Hello again, football fans and welcome to another edition of the NFL Roundup. One that is going to spotlight a bit of a turning point in the league year. Because at long last, we are in the thick of the playoff race and the games taking place now will help decide who reaches the postseason and who is staying home and that means we will be spotlighting some supremely important games related to the playoff race, alongside some discussions revolving around the other juicy storylines brewing around the league. And with that mind, let's dive right in and preview Week 11 in the NFL!
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Will the Cardinals rebound from their difficult loss last week?
One of the biggest surprises in Week 10, is the sheer fact that the Cardinals lost. Because all season long, their players have understood the importance of unity and next man up. So, to see this deep roster falter, really was quite the sight and now… the question is whether they can resbound from that loss and get the season back on track and I think they will. Because they are facing a terrible Seahawks squad, and that should allow for this team to quickly find a rhythm and put up some points and rebuild their confidence. All of which will help them get back to their winning ways.
 
Will the Detroit Lions be the first team to go 0-16-1?
We don’t talk about the Lions all that much in this blog, simply because… they stink and there’s little to celebrate or analyze in regard to them. But after last week’s tie and the fact that they are facing a hungry Cleveland squad, we do need to postulate the possibility that this team might make sour NFL history again. After all, they’re one of the few teams to go 0-16 and in the modern era and well… could they now go 0-16-1? And honestly, I think they can. Because Jared Goff is crumbling before our eyes, the defense is terrible, and Dan Campbell is this side shy of losing the team. So don’t be shocked to see this team lose on Sunday to the Browns and then lose for the rest of the season. Because they are an awful, awful team.
 
Will Cam Newton finally be the spark to ignite the Panthers offense?
It’s definitely been a weird season in Carolina. For it started off with such promise on offense with Sam Darnold at the helm and well… we know how that story goes. But hey, Cam Newton is back where he started and never wanted to leave and the renewed vigor he showed on Sunday, does leave one wondering if he will provide a giant spark on offense to a team that is desperately in need of one and well… he could. Provided of course the Cam Newton of old, the one that isn’t haunted by nightmares of Von Miller in Super Bowl 50, takes the field on Sunday. Because hasn’t been himself since that game and his passing mechanics have been suspect. But if he’s taken this time to work on that and find his center as a leader once again, Carolina should net the win and it will be quite interesting to see which Cam shows up come game time.

​This game is of note, because it might end up featuring an outright clash of the titans. Because the Colts are starting to find their groove and surprise teams and they’re also aware, that they have a shot at the playoffs and they’re squaring off against a Buffalo squad… that’s angry. For they have yet to be dominant in a season and quell their critics. Which means they and the Colts are going to bring their A game to the field and that could mean we are in for one heck of a game. One where Wentz and Allen take shots at the End Zone often and that’s always a good thing for the fans. So, yes. Absolutely keep an eye on this game come Sunday, because it really does have the potential to be something special.

​This is a game that also has the makings of an instant classic, for several reasons. First and foremost, because the Cowboys are riding cloud nine right now. For they’re having a great season, they’re clicking on offense, their defense is finally playing well, and they want to continue to win games and make the fans happy and quiet their doubters. On the other hand, though, they’re facing a borderline desperate Chiefs squad that wants to continue their utter domination of the AFC West and win another championship within their window. Which means both teams should come out hot in this game and with two elite quarterbacks under center, there’s also a fair chance it will be a high scoring affair as well. One that I honestly think, the Cowboys will win. Because they’re the more put together team right now.

​This particular matchup is of note, because it features a pair of teams that are eager to make the postseason and know their journey to it won’t be easy. Because the Steelers are struggling to keep wins in the win column and need a big win to continue to inch toward the #7 seed at the least. As for the Chargers, they’re a young team that is unfamiliar with, but hungry for success and they keep making enough silly mistakes to keep real glory out of reach and it doesn’t help that they’re in the AFC West. Which means that both of these teams are going to fight hard to earn a much-needed win and that will benefit the fans for certain. Since this one could become a shootout or be a defensive struggle and most likely, the winner of this one will be the team that simply wants it more since they are so evenly matched and who that will be… is anyone’s guess.  

Hello again, football fans and welcome to another edition of the NFL Roundup, one that is going to recap another wild week of NFL action. Because not only did this past weekend’s game feature more incredible and unexpected upsets, but there were some incredible storylines to come out of this week’s games. The kind that reminds us that maybe buying a championship team isn’t possible this late in the year and that sometimes, everything old is new again… especially when you’re having a quarterback crisis. So, without further ado, let’s reflect upon Week 10 in the NFL and all the outlandish moments it sent our way.
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The Rams attempts to collect a championship roster offered up… mixed results.
Make no mistake about it, the Rams want to win a world championship and if you don’t believe me, just look at their roster transactions over the past couple of weeks. Wherein they sent a bevy of draft picks to Denver to bring Von Miller into the fold, and they even went out and signed Odell Beckham Jr. once he was available in free agency. But alas, their attempts to be the Yankees of football met with some mixed results for certain. Because Miller and Beckham… didn’t do a whole lot in their debut games. Sure, Von put on some fancy moves, but he didn’t net one of his patented game wrecking sacks and OBJ was nowhere to be found on the field and well, time will tell if these investments are going to pay off, but in the short term… these moves appear to be nothing special.
 
