Winners of the Week: Week 3 Edition

Hi, here is my weekly winners of the week post:

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Drew Brees, QB, Saints
Statline: 396 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs passing, 7 yards, 2 TDs rushing
This may have been the toughest week I've ever had picking who was my offensive player of the week. To be honest it was down to 4 but Brees edged out the others and here's why. Before we get into his great statline from the week, let me tell you 2 other things Brees did this week. The first is that he broke the all-time NFL record for passes completed. That is one of the biggest records in the NFL. Brett Favre held it before Brees and Brees broke the record in 50 games quicker than Favre. The second thing he did was he lead his Saints to a win in a super close nailbiter overtime game
against the rival Falcons team. Now about the stats. Basically 400 yards passing along with 3 Tds and no picks is just unbelievable. Especially at this age. Brees is slinging the ball like he's in his 20's and looks like he won't slow down anytime soon. Add in the fact he also had 2 TDs rushing from the goal line. Brees combined for a silly 5 TDs and broke an insane record along with leading his team to a crucial overtime win and you have a player of the week!
OFFENSIVE POY LAST WEEK: PATRICK MAHOMES, QB, CHIEFS

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Earl Thomas, S, Seahawks
Statline: 2 INTs, 7 tackles
I love that Earl Thomas had one of his best career games against the team that has caused so much drama around him all off-season. After the Seahawks beat the Cowboys in week 16 of last season, Earl Thomas ran to the Cowboys locker room and screamed 'come get me' meaning whenever they got the chance, to either trade for Earl or sign him. A Texas native, Earl wants to be a Cowboy at some point in his career and really put the Seahawks on the wire to trade him. The Cowboys were ramping up their offers all off-season and even offered a 2nd round pick which most teams thought was too much for Thomas. The Hawks declined and now Thomas is still playing as a Seahawk.
Against the Cowboys, all the stats Earl Thomas got this game were all huge plays. His 2 interceptions not only set the Seahawks up for some good offensive possessions but they were insane plays. One he caught because it hit his shoe and not the ground and the other was caught on a crazy tip drill play that he somehow came down with. Earl's tackles were all also huge with a couple on an Ezekiel Elliott running down open field. Earl is now tied for the league lead in interceptions with 3. What a game against the team he wanted to play for showing that he really is worth more than a second round pick!
DEFENSIVE POY LAST WEEK: DARIUS LEONARD, LB, COLTS

TEAM OF THE WEEK: Buffalo Bills (1-2)
Final Score: Bills 27, Vikings 6
What everyone thought would be a Vikings blowout of the Bills turned out to be the other way around. Coming into the game, the Bills were considered by most as the worst team in the league. They have a ton of weak spots and their rookie first round pick QB Josh Allen looked like he needed a ton of work before he could be any good. Everything seemed to be falling apart for the Bills as even one of their starting cornerbacks retired at halftime of last weeks game. They also came into playing against the Vikings who are considered one of the best teams in football. Then they went crazy on the unsuspecting Vikings. Rookie QB Josh Allen went off as he threw for 196 yards, a TD, 0 INTs along with rushing for 39 yards and 2 TDs. Allen even hurdled a defender on a play of the year worthy type play and now convinced us that he is not to be counted out as a rookie of the year candidate. The Bills defense also went off not letting up a score until after halftime and the Vikings red hot offense only had 1 first down by halftime. Bills young defender Matt Milano also had a huge game and really helped their D stand tall. The Bills are still doubted but they had a huge game against an elite team and proved there is more to them then meets the eye!
TEAM OF THE WEEK LAST WEEK: KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Honorable Mentions:
Calvin Ridley, WR, Falcons: 7 receptions, 146 yards, 3 TDs receiving
Christian McCaffrey, RB, Panthers: 28 rushes, 184 yards rushing
Matt Ryan, QB, Falcons: 374 yards, 5 TDs passing
Josh Allen, QB, Bills: 196 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs passing, 39 yards, 2 TDs rushing
Chris Carson, RB, Seahawks: 32 rushes, 102 yards, 1 TD rushing

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Honorable Mentions:
Matt Milano, LB, Bills: 1 sack, 1 INT, 1 fumble recov., 2 passes defended
Efe Obada, DE, Panthers: 1 sack, 1 INT in first career game
Khalil Mack, LB/DE, Bears: 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 5 tackles
Denzel Ward, CB, Browns: 4 tackles, 1 forced fumble
Donte Jackson, CB, Panthers: 7 tackles, 2 INTs

TEAM OF THE WEEK Honorable Mentions:
Cleveland Browns (1-1-1)
Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1-1)
Washington Redskins (2-1)
Seattle Seahawks (1-2)
Detroit Lions (1-2)

Thanks for reading!

Photo Cred: The Advocate, ESPN.com, 

Week 4 Power Rankings: Lots of Changes Among Top 15!

