Two quarterbacks will be making their fist start of the season this week, and they happen to be two of my favorite backup quarterbacks. Those two would be Denver's Brock Osweiler and St. Louis's Case Keenum. Osweiler came in for Peyton Manning last Sunday after Manning threw four interceptions. Earlier this week, we learned that Manning had been battling plantar fasciitis, so Osweiler was named the starter this week for the injured/ineffective Manning. It's remains to be seen whether Gary Kubiak will stick with Osweiler if he plays well, or go back to the future Hall of Famer in the midst of a miserable season. Meanwhile, in St. Louis, Jeff Fisher announced that Keenum will start over ineffective Nick Foles this week. The Rams have an outstanding running game with Todd Gurley, but no passing game due to the lack of talent at quarterback and receiver. If this is the first time you've heard the names Brock Osweiler and Case Keenum, let me provide some background. Osweiler is 6'8", 240 lbs., and is in his fourth year out of Arizona State (third round draft pick). The 6'1", 205 lb. Keenum is in his fourth season (undrafted) out of Houston, where he set multiple career passing records. This is an audition for quarterback of the future for Osweiler and Keenum (as well as Johnny Manziel.
Week 10 Review
Top Games
Lions 18, Packers 16
The last time the Lions beat the Packers at Lambeau was in 1991. They broke that streak on Sunday, but they almost blew it. The Green Bay offense couldn't do anything, as Detroit held them to just three points through three quarters. The Packers finally scored a touchdown with just under six minutes left, making it 12-10 Lions. The Lions then answered with just under two minutes left, but failed the two-point conversion. Green Bay scored again with 32 seconds, but needed to convert the two-point conversion. They didn't get it on a well-defended pass, and it looked like Detroit would escape Lambeau with a win. But then the onside kick went right through Calvin Johnson's hands and the Packers recovered. They got into field position for a Mason Crosby 52-yard field goal. However, the ball was not kicked well and fell well short, and the Lions finally won in Green Bay.
Jaguars 22, Ravens 20
Blake Bortles led the Jags to a fourth quarter comeback victory (he did it again Thursday night against the Titans). The Ravens scored with 7:30 left to take a 20-13 lead, but didn't get the two-point conversion. After a couple punts, Bortles and the Jaguars got the ball back with 1:06 to play. Bortles drove the offense 45 yards, and Jason Myers made a 53-yard field goal as time expired.
Patriots 27, Giants 26
The Patriots remained undefeated, but only after a close encounter with the Giants. New York took a 26-24 lead with 1:47 left, a few plays after a Odell Beckham Jr. touchdown catch was reviewed and ruled an incompletion (didn't complete the process of the catch). The Giants could have run out the clock before the field goal, but they decided to throw the ball, giving Tom Brady more time. On the ensuing Patriots possession, Brady threw what looked like a sure interception, but as Landon Collins came down with the ball, he hurt his arm, dropping the ball. Brady took advantage, setting up a Stephen Gostkowski 54-yard field goal with one second left.
Top Performances
Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger vs. Cleveland (W 30-9): 22-33, 379 yards, 3 TD, INT
Big Ben was active but didn't start after getting injured last week, but after starter Landry Jones was injured early, he came in and (as usual) tore up the Browns defense.
Vikings RB Adrian Peterson @ Oakland (W 30-14): 26 carries, 203 yards, TD
AD ran all over the Raiders defense, including on an 80-yard touchdown run that put the game out of reach.
Steelers WR Antonio Brown vs. Cleveland (W 30-2): 10 catches, 139 yards, 2 TD
Brown is really good, and the Browns are really bad. Brown went to town on Cleveland's depleted secondary, exemplified by front flip into the end zone.
Play of the Week
Texans receiver DeAndre Hopkins made a fabulous one-handed touchdown catch against the Bengals on Monday night. Despite tight coverage, Hopkins was able to hold on to the ball and get both feet down. The play helped propel the Texans to an upset of the previously unbeaten Bengals.
Play of the Weak
As I have done sometimes, I am putting something I found funny from last week in this spot. After J.J. Watt and the Texans took down Andy Dalton and the Bengals on Monday Night Football, Watt made a funny comment about beating Dalton.
Week 11 Preview
Quick Picks (home team listed last)
Last Week: 6-8
Overall: 80-55
Byes: Browns, Saints, Giants, Steelers
Thursday Night Final: Titans 13, Jaguars 19
Sunday
Raiders 34, Lions 28 (1:00 PM, CBS)
Colts 27, Falcons 31 (1:00 PM, CBS)
Jets 22, Texans 24 (1:00 PM, CBS)
Buccaneers 24, Eagles 21 (1:00 PM, FOX)
Broncos 35, Bears 17 (1:00 PM, CBS)
Rams 23, Ravens 16 (1:00 PM, FOX)
Cowboys 38, Dolphins 30 (1:00 PM, FOX)
Redskins 17, Panthers 27 (1:00 PM, FOX)
Chiefs 28, Chargers 26 (4:05 PM, CBS)
Packers 32, Vikings 28 (4:05 PM, FOX)
49ers 22, Seahawks 35 (4:25 PM, FOX)
Game to Watch: Bengals 27, Cardinals 30 (8:30 PM, NBC)
The Sunday night game is usually the game to watch, and that is the case here when the 8-1 Bengals visit 7-2 Cardinals in a battle of two great defenses.
Monday
Bills 31, Patriots 38 (8:30, ESPN)
Start 'em
Cowboys QB Tony Romo @ Miami
Broncos QB Brock Osweiler @ Chicago
Of course you should start Romo, who's likely to play this week after coming off IR. Romo is always a strong fantasy quarterback when healthy. Osweiler may be a bit of a flier, but I believe in him. Plus, he has weapons around him and doesn't face an extremely tough defense. Other Suggestions: Raiders QB Derek Carr @ Detroit, Rams QB Case Keenum @ Baltimore
Chiefs RB Charcandrick West @ San Diego
Cowboys RB Darren McFadden @ Miami
Charcandrick (great name) has scored a rushing touchdown in each of his last three games, and has at least 20 carries in each of those games. San Diego has one of the worst rushing defenses in the league. Speaking of one of the worst rushing defenses in the league, Miami would be the worst (according to yards allowed per game) if not for the Cleveland Browns. Other Suggestions: Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart vs. Washington, Raiders RB Latavius Murray @ Detroit
Buccaneers WR Mike Evans @ Philadelphia
Rams WR Tavon Austin @ Baltimore
Evans has had 150 yards receiving and 126 yards receiving the last two weeks, respectively. This week he is up against a below-average Eagles pass defense. Austin is up against one of the worst defenses in the league. He is also St. Louis's top receiving option, and Case Keenum might be an improvement over Nick Foles (we'll see). Other Suggestions: Raiders WR Amari Cooper @ Detroit, Chargers WR Stevie Johnson vs. Kansas City
Sit 'em
Bengals QB Andy Dalton @ Arizona
Dalton got silenced by the Texans last week, and now he must play one of the top defenses in the league on the road.
Bears RB Jeremy Langford vs. Denver
Langford has filled in admirably for Matt Forte, but he faces Denver's defense this week.
Bears WR Alshon Jeffery vs. Denver
Same thing with Jeffery, along with the fact that he is questionable.
Friday, November 20, 2015
Thursday, November 19, 2015
CFB Weeky Revew/Preview: One Loss > Unbeaten?