The Carolina Panthers appear to be ready to move on from Sam Darnold.
Let’s be honest, the Sam Darnold era in Carolina, has been an utter disaster. He’s a bust, he’s played poorly for weeks now and the return of Cam Newton, seems to indicate that the team is ready to move on from Sam, and they’ll let Cam be the guy to replace him. After all, Cam is a fan favorite, he knows the offense as evidenced by Sunday’s execution and of course… he wants to start somewhere badly, and the Panthers need a QB that can do what he did. So, don’t be shocked if the Panthers quietly put Darnold on season ending injured reserve and let Cam audition the rest of the year, so they have time to figure out how to move Darnold and maximize their cap space for the return of Carolina’s Superman, provided his second chance works out.
 
The Denver Broncos have no identity or direction.
I honestly don’t know at his point… who the Broncos are or what they stand for. Because they are just up and down every single week and they are not consistent in the slightest and its infuriating because when this team is clicking, they’re shockingly good. But this just speaks volumes to the fact that Vic Fangio is in over his head and hasn’t a clue how to lead this team or guide them and well, hopefully he figures it out soon. Because the temperature from the fans is rising, they want better from this team and if they don’t get it… they will be calling for Fangio’s job and new direction. So, here’s to hoping Vic uses the bye week to refocus and reset and figure out what he wants this team to be. So, the Denver Broncos can finally have an identity and direction.
 
The upset fiesta continues.
Upsets happen in the NFL, because this is a game where a single moment can change momentum for an underdog and give them a chance to succeed, but this year has been vastly different when it comes to that. Because we have been treated to a bevy of wild upsets every single week, the kind that are devastating in nature and honestly, I think it is here to stay. Because the bad teams just seem to know that if they wake up one morning and want a win bad enough, they can have it and surprise their opponent and if you don’t believe me… just look at the Ravens/Dolphins game. Because Baltimore had no business losing that game, but they did. Because the good teams are puffing their chests out way too much and the underdogs want their shot… so, it’s best we just buckle up and enjoy the wild ride.
 
Another year, another ridiculous tie.
Look, let’s just get it out there now. Tie games are stupid, and they need to go away. Because this is the modern NFL, where offense rules the day and where opportunity is abundant. So, to see two franchises lock up in a tie, is infuriating. Especially when the league continues to have opportunities to change the overtime rules to ensure a victory for someone and when one considers how easy quarterbacks have it. So hopefully, the embarrassing nature of the tie the Lions and Steelers now have on their record, motivates the league to finally change OT so that someone wins the game, so the fans don’t feel as though they outright wasted their time in watching an inconclusive matchup.  

Hello again football fans, and welcome to this week’s edition of the NFL Roundup, one that is going to be filled with outright anticipation and speculation. Largely because, there are a lot of questions surrounding the elite teams in the NFL right now, since so many of them have allowed for ugly losses that shouldn’t have happened, to happen, and that really does have us wondering if they are imposters of sorts. The kind that might buckle under pressure and cost themselves a shot at the playoffs. So, with that mind, let’s dive in and look at some of those potential trap games and discuss all the juicy storylines and questions that Week 10 in the NFL is going to send our way.
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Can the Broncos go 6-4?
Truly there has been no team more puzzling than the Denver Broncos this year. Because at times, this team has been downright dominant in all three phases of the game, making it appear as though Vic Fangio has finally figured it out and should stay as the team’s head coach. While at other times… they stink, plain and simple, and well… while their big win over Dallas should engender hope in the city of Denver, it only leaves the fans wondering, as to whether or not the Broncos will be able to beat the Eagles at home at and go 6-4 and honestly, that’s hard to say. Because of this team’s woeful inconsistency. So really, everything hinges upon which Broncos squad shows up this weekend, and if the good one swings by, it’s good news for all in Broncos Country and if not… then more frustration will hang over the Mile High City.
 
Will the Cowboys be stunned by the Falcons this week?
Make no mistake about it, the Dallas Cowboys straight up got slapped in the face by the Denver Broncos last week, a team that many consider to be inferior at best, and they are once again facing a sub-par squad in Atlanta, one that they should beat. But will they? And well, the answer to that question hinges on one particular thing. In that, the Cowboys can’t get cocky and take Atlanta for granted. Because that’s what they did against Denver, and it cost them dearly. So, if they go out and play smash mouth football, they should come out of this okay, but if they fall to another bleh team… then questions about their standing and talent will arise once again.
 
How will Green Bay respond on the field to its latest quarterback controversy?
Sunday’s Green Bay/Seattle game on paper, looks like a lock for the Packers. After all, they boast a strong offense and solid defense, and the Seahawks are in disarray defensively. But there are no guarantees that the Packers can win this game, because of the question marks surrounding Aaron Rodgers. For if he doesn’t clear Covid protocols on Saturday, he’s out another week and we know how that will go with Love under center, but even if he starts… will this team be able to win? Because let’s be honest, things are going to be awkward on the field when #12 returns since he’s made a fool of himself and considering how things went in Week 1 for the Packers when they dealt with more drama from Rodgers… there’s a fair chance the Packers will lose on Sunday… all because their star quarterback is a legend in his own mind.