Hi, here are my weekly power rankings:

1. Kansas City Chiefs (3-0)
2. Los Angeles Rams (3-0)
3. Philadelphia Eagles (2-1) +1
4. New Orleans Saints (2-1) +4
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1) +2
6. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-1) -3
7. Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1-1) +7
8. Chicago Bears (2-1) +3
9. Carolina Panthers (2-1) +7
10. Miami Dolphins (3-0) +8
11. Green Bay Packers (1-1-1) -5
12. New England Patriots (1-2) -7
13. Los Angeles Chargers (1-2)
14. Minnesota Vikings (1-1-1) -4
15. Atlanta Falcons (1-2) -3
16. Detroit Lions (1-2) +14
17. Washington Redskins (2-1) +9
18. Seattle Seahawks (1-2) +2
19. Cleveland Browns (1-1-1) +10
20. Denver Broncos (2-1) -11
21. Tennessee Titans (2-1) +1
22. Cinncy Bengals (2-1) -5
23. Baltimore Ravens (2-1)
24. New York Giants (1-2) +4
25. Indianapolis Colts (1-2) -4
26. New York Jets (1-2) -1
27. Buffalo Bills (1-2) +5
28. Houston Texans (0-3) -4
29. Dallas Cowboys (1-2) -10
30. Oakland Raiders (0-3) -3
31. San Fransisco 49ers (1-2) -16
32. Arizona Cardinals (0-3) -1

Thanks for reading!

Week 3 Recap: Powerhouse Teams Losses = Wide Open Playoff Picture

Hi, here is my weekly recap:

FINAL SCORES:

Browns 21, Jets 17
Saints 43, Falcons 37 (OT)
Chiefs 38, 49ers 27
Dolphins 28, Raiders 20
Bills 27, Vikings 6
Eagles 20, Colts 16
Redskins 31, Packers 17
Panthers 31, Bengals 21
Titans 9, Jaguars 6
Ravens 27, Broncos 14
Giants 27, Texans 22
Rams 35, Chargers 23
Bears 16, Cardinals 14
Seahawks 24, Cowboys 13
Lions 26, Patriots 10
Steelers 30, Buccaneers 27

News/What Went Down:

Browns/Jets: And just like that for the first time in over 600 days, the Browns have won a game! What a win it was also. The Jets took an early lead as Sam Darnold and Isaiah Crowell came out making plays but an early concussion to Tyrod Taylor sent no. 1 overall pick in the draft Baker Mayfield out onto the field for Cleveland as he strung together a beautiful debut game and lead the Browns to a comeback victory. The Browns now have more wins the the Steelers and Baker Mayfield was already named starter for next week. Expect a Tyrod Taylor to possibly be traded.

Saints/Falcons: What a game this was. Drew Brees early on in the game broke the NFL all-time record held by Brett Favre for most completions ever and he did it in 50 less games. The Saints had a good early start but Matt Ryan made an amazing connection with rookie WR Calvin Ridley which turned into an 100+ yards, 3 TD game for him. Ryan and Brees battled but in overtime, Ridley couldn't save Ryan and the Brees lead Saints won the game. Brees had 5 total TDs while Ryan threw for 5.

Chiefs/49ers: The Chiefs kept their hot streak alive as Patrick Mahomes had yet another great game. Mahomes broke the record for most TD passes through the first 3 weeks of the season as he continues to grasp the early season MVP lead. The 49ers made a bit of a comeback late but the mood was darkened as star QB Jimmy Garopollo went down with an injury that was later confirmed to be a torn ACL which will put Jimmy Garopollo out for the season. The Niners will now look to 2nd year signal caller CJ Beathard to lead the team as the worst has been confirmed.

Dolphins/Raiders: The Dolphins continue to defy all overlooks as they somehow become one of only a couple undefeated teams left. They have a 2 game lead in their division and could be the dark horse team of the season. Ryan Tannehill, Albert Wilson, and Jakeem Grant all have huge games on the Dolphins offense as they down Derek Carr's Raiders even after he gains a connection with off-season aquisition Jordy Nelson who had a TD and over 100 receiving yards. Jon Gruden 1 out of the few 0-3 teams left and his team may already be out of the playoff race. Yikes.

Bills/Vikings: Considered the worst team in football, rookie Josh Allen changed everyone's minds today as the winless Bills slapped the unbeaten Vikings in the face in a dominating win. Josh Allen had an amazing game and the Bills D played lights out. Awhile through the game Kirk Cousins and the Vikings offense had only had 1 first down in the entire game. Could the Bills be on the rise?!

Eagles/Colts: Carson Wentz's return game went according to plan as the Eagles edged out the Colts lead by their former offensive coordinator Frank Reich (new Colts head coach). Wentz looked decent maybe a little better in return but Eagles look like they are going to be ready to make another playoff run. Colts can't seem to close out a close game on the other hand.

Redskins/Packers: The Skins' shock Aaron Rodgers and the Packers by handing them a dominating loss as the Packers fall to 1-1-1. Adrian Peterson has another huge game in which he had 90+ yards and 2 TDs. Alex Smith also had a nice game connecting with many of his receivers throughout. The Redskins should be counted out by no means as they downed one of the best teams in football.

Panthers/Bengals: Christian McCaffrey goes off for 184 yards as the Panthers dominate the 2-0 Bengals. Cam Newton formed a nice connection with McCaffrey throughout the game and every offensive play it seemed like one of them would be doing something great. The Bengals look average like last year again in their loss.