We are entering the most climactic part of the college football season: the last few weeks. Many teams have just two or three (including conference championship games) left, and those games will be vital to determining what bowl they go to, especially since these games will be fresh in the committee's minds. One topic up for debate as we enter this crucial stretch is the ever-present question of whether a one-loss Power 5 conference team should be ranked above an unbeaten Power 5 conference team. Right now, there are two one-loss teams from major conferences (Alabama and Notre Dame) in the top four (Alabama at #2, Notre Dame at #4), while Ohio State (#3), Iowa (#5), and Oklahoma State (#6) all carry unblemished records. Here is the complete Week 12 College Football Playoff Rankings:
- Clemson (10-0)
- Alabama (9-1)
- Ohio State (10-0)
- Notre Dame (9-1)
- Iowa (10-0)
- Oklahoma State (10-0)
- Oklahoma (9-1)
- Florida (9-1)
- Michigan State (9-1)
- Baylor (8-1)
- Stanford (8-2)
- Michigan (8-2)
- Utah (8-2)
- Florida State (8-2)
- LSU (7-2)
- Navy (8-1)
- North Carolina (9-1)
- TCU (9-1)
- Houston (10-0)
- Northwestern (8-2)
- Memphis (8-2)
- Ole Miss (7-3)
- Oregon (7-3)
- USC (7-3)
- Wisconsin (8-2)
The reason for putting the one-loss teams in front of the unbeaten ones is simple: strength of schedule and talent level. Iowa's strength of schedule is ranked 61st in the nation (according to ESPN.com), while Oklahoma State has the 55th strongest schedule. Ohio State is ranked 69th in strength of schedule. Conversely, Alabama has the strongest schedule in college football and Notre Dame is 27th. Notre Dame's one loss was on the road against the #1 team in the country, and Alabama's lone loss came early in the season against Ole Miss. Another big factor in the rankings is how talented the teams are perceived to be. Many people think Alabama is the most talented team in the nation, and although they have a loss, they have the talent to beat anyone. Many feel the same way about Notre Dame, especially since they were so close to beating #1 on the road. This is unfortunate for the players and coaches of Iowa and Oklahoma State (and Houston, for that matter), who have done their jobs thus far and can't do anything about their strength of schedule. Of course, if Iowa wins the Big Ten Championship and/or Oklahoma State wins the Big 12, they should be in the Playoff (probably over Notre Dame and/or Ohio State), but right now, despite their pristine records, they're on the outside looking in.
Week 11 Review
Top Games
Saturday was probably a bittersweet day for the Pac-12. There were some very close and entertaining games out west, but the conference's playoff hopes were squashed. In what was a shootout, Oregon had the lead for most of the game thanks in part to three Stanford turnovers and a missed field goal. The Ducks were up 38-30 with just over two minutes left in the fourth quarter when Stanford had its most costly fumble in the Oregon red zone. The Cardinal would get the ball back and score with ten seconds left, but they could not convert the two-point conversion.
In late-night Pac-12 action, Arizona's upset of Utah effectively eliminated the conference from the playoff. Every Pac-12 team now has at least two losses after backup quarterback Jerrard Randall led the Wildcats to a double-overtime victory over the Utes (starter Anu Soloman was injured in the fourth quarter).
In another double-overtime game, Indiana and their high-scoring offense gave Michigan a scare. The Hoosiers took their first lead with 2:52 left in regular time, but then the Wolverines tied it up as time expired. Michigan answered Indiana's touchdown in the first overtime, then scored a touchdown to open up the second overtime. IU got down to the two, but couldn't convert on fourth and goal.
Top Performances
Texas Tech RB DeAndre Washington vs. Kansas State (W 59-44): 27 carries, 248 yards, 3 TD
In an offense known for passing, the running back stole the show on Saturday. Washington had three of Texas Tech's five rushing touchdowns in a win that made them bowl-eligible.
Michigan WR Jehu Chesson @ Indiana (W 48-41, 2OT): 10 catches, 207 yards, 4 TD
Chesson caught four of Michigan's six touchdowns, including the game-tying one as time expired in the fourth quarter.
Navy QB Keenan Reynolds vs. SMU (W 55-14): 2-9, 81 yards passing, TD; 14 carries, 137 yards rushing, 4 TD
The highly-accomplished Midshipmen set the NCAA record for career rushing touchdowns (78) while also throwing a 72-yard passing touchdown.
Play of Week
Oklahoma quarterback looked Johnny Manziel-esque on this touchdown against. Mayfield was able to extend the play and put the Sooners up two possessions with just a few minutes left in a 44-34 win.
I honestly just wanted to highlight the Memphis-Houston game, where Houston was down 34-14 at one point and came back to win 35-34. They were helped by plays like this, where Paxton Lynch's pitch bounced right off of running back Doroland Dorceus's chest and was recovered by Houston. Houston didn't capitalize on the turnover, but the next drive Lynch threw an interception on a bad pass.
GSB Playoff Rankings (Week 12)
1. Clemson
Clemson got a bit of a scare from Syracuse, but they were able to put the Orange away. The Tigers next two games are Wake Forest and South Carolina, and then (presumably) the ACC Championship game.
2. Ohio State
Ohio State dispatched Illinois last weekend and showed once again that the offense is better with J.T. Barrett at the helm. Now comes the tough part of the schedule, games against Michigan State and Michigan.
3. Alabama
Alabama destroyed Mississippi State last Saturday, and face what looks like a cupcake game against Charleston Southern this weekend before the Iron Bowl at Auburn.
4. Notre Dame
The Irish took care of Wake Forest, and now they have Boston College this weekend and a tough test at Stanford next weekend to finish off their season.
5. Iowa
6. Oklahoma State
7. Oklahoma
8. Michigan State
9. Florida
10. Baylor
Week 12 Preview
Quick Picks (home team listed last)
Last Week: 17-4
Overall: 102-31
Saturday
Florida Atlantic 9, #8 Florida 28 (Noon, SEC Network)
#17 North Carolina 29, Virginia Tech 27 (Noon, ESPN)
Purdue 20, #5 Iowa 38 (Noon, ESPN 2)
#12 Michigan 35, Penn State 28 (Noon, ABC)
#21 Memphis 38, Temple 26 (Noon, ESPNU)
Chattanooga 17, #14 Florida State 40 (3:00 PM, ESPN 3)
Game to Watch: #9 Michigan State 32, #3 Ohio State 38 (3:30 PM, ABC)
There are many good games this weekend, but the best is probably this Big Ten battle with playoff implications. 10-0 Ohio State faces by far it's toughest test of the season against a Spartan team that is a questionable call away from being 10-0 as well.
#20 Northwestern 28, #25 Wisconsin 30 (3:30 PM, BTN)
#19 Houston 42, Connecticut 24 (3:30 PM, ESPNU)
#24 USC 45, #23 Oregon 48 (3:30 PM, ESPN)
UCLA 32, #13 Utah 40 (3:30 PM, FOX)
#15 LSU 23, #22 Ole Miss 17 (3:30 PM, CBS)
Wake Forest 3, #1 Clemson 28 (3:30 PM, ESPN 2)
Charleston Southern 6, #2 Alabama 32 (4:00 PM, SEC Network)
#16 Navy 36, Tulsa 20 (7:00 PM, CBS Sports)
Boston College 17, #4 Notre Dame 34 (7:30 PM, NBC Sports)
#10 Baylor 33, #6 Oklahoma State 45 (7:30 PM, FOX)
#18 TCU 42, #7 Oklahoma 48 (8:00 PM, ABC)
California 31, #11 Stanford 37 (10:30 PM, ESPN)
Thursday, November 12, 2015
NFL Weekly Review/Preview: Greg Hardy
Arguably the biggest headliner out of the NFL recently has been Cowboys defensive end Greg Hardy. Hardy was arrested last year, while he was on the Panthers, for assaulting and threatening his then-girlfriend Nicole Holder. He allegedly threw her against a bathroom wall, threw her on a pile of assault rifles, and threatened to kill her. Hardy was convicted of domestic violence, but the conviction was eventually removed from his record after he requested it be. He was suspended 10 games and placed on the commissioner's exempt list in September of last year, but he appealed and the suspension was reduced to four games. He signed with the Cowboys in the offseason, and since then, although he's been a force on the field, he has made abrasive comments and gotten into an altercation with a coach (on the sideline during a game) off of it. Despite that, Jerry Jones, who likes to take risks and draw attention to himself, backed him, calling him a leader and saying they wanted to sign him to an extension. Then, last week, photos from the night of Hardy's domestic violence incident were released, showing a badly bruised and battered Nicole Holder. Hardy tweeted regret for past mistakes later, but then changed his Twitter bio to proclaim his innocence briefly before changing it again. I don't have very strong feelings about this situation (and I'm not usually a very opinionated person), but I do have opinions on it. Although photos shouldn't change people's perceptions, they did when Ray Rice punched his then-fiancee (and current wife) in an elevator and knocked her out. Before that, Rice had only been suspended two games, but after it, he was released by the Ravens and is currently not on a team. But Rice is much different from Hardy. Rice made one really idiotic choice in a moment where he got out of control emotionally. I'm not trying to say what Rice did wasn't serious or very wrong, but he paid the consequences, and now he wants to help raise awareness for domestic violence. Hardy continues to do dumb things, and doesn't seem very remorseful. Hardy is still playing football because he is more of a help on the field than Rice at this point. Although I don't think Hardy should be suspended by the NFL (they already suspended him, albeit lightly, for the domestic violence incident), Jerry Jones and the Cowboys should consider letting him go. Right now he seems like a cancerous personality in the locker room, and he needs time to fix it. But the NFL should fix its discipline. Players are getting fined for what they wear (including clothing honoring a deceased family member or our country) when the NFL and Roger Goodell should focus on more serious offenses. It just doesn't make sense how something like smoking pot or deflating footballs can be disciplined similar to something like domestic violence.
