TALES OF TRUBISKY: Only Sid Luckman (7) in Chicago Bears history has had more touchdown passes than the (6) QB Mitchell Trubisky tossed on Sunday. Trubisky had (5) of his (6) touchdown passes in the first half to go along with (354) passing yards as the Bears destroyed Tampa at home 48-10. At one point the Bears 2nd overall pick was (8/10) with 3 touchdowns. He was on fire the whole game. Trubisky led the team in rushing with (53) yards while finding five different players for touchdowns, including Taylor Gabriel twice (7 rec / 104 yards / 2 TDs) on his way to a career game that he will never forget. Tarik Cohen had (184 yards on 20 touches) and a score as the Bears finally found some light in the offense they were looking for. Granite they were playing a Bucs defense ranked 32nd in total defense, second to last in total yards and passing yards giving up. Trubisky played almost perfect with a clean pocket as he was sacked just once. While their defense tallied up (4) more sacks and (3) interceptions Sunday. Of course MVP candidate LB Khalil Mack continued to shine as Chicago leads the NFL with (18) sacks and (8) forced fumbles. Mack himself tied a NFL record with four consecutive games with a sack and a forced fumble (5 sacks / 4 FF) earning all his coins while reeking havoc amongst the league. As the Bears go into a bye week, offensive minded head coach Matt Nagy will continue to improve his young QB and that offense to balance out their defense as the Bears look to control the NFC North for now.
LA CONFIDENTIAL: Third year and former #1 overall pick QB Jared Goff threw for a career high (465 yards / 5 TDs) as the Los Angeles Rams improved (4-0) for the first time since 2001 and have looked the part of the greatest show on turf, now "grass" in 2018. The Rams are averaging (35.0 ppg) which ranks second while Goff is throwing for (343.2 ypg) which is second as well. They rank 7th in rushing with their balance attack totaling (468.5) in total yards per game which is first in the NFL. That balance attack thanks to RB Todd Gurley who has now recorded a touchdown in (7) straight games, most since HOFer Marshall Faulk did it (9) times in 2001-02. Goff and that Rams offense exploded for (4) passing touchdowns in the first half. He found WR Cooper Kupp with a huge 70 - yard touchdown as they exploited a top ranked Vikings defense off a short week Thursday Night. The Rams are #1 in the league in big plays, as Kupp (9 rec / 162 yards / TD), WR Brandin Cooks (7 rec / 116 yards / TD) and WR Robert Woods (5 rec / 101 yards / TD) all reeled off a (100) yard receiving game performances on a defense that was #1 in total yards given up and 2nd in points per game given up. Jared Goff became the fifth player in NFL history to throw for at least (450 yards / 5 TDs / 0 picks). His statistical line was the best for a Rams QB since Kurt Warner, yet again in 2001. Remember this was on a 3 day rest which makes Goff accomplishments that much better. Their defense ranks (5th) in the NFL and they haven't got as many sacks (8) as most would think with that defensive front. However when the game is on the line, they step up. Vikings QB Kirk Cousins had his way most the night with the Rams defense however a strip, sack, fumble at the end of the game showed why they are (+4) in the turnover ratio as they look to go (5-0) as they prepare for a banged up Seattle team.