Titans/Jaguars: In a game where most thought the Jags would dominate, not only did they lose, but the game was a slugfest. No TDs were scored and the woeful Titans somehow found a way to get a couple field goals against the Jags stout D and then found a way with their bad defense to stop Blake Bortles and the offense who have been hot the first 2 weeks of the season. No need to panic for Jags but a win would have been really great for the Jags as they were looking to continue to lead the AFC with the Chiefs. Mariota looks decent even playing through injury in the win for the Titans who look like they can somehow still be a great team despite their bad playing.

Ravens/Broncos: Are the Broncos a contender or a pretender? We may have our answer after the mediocre Ravens destroy the Broncos. Broncos star rookie RB Phillip Lindsay ejected early on which may have screwed Broncos but Ravens O and D both played at a high level to take down the Broncos who still seem like they could be contenders in my opinion.

Giants/Texans: In a battle of 2 winless teams who had high projections pre-season saw the NY Giants take the win. Saquon Barkley had another great game and looks like he will be a game changer for years to come for the Giants. Something still seems off about Deshaun Watson as for the 3rd week in a row he only plays at a mediocre level. Penilities screwed Houston in the end as the Giants avoid 0-3 and the Texans fall into a very tough spot. All eyes will be on Deshaun Watson here on out and if they keep losing, things will get really interesting in Houston...

Rams/Chargers: In a battle for LA, the Rams top the Chargers. 2 high powered teams squared off here but the Rams who are now 3-0 dominated the game and really look like they can't be stopped by anyone. Their offense was clicking as they got WR Robert Woods into the mix in this game while their defense continued to play at a high level. The Chargers aren't living up to their preseason hype and now will need to start winning to have a shot in a stacked AFC West. Rams look like the team to beat in the NFC.

Bears/Cardinals: It looked like the Cardinals could pull off a huge upset as they started out with a 14-0 lead over the red hot Bears but weak QB Sam Bradford played poorly and the Bears came back and won it in the end to take over the stacked NFC North. Rookie QB Josh Rosen came in at the end of the game and threw for around 35 yards and an INT and looked not great either. Rosen was named starter later and will have the tough task of getting the Cards out of their lowly 0-3 hole.

Seahawks/Cowboys: The Hawks regain their swagger as their defense finally starts making stops lead by Earl Thomas who had 2 INTs against the team who has desperately tried to trade for him. The Hawks offense also starts to click as Russell Wilson strengthens his connection with Tyler Lockett and RB Chris Carson rushes for 100 yards and a TD. The Cowboys look lost as their D is terrible and Dak Prescott can barely throw the ball. Zeke has decent game. This could have been Earl Thomas' last game as a Seahawk as Cowboys are apparently about to make big pushes to trade for Earl.

Lions/Patriots: For the first time in years, the Pats have lost 2 straight. Coming into the game the Pats were fresh off a sad loss over the Jags while the Lions came in 0-2. Yet the Lions rallied together and demolished the Pats as the Pats are starting to look like less and less of contenders with Tom Brady possibly slowing down? I know it sounds crazy but it really seems like it. The Pats are in uncharted territory as they are 1-2 and have a dark horse 3-0 team in their division that has been on fire lately. Can Brady put it together? Matt Patricia gets the best of his former team in his first win as the Lions head coach.

Bucs/Steelers: In the first half the Steelers came out of the gate firing as Big Ben threw multiple TDs and the Steelers D intercepted Ryan Fitzpatrick multiple times. After halftime though, the Bucs started driving and they got multiple TD drives and almost pulled off a Fitzmagical comeback. The Steelers finally got their long awaited first win of the season that they needed SO much. Ryan Fitz looked his old self at the beginning of the game but as the game winded on he looked like his Fitzmagic self we have seen throughout the first 3 weeks of the season. He ended with 410 passing yards, 3 TDs, and 3 INTs which isn't bad in the end. His yardage totals per game have been insane. Good luck Jameis.

Thanks for reading!

Winners of the Week: Week 2 Edition

Hi, here is my weekly winners of the week post:

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Patrick Mahomes, QB, Chiefs
Statline: 326 yards, 6 TDs, 0 INTs
All I can say is that I'm amazed. After surprising most by trading up to draft Mahomes who had a high bust chance when they already had Alex Smith, a steadily good QB. Mahomes even played decent at best in his first career start which came week 17 last season. Going into the season, expectations were low, but then Mahomes went off. In week 1 Mahomes threw 4 TDs and no picks and officially won AFC offensive player of the week. This week he was on a whole nother level. Mahomes lit up and experienced Steelers defense for 320+ yards, a crazy whopping 6 TDs along with no picks. Mahomes was one TD pass shy of the record of 7 TD passes in one game and if the Chiefs weren't trying to run out the clock I'm confident he could have gotten 7 and possibly a record breaking 8TH TD pass! What Mahomes has done the last 2 weeks is insane, throwing 10 TDs and no picks and he looks like he could be one of the best QBs in the league for years to come. He has lead the Chiefs to a 2-0 start and they look like the best team in all of football right now. Amazing job by Mahomes.

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Darius Leonard, LB, Colts
Statline: 16 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, 1 pass defended
Darius Leonard may have just had his breakout game. A 2nd round pick this past season, Leonard was getting talked about little and after an average first game in the NFL, Leonard broke out! He burst for an amazing 16 tackles along with a sack AND a forced fumble. These stats might not sound great but for them all to happen in one game is really hard. Getting more than 10 tackles in a game is an accomplishment but Leonard went for 16. Also any game you have either a sack and/or a forced fumble it is great, well Leonard did both plus the whopping 16 tackles. A weak Colts defense may have just found their future star in Darius Leonard as he has officially broken on to the scene in his 2nd career game. What a week!