​This game is of note, simply because it features two teams that find themselves in unexpected positions. For the Browns expected to have a better record at this point and be in command of the AFC North. But injuries and receiver drama has kept them fighting for their playoffs lives and they’re taking on a team… that is happy to be in its current position. Because few thought the Patriots would be in playoff contention this early in the middle of their post-Brady rebuild. But Mac Jones has given them a fighting chance to compete and make the postseason. Which means this will be an intense game, one filled with big plays and a potentially tense finish, and you can never go wrong with that. 

​Normally a game that boasts such disparate records, wouldn’t be worth discussing. But the fact of the matter is, the Jets might have a QB phenom on their hands by way of Mike White and the Bills… are suddenly struggling to beat bad teams. Which means that if the Jets can follow the containment procedures for Josh Allen that the Jaguars did last week and lock down and disrupt the passing routes for Buffalo… all while putting up some serious points on the board… they’ve got a shot at winning this game. Which means at this point, it’s all up to Buffalo to not take this hungry team for granted and to bring their A game and toughness to the field. And if they can’t do that, expect the Jets to stun the league by way of an epic upset.

​This is a game that is on our radar for one reason and one reason alone. In that, it features a pair of teams in crisis. For the Kansas City Chiefs are a shell of their former Super Bowl Dynasty selves and are desperately searching for a way to get back on track so they can keep their domination of the AFC West rolling and the Raiders are looking to rise above a year full of scandals. The kind that has completely transformed the sidelines and the roster for this team. Which means that this is a matchup that should be filled with outright intensity as they both try to get their respective seasons back on track, and as to who will win… is anyone’s guess. Because both squads really are struggle bussing right now, but if I had to guess… Kansas City does have the edge here. Because when their offense is clicking, it’s dangerous and I’m of the opinion that they’ll rally together and lead the Chiefs to victory.

Hello again, football fans and welcome back to another edition of the NFL Roundup, one that is basically going to spotlight, the Bizarro NFL World we are currently residing within. Because normally this time of year, we have a solid idea of who is heading to the playoffs and which teams are elite. But after two weeks of upsets galore and bad play from ‘great’ teams… who knows which way is up. But either way, the upside-down world of the NFL still provided us with some compelling stories, so let’s dive right in and recap those stories and all the lessons that Week 9 in the NFL sent our way.
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There might be some life left in the Denver Broncos after all.
Normally trading away a franchise player at the trade deadline leads to all kinds of disaster. Because not only is there a void where they played, but it sends a strong message to the team that the season is over, and more people will be moving on, and that message brings down morale and brings forth poor play. But the Denver Broncos saw the trade of Von Miller, as a wakeup call. One that informed them that new GM George Paton expects the best and expects his players to contribute and for proof… then look at Sunday’s result. Because they utterly answered the call and obliterated the Dallas Cowboys in their house and well, clearly there is still fight in Denver and they do want to win and hopefully they can keep the message close to heart and play like this more often so that Broncos Country, can enjoy a little joy for a change.
 
It is official, Sam Darnold is a bust.
Whenever a player at any position is struggling badly to succeed, sometimes the right thing to do is release them or trade them. Because such a move sometimes provides them with a necessary wake up call to get their head in the game and play, plus a change in scenery might be what they need, since they weren’t the right fit for their original team. But sometimes, going this route also helps to inform everyone in the league, as to whether or not this player can in fact… handle life in the NFL and well, it is safe to say that Sam Darnold is not long for this league. Because after getting his fresh start and after starting the season off hot, Sam has regressed and is struggling badly, and it really seems as though the game is too much for him. So, it’s unfortunate, but obvious, that Darnold is a bust and now it is only a matter of time before the Panthers move on from him and he is relegated to backup duty for the rest of his career.
 
The Tennessee Titans are not to be underestimated.
More often than not, when a team loses its centerpiece star for any length of time, things go south real quick. Because that star is a transformative player, the kind that can dictate the fate of a game and that’s precisely why this writer, believed that the Titans were going to lose on Sunday Night. Because Derrick Henry is that kind of player and not having him in the lineup should have led to disaster. But the offense rallied around Ryan Tannehill and the defense played inspired ball and for their efforts, the Titans upset the Rams in their own house, in prime time and well… clearly it is unwise to underestimate the Titans going forward. Because they are a team that understands the importance of next man up and stepping up and it will be quite interesting to see how this team continues to push ahead without #22 in the lineup.
 
Where do the Packers go from here at quarterback?
Things are not good in Green Bay. Because despite the wonderful 7-2 record they boast, there is some serious trouble in their locker room. For Aaron Rodgers exposed himself to be a selfish teammate that is putting his own fame and legacy and (incorrect) beliefs ahead of the players that share the field with him and to make matters worse, his understudy is terrible. Which really does beg the question… where do the Packers go from here at quarterback and honestly, I dunno. Because there is indeed friction between them and their star QB. The kind that extends beyond this one incident, as evidenced by his reworked contract and they really have no backup plan QB wise in the event he bounces. So, for now, all we can do is sit back and watch this ugly rollercoaster ride play out and hope the front officer in Green Bay figures out a fix and fast.
 