MAHOMES THE MAGNIFICANT: Throw for (14) touchdowns, check. Have 0 turnovers across (4) games, check. Undefeated in the AFC West, check. Top (10) in all offensive categories including 1st in scoring, check. Come back from (10) points down in the 4th quarter on the road in Monday Night Football, check. The occasional left hand pass for a first down, check. Oh yeah, the Kansas City Chiefs are (4-0), check. QB Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs went on the road in a hostile environment in comeback fashion to beat the Broncos 27-23. Mahomes finished (28-45 / 304 yards / TD). He also recorded his first career rushing touchdown, after escaping the pocket with his sneaky athleticism. Once again this week he seemed poised as ever in the pocket. Though it did collapse around him several times due to a tenacious Broncos front, as he was sacked just once all game. He did fumble the ball off a low snap but quickly fell on it. Improvising with a left hand throw to get the first down. Extending the play, keeping is eyes downfield, finding receivers in creases and small windows as he was able to throw for (192) yards when he was outside the pocket Monday night (most in NFL in last 10 seasons); what can't this kid do? Play defense. Kansas City defense ranks 32nd in total yards allowed and 31st in passing yards given up. His (14) touchdown passes through his teams first (4) games is just second to somebody named Peyton Manning (16 - 2013). A brutal stretch across October for Mahomes and the Chiefs. Starting with another defensive juggernaut in Jacksonville, then at New England to finish up the month with Cincinnati and Denver round (2) in Arrowhead. This October will surely be a telling month over the "Mahomes Mania"THE BAD
DEFENSIVE DEMISE: At one point in time, the caviar was that defense wins championships. Well just like the center in basketball, that term is now fading fast. These new QB/Coach combos across the league have been lighting scoreboards up. As well as putting defenders and opposing coordinators on skates. The Minnesota Vikings came in ranking top (3) in all defensive categories before dancing with Jared Goff and the Rams. Over (500) total yards given up on TNF, as well as they have allowed (94) points over the last (3) weeks of the season. The Chicago Bears had not scored (35+) points in over three seasons until they matched up with Tampa Bay Sunday. Not only did the Bucs allow QB Mitchell Trubisky to throw for (6) touchdowns and over (350) yards passing as they rank 31st in total yards allowed. Since Mike Smith has been defensive coordinator the Bucs have given up (19), 400 + yards games (the most) and (13), 30+ points (second most) across that three year window. The only team giving up more yards is the Kansas City Chiefs with (451.4 ypg). Kansas City cannot stop anyone on defense, as opposing teams have been shredding them each week, especially through the air. However Monday they surrendered (7.2) rush yards per carry to two rookie running backs. The New York Jets defense allowed (503) total yards to Blake Bortles and the Jacksonville Jaguars. Yes, 503 yards to Blake Bortles. The Jets defense had not given up that many yards to a team since, you know they played a guy named Brady and the Patriots back in 2008. The Houston Texans used to be feared with JJ Watt and Jadeveon Clowney, however they allowed Colts QB Andrew Luck to throw for (450 yards / 4 TDs / 0 picks), however the Texans did manage to win. Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan is the only player to lose back to back games after passing for (350 yards / 3 TDs / 0 INTs) all because of the injuries that has decimated their defense. Atlanta is giving up (30.5 ppg) while missing players on each level of the defense. New Orleans once again giving up big plays on defense, allowing (311.0 ypg) passing looking like old New Orleans defense, yuck. The Raiders are (30th) against the run as they continue to get picked apart in that category. The Browns ran for over (200) yards against the Raiders on Sunday. While uncharacteristically as it gets, Pittsburgh is giving up (29.0 ppg), (420.5) total yards, (304 pass / 115 rush) yards per game. The Steelers have also allowed (12) passing touchdowns on the season. Defense wins????