TEAM OF THE WEEK: Kansas City Chiefs (2-0)
Final Score: Chiefs 42, Steelers 37
This is the way to silence all the doubters. The Chiefs were way overlooked this off-season after a bad end to the season along with being upset in the wildcard round of the playoffs. 2nd year QB Pat Mahomes looked like he wasn't anything special and their defense looked lackluster. Now 2 weeks into the NFL season and they have convinced me they are the team to beat in the AFC! We already know how good Mahomes is but lets shift to the most electric player in the NFL in WR/KR Tyreek Hill. He has had an insane start to his career but if these first 2 weeks mean anything, Tyreek will be on a different level this year. If he keeps his pace he will join the leagues elite receiver group. Not only is Tyreek a top 3 fastest player in the league but he is so good at finding ways to expose cornerbacks and make tough catches. He is un-coverable. Mahomes and Hill look like the hottest QB-WR duo in the league and may have already taken the title from Big Ben-Antonio Brown. To round out, the Chiefs RB Kareem Hunt has been playing at an elite level and their mediocre defense has really turned it around and are loving the return of elite S Eric Berry. This Chiefs team is red hot and they don't look like they will cool down anytime soon. Good luck to everyone else!

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Honorable Mentions:
Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, Bucs: 402 yards, 4 TDs, 1 INT passing
Matt Breida, RB, 49ers: 138 yards, 1 TD rushing
Saquon Barkley, RB, Giants: 14 receptions, 80 yards receiving, 28 yards rushing
Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers: 452 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs passing
Blake Bortles, QB, Jaguars: 376 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT passing

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Honorable Mentions:
Prince Amukamara, CB, Bears: 1 pick 6, 2 passes defended, 4 tackles
Shaquill Griffin, CB, Seahawks: 2 INTs, 4 tackles, 3 passes defended
Khalil Mack, LB/DE, Bears: 1 sack, 1 forced fumble

TEAM OF THE WEEK Honorable Mentions:
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0)
Chicago Bears (1-1)
Los Angeles Rams (2-0)
Jacksonville Jaguars (2-0)

Thanks for reading!

Photo Cred: NBC Sports, 1070 The Fan

Week 3 Power Rankings: A Surprise at No. 1, Bucs keep Rising

Hi, here is my weekly power rankings:

1. Kansas City Chiefs (2-0) +5
2. Los Angeles Rams (2-0)
3. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-0) +2
4. Philadelphia Eagles (1-1) -1
5. New England Patriots (1-1) -4
6. Green Bay Packers (1-0-1) -2
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0) +7
8. New Orleans Saints (1-1)
9. Denver Broncos (2-0) +7
10. Minnesota Vikings (1-0-1) -4
11. Chicago Bears (1-1) +4
12. Atlanta Falcons (1-1) -2
13. Los Angeles Chargers (1-1) -2
14. Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1-1) -5
15. San Fransisco 49ers (1-1) +4
16. Carolina Panthers (1-1) +4
17. Cinncy Bengals (2-0) +10
18. Miami Dolphins (2-0) +10
19. Dallas Cowboys (1-1) +5
20. Seattle Seahawks (0-2) -3
21. Indianapolis Colts (1-1) +9
22. Tennessee Titans (1-1) +7
23. Baltimore Ravens (1-1) -5
24. Houston Texans (0-2) -12
25. New York Jets (1-1) -4
26. Washington Redskins (1-1) -1
27. Oakland Raiders (0-2) -4
28. New York Giants (0-2) -15
29. Cleveland Browns (0-1-1) -3
30. Detroit Lions (0-2) -8
31. Arizona Cardinals (0-2)
32. Buffalo Bills (0-2)

Thanks for reading!

Week 2 Recap: Powerhouses Emerging

Hi, another crazy week of football is in the books and here is everything you need to know:

FINAL SCORES:

Bengals 34, Ravens 23
Chiefs 42, Steelers 37
Dolphins 20, Jets 12
Buccaneers 27, Eagles 21
Saints 21, Browns 18
Colts 21, Redskins 9
Chargers 31, Bills 20
Packers 29, Vikings 29 (ANOTHER TIE, FOR THE 2ND WEEK IN A ROW!)
Falcons 31, Panthers 24
Titans 20, Texans 17
Rams 34, Cardinals 0
49ers 30, Lions 27
Broncos 20, Raiders 19
Jaguars 31, Patriots 20
Cowboys 20, Giants 13
Bears 24, Seahawks 17

News/What Went Down:

Bengals/Ravens: Bengals power to a surprising 2-0 start to the season as AJ Green goes off for 3 TD receptions. Joe Flacco on the Ravens still has decent game despite loss. Lamar Jackson will not be coming for awhile. Otherwise not too much to note on this game.

Chiefs/Steelers: Possibly the game of the week, man is Chiefs 2nd year QB Patrick Mahomes good. The man threw 6 touchdowns! SIX! One shy of tying the most TD passes in a single game ever. Mahomes is already looking like the early leader for the MVP as Tyreek Hill and the rest of the Chiefs follow behind his huge start. Big Ben has a huge 400 yard passing game in an attempt to catch the white hot Chiefs but fall to (0-1-1). Le'Veon Bell is nowhere in sight in terms of coming back to the team.