Week 9 Review
Top Games
Titans 34, Saints 28 OT
Marcus Mariota came back from injury and outdeuled Drew Brees, throwing for 371 yards and four touchdowns. Tennessee blocked a field goal with a minute left in the fourth quarter, and after they went three and out, the game went into overtime. The Titans got the ball, and Mariota led a nine-play, 80-yard drive that ended with a five-yard touchdown pass from Mariota to tight end Anthony Fasano.
Rams 18, Vikings 21 OT
Despite losing quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to a concussion in the fourth quarter, the Vikings were still able to get an overtime win thanks to 125 yards and a touchdown from Adrian Peterson and a game-winning field goal fromThe Blair Walsh Project Blair Walsh. Greg the Leg Greg Zurlein hit four field goals to help the Rams take Minnesota into overtime, including a career-long 61-yarder, but he also missed a 48-yarder.
Eagles 33, Cowboys 27 OT
Guess what the Sunday Night Football game was this week? Yep, it was this one. Philadelphia beat the Matt Cassel-led Cowboys thanks to ex-Cowboy DeMarco Murray (161 total yards, 1 TD) and fellow running back Ryan Mathews (67 yards, 1 TD), as well as cornerback Jordan Hicks, who had a pick-six, and Sam Bradford and Jordan Matthews, who connected on the game-winning touchdown pass in overtime.
Top Performances
Steelers RB DeAngelo Williams vs. Oakland (W 38-35): 27 carries, 170 yards, 2 TD
Williams thrived in his first game as Le'Veon Bell's replacement (well, technically third game, since he filled in during Bell's suspension), running all over Oakland and helping the Steelers squeak out a victory.
Bills WR Sammy Watkins vs. Miami (W 33-17): 8 catches, 168 yards, TD
Watkins returned with a bang after being out a few weeks with an injury, starring in a big win over Miami.
Titans QB Marcus Mariota @ New Orleans (W 34-28): 28-39, 387 yards, 4 TD
Another big returner from injury, Mariota thrived in his first game with Mike Mularkey as interim head coach.
Play of the Week
This was a great play by Bears tight end Zack Miller, who hadn't scored a touchdown since 2011. He put a hand up and was able to corral the ball with both hands and score the game-winning touchdown.
Play of the Weak
This week, this section goes to everything the Broncos did on the last drive against the Colts. The Colts were able to keep the ball and run out the clock thanks to Aqib Talib poking Dwayne Allen in the eye and a holding penalty against Denver on a Colts field goal (why would the defense need to hold on a field goal!?)
Week 10 Preview
Quick Picks (home team listed last)
Last Week: 4-9
Overall: 74-47
Byes: Falcons, Colts, Chargers, 49ers
Bills 31, Jets 27 (Thursday, 8:25 PM, NFL Network)
Browns 17, Steelers 24 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, CBS)
Lions 26, Packers 35 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Cowboys 28, Buccaneers 32 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Panthers 26, Titans 21 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Bears 22, Rams 24 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Saints 42, Redskins 28 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Dolphins 32, Eagles 38 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, CBS)
Jaguars 27, Ravens 24 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, CBS)
Vikings 30, Raiders 34 (Sunday, 4:05 PM, FOX)
Patriots 35, Giants 38 (Sunday, 4:25 PM, CBS)
Chiefs 13, Broncos 24 (Sunday, 4:25 PM, CBS)
Cardinals 28, Seahawks 24 (Sunday, 8:30 PM, NBC)
Texans 23, Bengals 38 (Monday, 8:30 PM, ESPN)
Start 'em
Steelers RB DeAngelo Williams vs. Cleveland
Hmmm. Coming off a 170-yard game and playing the Cleveland rush defense? Count me in.
Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater @ Oakland
Teddy is expected to play Sunday, and he gets to face the worst pass defense in the NFL (by yards allowed per game).
Packers RB James Starks vs. Detroit
Earlier this week, Packers head coach Mike McCarthy announced that Starks will be the starting running back over Eddie Lacy this week. Starks is also involved in the passing game, and he plays Detroit's subpar defense.
Sit 'em
Any Steelers QB vs. Cleveland
I know they're playing the Browns, but I am not currently sure who's starting for Pittsburgh this week. Will Big Ben be able to go? Will Landry Jones fill in? What about Mike Vick? If you have inside information and are confident in one of these guys, go right ahead. But there are better options.
Bills QB Tyrod Taylor @ NY Jets
I really like Tyrod Taylor, especially as an underrated fantasy quarterback. However, the Jets defense is really good, so Taylor probably isn't the best choice this week, especially in a Thursday night game.
Cardinals RB Chris Johnson and Broncos RB Ronnie Hillman
Both Arizona and Denver have elite defenses, and neither team leans extremely heavily on the run game.
Week 9 Review
Top Games
Titans 34, Saints 28 OT
Marcus Mariota came back from injury and outdeuled Drew Brees, throwing for 371 yards and four touchdowns. Tennessee blocked a field goal with a minute left in the fourth quarter, and after they went three and out, the game went into overtime. The Titans got the ball, and Mariota led a nine-play, 80-yard drive that ended with a five-yard touchdown pass from Mariota to tight end Anthony Fasano.
Rams 18, Vikings 21 OT
Despite losing quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to a concussion in the fourth quarter, the Vikings were still able to get an overtime win thanks to 125 yards and a touchdown from Adrian Peterson and a game-winning field goal from
Eagles 33, Cowboys 27 OT
Guess what the Sunday Night Football game was this week? Yep, it was this one. Philadelphia beat the Matt Cassel-led Cowboys thanks to ex-Cowboy DeMarco Murray (161 total yards, 1 TD) and fellow running back Ryan Mathews (67 yards, 1 TD), as well as cornerback Jordan Hicks, who had a pick-six, and Sam Bradford and Jordan Matthews, who connected on the game-winning touchdown pass in overtime.
Top Performances
Steelers RB DeAngelo Williams vs. Oakland (W 38-35): 27 carries, 170 yards, 2 TD
Williams thrived in his first game as Le'Veon Bell's replacement (well, technically third game, since he filled in during Bell's suspension), running all over Oakland and helping the Steelers squeak out a victory.
Bills WR Sammy Watkins vs. Miami (W 33-17): 8 catches, 168 yards, TD
Watkins returned with a bang after being out a few weeks with an injury, starring in a big win over Miami.
Titans QB Marcus Mariota @ New Orleans (W 34-28): 28-39, 387 yards, 4 TD
Another big returner from injury, Mariota thrived in his first game with Mike Mularkey as interim head coach.
Play of the Week
This was a great play by Bears tight end Zack Miller, who hadn't scored a touchdown since 2011. He put a hand up and was able to corral the ball with both hands and score the game-winning touchdown.
Play of the Weak
This week, this section goes to everything the Broncos did on the last drive against the Colts. The Colts were able to keep the ball and run out the clock thanks to Aqib Talib poking Dwayne Allen in the eye and a holding penalty against Denver on a Colts field goal (why would the defense need to hold on a field goal!?)