BROWNS v RAIDERS: As much as I hate too, you can justify the refs for blowing this game several times. You could reason with the Raiders lack of defense that this continued into overtime. As well, blame could go to Browns QB Baker Mayfield and his (4) turnovers, as the Raiders finally won their first game of the season. Oakland (1-3) who usually starts fast and can't recover in the second half found themselves down 28-14, late in the 3rd quarter. Raiders QB Derek Carr went (35-58 / 435 yards / 4 TDs / 2 INTs) to help the Raiders pick up their first win of the season. RB Marshawn Lynch had his first (100) yard rushing game of the season and TE Jared Cook (8 rec / 110 yards / 2 TDs) and WR Amari Cooper (8 rec / 128 yards / TD) both eclipsed the century mark in receiving yards. Last time the Raiders had a (400) yard passer, (100) yard rusher, and two (100) yard receivers in the same game you would have to go all the way back to 1964. Meanwhile on the other side, QB Baker Mayfield went (21-41 / 295 yards / 2 TDs) as well as four turnovers ( 2 INTs / 2 fumbles). Mayfield knows even with the bad officiating, (4) turnovers won't generate wins in this league. RB Carlos Hyde is now 5th in the NFL in rushing with (285) yards on the season. Hyde alongside fellow running back rookie Nick Chubb both scored for the Browns as they totaled up (208) yards rushing as they currently rank second in rushing offense. Chubb became the first player in NFL history to rush for over (100) yards and two touchdowns on (3) or fewer rushing attempts. However, the officials stole the show even with this offensive display of (1,052) total yards between the two teams as well (6) sloppy turnovers made this one of the most exciting games of the weekend. Two plays involving the running backs, first with RB Marshawn Lynch play being blown dead prematurely as he was attempting to go "beastmode." The other involving RB Carlos Hyde on the field call that claimed Hyde had received the first down to later find out his elbow was just short. Not to mention with less than (6) minutes in regulation, Cleveland had sandwiched Derek Carr to where there was a strip, sack, fumble on the ground recovered by Browns lineman Larry Ogunjobi. Ogunjobi had recovered the fumble while he was attempting to take it the house for a touchdown, the official blew the ball dead. Review, no turnover, Raiders punt, Browns do not get the turnover score or yardage and the rest is history. Even then the Raiders still did not want to win. Oakland kicker Matt McCrane was (3/5) kicking field goals missing one in OT already, finally came through with a 29 yard field goal to win the game. Blame can go around for both teams as they both could have performed better, however, a win is a win and Jon Gruden has realized in 2018 they don't come as easy as they did in 2008.THE UGLY
WELCOME TO THE NFL ROOKIE QB: We had QB Josh Rosen in for his first game getting his feet wet, QB Baker Mayfield received his official start, game #3 for QB Josh Allen while QB Sam Darnold visited and left Sacksonville mighty abruptly. These four along with QB Lamar Jackson have been the prized possessions at quarterback in the past years draft. Out of these bunch may be the future, mixed in with a couple groomed quarterbacks already in the NFL, time will only tell with these young gun slingers. #1 overall pick Browns QB Baker Mayfield after leading Cleveland back to victory a week ago, put up 42 points in a loss at Oakland. Mayfield went (21-41 / 295 yards / 2 TDs); however had (4) turnovers on the day. The Browns had their chances to win consecutive games but the refs alongside Mayfield careless day with the ball was the ultimate factor. Most want to say he had this awesome game because Cleveland scored (42) points, but (4) turnovers cannot be overstated and (4) turnovers against any NFL team will cost you games. #3 overall pick Jets QB Sam Darnold and his team have not won a game since week 1. Darnold played solid that game picking up a win behind a feisty defense at Detroit. Since putting up (48) points versus the Lions, the Jets have averaged just (13.6 ppg). Sam Darnold has (4 TDs / 5 INTs) as offensive line struggles haven't helped the young QB. New York ranks 27th and 29th in passing and total offensive yards. A date with Von Miller and a struggling Denver team is next for Darnold. #7 overall pick Bills QB Josh Allen started his third game as Buffalo was shutout (22-0) against the Packers. Buffalo really had nothing going on both sides of the ball Sunday as Allen committed (3) turnovers to add to his (8) total turnovers on the season. Allen has been sacked (18) times as in their lone win, he had almost do it all with his legs and in the air. Allen does not have any real deep threat at receiver and Shady McCoy has been banged up mostly all season. Growing pains for the Bills especially with Allen's (53.6%) completion percentage. Last but not least who I thought had the best performance of the week, #10 overall pick Cardinals QB Josh Rosen. Rosen delivered some good passes Sunday as he went (15-27 / 180 yards / TD). Rosen looked good for most the game, it was just the Seahawks who made bigger plays when they mattered most. Arizona received better play from RB David Johnson which long term will be key for his development. Offensive line struggles continue but the future is bright. Not saying his ceiling is higher than Baker Mayfield or even Sam Darnold, however this rookie class long term will be one to be remembered. Rookie quarterbacks are (3-7) combined through the first quarter of the season.