Kudos to Josh Allen for beating Josh Allen in Josh Allen v. Josh Allen.
Okay, so, it’s best we end today’s recap on a high note and spotlight the awesomeness that happened in the very weird Bills/Jaguars game. Because how cool is it that Linebacker Josh Allen, of the Jaguars, managed to sack, intercept, and recover a fumble from Josh Allen… of the Bills? It’s just one of those weird, hardcore football moments of fate that might never happen in league history ever again. So, it’s definitely worth nothing and celebrating, as is the Jacksonville win over Buffalo. Because that was another upset that shouldn’t have happened. But it did and it really is the icing on the cake of this rare and wonderful feat.

Hello again, football fans and welcome to another edition of the NFL Roundup and wow, do we have a lot to talk about today. Because the trade deadline and some other surprises prior to today, have left some of the league’s teams reeling. To the point where the winds of fortune might change for teams that were riding momentum’s wave and well, with that in mind… let’s not waste any more time and get right down to discussing all the big storylines hanging over Week 9 in the NFL and spotlight the best games to watch this weekend. 
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Will the Packers be able to win without Aaron Rodgers this weekend?
It is definitely safe to say that the Green Bay Packers have been on cloud nine. After all, they rebounded from their devastating week one loss in a dynamic manner, by winning every single game thereafter. In fact, they’ve been so dynamic and so red hot that they even toppled the best team in the NFL in the Cardinals. But alas, a single poor choice might change their fortunes this weekend. For Aaron Rodgers is out with Covid-19 and that means the oft shaky Jordan Love will likely get the nod and well, I don’t think the Packers will beat the Chiefs. Because Love just isn’t ready for prime-time and Kansas City is going to use that to their advantage.  
 
What will the Dolphins look like on offense after their trade deadline drama?
Whether you love Tua Tagovaiola or not, we can all agree on one thing, the Dolphins did him dirty. Because it doesn’t matter how many times Head Coach Brian Flores has said Tua is his guy, the fact that the front office was working on a trade with Houston for Deshaun Watson, lets Tua and the team know… they don’t believe in #1 anymore and that… can impact how this team’s offense will perform on the field. Because a vote of no confidence in a QB, immediately makes him a lame duck. The kind that no one listens to, and it will be quite incredible to see how the offense operates on Sunday, now that the team has made it clear they’re moving on from Tua in the offseason. 
 
The NFL needs to provide its players with the best mental health care programs out there.
At this point, you’re already aware of what happened with Henry Ruggs and the decision that Calvin Ridley came to and well, that moment and that decision, underscore the fact… that the time has come for the NFL to offer its players the best mental health care programs available. Because clearly, the league has players in need, and I can guarantee there are other players struggling with substance abuse and their mental well-being as these men currently are. So, it is time for the league to shed all the bravado surrounding mental toughness and just do whatever it takes to ensure that their players feel good both mentally and physically.

So, this particular game is of note, simply because… it’s the last chance for Vic Fangio and his coaching staff to show the football world that they’re worthy of their positions. Because 4-4 is not where the Broncos are supposed to be, not after all the moves GM George Paton has made, and his decision to jettison the team’s best defensive player in history, speaks volumes to the fact that he is ready to start the rebuild of this team, and if Vic can’t get this team to play in a competitive manner against the Cowboys… then the clock will starting ticking for Fangio and honestly, I think this really is going to be the beginning of the end for him. Because his Broncos haven’t been able to beat quality teams under Vic’s tutelage, and they often look unprepared, and they won’t beat Dallas. So, this game should solidify the fact… that George Paton needs a different guy on the sidelines and the search for a new coach will either quietly or loudly begin, after Fangio loses this game.

​This game is of note, because it features a pair of teams that are genuinely at a crossroads. For both squads are at .500 and their season could go in any direction at this point and this game will help give us a great idea of which team is going to enjoy a solid future, and which one is in long-term trouble… based upon their play and their drive, and how they handle the adversity that will come their way as the game plays out. Plus, this is a matchup that features a pair of quarterbacks that have everything to prove to the league, so this really does have the makings of a solid game. One that could be a defensive struggle or fireworks show if the QBs get hot.

​Let’s be honest, it is the Los Angeles Rams that have made this matchup one of note. Because they went wild this week and traded for one of the best linebackers to ever play the game in another all-in effort to get back to the Super Bowl and well… we are all dying to see how Von Miller is going to fit in with the Rams and what he has left in the tank and my guess is that the Miller will indeed snag a couple of sacks since the Rams rush system is designed for guys like him. Oh, and I’m also expecting a Los Angeles win as well. Because the Titans are missing Derrick Henry and that’s a huge deal. Because he’s the centerpiece to the Tennessee offense and without him, I don’t see how this offense is going to put up that many points, and that is something that is a must for any team that is playing the Rams.