Dolphins/Jets: After a strong debut, Sam Darnold struggles in 2nd game letting the Dolphins get the best of the game. Considered to be one of the worst teams in football, the Dolphins jet out to a surprise 2-0 start. Ryan Tannehill leads the way as the Fins' have better records than the Saints, Steelers, Patriots, Falcons, Packers, Vikings, Eagles, and other powerhouse teams.

Bucs/Eagles: Ryan Fitzpatrick proves huge week 1 wasn't a fluke, puts together another insane game as the red hot Bucs sit 2-0 after handing the defending Super Bowl champs their first loss since before last seasons playoffs. Nick Foles plays decent but Carson Wentz will return from injury and start this next week. DeSean Jackson has another huge game for the Bucs and its looking like Fitzpatrick will keep starting even after Jameis Winston's suspension is up after week 3.

Saints/Browns: The Browns take an early lead, lead by Tyrod Taylor but falter in the end as 2nd year kicker Zane Gonzales misses huge field goal to give Saints the win. Gonzales was cut after the game. Michael Thomas has another huge game for New Orleans.

Colts/Redskins: Colts get their first win with Andrew Luck in a bit of a slugfest game. Adrian Peterson looks nothing like his great week 1 performance and the Redskins can't get it together.

Chargers/Bills: Josh Allen doesn't play great in first career start, Super Bowl contender Chargers get their first win of the season as whole team plays well. In a weird move, former Dolphins and Colts CB Vontae Davis who is now on the Bills retires at halftime. He said he 'shouldn't be out there anymore' and pulls himself from the game. Was elite at times in his career.

Packers/Vikings: Both teams play great in a super important divisional game but in the end the Vikings come back from an early deficiet and force Aaron Rodgers and the Packers into overtime where both teams fail to score and the game ends in a tie. Vikings rookie 5th round pick kicker Daniel Carlson misses 3 field goals including a 35 yard game winning kick in overtime in the tie. Carlson was cut and former Cowboys great Dan Bailey was signed for Vikes'.

Falcons/Panthers: Falcons jet out to big win after close start to game. Matt Ryan and rookie WR Calvin Ridley both have great games and contribute big as the Falcons get their first win of the season.

Titans/Texans: Deshaun Watson still looks rusty as the Titans take advantage of the Texans D and get a surprise upset win to beat the Texans and send them to 0-2. Deshaun Watson gets him chemistry with Will Fuller and DeAndre Hopkins back. Marcus Mariota injured in game.

Rams/Cardinals: Rams destroy Cardinals as their whole team plays well. Star kicker Greg Zuerlein injured in win. Jared Goff, Cooper Kupp, Brandin Cooks, Todd Gurley among offensive stars for Rams. Cardinals and David Johnson look hopeless. The Josh Rosen era may start sooner than we expected in Arizona.

49ers/Lions: In a shootout for borderline playoff teams, the 49ers pull it together and get the win last minute as RB Matt Breida has big game. Lions' Matthew Stafford has a bit of a bounce back game after 4 INTs in week 1.

Broncos/Raiders: In a divisional rivalry game, the hot Broncos beat Gruden's Raiders to send him to 0-2. Broncos rookie RB Phillip Lindsay has another big game. Derek Carr connects with Amari Cooper again at least in the loss.

Jaguars/Patriots: A rematch of the AFC championship, the Jags best the Pats this time as their whole team plays great football. Blake Bortles and WR Keelan Cole both have huge games on the Jags offense while their defense shut down Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski. The Pats look like they aren't the very best even more. In more news, the Pats aqquire Browns star WR Josh Gordon for a 5th round draft pick. Wow!

Cowboys/Giants: Both teams really needed wins here as the Cowboys barely edge the Giants in a slugfest. Dak Prescott and Zeke Elliott still don't look like their normal selves. Eli Manning and Odell Beckham both have bad games while Evan Engram and Saquon Barkley play well. Saquon Barkley sets the Giants franchise record for most receptions in a game.

Bears/Seahawks: Bears defense comes up HUGE as they terrorize Russell Wilson and hold him to his worst game in a year. The defense stands tall and outlives the Seahawks comeback try. Khalil Mack and Prince Amukamara come up HUGE as both made great plays. Hawks fall to 0-2 and will try to climb back into the race.

Thanks for reading about this crazy week!

Week 1 Power Rankings: Bucs, Vikings, Broncos Huge Risers

Hi, here are my weekly power rankings:
(remember, + is if your team went up in the rankings since last week and how many spots and - is if your team went down in the rankings and how many spots)