SINKING SHIP: Seems to be that the magic is over for QB Ryan Fitzpatrick and his time as starting quarterback for the Tampa Bay Bucs. After a second half replacement of QB Jameis Winston it seems head coach Dirk Koetter will go with the "franchise" QB week 6 after their bye week this upcoming week. Fitzpatrick who became the first QB in NFL history to throw for three consecutive (400) yard passing games, managed the Bucs to (2-2) record which is all most fans in Tampa could have asked for. Winning at New Orleans a divisional game and taking care of Philly at home. Almost came back and beat the Steelers before this beatdown in Chicago. This game Sunday could not all go on Fitz shoulders as the defense was horrific giving up (6 touchdowns / 483 total yards) and not to mention 48 points. Jameis Winston came in for relief throwing a touchdown an a pair of interceptions as the Bucs look to regroup their team. They still have hope with the weapons they have on offense, however a vast improvement of their offensive line and an established rushing attack is needed. Tampa's offense still ranks in the top (7) and #1 in passing yards through four weeks. These shootouts because of lack of secondary depth is what it is for the Bucs. They went extremely hard over the offseason trying to improve their defensive front, so it is time to answer the call. No matter who is playing under center for Tampa Bay; they must limit turnovers and pray and I mean pray that a secondary that is giving up (445.8) yards per game finds a way to get to the quarterback or cause turnovers, or another (5-11) season is in store, whether they have the "Fitzmagic" or not.WHAT WE KNOW
TEXAS TWO STEP: The Houston Texans finally found a way to win. Houston may be (1-3) but their three losses are by a combined (15) points. Houston finally ended their (9) game losing streak dating back to last season. Protecting Deshaun Watson has been a problem for the Texans all season long. Watson is averaging about (300) passing yards per game and with their balance attack on offense rushing the ball in the top ten; they were finally able to put a complete game together. RB Lamar Miller and RB Alfred Blue has been taking the b
ulk of the rushing attack as well as Watson using his legs when needed. WR Will Fuller has caught a touchdown in each game this season and now has (10) touchdowns in his last seven games when Watson starts. While WR Deandre Hopkins continues to be consistent within the offense with (10 catches / 168 yards / TD) Sunday vs the Colts. Defensively they are about the middle of the ground. They don't cause a lot of turnovers and that is after the addition of S Tyran Mathieu over from the Cardinals. Defensive end JJ Watt is the catalyst as he became the second fastest player to (80) career sacks behind legendary great Reggie White. He now has (5) sacks and (4) forced fumbles on the season. Houston got to Andrew Luck (4) times Sunday, in hopes of doing Dak the same. The Texans however do rank in the top (10) against the run, something they will need to stop or at least slow down facing the Dallas Cowboys. Ezekiel Elliott finished with a career high in scrimmage yards with (240 / rush - 152, rec - 88 ) and a touchdown on 29 touches. Dallas ranks 3rd in rushing however (30th - 16.6 ppg) in offensive scoring. Hopefully this resurgence of establishing the run and working the offense through Elliott continues if the Cowboys want success. Elliott's 30 yard reception to set up the winning field goal was his longest reception in college or the pros. A beautiful back shoulder catch as he proves to be a workhorse yet again this season for the Cowboys. This was their best game offensively, hands down totaling up (414) yards in total offense; half of which was from Elliott. While Prescott did not turn the ball over, neither did Dallas defense as WR Golden Tate had a field day with their secondary on Sunday. Dallas still ranks in the top (10) in total defense. With David Irving returning off suspension, the Texans will need to do a better job at protecting Deshaun Watson as they have given up (17) sacks thus far this season. Prescott and the Cowboys must improve from (13/46) on third down this season. Nuke Hopkins should have a big game as the showcase in Texas should be a good one.
