So, if anything, this was just a fine learning experience for the new guy and hopefully the lessons stick and next time the game is on the line, he lets his star QB handle it. 
 
Stick a fork in the Dallas Cowboys, they’re done.
I’m sure reading that phrase will cause a few football fans to roll their eyes but hear me out. Because the Cowboys looked awful in every possible way on Sunday Night. Their defense was porous and soft, the offense was a tragedy, and that o-line couldn’t stop a toddler from getting through. Not to mention their franchise quarterback suffered a nasty thumb injury and might be gone for up to 6-8 weeks. And he is the keystone to the offense and any way you slice it, that means Dallas is basically done. Because Cooper Rush isn’t the long-term answer at QB, and that offensive line isn’t getting any better. So, better luck next year Cowboys fans, and hopefully Jerry invests in some better players on the o-line in the offseason (and maybe upgrades the coaching staff too, while he is at it) so next year goes smoother.
 
The New England Patriots might be in a heap of trouble.
Normally when the Dolphins and the Patriots take the field, the Patriots walk away with a win. Because Bill Belichick is a solid coach that game plans well and knows how to exploit the weaknesses of his opponent through great coaching and preparation. Which is why Sunday was such the shocker. Because for the first time in years… the Pats looked like a Pop Warner squad. Their execution was terrible, their game plan a joke and Mac Jones took a step back in a system that was supposed to be designed for him.  It could just be early season rust and a need for routine or something ugly could be happening here. Wherein Big Bill has selected the wrong coaches to help him guide his team. Time will tell of course, but that doesn’t make life any easier for Patriots fans, because they’re used to winning now and if Bill’s new coaching scheme doesn’t pan out… the longstanding honeymoon he has in Foxboro may come to an end.  

Hello again, football fans. It’s been a hot minute since we talked about our favorite sport but that’s only because the offseason was upon us. You know that dark time when we are all lost and searching for something that brings us the same joy as NFL football. But thankfully, we exit football purgatory tonight. For Kickoff Weekend is upon us and boy do we have some incredible games and storylines awaiting us this weekend, and with that in mind, let’s dive in and discuss all those storylines and preview the most fascinating games to watch in Week 1 of the new NFL season!
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Will Tom Brady’s offseason drama impact the Bucs in a negative manner this weekend?
We like to believe that professional football players and professionals at every level, can keep their personal lives out of what pays the bills. But we have learned time and time again, that isn’t always the case and well, there’s a lot of personal drama that has reached the practice field down in Tampa. For Tom Brady has been dealing with some stuffs and spent time away to handle it, but even still… being away makes it mark and of course, we’ve seen personal matters influence players in both a positive and negative manner. Leaving all of us to wonder if Tom’s personal drama will have an impact on the team this weekend and honestly, it might. Because he hasn’t been there to really sync up with his new offensive teammates and that could throw off their timing and rhythm. So, don’t be shocked if that happens, but also, don’t be shocked if it doesn’t. Since Brady has always surprised us.
 
Can the Jets win with Joe Flacco under center?
Make no mistake about it, the New York Jets are eager to win. After all, they drafted a hot new quarterback after Sam Darnold didn’t pan out, and they have been working fastidiously to revamp this team so it can in fact, win and make the fans happy at last. But even the best laid plans fall apart. For an offense designed to help Zac Wilson thrive, is now without Zac Wilson. Since he’s out for four weeks with an injury and that means Joe Flacco gets the nod and well, can this team win with Flacco? Because he hasn’t exactly been the Super Bowl caliber quarterback that won a championship with the Ravens back in the day and honestly… I don’t think it will go well with him under center. For he really is a QB in decline and that likely means, it’s going to be another rough start to the season for Jets fans, one that might put them in a playoff hole early. 
 