Week 10 Preview
Quick Picks (home team listed last)
Last Week: 4-9
Overall: 74-47
Byes: Falcons, Colts, Chargers, 49ers
Bills 31, Jets 27 (Thursday, 8:25 PM, NFL Network)
Browns 17, Steelers 24 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, CBS)
Lions 26, Packers 35 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Cowboys 28, Buccaneers 32 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Panthers 26, Titans 21 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Bears 22, Rams 24 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Saints 42, Redskins 28 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Dolphins 32, Eagles 38 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, CBS)
Jaguars 27, Ravens 24 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, CBS)
Vikings 30, Raiders 34 (Sunday, 4:05 PM, FOX)
Patriots 35, Giants 38 (Sunday, 4:25 PM, CBS)
Chiefs 13, Broncos 24 (Sunday, 4:25 PM, CBS)
Cardinals 28, Seahawks 24 (Sunday, 8:30 PM, NBC)
Texans 23, Bengals 38 (Monday, 8:30 PM, ESPN)
Start 'em
Steelers RB DeAngelo Williams vs. Cleveland
Hmmm. Coming off a 170-yard game and playing the Cleveland rush defense? Count me in.
Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater @ Oakland
Teddy is expected to play Sunday, and he gets to face the worst pass defense in the NFL (by yards allowed per game).
Packers RB James Starks vs. Detroit
Earlier this week, Packers head coach Mike McCarthy announced that Starks will be the starting running back over Eddie Lacy this week. Starks is also involved in the passing game, and he plays Detroit's subpar defense.
Sit 'em
Any Steelers QB vs. Cleveland
I know they're playing the Browns, but I am not currently sure who's starting for Pittsburgh this week. Will Big Ben be able to go? Will Landry Jones fill in? What about Mike Vick? If you have inside information and are confident in one of these guys, go right ahead. But there are better options.
Bills QB Tyrod Taylor @ NY Jets
I really like Tyrod Taylor, especially as an underrated fantasy quarterback. However, the Jets defense is really good, so Taylor probably isn't the best choice this week, especially in a Thursday night game.
Cardinals RB Chris Johnson and Broncos RB Ronnie Hillman
Both Arizona and Denver have elite defenses, and neither team leans extremely heavily on the run game.
CFB Weekly Review/Preview: Playoff Resumes
We are into the second week of the College Football Playoff rankings, and there are some changes near the top after Alabama beat LSU. Here are this week's rankings:
1. Clemson
2. Alabama
3. Ohio State
4. Notre Dame
5. Iowa
6. Baylor
7. Stanford
8. Oklahoma State
9. LSU
10. Utah
11. Florida
12. Oklahoma
13. Michigan State
14. Michigan
15. TCU
16. Florida State
17. Mississippi State
18. Northwestern
19. UCLA
20. Navy
21. Memphis
22. Temple
23. North Carolina
24. Houston
25. Wisconsin
The College Football Playoff Committee uses many different criteria for their rankings, including strength of schedule and the eye test, so I'm going to compare the brief resumes (strength of schedule, best wins, losses) for each of the teams:
Information via ESPN.com
1. Clemson (9-0)
SOS: 19th
Best Wins: #4 Notre Dame (24-22), #16 Florida State (23-13)
Losses: None
2. Alabama (8-1)
SOS: 1st
Best Wins: #9 LSU (30-16), #25 Wisconsin (35-17)
Losses: Ole Miss (37-43)
3. Ohio State (9-0)
SOS: 73rd
Best Wins: Penn State (38-10), @ Virginia Tech (42-24)
Losses: None
4. Notre Dame (8-1)
SOS: 12th
Best Wins: #20 Navy (41-24), @ #22 Temple (24-20)
Losses: @ #1 Clemson (22-24)
5. Iowa (9-0)
SOS: 62nd
Best Wins: @ #18 Northwestern (40-10), @ #25 Wisconsin (10-6)
Losses: None
6. Baylor (8-0)
SOS: 94th
Best Wins: Iowa State (45-27), West Virginia (62-38)
Losses: None
7. Stanford (8-1)
SOS: 30th
Best Wins: #19 UCLA (56-35), @ USC (41-31)
Losses: @ #18 Northwestern (6-16)
8. Oklahoma State (9-0)
SOS: 54th
Best Wins: #15 TCU (49-29), @ Texas (30-27)
Losses: None
9. LSU (7-1)
SOS: 18th
Best Wins: #11 Florida (35-28), @ #17 Mississippi State (21-17)
Losses: @ #2 Alabama (16-30)
10. Utah (8-1)
SOS: 26th
Best Wins: #14 Michigan (24-17), @ Oregon (62-20)
Losses: @ USC (24-42)
11. Florida (8-1)
SOS: 22nd
Best Wins: Ole Miss (38-10), Georgia (27-3)
Losses: @ #9 LSU (28-35)
12. Oklahoma (8-1)
SOS: 57th
Best Wins: Iowa State (52-16), Texas Tech (63-27)
Losses: Texas (17-24)
13. Michigan State (8-1)
SOS: 50th
Best Wins: @ #14 Michigan (27-23), Oregon (31-28)
Losses: @ Nebraska (38-39)
14. Michigan (7-2)
SOS: 59th
Best Wins: #18 Northwestern (38-0), BYU (31-0)
Losses: #10 Utah (17-24), #13 Michigan State (23-17)
15. TCU (8-1)
SOS: 37th
Best Wins: Texas (50-7), @ Iowa State (45-21)
Losses: @ #8 Oklahoma State (29-49)
16. Florida State (7-2)
SOS: 51st
Best Wins: Louisville (41-21), Miami (29-24)
Losses: @ Georgia Tech (16-22), @ #1 Clemson (13-23)
17. Mississippi State (7-2)
SOS: 39th
Best Wins: @ Auburn (17-9), Kentucky (42-16)
Losses: #9 LSU (19-21), @ Texas A&M (17-30)
18. Northwestern (7-2)
SOS: 32nd
Best Wins: #7 Stanford (16-6), @ Duke (19-10)
Losses: @ #14 Michigan (0-38), #5 Iowa (10-40)
19. UCLA (7-2)
SOS: 46th
Best Wins: BYU (24-23), California (40-24)
Losses: Arizona State (23-38), @ #7 Stanford (35-56)
20. Navy (7-1)
SOS: 87th
Best Wins: @ #22 Memphis (45-20), Air Force (33-11)
Losses: @ #4 Notre Dame (24-41)
21. Memphis (8-1)
SOS: 77th
Best Wins: Ole Miss (37-24), @ Bowling Green (44-41)
Losses: Navy (20-45)
22. Temple (8-1)
SOS: 96th
Best Wins: Penn State (27-10), @ Cincinnati (34-26)
Losses: #4 Notre Dame (20-24)
23. North Carolina (8-1)
SOS: 71st
Best Wins: @ Pittsburgh (26-19), Duke (66-31)
Losses: South Carolina (13-17)
24. Houston (9-0)
SOS: 119th
Best Wins: @ Louisville (34-31), Cincinnati (33-30)
Losses: None
25. Wisconsin (8-2)
SOS: 74th
Best Wins: @ Illinois (24-13), @ Nebraska (23-21)
Losses: #2 Alabama (17-35), #5 Iowa (6-10)
Use this to make any case you want, because their are definitely many arguments that can be had.
Week 10 Review
Top Games
1. Northern Illinois 32, #24 Toledo 27
In some Tuesday night MACtion, the Huskies upset the unbeaten Rockets thanks to a rally led by freshman backup quarterback Ryan Graham, who had to come in for starter Drew Hare, who injured his leg in the second quarter. Down 24-16 in the third quarter, the Huskies came back and took the lead with just under two minutes left, then intercepted Toledo quarterback Phillip Ely to seal the victory.
2. #7 Michigan State 38, Nebraska 39
Another week, another controversial finish. Michigan State was up 38-26 with a little over four minutes to play. Nebraska responded with a touchdown, but they were still down 38-33 with 1:47 left. They were able to force the Spartans to punt with 55 seconds on the clock, then conducted a four-play drive culminating in a 30-yard touchdown pass from Tommy Armstrong Jr. to Brandon Reilly with 17 ticks left. However, Reilly clearly went out of bounds before catching the pass, which is illegal. The officials reviewed the play and came to the questionable conclusion that Reilly was forced out by MSU corner Jermaine Edmondson.