TITAN UP: Somehow first year head coach Mike Vrabel has the Tennessee Titans atop of the AFC South with a (3-1) record and probably could be (4-0) without an 8 hour weather delay in Miami week 1 while losing their starting quarterback. The Titans had won their previous two games with backup QB Blaine Gabbert in. QB Marcus Mariota returned from an elbow injury to lead his team over the defending NFL champs. It is not like the Titans do a lot of things well or special on offense or defense. They rush the ball under a collective approach. No divas at wide out. Mariota (344 pass yards) connecting to WR Corey Davis to with :05 seconds left to hand the Eagles their second loss of the season, they are far from an offensive juggernaut. Offensively they rank (28th) only scoring (18.8 ppg) while barely averaging over (300) yards in total offense. While on defense they do rank 6th in the NFL. They might not be name brand but they are disruptive. Tennessee has (12) sacks to go alongside (8) turnovers caused this season under Vrabel's new defense. Linebackers and safeties that place fast and tackle out in space who find ways to hunt down the football. The Titans are only allowing (18.2) points per contest. Special teams has been a bright spot with Darius Jennings accumulating yards at a speedy rate and scoring a touchdown already this season. The Titans are (3-1) and (2-0) in the division after the month of September is a good thing moving forward while facing a depleted Bills team this weekend before facing another defensive minded team in the Ravens on October 14th.
RAVENS RISING: The Ravens have been characteristically a defense dominant team, and trust that identity of the Baltimore Ravens still resonates even stronger today however, their offense is hitting on all cylinders. In head coach Jon Harbaugh and QB Joe Flacco (11) seasons together, this has been the most prolific their offense has looked at least their aerial attack. Baltimore ranks (5th) in total offense averaging (30.9 ppg). The Ravens went into Heinz Field, home of their divisional rival the Pittsburgh Steelers and straight gut punched them on their home field. Flacco went (28-42 / 363 yards / 2 TDs / 0 picks) on the night. His (363) passing yards were the most he has thrown in Baltimore's yearly series with the Steelers. The Ravens dominated the game from jump, and if it wasn't for a (1/5) red zone performance, the score could have been worst. WR John Brown since coming over from Arizona is Flacco's favorite target as Brown accounted for (3 rec / 116 yards / TD). Brown has been on the other end of a touchdown reception in (3) of the Ravens (4) games while averaging a league best (22.5 ypc). Flacco has (8 TDs - 2 INTs) on the season. Baltimore defense played damn near perfect in the second half Sunday night. After the Steelers scored all their points in the 2nd quarter alone; Baltimore has outscored their opponents (49-9) in the second half and has become the first team since 2006 to not allow a second half touchdown in each of their first (4) games to start the season. Their 26-14 win over Pittsburgh was their largest margin of victory at Pittsburgh in almost (12) seasons. The Ravens (+58) point differential ranks 2nd in the NFL, not to mention they rank in the top (5) in all defensive categories including points and total defense (3rd - 16.2 ppg), total yards given up (275.8 ypg), passing yards (4th - 193.2) and defending the run (4th - 82.5 ypg); they are aggressive on defense. With their captain linebacker CJ Mosley returning into the lineup and CB Jimmy Smith coming off suspension, this defense will continue to get more fierce as the season goes along. Rookie QB Lamar Jackson may not be making splash plays but his presence has been taking notice. Baltimore has scored (14) times now in the red zone whenever the Ravens bring him out onto the field, whether he is a decoy, split out wide, or dumping the ball off; Jackson is a threat that has allowed the Ravens to open up the playbook at defenders expense.