Will Mitch Trubisky be the answer under center for the Steelers?
I know, I know. This is a question that we likely need more time to properly answer but I honestly think the answer to this question is right in front of us. In that, he isn’t the answer. Yeah, we’ve all heard about how a fresh start helps a guy now and again, as does having the right system around them. But Trubisky has proven time and time again... that he struggles to make pro level throws because the arm strength just isn’t there. Not to mention, he has often struggled to read a defense because he just isn’t a top-tier starting QB. He’s a true backup and bench player that struggles with the game on his shoulders. So, if anything… he is basically just keeping the offensive line loose and ready for rookie Kenny Pickett, who will likely be taking over for big Mitch in a few weeks.

​The first real game of note this weekend is the season opener because it looks to be a powerhouse matchup. After all, this is a game that quite possibly features two powerhouse teams, since Buffalo is one tough squad, and the Rams are the defending Super Bowl Champions. Which means we should be in for an electric night, where two-top tier quarterbacks carve up defenses and look to show the league what kind of trouble they can expect from them in 2022. Not to mention, this one has hints of a ‘revenge game’ as well, since Von Miller left the Rams to go to the Bills because Los Angeles wouldn’t pay the freight for his services, and you know he’ll be eager to get a little payback for the Rams decision to let him walk after he helped lead them to a Lombardi Trophy. As to who wins this one, that’s anyone’s guess. Because these teams are evenly matched. To the point where this could indeed be a preview of Super Bowl LVII.

It just so happens, that this weekend is full of revenge games, the kind that should be in epic in nature and this is one of them. Since the Browns were quick to trade their former First Round Pick/Franchise QB to Carolina when he wasn’t pleased with the direction of the offense. Which as fate would have it, allows for him to take on his former team Sunday and that alone will be quite epic. Because you know Baker Mayfield wants to prove to Cleveland that they made a dire mistake. But this game goes deeper than that. Because Cleveland is once again a league wide joke, for tossing a solid quarterback aside and for making a dubious choice regarding who they replaced him with, since Watson won’t even be on the field this weekend. Making this a critical game for them as well since they have to prove that they know what the hell they’re actually doing personnel wise. Either way, this will be a good one to watch, one that I think Carolina will win. Just because the Browns are a mess and Mayfield wants to embarrass them and sometimes… that desire to prove someone wrong is all you need in football to be successful.

​Our last revenge game of note revolves around a pair of quarterbacks that were exchanged by teams that no longer had faith in their abilities. Since Denver sent Drew Lock to Seattle and a boatload of other players and picks to bring Russell Wilson to the Mile High City. For Seattle was ready to cut ties and move forward and Drew didn’t develop into the franchise man Denver has desperately needed. Which means, while Lock isn’t starting… he wants his team to win to avenge him and of course, Wilson is ready to show the Seahawks what they are missing out upon. Which should lead to an intense and epic game, one that has deeper meaning beyond sweet revenge upon the field. For it is critical for Pete Carroll’s career and reputation to win without Wilson. For this was a risky trade, especially since he brought in no proven QB as an insurance policy if Geno falters. And of course, Denver has new ownership and a new coaching staff to go with their shiny new QB and they want to start this new era off right. As to who wins, I’m going with Denver. Because they have the better quarterback hands down. One that is very eager to make Seattle regret their decision to send him packing.

After a COVID-shortened 2020 season and a lockout-threatened 2022 season that was narrowly avoided, fans are ready to flock back to baseball this year for the second full season in a row. As teams prepare to lure fans back, they’ll also prepare to send them home with some fun souvenirs. Teams have their promotional schedules out and their theme nights planned, both chock full of fun items. 
 
As we enter MLB’s Opening Weekend, I took my annual look around the league at every single giveaway that each of the 30 teams have planned. Here are my picks for every team’s best giveaway item in 2022. (And stay tuned for a bonus article breaking down teams’ nerdy theme nights and giveaways!)
 
Angels
It’s Sho-Time! Shohei Ohtani has taken the baseball world by storm, flashing generational brilliance as both a pitcher and a hitter. The reigning, defending, undisputed, Most Valuable Player is getting a superstar slate of giveaways this summer, including a historic season bobblehead (April 8th), an MVP bobblehead (May 10th), a snow globe (June 24th), and an MVP shirt (July 14th). 
 