3. Arkansas 53, #18 Ole Miss 52, OT
Another week, another crazy play to win a game. The game was tied with three seconds left in the fourth quarter, when an Arkansas 47-yard field goal attempt was blocked. Ole Miss scored in overtime on three plays, and Arkansas couldn't get anywhere. On fourth down and 25 from the 40, Brandon Allen threw a 14-yard pass to Hunter Henry. Knowing he wasn't going to make it to the first down marker, Henry flung it backward, where it was picked up at the 42 by Alex Collins, who found space and ran 31 yards for a first down (he fumbled at the end of the play, but it was recovered by Arkansas' Dominique Reed). Allen threw a nine-yard touchdown pass to Drew Morgan two plays later, and instead of going for the tie, Bret Bielema went for the win. Unfortunately, Allen was pressured and had to throw it away as he was being taken down. However, he was taken down by his facemask, so the Razorbacks got another chance. This time, Allen ran it in for the game-winning score.
Top Performances
Arkansas QB Brandon Allen @ Ole Miss (W 53-52): 33-45, 442 yards, 6 TD
Allen played tough and exceptional, throwing six touchdowns, including the equalizer in overtime, and scoring the game-winning two-point conversion.
Alabama RB Derrick Henry vs. LSU (W 30-16): 38 carries, 210 yards, 3 TD
In the battle of Heisman contenders at running back, Henry wiped the floor with Leonard Fournette (19 carries, 31 yards, TD), which was a microcosm for the entire game, where Bama wiped the floor with LSU.
Baylor WR Corey Coleman @ Kansas State (W 31-24): 11 catches, 216 yards, 2 TD
Coleman continued his historic season in a nail-biter over K-State, catching 11 of Jared Stidham's 23 completions and two of his three passing touchdowns.
Play of the Week
I was going to go with Arkansas' amazing lateral, but I'm a sucker for flea-flickers. Oklahoma had their way with Iowa State, including on this nifty trick play.
Play of the Weak
I'll just use this as the Play of the Weak for Ole Miss's inability to stop Arkansas on fourth and 25 followed by a facemask penalty on the two-point conversion.
GSB Playoff Rankings
1. Clemson
Looking at each team's resume, I've finally conceded that Clemson deserves the first spot over Ohio State. The Tigers are rolling right now, and it seems highly likely they enter the ACC title game unbeaten. Next 3 Games: @ Syracuse (Saturday), Wake Forest (11/21), @ South Carolina (11/28)
2. Ohio State
Although the Buckeyes are no longer number one, they are still in the top two due to their talent level. This Saturday's game against Illinois is the preamble to big games against Michigan State and Michigan. Next 3 Games: @ Illinois (Saturday), #13 Michigan State (11/21), @ #14 Michigan (11/28)
3. Alabama
I contemplated putting unbeaten Iowa (or Baylor, or Oklahoma State) ahead of one-loss Alabama, but the Tide have a tougher schedule and are probably a better team. This is another case of how much talent a team has.
Next 3 Games: @ #17 Mississippi State (Saturday), Charleston Southern (11/21), @ Auburn (11/28)
4. Notre Dame
I also contemplated one of the other unbeatens here, but Notre Dame's lone loss was by two points on the road against the number one team in the country. Next 3 Games: Wake Forest (Saturday), Boston College (11/21), @ #7 Stanford (11/28)
5. Iowa
6. Oklahoma State
7. Baylor
8. Stanford
9. LSU
10. Utah
Week 11 Preview
Quick Picks (home team listed last)
Last Week: 15-7
Overall: 85-27
#1 Ohio State 42, Illinois 14 (Saturday, Noon, ABC)
#11 Florida 28, South Carolina 17 (Saturday, Noon, ESPN)
Kansas 13, #15 TCU 42 (Saturday, Noon, Fox Sports 1)
Maryland 14, #13 Michigan State 35 (Saturday, Noon, ESPN 2)
Purdue 21, Northwestern 28 (Saturday, Noon, BTN)
N.C. State 27, #16 Florida State 38 (Saturday, 12:30 PM, ESPN3)
Miami 30, #23 North Carolina 32 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ESPNU)
Wake Forest 17, #4 Notre Dame 32 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, NBC)
#1 Clemson 38, Syracuse 10 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ABC/ESPN 2)
#2 Alabama 34, #17 Mississippi State 21 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, CBS)
#14 Michigan 32, Indiana 27 (Saturday, ABC/ESPN 2)
SMU 23, #20 Navy 35 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, CBS Sports)
#8 Oklahoma State 40, Iowa State 24 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ESPN)
#22 Temple 34, South Florida 19 (Saturday, 7:00 PM, CBS Sports)
#21 Memphis 28, #24 Houston 35 (Saturday, 7:00 PM, ESPN 2)
Arkansas 13, #9 LSU 21 (Saturday, 7:15 PM, ESPN)
Oregon 32, #7 Stanford 38 (Saturday, 7:30 PM, FOX)
Game to Watch: #12 Oklahoma 48, #6 Baylor 42 (Saturday, 8:00 PM, ABC)
This Big 12 shootout between the Sooners and undefeated Baylor will definitely have an impact on the Big 12 race, and quite possibly the Playoff race.
Minnesota 20, #5 Iowa 29 (Saturday, 8:00 PM, BTN)
#10 Utah 32, Arizona 24 (Saturday, 10:00 PM, Fox Sports 1)
Upset Special: Washington State 41, #19 UCLA 38 (Saturday, 10:45 PM, ESPN)
Fun fact: Washington State's three losses (to Stanford, Cal, and, somehow, Portland State) were all by one possession. The Cougars are coming off a win over Arizona State, who beat UCLA 38-23 in Week 5. Washington State has the tools for the upset.
1. Clemson
2. Alabama
3. Ohio State
4. Notre Dame
5. Iowa
6. Baylor
7. Stanford
8. Oklahoma State
9. LSU
10. Utah
11. Florida
12. Oklahoma
13. Michigan State
14. Michigan
15. TCU
16. Florida State
17. Mississippi State
18. Northwestern
19. UCLA
20. Navy
21. Memphis
22. Temple
23. North Carolina
24. Houston
25. Wisconsin
The College Football Playoff Committee uses many different criteria for their rankings, including strength of schedule and the eye test, so I'm going to compare the brief resumes (strength of schedule, best wins, losses) for each of the teams:
Information via ESPN.com
1. Clemson (9-0)
SOS: 19th
Best Wins: #4 Notre Dame (24-22), #16 Florida State (23-13)
Losses: None
2. Alabama (8-1)
SOS: 1st
Best Wins: #9 LSU (30-16), #25 Wisconsin (35-17)
Losses: Ole Miss (37-43)
3. Ohio State (9-0)
SOS: 73rd
Best Wins: Penn State (38-10), @ Virginia Tech (42-24)
Losses: None
4. Notre Dame (8-1)
SOS: 12th
Best Wins: #20 Navy (41-24), @ #22 Temple (24-20)
Losses: @ #1 Clemson (22-24)
5. Iowa (9-0)
SOS: 62nd
Best Wins: @ #18 Northwestern (40-10), @ #25 Wisconsin (10-6)
Losses: None
6. Baylor (8-0)
SOS: 94th
Best Wins: Iowa State (45-27), West Virginia (62-38)
Losses: None
7. Stanford (8-1)
SOS: 30th
Best Wins: #19 UCLA (56-35), @ USC (41-31)
Losses: @ #18 Northwestern (6-16)
8. Oklahoma State (9-0)
SOS: 54th
Best Wins: #15 TCU (49-29), @ Texas (30-27)
Losses: None
9. LSU (7-1)
SOS: 18th
Best Wins: #11 Florida (35-28), @ #17 Mississippi State (21-17)
Losses: @ #2 Alabama (16-30)
10. Utah (8-1)
SOS: 26th
Best Wins: #14 Michigan (24-17), @ Oregon (62-20)
Losses: @ USC (24-42)
11. Florida (8-1)
SOS: 22nd
Best Wins: Ole Miss (38-10), Georgia (27-3)
Losses: @ #9 LSU (28-35)
12. Oklahoma (8-1)
SOS: 57th
Best Wins: Iowa State (52-16), Texas Tech (63-27)
Losses: Texas (17-24)
13. Michigan State (8-1)
SOS: 50th
Best Wins: @ #14 Michigan (27-23), Oregon (31-28)
Losses: @ Nebraska (38-39)
14. Michigan (7-2)
SOS: 59th
Best Wins: #18 Northwestern (38-0), BYU (31-0)
Losses: #10 Utah (17-24), #13 Michigan State (23-17)
15. TCU (8-1)
SOS: 37th
Best Wins: Texas (50-7), @ Iowa State (45-21)
Losses: @ #8 Oklahoma State (29-49)
16. Florida State (7-2)
SOS: 51st
Best Wins: Louisville (41-21), Miami (29-24)
Losses: @ Georgia Tech (16-22), @ #1 Clemson (13-23)
17. Mississippi State (7-2)
SOS: 39th
Best Wins: @ Auburn (17-9), Kentucky (42-16)
Losses: #9 LSU (19-21), @ Texas A&M (17-30)
18. Northwestern (7-2)
SOS: 32nd
Best Wins: #7 Stanford (16-6), @ Duke (19-10)
Losses: @ #14 Michigan (0-38), #5 Iowa (10-40)
19. UCLA (7-2)
SOS: 46th
Best Wins: BYU (24-23), California (40-24)
Losses: Arizona State (23-38), @ #7 Stanford (35-56)
20. Navy (7-1)
SOS: 87th
Best Wins: @ #22 Memphis (45-20), Air Force (33-11)
Losses: @ #4 Notre Dame (24-41)
21. Memphis (8-1)
SOS: 77th
Best Wins: Ole Miss (37-24), @ Bowling Green (44-41)
Losses: Navy (20-45)
22. Temple (8-1)
SOS: 96th
Best Wins: Penn State (27-10), @ Cincinnati (34-26)
Losses: #4 Notre Dame (20-24)
23. North Carolina (8-1)
SOS: 71st
Best Wins: @ Pittsburgh (26-19), Duke (66-31)
Losses: South Carolina (13-17)
24. Houston (9-0)
SOS: 119th
Best Wins: @ Louisville (34-31), Cincinnati (33-30)
Losses: None
25. Wisconsin (8-2)
SOS: 74th
Best Wins: @ Illinois (24-13), @ Nebraska (23-21)
Losses: #2 Alabama (17-35), #5 Iowa (6-10)
Use this to make any case you want, because their are definitely many arguments that can be had.