1. New England Patriots (1-0) +5
2. Los Angeles Rams (1-0)
3. Philadelphia Eagles (1-0) -2
4. Green Bay Packers (1-0) -1
5. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-0) +2
6. Minnesota Vikings (1-0) +10
7. Kansas City Chiefs (1-0) +7
8. New Orleans Saints (0-1) -3
9. Pittsburgh Steelers (0-0-1) -1
10. Atlanta Falcons (0-1) +1
11. Los Angeles Chargers (0-1) -2
12. Houston Texans (0-1) -8
13. New York Giants (0-1) -3
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0) +14
15. Chicago Bears (0-1) -2
16. Denver Broncos (1-0) +11
17. Seattle Seahawks (0-1) -5
18. Baltimore Ravens (0-1) +4
19. San Fransisco 49ers (0-1) -4
20. Carolina Panthers (1-0) -3
21. New York Jets (1-0) +4
22. Detroit Lions (0-1) -4
23. Oakland Raiders (0-1) -4
24. Dallas Cowboys (0-1) -3
25. Washington Redskins (1-0) -2
26. Cleveland Browns (0-0-1) -2
27. Cinncy Bengals (1-0) +4
28. Miami Dolphins (1-0) +2
29. Tennessee Titans (0-1) -9
30. Indianapolis Colts (0-1) -4
31. Arizona Cardinals (0-1) -2
32. Buffalo Bills (0-1)

Thanks for reading!

Winners of the Week, Week 1 Edition

Hi, we are back with winners of the week! Last year we had someone new almost every week with the exceptions of Russell Wilson and Todd Gurley winning a few times. Here are our week 1 winners:

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, Buccaneers
Statline: 417 yards, 4 TDs passing, 36 yards, 1 TD rushing
All I can say is wow! When Jameis Winston was officially suspended the first 3 games of the season, everyone who hadn't already counted the Bucs out this season, did so then. It seemed like they were gonna start 0-3 and who knew if they would be any better once Winston came back. Heading into a tough week 1 match-up against Super Bowl contenders Saints, pretty much NO one thought the Bucs would win. Then Fitzmagic came out. Ryan Fitzpatrick who has been a journeyman his entire career burst into action and killed the game. Throwing 4 TDs and 400+ yards and then adding in 35 yards and a TD rushing. The Bucs easily won the game and Fitzpatrick looked like the best player in the league. (Just for week 1). I can't believe this, but Ryan Fitzpatrick is our first offensive player of the season!

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Von Miller, LB, Broncos
Statline: 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles
What a way to burst back into the defensive player of the year race after not really being considered a year before. Von Miller has been a top 10 defensive player in the NFL since he entered the league and has been in the DPOY conversation almost every year, except for last year. Miller wasn't bad last year, but he wasn't amazing. But what a first game! Miller had an insane 3 sacks along with forcing TWO forced fumbles. That's crazy to do all in one game. Especially against someone as good as Russell Wilson. Von Miller has put himself as an early candidate for the defensive player of the year award and I won't be surprised when he leads the league in sacks by the end of the year. What a game for him.

TEAM OF THE WEEK: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0)
Final Score: Bucs 48, Saints 40
This was a tough choice as there were a ton of good teams this week that had huge wins, but I have to give it to the Bucs. They were counted out ALREADY by so many people and for them to beat a Super Bowl contender who is the proven best team in their division without their starting QB and in a dominating fashion is just crazy. Ryan Fitzpatrick lead the way with a crazy good game but their defense was improved and their receiving core was all playing spectacular. The Bucs are certainly in it and I can see them riding Fitz's hot streak past Winston's suspension time until he slows down. (Which could very well be next week). Anyways, the Bucs had a great week and they had to be the team of the week! I also forgot to mention how well DeSean Jackson and Mike Evans played.

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Honorable Mentions:
Michael Thomas, WR, Saints: 16 receptions, 180 yards, 1 TD receiving
Tyreek Hill, WR, Chiefs: 7 receptions, 169 yards, 2 TDs receiving, 1 punt return TD
James Conner, RB, Steelers: 135 yards, 2 TDs rushing
Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers: 286 yards, 3 TDs passing
Patrick Mahomes, QB, Chiefs: 256 yards, 4 TDs passing

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK Honorable Mentions:
Denzel Ward, CB, Browns: 2 INTs, 3 passes defended
Khalil Mack, LB/DE, Bears: 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, 1 INT (returned for TD, pick 6)
Bradley McDougald, S, Seahawks: 2 INTs, 2 passes defended
TJ Watt, LB, Steelers
Harrison Smith, S, Vikings

TEAM OF THE WEEK Honorable Mentions:
Green Bay Packers (1-0)
Kansas City Chiefs (1-0)
Los Angeles Rams (1-0)
New York Jets (1-0)
Denver Broncos (1-0)

Thanks for reading!

Photo Cred: Tampa Bay Times, Mile High Sports, 

Week 1 Recap: Crazy Kickoff Week

Hi, here is everything important from week 1:

FINAL SCORES:
Eagles 18, Falcons 12
Bengals 34, Colts 23
Ravens 47, Bills 3
Buccaneers 48, Saints 40
Patriots 27, Texans 20
Vikings 24, 49ers 16
Dolphins 27, Titans 20
Jaguars 20, Giants 15
Browns 21, Steelers 21 (TIE)
Panthers 16, Cowboys 8
Redskins 24, Cardinals 6
Broncos 27, Seahawks 24
Packers 24, Bears 23
Jets 48, Lions 17
Rams 33, Raiders 13

News/What went down:

Eagles/Falcons: The kickoff game of the season was a bit of a slugfest until the end where Eagles defense came up big and had another goal line stop of the Falcons at the end of the game like in the playoffs. Julio Jones, Jay Ajayi good games each. Nick Foles looks regressed.