Hello again, football fans and welcome to a supremely juicy edition of the NFL Roundup. Because this past week in the NFL was filled to the brim with stunning surprises. For the trade deadline brought about quite the shocker for one franchise player and on the field, we saw a titan fall and saw a bevy of backup quarterbacks make life hell for the league’s elite and what’s amazing, is that is but a handful of the storylines that Week 8 in the NFL sent our way. So, with that in mind, let’s dive into the week that was and ponder upon what turned out to be a transformative week of NFL football.
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The Von Miller trade is both heartbreaking and logical.
Make no mistake about it, seeing Von Miller leave Denver without another ring and in such an unceremonious manner, really is heartbreaking. Since you always want to see a legend finish their career with the team that drafted them. But alas, that modern NFL isn’t about that at all and now Miller’s twilight years will happen elsewhere. But at the same time… this move makes total sense. Because Miller isn’t going to win another ring in Denver anytime soon, and this move gives him a chance to do just that, and it gives the Broncos the opportunity to re-load their roster. Because they badly need an infusion of talent, at every position, and Miller’s exit helps to stack the 2022 draft for the Broncos. But while that might not ease the pain for some fans…. what’s done and done, and the business side always prevails, and all Denver fans can do now, is move on and look toward tomorrow.
 
It is time for the Dolphins to bench Tua Tagovailoa.
One thing that we can all agree upon, is that admitting we made a major mistake is hard. Because we likely poured our heart and soul into a particular decision or move, and seeing it blow up in our face just plain stinks. To the point where we will forge ahead as though we didn’t make a mistake at all. But the right thing to do, is to admit we screwed up and apologize and move forward in the best way imaginable and that’s what the Dolphins need to do regarding their ‘star’ QB. Because Tua, is a bust, and the team made a horrible mistake in drafting him and there’s no amount of coach speak that will change anyone’s mind. The league sees his issues, the fans see it too and undoubtedly so do Miami’s coaches. So, the best way for the Dolphins to apologize to their loyal fans for drafting a sub-par QB, is to bench #1, start Brissett and aggressively go after a great quarterback in the offseason.
 
The Arizona Cardinals finally endured a loss.
Truly, it seemed as though the Arizona Cardinals were invincible this year. Because no matter how hard an opponent fought back or how much they scored, Arizona was always ready to answer and that allowed for them to win seven straight games. But alas, the Green Bay Packers did their homework and figured out how to neutralize Kyler Murray’s game and Aaron Rodgers took advantage of the team’s tendency to play deep cover often and in doing so… handed the Cards their first loss of the season and well, that’s probably a good thing. Since now the team knows what their weaknesses are, and can adjust accordingly (hopefully), and… they will undoubtedly use this moment as fuel to put together another win streak, so they can quickly forget what Sunday felt like.
 
It turns out the Cincinnati Bengals may not be as good as advertised.
For a short while now, I’ve heaped some praise on the Bengals and with good reason. Because they’ve won some important games and they’ve hung with some great teams on their way to first place in the AFC North. But alas, we need to talk about the Bengals in a negative light today, because they simply embarrassed themselves on Sunday. I mean, come on, they lost… to the New York Jets. A team that can’t get out of its way and stinks in every aspect of the game. And to make matters worse, it was a shootout. So, I think it is safe to say that the Bengals might not be as good as we initially thought. Since they clearly will underestimate an opponent that they consider to be beneath them and that is definitely the mark of a team that doesn’t know how to handle success.
 
The Minnesota Vikings are in need of a roster shake up.
The Vikings are a team that quite frankly, have some genuine talent on their roster. They’ve got some ballers in the secondary, the D-line is strong and there are some stars on this team at wide receiver. Which in turn begs an important question, why the heck are they 3-4? And honestly… it’s because Head Coach Mike Zimmer, keeps putting his faith in the sub-par players that are underperforming at key positions. With the most obvious of those being Kirk Cousins at QB because he simply cannot lead this team into the endzone or to victory. Which means Zimmer honestly, needs to shake this roster up and bench some if not all of those underperformers. To send a message to the rest of the team that they need to bring their A-game every week. Because they’re on the cusp of missing the playoffs again and could be looking at a coaching change, and well… if ‘Zim wants to keep his job and motivate this squad, now is the time to park some poor players and shake things up.   

Hello again, football fans and welcome back to another preview edition of The NFL Roundup and boy, is there a lot on the line in Week 8. Because there are a lot of teams that might see their season come to an end this weekend with a loss. and some players might be playing on their squad for the last time with the trade deadline looming, especially if they don’t turn in a top-tier performance and well, that’s a lot of what we are going to talk about today. The last stand for struggling teams and who might be on the move, alongside a discussion on the best games to watch in Week 8 in the NFL.
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Tua Tagovailoa needs to turn in a heroic performance this weekend to remain the starter in Miami.
It is definitely safe to say that the Miami Dolphins expected Tua Tagovailoa to be the true savior of the franchise when they drafted him. But alas, he has been nothing short of a disappointment. For his mechanics are rough and his football IQ stinks and there’s questions about his durability. To the point where these concerns motivated the coaching staff to pull him multiple times during his rookie year. Which means, he needs to prove that he belongs in this town, and that he wants to be on this team and in order to that… he needs to turn in an even better performance than he did last week and bring about a decisive victory for the Dolphins and if he cannot… then clearly the front office will need to pull the trigger on a trade to salvage this season and the future of the team.
 