Astros
The Astros are showing their mascot some love with an Orbit Sunday jersey giveaway on May 20th. 
 
Athletics
Bucket hats are (somehow?) making a comeback. The A’s are getting in on the action with a reversible bucket hat giveaway on July 23rd.
 
Blue Jays
This list has a lot of bobbleheads on it, and many more are being given out across the league. But none may be cooler than the “Vlad & Dad” bobblehead the Jays are giving out for Canada Day on June 17th. Vladimir Guerrero Sr. in a Montreal Expos jersey and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in a Toronto jersey stand atop a maple leaf base and it’s all very perfect. 
 
Braves
No lead is safe in a race with The Freeze! The infamous Atlanta promotion has produced many thrilling and hilarious moments and is a regular in “Top 10” and “Not Top 10” on SportsCenter. Your best bet at beating The Freeze is probably picking up a Freeze bobblehead on May 26th and racing it around the block. But even then, you can’t count him out…
 
Brewers
I’m not sure it gets more “Midwest” than a grilling and tailgating toolbelt that fans of the Brew Crew can take home on August 6th.
 
Cardinals
On second thought, custom cornhole bags designed like Cardinals jerseys are pretty “Midwest” too. Coming to Busch Stadium and cornhole boards across Missouri on May 30th. 
 
Cubs
Nothing beats a beer at the ballpark and the Cubbies are making sure you can still enjoy one during those chilly games with a knit glove drink koozie on April 9th. 
 
Diamondbacks
Arizona’s got one of the league’s best City Connect jerseys with their stunning “Serpientes” alternates. Fans in attendance for Hispanic Heritage Weekend on September 17th will take home a replica of their own.
 
Dodgers
Fans can bring a piece of Dodger Stadium into their homes with replica statues of baseball legend Sandy Koufax on June 18th.
 
Giants
San Francisco is always great at instilling their giveaways with city pride, with lots of local-themed items in the past. This year, Bay Area rap legend E-40 gets his own bobblehead on June 25th. 
 
Guardians
This is the first year of Cleveland’s new team identity. Fans can get a couple Guardians jerseys of their own with a red alternate Shane Bieber jersey on June 25th and a home white Myles Straw jersey on August 6th.
 
Mariners 
Two icons collide when the Mariners celebrate Jackie Robinson Day on April 16th, as the team will give out a Ken Griffey Jr. bobblehead showing Griffey ditching his usual #24 and donning Robinson’s #42.
 
Marlins
Not your usual baseball cap giveaway. Fans in attendance on May 21st can do headwear the Miami way with a fedora giveaway. 
 
Mets
The man with one of the best nicknames in the majors, “Polar Bear” Pete Alonso, will get the bobblehead treatment on May 14th. It looks like the bobble will come with a polar bear head that can be placed over bobble-Pete’s head to transform him into his alter ego. 
 
Nationals
Washington D.C. will be full of caped crusaders on May 14th and 15th when kids will receive caped superhero socks. 
 
Orioles
It’ll feel like summertime in the tropics when O’s fans rock their Birdland Hawaiian shirts on July 9th. 
 
Padres
San Diego routinely makes the most of their beautiful old school logos and color schemes, especially in their giveaways. On May 9th, fans can celebrate Mr. Padre Tony Gwynn on his birthday with a retro shirsey.
 
Phillies
Kids can go back to school in style when they pick up a J.T. Realmuto cooler bag that looks like the catcher’s gear. 
 
Pirates
More regional fun as Pittsburgh gives out anthropomorphic pierogi figurines to kids on July 24th.
 
Rangers
Take some practice hacks in the sand or by the pool with your Texas Rangers on-deck circle beach towel June 5th.
 
Rays
Hype for Tampa rookie Wander Franco is through the roof. They may not sell for as much as some of his baseball cards, but the chain necklaces bearing his jersey #5 will be a cool addition to any fan’s collection.
 