LOOKING AHEAD
PASSER PARADISE: Count em (11) quarterbacks have at least (1,200) yards or more a quarter through the season already. Teams like the Los Angeles Rams who thrive on big plays and is 2nd in the league in points per game averaging (35.0) per contest. They are also 4th in offensive efficiency, especially after QB Jared Goff career (465 yards / 5 TDs) game. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes continues to dazzle as he has (14 TDs / 0 INTs) on the season with a QBR of (126.5). KC ranks first in scoring with (36.2). Even after the Bucs debacle, Fitzpatrick first (3) games and the Bears defeat they still are atop of the NFL in passing offense with (1,453) passing yards averaging (363.2 ypg). Fitz became the first QB in NFL history to throw for (400) yards or more in three consecutive games. Three quarterbacks are averaging over (70%) completion percentage this year. Jared Goff (72.4) for the Rams. Derek Carr (71%) and though Carr has (6 TDs / 7 INTs); Oakland is 2nd in total yards with (441.8) per game. While Drew Brees (75.2%) is the ultimate competitor. He and the Saints are now (3-1) averaging (34.2 ppg) and Brees himself has (8 TDs / 0 INTs) for the season. Atlanta QB Matt Ryan has reeled off back to back (30 ppg) for the Falcons while combining for (793 pass yards / 8 TDs / 0 INTs) through weeks 3 and 4. The Falcons are 6th and 7th in passing yards and total yards. Philip Rivers has always filled up the stat sheets. Rivers now with (51,504) career passing yards has now passed QB John Elway for 8th on the passing yards list in NFL history. He has (11) touchdowns to just (2) interceptions on the season. Andrew Luck threw for (450 yards / 4 TDs / 0 picks) in a loss Sunday. The Bears had gone (42) consecutive games without scoring (35) points; QB Mitchell Trubisky and the Bears had (38) at the half. Not to mention his (6) passing touchdowns alongside (354 yards / 0 INTs) in Chicago's huge win Sunday. Seven quarterbacks have thrown double-digit touchdown passes. Nine teams are averaging over (400) total yards per game while at least another (8) have QBs passing for over (300 ypg). Another big factor, offensive coaches with young QBs. Eagles - Doug Pederson/Carson Wentz, Chiefs - Andy Reid/Patrick Mahomes, Rams - Sean McVay/Jared Goff, Colts - Frank Reich/Andrew Luck, Panthers - Norv Turner/Cam Newton, Bears - Matt Nagy/Mitchell Trubisky, Browns - Hue Jackson/Baker Mayfield and 49ers - Kyle Shanahan/Jimmy Garoppolo. Through weeks 1-4, their has been (228) passing touchdowns this season. That is the most through any span in their first (4) weeks. Next closest (2013 - 205).
TNF - COLTS V PATRIOTS: 4th and 4 and that spot? Your own 43 yard line? C'mon head coach Frank Reich for the Indianapolis Colts. That play call, on your side of the field, with just :24 seconds left; I just don't see it. The Colts tied 34-34 in overtime against the Texans went for a costly 4th down and did not convert on it as the Texans took one play to set up a field goal and beat the Colts 37-34. Reich defended his decision to play not to tie and I understand the aggressive mindset, but I rather tie than lose. Indy (1-3) on the season has a short week as they play New England Thursday Night. They are (0-7) since 2010 versus the Patriots. QB Andrew Luck has been on fire of late. Sunday he had (40) completions, (464) passing yards and (4) touchdowns. Being said, Luck is (0-5) including a couple postseason losses at Gillette Stadium. In Foxbourough, Luck and the Colts have been outscored (159-53) in 3 games. New England was fortunate to have S Patrick Chung back in the lineup as the Patriots defense performed much better Sunday. Brady has feasted on the Colts, but this may be another prime TNF game upcoming. Former Patriots K Adam Vinateri is all familiar with the Pats. Vinateri set an all time NFL high for field goals made with his (566) during his career. Vinateri kicked a few in his day with New England to win a couple Super Bowls.