Will Sam Darnold finally step it up in Carolina?
Speaking of another player that is under great scrutiny, let’s talk about Sam Darnold for a hot minute. Because he simply floundering in Carolina and all the bad habits, he exhibited in New York are on display again, meaning that everyone that thought he was doing better with a change of scenery, myself included… were wrong. Instead, Darnold is clearly struggling to put it all together in a new home. However, he has a chance to show everyone that he can play at a high level and understand complex offenses by having a day against the Falcons and well… will he? Honestly, I don’t know. Because he is just so Jekyll and Hyde on the field. But I can say… that if he doesn’t turn it around in this game and show promise… the Panthers might make a move at quarterback. Either by benching him or by way of a trade because this team is eager and ready to win.
 
The Niners might have some tough quarterback decisions to make after Sunday.
Another team that is waiting for something magical to happen under center, is the San Francisco 49ers. Because Jimmy G just hasn’t wowed anyone in the past couple of years and the clock is ticking when it comes to patience surrounding him. Because Kyle Shanahan wants this team to get back to its dominant ways and he needs a QB that can execute his complex offense and well, if #10 stinks it up again this week, hard choices will have to be made. In that, do they bench Jimmy permanently and turn to Trey Lance and let the kid take his lumps so he’s ready for 2022? Or do they unload Jimmy to another team that is desperate for a quarterback before the trade deadline? So really, it’s up to Jimmy as to whether or not he’s a member of the Niners going forward and it will be quite interesting to see what he does with what could be his last shot at staying in the bay.

​It’s rare to see a true clash of the titans on Thursday Night Football, but it’s happening and this one is shaping up to be an epic game. Because it features the two finest teams in the NFC and its top two quarterbacks and well, that’s often the recipe for a shootout and that’s what I am expecting this game to be. Because Aaron Rodgers and Kyler Murray are just carving up defenses like they would a tender roast and they’re accurate in their throws and well, that benefits the fans and their fantasy rosters. But alas, there can be only one winner and honestly, I think it is going to be Arizona. Simply because they are hungry to keep this streak going and their defense is slightly better and I’m expecting them to be 8-0 when the final whistle blows.

​I know, I know. That’s two weeks in a row that we’ve featured some blasé teams in this segment of the Roundup. But bear with me for a second. Because this game is going to determine the future of a great deal of people in the city of Denver. For a loss here, could mean that General Manager George Paton is going to have a fire sale and start trading away talent to prepare for tomorrow and it could also spell, the end of Vic Fangio’s time as Head Coach of the team. Because dropping five in a row, to multiple bad teams is something that is beyond unacceptable. So really, this game is on our radar because of the implications and because it should give us an idea of how badly this team wants to win and whether or not Vic really wants to be the head coach of this team and that will make for a fascinating game for certain. 

​Who doesn’t love a good divisional matchup? Especially one that is a contest for the top spot in said division and that’s what we get here. Because the Saints and the Bucs are both vying for the #1 slot in the NFC South and that means we are going to be in for a fierce game. Since the Saints are eager to prove themselves despite having a solid season thus far and of course, Tom Brady and his boys are looking to build a dynasty and dominate and that means we are going to be treated to big plays and epic moments and well, in the end… I expect Tampa Bay to walk away as the winner in this one. Simply because they are playing akin to a well-oiled machine and Brady is at his best right now, but this should still be a fun one to watch, because the Saints are no slouch.  

Hello again, dearest football fans and welcome to another recap edition of The NFL Roundup and we definitely have some delightful topics to dive into today. Since Week 7 saw more records fall, in a quirky manner, alongside some of the league’s best teams at the hands of squads that had no business beating them. In fact, one might say that this was the week of the underdog, when one considers how many sub-par teams put up a fight or shocked their opponent and well, with that in mind… the time has come to dive into those upsets and all the other compelling storylines that Week 7 in the NFL sent our way.

What is it going to take for the Denver Broncos to make some coaching changes?
Speaking of our first underdog game, the Thursday game was Denver’s to lose. After all, they had the better D-line, better offense and well… they still managed to lose this game, to a backup quarterback and a run game that wasn’t supposed to get going. Which means that once again, Denver lost in an embarrassing manner and well at this point, we are all wondering… what it will take for George Paton to make some coaching changes. Yes, I get it, it’s midseason, new roster… things take time. But Vic Fangio has had three years to figure it out and show improvement and this team is taking a step backward now and that’s not acceptable and well, something has to give and hopefully Paton finally just shouts uncle and makes a change, so this team can get a head start on finding the right coach and a franchise quarterback.
 
The Cincinnati Bengals are legit.
As for the second underdog story of the week, well that revolves around the Bengals. Because this squad came into Sunday's game as the underdog and few thought they would beat the Ravens. But they have shown they are the masters of their domain and can hang with any team or beat them and if you don’t believe me… go ahead and recheck at the score from Sunday. Because they trounced the Ravens, in their house, and they made it look easy and that’s no small feat. For the Ravens are indeed a top-tier team and their defense is difficult to beat. But the Bengals did it in style and now they are in control of the AFC North for the first time in forever and well, it will be quite interesting to see what these underdogs turned heroes will accomplish on the field next.
 