Red Sox
Teams love to get creative with how they capture iconic plays and moments in bobblehead form. Boston is one of a couple teams with a bat flip bobble this season, theirs for Kike Hernandez on May 31st. 
 
Reds
The Redlegs are keeping it classic with a vintage 1960s style Mr. Red bobblehead on July 23rd. 
 
Rockies
The Rox always bring it with their Star Wars night koozies, dishing out R2-D2, Darth Vader, and even fuzzy Chewbacca versions in the past. While the exact design is still yet to be revealed, the Force will surely be with the Mandalorian beverage wrap on July 16th. 
 
Royals
“Okay, Picasso. I like it.”  Two types of Nicky Lopez bobbleheads will be on hand June 12th: regular bobbles for adults and paint-your-own bobbles for kids. 
 
Tigers
The Tigers will pay homage to the city’s diverse and rich baseball history with Negro League Detroit Stars replica jerseys on June 18th. 
 
Twins
The Twins didn’t really have a lot of giveaways and they didn’t have any pictures of the giveaways that they do have scheduled. So, I guess it’s fitting that the best pick is maybe the mystery Hall of Fame baseball cap on August 20th. 
 
White Sox
The Chi Sox adopted their “Southside” City Connect jersey last season. This year, they’re giving away a hockey style version of the jersey on April 30th (and it may look even better in its on-ice form!).

Over the course of the past twenty years or so, the Super Bowl landscape has been dominated by familiar names and teams. For time and time again, we’ve seen the battle for the Lombardi Trophy involve Tom Brady and the Patriots, and later the Bucs. Or we’ve seen Patrick Mahomes work hard to hoist that iconic trophy, and the same goes for Peyton Manning, with both the Broncos and Colts and Ben Roethlisberger and Russell Wilson, and Eli Manning also snagged their own rings during this time period. Which while great for the fanbases of those respective teams, did something of a disservice for the rest of the league and the sport.

For the NFL is supposed to be about parity, where any team can win it any given year. But when Tom Brady netted his seventh championship with another team, it seemed as though consistent domination was going to the be the theme going forward. Which is why Super Bowl LVI was such a refreshing and hopeful and joyous venture this year. Because this is the Super Bowl that bucked twenty years of repetitive tradition to deliver unto us a game free from discussions of legacy and domination. It was just a young gunslinger versus a hopeful veteran and well, by removing the mystique of legends and repeat teams from this game, we were treated to one of the best Super Bowls in years.

One that you could simply kick back and enjoy, regardless of who won and having something on the line for each team, really did add a sense of urgency to this game, one that offered up a great deal of back and forth and incredible play through and through. The kind that saw both squads spend most of the first quarter, figuring out the other’s weaknesses to properly exploit them and even then… it took the rest of the game for one side to truly take full advantage of them, and sadly, for Bengals fans… it was Los Angeles that mastered this aspect of the game. Because the defensive line started to come through when it needed to the most, and of course, Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp figured out how to best the Cincinnati secondary.

Which means that in the end, the Los Angeles Rams were the heroes of the day and there are so many great stories from this team to celebrate a day after the confetti has been swept up. Since Cooper Kupp had the greatest season ever for a wide receiver in the history of the game and Aaron Donald, finally got his ring. Not to mention, there's Von Miller. A former Super Bowl MVP and future hall of famer… who was traded away to give him a chance to hoist the Lombardi once again and speaking of traded players… we have to talk about the majesty of Matthew Stafford’s journey. Because he languished in Detroit for twelve years behind subpar teams and proved to the world that with the right cast surrounding him, he was a Super Bowl Champion quarterback through and through. 