Bengals/Colts: Shootout game until very end where Bengals pull away. Joe Mixon has a breakout type game and leads Bengals to win. Andrew Luck decent in return.

Ravens/Bills: Ravens way outplay Bills who can't find answers, bench starter Nathan Peterman for rookie Josh Allen near end of game. No players completely stand out.

Buccaneers/Saints: Probably the game of the week, everyone counted out the Bucs who go on an insane hot streak with backup QB Ryan Fitzpatrick at the helm as they demolish Saints. Fitz 5 total TDs and no interceptions. Michael Thomas with a huge 16 reception, 100+ yard game on the Saints. RB Alvin Kamara also a good game.

Pats/Texans: The Pats, lead by Brady and Gronk take advantage of rusty Deshaun Watson and the Texans and avoid their late comeback push to get to 1-0. Watson looks like he is still getting used to being back. Huge signing Tyrann Mathieu picks off Brady in Texans debut.

Vikings/49ers: Kirk Cousins stars in first game as a Viking as he capitalizes on Jimmy Garopollo's interceptions to win the game. Vikings defense looks amazing as well as receiving core. Star RB Dalvin Cook looks a little bit rusty in return game.

Dolphins/Titans: Dolphins take the win after multiple thunderstorm delays. After having their defense destroyed, the Titans almost came back but the Dolphins held them off. Fins' WR Kenny Stills has huge game. RB Kenyan Drake not the best game after all his off-season hype. Dion Lewis has nice debut for Titans.

Jaguars/Giants: Jaguars defense lead by Myles Jack holds up and takes down the Giants explosive offense. Blake Bortles and the Jags offense gets it done even with Leonard Fournette gone with a hamstring injury. Saquon Barkley has a nice 100 yard, 1 TD debut. Odell Beckham also great first game back from injury. Janoris Jenkins one interception for Giants d.

Browns/Steelers: What a crazy game. Cleveland didn't lose!...but they didn't win either. The new look Browns show flashes as they go down in a tie against the dominant Steelers. Steelers not to worry with no Bell because backup James Conner goes off. Tyrod Taylor + Jarvis Landry looks like a great duo and 4th overall pick in the draft CB Denzel Ward has 2 interceptions in NFL debut game.

Panthers/Cowboys: Panthers edge out Cowboys in slugfest of the game. Zeke still scores a TD in a game where he doesn't look like himself. Dak Prescott doesn't have good game either.

Redskins/Cardinals: Redskins, lead by Adrian Peterson, dominate Cardinals as David Johnson scores the Cardinals lone TD. Alex Smith also plays well in his first game as a Redskin.

Broncos/Seahawks: Broncos win a shootout against the new look Seahawks in a rematch of Super Bowl 48. This time the Broncos win. Broncos WR duo looks great along with Von Miller and rookie RB Phillip Lindsay. Case Keenum throws 3 TDs along with 3 INTs in Bronco debut. Seahawks safeties Earl Thomas and Bradley McDougald both have interceptions. Russell Wilson makes connections with receivers Ty Lockett and Brandon Marshall and rookie TE Will Dissly.

Packers/Bears: Packers make HUGE comeback to win against the up and coming Bears. Khalil Mack has a huge first game in Chicago with a forced fumble and a pick 6. Aaron Rodgers stars as he connects with his receivers for the comeback.

Jets/Lions: Sam Darnold has a great turnaround in his first NFL start. He threw a pick 6 on his first career pass but then comes back and throws well the rest of the game as the Jets dominate the Lions for a huge win. Matthew Stafford 4 interceptions and replaced by backup Matt Cassel in the end of the game.

Raiders/Rams: After a strong first half from the Raiders, the Rams defense and Todd Gurley showed up and showed out and dominated to spoil Jon Gruden's return to football. Marshawn Lynch and Jared Cook pretty good games on Raiders, Derek Carr 3 INTs and Amari Cooper only 1 reception.

Thanks for reading!

Right Before Season Power Rankings: Texans Up and Coming, Pats not Top 5?

Hi, this is my first power rankings on the season! Kickoff is tomorrow so here it is quickly:

1. Philadelphia Eagles
2. Los Angeles Rams
3. Green Bay Packers
4. Houston Texans (YES, my no. 1 AFC team heading into the season!)
5. New Orleans Saints
6. New England Patriots
7. Jacksonville Jaguars
8. Pittsburgh Steelers
9. Los Angeles Chargers
10. New York Giants
11. Atlanta Falcons
12. Seattle Seahawks
13. Chicago Bears
14. Kansas City Chiefs
15. San Fransisco 49ers
16. Minnesota Vikings
17. Carolina Panthers
18. Detroit Lions
19. Oakland Raiders
20. Tennessee Titans
21. Dallas Cowboys
22. Baltimore Ravens
23. Washington Redskins
24. Cleveland Browns
25. New York Jets
26. Indianapolis Colts
27. Denver Broncos
28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
29. Arizona Cardinals
30. Miami Dolphins
31. Cinncinatti Bengals
32. Buffalo Bills

Thanks for reading. I will try and do one of these every week! These are mostly predictions so power rankings post week 1 should look a lot different!

My Top 10 Players of the 2017 (Part 2/2, 5-1)

Hi, here is my part 2 of my top 10 players list of 2017, the top 5, if you missed 10-6 check out my post before this one. I can't believe kickoff is tomorrow!!!!!!

5. DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Texans
Statline: 1378 yards, 13 TDs receiving
After one down season Hopkins burst right back onto the scene this season. With amazing new QB Deshaun Watson, Hopkins started the season off right and after Watson's injury Hopkins kept putting up amazing numbers even with the Texans bad backups. Hopkins lead the league by 3 TDs in touchdown receptions as Davante Adams and Jimmy Graham came in 2nd with only 10 TDs a piece. Hopkins proved that he really should be considered in the NFL's elite receiver group which most people say is only Antonio Brown, Odell Beckham, and Julio Jones. Hopkins had a better season than Beckham and Jones in my opinion. With Deshaun Watson healthy again to start the season be ready for Hopkins to have another insane season with a full season of Deshaun Watson. Hopkins was a
productive machine for the Texans this past season and makes spot 5 on the top 10 players list. Not bad.
LAST YEAR NO. 5: VIC BEASLEY, LB/DE, FALCONS

4. Todd Gurley, RB, Rams
Statline: 1305 yards, 13 TDs rushing, 788 yards, 6 TDs receiving
What a comeback year it was from Todd Gurley. After a groundbreaking rookie of the year winning rookie of the year rookie season Gurley fell way off in year 2 as the Rams struggled. But with amazing new coach Sean McVay and Jared Goff breaking out Gurley broke out for his best career season yet. Gurley finished with 2000+ total yards and 19 total TDs, thats an unreal stat line. Near the end of the season Gurley REALLY heated up and kept having amazing game after amazing game. I thought he should have been the overall League MVP over a QB this season thats how well he
played. He boasts mean rushing abilities plus the addition of his receiving side its just not fair. Gurley should have been league MVP and his amazing season puts him in a spot 4. He could have been no. 1 on this list but I just decided not to by looking at different points of view on each players season.
LAST YEAR NO. 4: MATT RYAN, QB, FALCONS

3. Antonio Brown, WR, Steelers
Statline: 1533 yards, 9 TDs receiving
Okay, while Brown's statline doesn't seem AS impressive as maybe DeAndre Hopkins or Todd Gurley hear me out. Brown's stats first off, were clearly not bad. He lead the NFL in receiving yards by 100 yards and was in the top 5 of receiving TDs, but when you watch Brown play, its just amazing. Big Ben is constantly feeding him the ball and Brown seems to always catch it and take it for a big play. There were barely any games all season that Brown under performed in which is rare for a wide receiver in the NFL today. Brown shows so many game changing abilities that make him
the best receiver in the league and a top 5 offensive player in the league. Brown was awarded for his amazing season by being named the cover athlete of this years Madden video game, Madden 19. Business is Boomin' as usual for Brown as he hits spot 3 on my top 10 players of this season.
LAST YEAR NO. 3: AARON RODGERS, QB, PACKERS 

2. Russell Wilson, QB, Seahawks
Statline: 3983 yards, 34 TDs, 11 INTs passing, 586 yards, 3 TDs rushing
This was a crazy season for Russell Wilson and his Seahawks. In Wilson’s best career season his team missed the playoffs for the first time in Wilson’s career. Wilson played lights out the entire season and just because of the Seahawks poor finish to the season, Wilson wasn’t considered a top MVP candidate though I think he should have won it. Wilson lead the league in passing TD’s while also leading his team in rushing. Wilson is the best dual threat QB in the league and he really showed it this year. He would scramble out of the pocket almost every play and make amazing throws that kept his team in each game. Wilson’s running ability sets him apart from so many QBs who really can’t do it like he does. Wilson should have won MVP, but since his Hawks didn’t do well, I just couldn’t give him the no. 1 spot though there could have been a case made for it.
LAST YEAR NO. 2: EZEKIEL ELLIOTT, RB, COWBOYS

1. (MY PLAYER OF THE YEAR) Carson Wentz, QB, Eagles
Statline: 3296 yards, 33 TDs, 7 INTs passing
This may come as a shock to some but Wentz is my no. 1 player of the year. What a surprise the 2nd year QB was to everyone. After a mediocre rookie year, the Eagles were expected to have another decent, 7-9, 8-8 type season when out of nowhere Carson Wentz came and lead the Eagles to their best season ever. Wentz had an amazing statline and was on his way to becoming league MVP when a torn ACL late season ended his season forcing playoff hero Nick Foles into action. Wentz got the Eagles to the position they were in to do well in the playoffs and without him there would have been no Super Bowl victory. If Wentz had played in the playoffs the Eagles could have won the Super Bowl in an even more exciting way. Wentz had a true breakout season and has a long career ahead of him in which he should be amazing. This man would have been league and Super Bowl MVP had he not torn his ACL late season. He was the best player in football this past season.
LAST YEAR NO. 1: TOM BRADY, QB, PATRIOTS

Just missed: Jalen Ramsey/CB/Jaguars, Case Keenum/QB/Vikings (Broncos), Marshon Lattimore/CB/Saints, Cameron Jordan/DE/Saints, Chandler Jones/DE/Cardinals, Jimmy Garopollo/QB/49ers

Thanks for reading!

Photo Cred: Sporting News, upi.com, The San Diego Union-Tribune, KOMO, Grand Forks Herald