FALCONS V STEELERS: These two teams are probably the most disappointing teams through the first quarter of the season. Injuries have killed the Atlanta Falcons. Defensively its not there, as QB Matt Ryan has thrown (8 TDs / 0 INTs) across the last two weeks to watch his defense fall in the final seconds of games dropping Atlanta to (1-3) for the season. Rookie WR Calvin Ridley had (4 rec / 54 yards / 2 TDs) added to his improving rookie stock. Get this, not only does Ridley lead the league in touchdowns (6) in just his first (4) games; WR Julio Jones has just (6) touchdowns himself over his last (29) games as Ridley has become Ryan's new favorite target. No injuries really for Pittsburgh, just no LeVeon Bell. Bell and his absence has definitely been missing in the Steelers offense however the likes of Vance McDonald has aided Ben and the offense. Bell has been reported of saying he will return around week 7 this season, but it is yet to be seen. Pittsburgh just like Atlanta, their defense is atrocious. However their defense is atrocious with no injuries. Secondary problems on both teams as an average of (400) yards per game giving up, while Ben Roethlisberger and Matt Ryan have totaled (16) touchdowns, a shootout is in store Sunday. Whoever has the ball last should win. Side note: Antonio Brown vs Julio Jones
JAGUARS V CHIEFS: Jacksonville defense ranks - 1st ppg (14.0) allowed, 1st - total yards (259.2) per game, 1st - (164.2) pass yards allowed and tenth against the run. While on the other hand the Kansas City Chiefs rank 1st - (36.2) ppg, and top (15) in all other offensive categories. We know what Patrick Mahomes can do so far through the early stages of the season, and he can do it all. His legs, vision, precision, accuracy, poise, control of the game; these are the intangibles he will need to bring playing a veteran strong defensive front like the Jaguars. RB Kareem Hunt finally recorded a (100) yard rushing game seemed to find a role in the offense. However that Chiefs defense is horrible. With QB Blake Bortles already having two (300+) yard passing games this season, another one is in store. The Jaguars only have one interception on the season, now playing a QB who is allergic to turning the ball over. Something will have to give between this offensive and defensive teams. Just like last Thursday night with the Rams and Vikings, that stronger offense more than likely will prevail in this game as well.
VIKINGS v EAGLES: Rematch of the NFC title game, just a lot less on the line for both teams this time around. Carson Wentz nor Kirk Cousins was on the field for either team in last years playoff run. Philadelphia is coming off a road loss at the hands of a late TD for the Titans, as the Eagles lost in overtime. While the Minnesota Vikings continue to struggle defensively, losing an NFC battle versus the Rams last Thursday night. The Vikings had not had a passing touchdown of (70) yards or more completed on them since 2015. QB Kirk Cousins played damn near perfect last week going (36-50 / 422 yards / 3 TDs / 0 INTs). The Vikings are 5th in passing yards however dead last in rushing, with just (63.0 ypg) averaged on the ground. Though RB Dalvin Cook has been back, he still is battling injuries. Cousins connection with his receivers continues to blossom. WR Adam Thielen (8 rec / 135 yards / TD) and WR Stefon Diggs (11 rec / 123 yards) both eclipsed the (100) yard mark receiving, however, the defense also allowed Jared Goff to connect with three different (100) yard receivers as well. Philadelphia have been a shell of themselves of late. Late game heroics in Indy and a debacle late in Nashville now have the defending Super Bowl champs looking at a (2-2) record and could be worst. RB Jay Ajayi has returned to give some balance back to the Eagles offense. While QB Carson Wentz has been inserted back in at quarterback and has thrown for over (600) yards and two games but his turnovers are not allowing the Eagles to exploit leads. Up double-digits against the Titans, the defense allowed Tennessee to rack up almost (400) yards in total offense including outscoring the Eagles (23-13) in the second half and going (3/3) on fourth downs. Philly has also been one of the most penalized teams in the league with (18) flags resulting in almost (200) yards in penalty yardage. Minnesota must convert when they are in the red zone and keep teams out of the end zone as they have been outscore (65-6) over the last two weeks of action.