Week 10 Review
Top Games
1. Northern Illinois 32, #24 Toledo 27
In some Tuesday night MACtion, the Huskies upset the unbeaten Rockets thanks to a rally led by freshman backup quarterback Ryan Graham, who had to come in for starter Drew Hare, who injured his leg in the second quarter. Down 24-16 in the third quarter, the Huskies came back and took the lead with just under two minutes left, then intercepted Toledo quarterback Phillip Ely to seal the victory.
2. #7 Michigan State 38, Nebraska 39
Another week, another controversial finish. Michigan State was up 38-26 with a little over four minutes to play. Nebraska responded with a touchdown, but they were still down 38-33 with 1:47 left. They were able to force the Spartans to punt with 55 seconds on the clock, then conducted a four-play drive culminating in a 30-yard touchdown pass from Tommy Armstrong Jr. to Brandon Reilly with 17 ticks left. However, Reilly clearly went out of bounds before catching the pass, which is illegal. The officials reviewed the play and came to the questionable conclusion that Reilly was forced out by MSU corner Jermaine Edmondson.
3. Arkansas 53, #18 Ole Miss 52, OT
Another week, another crazy play to win a game. The game was tied with three seconds left in the fourth quarter, when an Arkansas 47-yard field goal attempt was blocked. Ole Miss scored in overtime on three plays, and Arkansas couldn't get anywhere. On fourth down and 25 from the 40, Brandon Allen threw a 14-yard pass to Hunter Henry. Knowing he wasn't going to make it to the first down marker, Henry flung it backward, where it was picked up at the 42 by Alex Collins, who found space and ran 31 yards for a first down (he fumbled at the end of the play, but it was recovered by Arkansas' Dominique Reed). Allen threw a nine-yard touchdown pass to Drew Morgan two plays later, and instead of going for the tie, Bret Bielema went for the win. Unfortunately, Allen was pressured and had to throw it away as he was being taken down. However, he was taken down by his facemask, so the Razorbacks got another chance. This time, Allen ran it in for the game-winning score.
Top Performances
Arkansas QB Brandon Allen @ Ole Miss (W 53-52): 33-45, 442 yards, 6 TD
Allen played tough and exceptional, throwing six touchdowns, including the equalizer in overtime, and scoring the game-winning two-point conversion.
Alabama RB Derrick Henry vs. LSU (W 30-16): 38 carries, 210 yards, 3 TD
In the battle of Heisman contenders at running back, Henry wiped the floor with Leonard Fournette (19 carries, 31 yards, TD), which was a microcosm for the entire game, where Bama wiped the floor with LSU.
Baylor WR Corey Coleman @ Kansas State (W 31-24): 11 catches, 216 yards, 2 TD
Coleman continued his historic season in a nail-biter over K-State, catching 11 of Jared Stidham's 23 completions and two of his three passing touchdowns.
Play of the Week
I was going to go with Arkansas' amazing lateral, but I'm a sucker for flea-flickers. Oklahoma had their way with Iowa State, including on this nifty trick play.
Play of the Weak
I'll just use this as the Play of the Weak for Ole Miss's inability to stop Arkansas on fourth and 25 followed by a facemask penalty on the two-point conversion.
GSB Playoff Rankings
1. Clemson
Looking at each team's resume, I've finally conceded that Clemson deserves the first spot over Ohio State. The Tigers are rolling right now, and it seems highly likely they enter the ACC title game unbeaten. Next 3 Games: @ Syracuse (Saturday), Wake Forest (11/21), @ South Carolina (11/28)
2. Ohio State
Although the Buckeyes are no longer number one, they are still in the top two due to their talent level. This Saturday's game against Illinois is the preamble to big games against Michigan State and Michigan. Next 3 Games: @ Illinois (Saturday), #13 Michigan State (11/21), @ #14 Michigan (11/28)
3. Alabama
I contemplated putting unbeaten Iowa (or Baylor, or Oklahoma State) ahead of one-loss Alabama, but the Tide have a tougher schedule and are probably a better team. This is another case of how much talent a team has.
Next 3 Games: @ #17 Mississippi State (Saturday), Charleston Southern (11/21), @ Auburn (11/28)
4. Notre Dame
I also contemplated one of the other unbeatens here, but Notre Dame's lone loss was by two points on the road against the number one team in the country. Next 3 Games: Wake Forest (Saturday), Boston College (11/21), @ #7 Stanford (11/28)
5. Iowa
6. Oklahoma State
7. Baylor
8. Stanford
9. LSU
10. Utah
Week 11 Preview
Quick Picks (home team listed last)
Last Week: 15-7
Overall: 85-27
#1 Ohio State 42, Illinois 14 (Saturday, Noon, ABC)
#11 Florida 28, South Carolina 17 (Saturday, Noon, ESPN)
Kansas 13, #15 TCU 42 (Saturday, Noon, Fox Sports 1)
Maryland 14, #13 Michigan State 35 (Saturday, Noon, ESPN 2)
Purdue 21, Northwestern 28 (Saturday, Noon, BTN)
N.C. State 27, #16 Florida State 38 (Saturday, 12:30 PM, ESPN3)
Miami 30, #23 North Carolina 32 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ESPNU)
Wake Forest 17, #4 Notre Dame 32 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, NBC)
#1 Clemson 38, Syracuse 10 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ABC/ESPN 2)
#2 Alabama 34, #17 Mississippi State 21 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, CBS)
#14 Michigan 32, Indiana 27 (Saturday, ABC/ESPN 2)
SMU 23, #20 Navy 35 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, CBS Sports)
#8 Oklahoma State 40, Iowa State 24 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ESPN)
#22 Temple 34, South Florida 19 (Saturday, 7:00 PM, CBS Sports)
#21 Memphis 28, #24 Houston 35 (Saturday, 7:00 PM, ESPN 2)
Arkansas 13, #9 LSU 21 (Saturday, 7:15 PM, ESPN)
Oregon 32, #7 Stanford 38 (Saturday, 7:30 PM, FOX)
Game to Watch: #12 Oklahoma 48, #6 Baylor 42 (Saturday, 8:00 PM, ABC)
This Big 12 shootout between the Sooners and undefeated Baylor will definitely have an impact on the Big 12 race, and quite possibly the Playoff race.