We now know for sure, that the Rams are the winner of the Goff/Stafford trade.
One of the best parts about NFL football, is that a great deal of doubt and debate can be settled on the field, especially when it comes to the age-old question… who won that trade? Because the score says it all, as does the tale of the tape and well, after Sunday we now know that Los Angeles won the day in regard to their quarterback swap with the Lions. Because Jared Goff, once again did not look good. Against his old team no less, and he made some poor decisions and looked flustered. Whereas Stafford was Joe Cool all day long and made the important throws that led his team to a decisive victory and well, that’s that. Detroit got the short end of the stick and they’re stuck with a subpar quarterback that can’t even rally to beat the guy that traded him, and it should be interesting to see how long the Lions stand by Goff before they too realize that they need a better QB under center.
 
Stick a fork in the Kansas City Chiefs, they’re done.
One would think that five years of division domination and two Super Bowl appearances and a championship, would motivate the Kansas City Chiefs to do whatever must be done to keep their burgeoning dynasty afloat. But alas, they didn’t. In fact, they thought Patrick Mahomes could will this team to victory whenever needed and that shortsightedness has brought an early end to the Chiefs’ season and their ‘dynasty’. Because every team is now aware that taking away Mahomes’ routes and making the awful secondary stop them, is the formula to beating Kansas City and that’s brought them to 3-4 and the basement of the AFC West while the Chargers and Raiders thrive and well, that’s it football fans. There’s no coming back from the downward spiral they’re in. So hopefully, Kansas City finally addresses their shortcomings in the offseason, so that they can make another run at creating a dynasty, since their current quest, has ended with a whimper.
 
Another week, another record for Tom Brady.
Simply put, the ageless wonder did it again this weekend. Because once again, Tom Brady crossed another incredible threshold. For he finished his day with 602 career touchdowns and that’s just freaking amazing. In fact, I remember when it was a monumental occasion in Denver when John Elway hit 300 at the end of his career with the Broncos, and it took him sixteen years to achieve that. Which yes, says a lot about how the league has changed, but this is still a monumental occasion. One that speaks to Brady’s dedication to the game and his skill as a quarterback and well, a round of applause to #12 for once again setting the bar high. So high in fact, that this is a record that will stand for generations to come.  

Hello again, football fans and welcome to our Week 7 edition of the NFL Roundup and we’ve got some engrossing stories to cover today. Because despite the fact that we are basically at the middle of the season, there are coaches fighting for their jobs and there are teams that are on the cusp of disappearing from playoff contention because of how hard everyone is fighting for a postseason spot this year. So, without further ado, let’s dig right in and look at some of those harrowing storylines and preview the most interesting games to watch in Week 7 of the NFL!
​
Is this the week the Giants finally put it all together?
Truly, the New York Giants have been quite the disappointment this season. Because despite drafting some solid offensive weapons and putting together a decent collection of defensive players over the past couple of years, this team still stinks. To the tune of 1-5 on the season, which does leave one to wonder, if by chance this is the week when Joe Judge’s vision finally comes together and honestly, I don’t think it will. Because this team has no superstars, no guys with the X-Factor and Coach Judge hasn’t brought the best out in his squad. So more than likely, the Giants will lose again this week and that also means, that the front office will likely start thinking about another housecleaning in Gotham. Because at this point, what choice do they have but to start over from scratch?
 
Will the Chiefs be victorious against the Titans this weekend?
If there is one team that is undoubtedly in panic mode right now, it’s the Chiefs. Because the defending AFC Champions should not be 3-3 and at the bottom of the AFC West, but they are, and they need a big win over a quality opponent to feel better about the players they have and their chances for a postseason run and honestly, I don’t think they can pull off an upset over the Titans. Because Tennessee is just now finding their groove as a team, and they’re coming off of a big win over the Bills on Monday night. Plus, everyone knows how to beat the Chiefs now, which means the Titans are going to attack hard and stun the Chiefs, because Kansas City is outright in decline, all because they did little to address their flaws in the offseason.
 
Will the Seahawks season, come to an end on Monday night?
It is definitely safe to say, that 2021 has not been a kind year to the Seahawks. For the vaunted defense they thought they assembled, is right down there with Kansas City’s, and their star QB is out for an extended period of time and the next man up… isn’t doing that great. If anything, they’re basically circling the drain at this point and need a hell of a win against the Saints, to keep their season alive… and in reality, I don’t think that will happen. Because this team is simply falling to pieces right now and is devoid of leadership and skill. Which means Monday night is likely the farewell tour for the Seahawks’ 2021 campaign and all their fans can hope for at this point, is that the season ends in a close one, instead of a blowout.