RAMS v SEAHAWKS: With a red hot LA Rams team coming into Seattle for a huge divisional game, the Seahawks are banged up as can be. Losing Earl Thomas who leads the team in interceptions (3) and third in tackles will be costly. As the emotional leader of that team his presence more than anything will be missed even though LB Bobby Wagner can handle those duties. Seattle after starting (0-2) have won back to back games with their biggest test yet. Los Angeles has (69) points across the first half of games this season so a fast start is expected. Jared Goff has (819 yards / 8 TDs / INT) over the last two weeks as their vertical offense has been hard to stop. Since entering the league in 2016; Goff stats have risen. Completion % - (2016 - 54.6% / 2018 - 70.3%). Passing yards per game - (2016 - 155.6 / 2018 - 313.7). Passer rating - (2016 - 63.6 / 2018 - 111.0). Defensively Seattle nay not look it but rank in the top (10) in defense, but that was also when Earl Thomas was in the lineup. QB Russell Wilson will look to continue to do it all for a Seattle team trying to find their identity. A banged up Seattle team on both sides of the ball will have Russell Wilson running for his life with that horrific offensive line. Look for a Suh and Donald sack party in the great northwest.
MNF - REDSKINS v SAINTS: After dropping their first game of the season, the New Orleans Saints have climbed their way back atop of the NFC South. Led by their veteran all pro QB Drew Brees, the Saints improved to (3-1). Brees (8 TDs / 0 INTs) accounted for zero touchdowns Sunday, watched as his star second year RD Alvin Kamara stole the show. Kamara who had been struggling to run the ball finished with (19 car / 134 yards / 3 TDs). Kamara also leads all running backs with (35) receptions, accounting for (336 yards / rec TD). New Orleans will get RB Mark Ingram back after serving a (4) game suspension. WR Michael Thomas cooled off with just (4) catches and now have (42) receptions through the first (4) games. Their defense has been their weakness all season. New Orleans ranks in the bottom half of most defensive stats. One thing they are good at is stopping the run only allowing (79.5 rush ypg). That will be needed versus a Washington team on the flip side ranks 3rd in rushing averaging about (137.7rush ypg). RB Adrian Peterson has a couple (100) yard games under his belt to go with (3) touchdowns. QB Alex Smith doesn't go vertical much, especially with his cast of receivers but his defense has been dependable. Washington is (2nd) in scoring defense and (3rd) in total yards and passing yards given up. They will need to bring it once more coming off a bye week after facing Aaron Rodgers and keeping him in check, Brees will be a different animal at home under the friendly confines of the dome. Brees only needs (201) passing yards to become the NFL's all time leader in passing yards and will likely surpass this feat in the Superdome for MNF.RETURNING OFF SUSPENSION:
SAINTS - RB MARK INGRAM, BENGALS - LB VONTAZE BURFICT, COWBOYS - DT DAVID IRVING, CHARGERS - DT COREY LIUGET, COLTS - RB ROBERT TURBIN, RAIDERS - CB DARYL WORLEY, PATRIOTS - WR JULIAN EDELMAN, RAVENS - CB JIMMY SMITH. ** PANTHERS - LB THOMAS DAVIS (TEAM HAD BYE WEEK), WILL RETURN WEEK 6 **.
MY POWER 10
1. RAMS
2. CHIEFS
3. SAINTS
4. JAGUARS
5. RAVENS
6. PANTHERS
7. PATRIOTS
8. BEARS
9. PACKERS
10. BENGALS
WEEK 5 PREDICTIONS
TNF - COLTS 24 PATRIOTS 38
SUN - TITANS 23 BILLS 16
SUN - DOLPHINS 17 BENGALS 30
SUN - RAVENS 34 BROWNS 20
SUN - PACKERS 26 LIONS 23
SUN - JAGUARS 28 CHIEFS 30
SUN - BRONCOS 24 JETS 20
SUN - FALCONS 37 STEELERS 38
SUN - GIANTS 17 PANTHERS 27
SUN - RAIDERS 23 CHARGERS 31
SUN - VIKINGS 34 EAGLES 27
SUN - CARDINALS 26 49ERS 23
SUN - RAMS 34 SEAHAWKS 20
SNF - COWBOYS 27 TEXANS 24
MNF - REDSKINS 28 SAINTS 34
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