Minnesota 20, #5 Iowa 29 (Saturday, 8:00 PM, BTN)
#10 Utah 32, Arizona 24 (Saturday, 10:00 PM, Fox Sports 1)
Upset Special: Washington State 41, #19 UCLA 38 (Saturday, 10:45 PM, ESPN)
Fun fact: Washington State's three losses (to Stanford, Cal, and, somehow, Portland State) were all by one possession. The Cougars are coming off a win over Arizona State, who beat UCLA 38-23 in Week 5. Washington State has the tools for the upset.
Thursday, November 5, 2015
NFL Weekly Review/Preview: Injuries, Injuries, Injuries
We are now past the halfway point of the NFL regular season. Maybe it was just me, but last week seemed brutal. There were numerous big hits and bad injuries, including Reggie Bush tearing his MCL, Steve Smith tearing his Achilles, Le'Veon Bell tearing his ACL, and Matt Forte injuring his MCL. Numerous other players are banged up and have been all season. Many teams have lost starting quarterbacks, running backs, or wide receivers for periods of time due to injury. Let's hope for less injuries this week.
Week 8 Review
Top Games
The Bucs went into the Superdome and upset the Falcons despite giving up a 17-point lead. Jameis Winston showed great strides, finishing 16-29 passing with 177 yards and a touchdown and adding 3 carries for 24 yards and a touchdown rushing. But the real MVP may have been rookie linebacker Kwon Alexander, who led the team in tackles (11), recovered a fumble, and had an interception just two days after his 17-year-old brother was killed.
Just like the Bucs, the Panthers gave up a 17-point lead but emerged victorious. They won in overtime on a Graham Gano 52-yard field goal after picking off Andrew Luck. Luck continued to struggle, throwing three interceptions.
Drew Brees just threw another touchdown pass as I was typing this. Brees tied an NFL record with seven touchdown passes Sunday (along with 505 yards and two interceptions), while his counterpart, Eli Manning, threw six touchdown passes (along with 350 yards and no interceptions). Odell Beckham Jr. had 130 yards and three touchdown catches. In the end, though, Brees won the touchdown war and the game, thanks to a last-second 50-yard field goal from newly-acquired Kai Forbath.
Top Performances
Saints QB Drew Brees vs. Giants (W 52-49): 39-50, 505 yards, 7 TD, 2 INT
Brees tied an NFL record with seven touchdown passes, continuing a strong season sans Jimmy Graham.
Rams RB Todd Gurley vs. San Francisco (W 27-6): 20 rushes, 133 yards, TD
The rookie cannot be stopped. He is the best running back to enter the league since Adrian Peterson (and may be better). He had his fourth straight triple digit yardage total Sunday.
Panthers LB Luke Kuechly vs. Indianapolis (W 29-26 OT): 14 tackles, INT
Kuechly was his usual self Monday night, amassing tackles and terrorizing offenses. He also had an interception in overtime that led to a game-winning field goal.
The Bengals were down 10-6 to Pittsburgh with just over five minutes to play, and the Steelers had the ball. Ben Roethlisberger rolled out away from pressure, set his feet, pointed to a receiver, and threw. It was picked by Cincy cornerback Shawn Williams on a great diving play. That helped the Bengals come out with a 16-10 win and remain unbeaten.
This just made me laugh. It's Ravens kicker Justin Tucker celebrating after kicking a 39-yard field goal as time expired to beat the Chargers.
Week 9 Preview
Quick Picks (home team listed last)
Last Week: 10-4
Overall: 70-38
Byes: Lions, Chiefs, Cardinals, Seahawks, Ravens, Texans
Browns 21, Bengals 35 (Thursday, 8:25 PM, NFL Network)
Game to Watch: Packers 32, Panthers 27 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
The Panthers look to stay undefeated against a team looking to bounce back from their first loss last week. The headlines will be the Packers offense vs. the Panthers defense and Aaron Rodgers vs. Cam Newton.
Redskins 14, Patriots 38 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Titans 24, Saints 28 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, CBS)
Dolphins 30, Bills 28 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, CBS)
Rams 26, Vikings 24 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, FOX)
Jaguars 28, Jets 24 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, CBS)
Raiders 34, Steelers 21 (Sunday, 1:00 PM, CBS)
Giants 42, Buccaneers 38 (Sunday, 4:05 PM, FOX)
Falcons 48, 49ers 24 (Sunday, 4:05 PM, FOX)
Broncos 28, Colts 17 (Sunday, 4:25 PM, CBS)
Eagles 38, Cowboys 35 (Sunday, 8:30 PM, NBC)
Bears 23, Chargers 26 (Monday, 8:30 PM, ESPN)
My Fantasy Sleepers
Buccaneers QB Jameis Winston and WR Mike Evans vs. Giants
The improving rookie quarterback and his best receiver face a Giant defense that allowed seven touchdown passes to Drew Brees last week. Winston won't throw seven, but he'll have a very favorable matchup.
Steelers RB DeAngelo Williams vs. Oakland and Titans RB Antonio Andrews @ New Orleans
Williams takes over as Pittsburgh's primary ball carrier once again with Le'Veon Bell out. During Bell's two-game suspension at the beginning of the season, Williams ran for 204 total yards and three touchdowns. After Ken Wisenhunt was fired earlier this week, interim head coach Mike Mularkey said Andrews will be the Titans' workhorse at running back, and he'll go up against the Saints' poor defense Sunday.
Browns WR Travis Benjamin @ Cincinnati and Chargers WR Malcolm Floyd vs. Chicago
Johnny Manziel is starting for the Browns tonight, which is good news for Benjamin owners. In the game Manziel started plus the game he came in for Josh McCown after the first drive in, Benjamin had 204 yards receiving and three touchdowns. In the other six games combined, Benjamin only has one receiving touchdown. Floyd is now Phillip Rivers' top target with Keenan Allen out, and the Bears are not very good at defending the pass.
My Fantasy Busts
Colts Offense vs. Denver
I wouldn't advise starting any Colts offensive players against Denver's stifling defense (a defense that held Aaron Rodgers to 77 yards last week), especially with Andrew Luck struggling.
Browns QB Johnny Manziel @ Cincinnati and 49ers QB Blaine Gabbert vs. Falcons
Don't get cute. I'd love to see these two backups-turned-starters play well, but they will more than likely struggle. Starting one of these two is a shot in the dark.
Jets QB Ryan Fitzpatrick vs. Jacksonville and Jaguars QB Blake Bortles vs. NY Jets
Fitzpatrick has a torn ligament in his thumb, and Bortles faces a dangerous pass defense.
CFB Weekly Review/Preview: Playoff Rankings, Week 1
A lot has happened since last week's review/preview, including the suspension of the starting quarterback on a playoff contender, one of the craziest plays ever, and MACtion (including #24 Toledo, who played - and lost - on Tuesday). But probably the most important event that happened was the release of the first College Football Playoff rankings this season. Here is a rundown of how the initial rankings shaped up:
- Clemson (8-0)
- LSU (7-0)
- Ohio State (8-0)
- Alabama (7-1)
- Notre Dame (7-1)
- Baylor (7-0)
- Michigan State (8-0)
- TCU (8-0)
- Iowa (8-0)
- Florida (7-1)
- Stanford (7-1)
- Utah (7-1)
- Memphis (8-0)
- Oklahoma State (8-0)
- Oklahoma (7-1)
- Florida State (7-1)
- Michigan (6-2)
- Ole Miss (7-2)
- Texas A&M (6-2)
- Mississippi State (6-2)
- Northwestern (6-2)
- Temple (7-1)
- UCLA (6-2)
- Toledo (7-0)
- Houston (8-0)
Now, there are many people who disagree with these first rankings (including myself), but in the grand scheme of things, the initial CFB Playoff rankings hold little weight. This becomes evident by looking at last season's debut of the CFB Playoff rankings (the teams in last year's Playoff are in bold):
- Mississippi State
- Florida State
- Auburn
- Ole Miss
- Oregon
- Alabama
- TCU
- Michigan State
- Kansas State
- Notre Dame
- Georgia
- Arizona
- Baylor
- Arizona State
- Nebraska
- Ohio State
- Utah
- Oklahoma
- LSU
- West Virginia
- Clemson
- UCLA
- East Carolina
- Duke
- Louisville
As you can see, only one of the top four teams in these rankings ended up in the top four at the end of the season. In fact, the #16 team ended up winning the National Championship. So, while the Playoff Committee may have made some questionable decisions (Ohio State not at #1, undefeated Baylor, Michigan State, and TCU below one-loss Alabama and Notre Dame, etc.), there is still much football to be played.