​Now this is a game that has our interest because there is so much on the line for the teams involved. For the Browns, they’re fighting for their playoff lives courtesy of a few missed plays and some rough injuries and speaking of injuries, they have managed to turn this game personal for one player. Since Case Keenum, who spent a year in Denver before being traded, takes the reins tonight and you know he wants a little payback. Meanwhile, on the other side of the field, the Broncos are fighting to keep their season going as well, for vastly different reasons. Because they’re riding a three-game losing skid, and they’re playing so poorly that a head coaching change is on everyone’s mind in Denver. Which means they need a big win to keep Vic Fangio’s career safe and well, who wins this one is anyone’s guess. Because neither team is dominant right now and it may come down to… who wants it more.

​Now this particular game is important and worthwhile, simply because it is a good old fashioned AFC North showdown between two of the top teams in the division and that’s always a good time and this one has the makings of a classic. Because it features a dynamic and hungry young team in the Bengals, who are playing fearless football right now and have hung with the big boys and you know they’re eager for a shot at the top dog. But beating the Ravens will be no easy task. Because they too are playing lights out football, to the point where they’ve won five straight. Which means this will indeed be a knock-down drag it out brawl. The kind that benefits the fans and well, in the end, I think this one will go to the Ravens. Because the Ravens really are the superior team right now and know how to finish tough matchups.

​Now, I know what you’re thinking… why on earth would we highlight two below .500 teams as a fascinating game to watch? And the answer to that is simple, because this one has potential. Because despite their sloppy records, both teams have shown some serious fight over the last couple of weeks, to the point where they’ve managed to sneak out a win or they’ve kept it close and competitive and that… should lead to a decent game. One where both teams trade some blows in the endzone or where a possible shootout could take place. So, keep an eye on this one, because it really could be a lot of fun to watch. Or… they both could lay an egg and bore us to tears, in which case I owe you all an apology come Tuesday.

Hello again, football fans and welcome to another edition of the NFL Roundup and man, do we have some incredible stories to discuss today. Which is funny, since this weekend’s slate of games, kind of stunk quality wise. But none the less, some of the hard-fought challenges that took place, revealed a great deal of truths about our favorite teams and allowed for those storylines to take shape. So, let’s not waste any time today and dive right into Week 6 in the NFL and all everything it sent our way.   

​The Denver Broncos need to think about cleaning house… again.
Sure. The Broncos put up a fight near the end of their matchup with the Raiders and nearly sent it to overtime. But they lost, and they lost in an ugly manner that has the city of Denver calling for the coaches to be dismissed and well, the fans are absolutely right this time. Because for three weeks straight now, the Broncos have been out coached in every phase of the game, and to make matters worse… this week was Vic Fangio was bested by an interim head coach, who also happened to be a special teams coordinator! Which speaks volumes to the fact, that Vic is in over his head and he’s another guy that is a better coordinator than a head coach and his support staff stinks too. So, it’s best that George Paton does the merciful thing and soon... and just fire Vic Fangio and his staff and start fresh, so that Broncos Country can enjoy a taste of hope again.
 
The Tennessee Titans aren’t done just yet.
It wasn’t that long ago, that this writer and so many other fans… were preparing to write off the Titans for the year. Because they started off rough and looked as though they were in decline. But it turns out that all the doubters (including myself) were wrong. They just needed a little time to warm up before unleashing their fury upon the league, and for proof, then look at last night’s game. Because they played some inspired and complete football after weeks of struggling, and they hung with the best team in the AFC before delivering the knockout punch and that’s no small feat. So, clearly, there’s still some life left in Tennessee and if they keep this surprise play up, they might be the favorites in the AFC when the dust of the regular season settles.
 
The Dallas Cowboys are finally showing some toughness.
Last year, the Dallas Cowboys would have lost a game similar to the one that played out on Sunday. Because this team struggled when teams exposed their scripted plays or smacked them in the mouth, to the point where they would actually buckle and fold under the pressure. But clearly, something has changed this year. Because rather than curl up in a ball and let the Patriots win the day… they fought back and fought back hard and for their efforts they left Foxboro with a huge win and this game is a big deal for Dallas. Because this is a turning point for certain, one that gives this team great confidence and momentum and resiliency and that will take them far as the season rolls along.  
 
Justin Fields is… not good.
There was a lot of hype surrounding Justin Fields in the draft, to the point where it was apparently scandalous that he dropped to #12 overall and was passed over by the Denver Broncos. But his time under center in Chicago as the starter is making it clear… that there are some good reasons as to why he was passed over eleven times in the draft, even by a quarterback needy team. Because uh, he’s not ready to start in the slightest. He’s raw, he’s unpolished. He can’t read a defense to save his life and his mechanics are rough and for proof, just look at his season stats or his Sunday stats. Because his completion rate is awful and his TD to INT ratio is just as pathetic and well… this is what the windy city gets, for listening to the fans over the experts.
 
The Baltimore Ravens continue to dominate.
It wasn’t that long ago, that we all wondered if the Ravens were going to be in trouble this season. Because they were shocked in overtime in Las Vegas and looked lost in their loss. But clearly that was a healthy wake up call for this team because they’ve been downright dominant since that loss. Especially when it comes to their run game, since they've been running rough shod through defenses left and right and well, this is a team we need to keep our eyes upon. Because they are solid through and through and they are playing with a chip on their shoulder and if they keep this up, they’ll be giving Buffalo and Tennessee a run for their money.