The only question now, is whether or not we will see a new era of domination and repetitiveness return to the big game courtesy of these two teams and honestly, it’s hard to say if that is going to be the case. Because the Rams are about to lose a bevy of players to free agency and possibly retirement and if the Bengals don’t release Eli Apple and replace him with a shutdown corner or two and invest in the offensive line… we won’t be seeing Joe Burrow in the big game anytime soon. But while we wait to see if repeating and returning to the Super Bowl is in the cards for these teams, we can celebrate one of the best Super Bowls in years. One that reminded us that parity is a great thing, and the league should do more to ensure that it happens… so we can enjoy more feel good stories from teams that have so much to gain from winning the Super Bowl.

​Hello again, football fans and welcome to a supremely special edition of the NFL Roundup. Because this one… gets to spotlight the big one, the greatest game in all of the land… THE SUPER BOWL! For tomorrow, the Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals will take the field at SoFi Stadium to compete for the glorious title of Super Bowl Champion and well, this is shaping up to be one of the most exciting Super Bowl matchups in years. So, with that in mind, let’s dive right into the big game and preview what you can expect from Super Bowl LVI.

THE LOS ANGELES RAMS – STRENGTHS
It is definitely safe to say that on paper, the Rams boast the strongest team in this game. Because they have a powerhouse offense that is loaded to the gills with talent at just about every single position, as evidenced by the points they put up per game and the rest of the squad is no slouch either. Because the defense is top notch and boasts a bevy of strong pass rushers and it also doesn’t hurt that their special teams play at a high level as well. So really, the strength of this team is its roster, because it is loaded to the brim with superstars and depth.
 
THE LOS ANGELES RAMS – WEAKNESSES
While this team does indeed boast a bevy of talent and is able to alter the course of the game with its superstars, it has weaknesses like any other team out there, which in this instance, is more psychological in nature. Because there really is sense of invincibility surrounding this team, as though no one can stop them and that’s a mindset that has brought them trouble in the past. For when a team stands up to them and reminds them of the fact that they are human and can make mistakes… they do, and they are often costly in nature and if this team were to make enough of them, they could deny the Rams a chance at glory.
 
THE CINCINNATI BENGALS – STRENGTHS
There is one reason and one reason alone as to why the Bengals are in the Super Bowl, their offense. Because Joe Burrow and his boys are as dynamic as they come and Burrow’s ability to get the ball out quick… to his dynamic wide receiver, allows for this team to score at will, and the wonder of this offense goes beyond its quarterback and passing game. For the run game is pretty stout as well, since Joe Mixon has the power and strength to blast through a defensive line and beyond. Which means that by land or by sea, the Bengals will find a way to score, and this has served them well in the postseason, as evidenced by the Lamar Hunt Trophy that is now on display at team headquarters.
 
THE CINCINATTI BENGALS – WEAKNESSES
While the offense is indeed a sight to behold in regard to the Bengals, it is the other side of the ball that is of concern for them. Because their bend but don’t break mentality on defense and lack of top tier players there, has put them in grave trouble at times and cost them games. Not to mention, their vaunted offense also happens to boast a few red flags as well. Because that offensive line can be quite suspect at times and their inability to protect their prize quarterback or develop a solid pocket for him, has come back to bite them more often than they’d like.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
If the Los Angeles Rams want to win this game, the key to doing so is simple. In that, they need to neutralize the Bengals offense. Which means the defensive line has to contain Mixon when the run game is in play and the team has to double team Ja’Marr Chase and generate pressure on Joe Burrow. Once they do that and keep the offense sputtering, Matthew Stafford and his offense can go to work and pick apart the soft Bengals defense and generate some points and if they stick with this plan to a tee, the Rams can lock up their first Super Bowl Championship of the 21st Century.
 
As for the Bengals, their path to victory is also simple. In that, the defense and the offensive line are going to have to step up like never before. Because the Rams have studied their shortcomings in great detail and if they cannot generate a pass rush and the defense shuts down Stafford and Cooper Kupp… the Rams will get flustered, fast. Which in turn will allow for Cincinnati to ramp up the pressure and generate some mistakes when Los Angeles lets their frustrations boil over, and if they can make that happen, then it will be the Bengals hoisting the Lombardi Trophy for the first time in franchise history.