Rankings and other information via ESPN.com
Rankings and other information via ESPN.com
Week 9 Review
Top Games
Wasu was flying high going into a key home date with Stanford Saturday night, but the Cardinal, along with some costly mistakes, brought them down. The Cougars' Air Raid offense still amassed 354 yards, but they had trouble punching it into the end zone, leading to five Erik Powell field goals. Their defense, however, shut down Stanford's pass game, so the Cardinal leaned on the rushing attack, led by quarterback Kevin Hogan (112 yards, 2 TD) and running back Christian McCaffrey (107 yards). State was in a good position up one with under four minutes to play, but quarterback Luke Falk was picked off in his own territory by Quenton Meeks (his second interception of the game). Stanford got down to the WSU two before kicking a go-ahead field goal with 1:54 to play. Falk and the Cougars got the ball back and drove down the field to set up a 43-yard field goal by Powell, who had already made five field goals. Alas, the sixth went wide right.
Michigan escaped Minneapolis with the Little Brown Jug after a goal-line stand as time expired. After long-time Minnesota head coach Jerry Kill retired earlier last week due to his epilepsy, interim coach Tracy Claeys decided to go for the win instead of the tie after quarterback Mitch Leidner got the Golden Gophers to the one. A deep pass from Leidner to Drew Wolitarsky was initially ruled a touchdown, but the officials reviewed the play and marked him down at the one. Leidner was then stuffed on a QB sneak to end the game.
1. Miami 30, #22 Duke 27
Forget about the first 59:54. It was the last six seconds of this game that made the highlight reels. Before that, it looked like Duke had gotten a win on a QB sneak by Thomas Sirk with six seconds to play. The Blue Devils got the two-point conversion and kicked a squib to try to run off the remaining seconds. Then, madness ensued. Dallas Crawford picked it up and lateraled it to Corn Elder, who lateraled it to Jaquan Johnson, who lateraled it to Mark Walton, who lateraled it back to Johnson, who lateraled it to Tyre Brady, who lateraled it back to Elder, who lateraled it back to Crawford, who lateraled it back to Elder, who returned it 91 yards for a game-winning touchdown. The Canes pulled off the backyard football lateral play that never works. It wasn't without controversy, of course (I'll get to that later), but it was one of the most amazing plays in college football history, and it provided a shocking ending for the third week in a row.
Top Performances
Clemson QB Deshaun Watson @ NC State (W 56-41): 23-30, 383 yards, 5 TD; 14 rushes, 54 yards, TD
Watson accounted for 36 of the Tigers' 56 points in a shootout win over N.C. State.
Arkansas RB Alex Collins vs. Tennessee-Martin (W 63-28): 16 rushes, 173 yards, 5 TD
Five of Collins' 16 carries were touchdowns in a rout of Tennessee-Martin
Oklahoma State WR James Washington @ Texas Tech (W 70-53): 4 catches, 200 yards, 2 TD
Washington only had four receptions, but he averaged 50 yards on those four receptions, and half of them were touchdowns.
Play of the Week
There was a very exciting Pac-12 game Thursday night between former ranked teams Oregon and Arizona State. On fourth down with 12 seconds left, Oregon quarterback Vernon Adams rolled out of the pocket looking for someone, and heaved a desperation pass that was hauled in in the back of the end zone by Dwayne Stanford to send the game into overtime. Oregon would win in the third overtime.
Play of the Weak
This one goes to "The Return" Miami had against Duke. It is in "Play of the Weak" because of the multiple mistakes officials made on that final play. In fact, that officiating crew was suspended for the errors. First, it looked like Mark Walton's knee might have been down as he lateraled it. Second, a flag was initially called for a block in the back, but after meeting about it, the officials called it off. Third, someone on the Miami sideline came on to the field before the touchdown was scored, which should have been a penalty. All of this shouldn't take away from the amazement of the play.
Grant's Initial Playoff Rankings
1. Ohio State
Starting quarterback J.T. Barrett was cited for operating a vehicle while intoxicated Saturday morning, and is suspended for Saturday night's game against Minnesota. That means Cardale Jones gets another crack at the starting job. Next Game: Minnesota, Saturday, 8:00 PM
2. Clemson
The #1 team in the actual Playoff rankings gets my #2 spot. Deshaun Watson is a stud, and the defense is stout. They face a tough test this weekend at home against Florida State, followed by three winnable games and the ACC Championship. Next Game: Florida State, Saturday, 3:30 PM
3. LSU
The talented Tigers face the most daunting task of any of the top teams, traveling to Tuscaloosa for a clash with the Crimson Tide Saturday night. Three of LSU's next (and final) four opponents are ranked. Next Game: @ Alabama, Saturday, 8:00 PM
4. TCU
The Horned Frogs have a couple of close wins, but they have a high-octane offense featuring a Heisman Trophy contender in Trevone Boykin, and they're now the favorite to win the Big 12 with Baylor losing Seth Russell. Next Game: @ #14 Oklahoma State, Saturday, 3:30 PM
5. Baylor
6. Michigan State
7. Alabama
8. Notre Dame
9. Iowa
10. Stanford
Week 10 Preview
Quick Picks (home team listed last)
Last Week: 16-1
Overall: 70-20
Northern Illinois 10, #24 Toledo 27 (Final Score: Northern Illinois 32, Toledo 27)
#6 Baylor 32, Kansas State 24 (Thursday, 7:30 PM, Fox Sports 1)
#20 Mississippi State 28, Missouri 21 (Thursday, 9:00 PM, ESPN)
#22 Temple 35, SMU 17 (Friday, 8:00 PM, ESPN 2)
Vanderbilt 13, #10 Florida 28 (Saturday, Noon, ESPN)
#5 Notre Dame 38, Pittsburgh 28 (Saturday, Noon, ABC)
Penn State 24, #21 Northwestern 28 (Saturday, Noon, ESPNU)
#11 Stanford 42, Colorado 14 (Saturday, 1:00 PM, Pac-12)
Arkansas 19, #18 Ole Miss 34 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, CBS)
#16 Florida State 30, #1 Clemson 32 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ABC/ESPN Deportes)
#8 TCU 52, #14 Oklahoma State 50 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, FOX)
#9 Iowa 32, Indiana 28 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ESPN)
Rutgers 14, #17 Michigan 35 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, BTN)
Cincinnati 21, #25 Houston 35 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ESPN 2)
#23 UCLA 32, Oregon State 17 (Saturday, 4:30 PM, Pac-12)
#7 Michigan State 35, Nebraska 20 (Saturday, 7:00 PM, ESPN)
Iowa State 27, #15 Oklahoma 45 (Saturday, 7:00 PM, ESPNU)
Navy 32, #13 Memphis 40 (Saturday, 7:00 PM, ESPN 2)
#12 Utah 42, Washington 34 (Saturday, 7:30 PM, FOX)
Auburn 28, #19 Texas A&M 42 (Saturday, 7:30 PM, SEC)
Minnesota 24, #3 Ohio State 38 (Saturday, 8:00 PM, ABC)
Game of the Week: #2 LSU 35, #4 Alabama 32 (Saturday, 8:00 PM, CBS)
This is probably the biggest matchup so far this season. Two SEC heavyweights and top five teams go at it. LSU's prolific offense goes against Alabama's ferocious defense, and the winner will be in the driver's seat not just for the SEC West, but for a playoff spot.
1. Miami 30, #22 Duke 27
Forget about the first 59:54. It was the last six seconds of this game that made the highlight reels. Before that, it looked like Duke had gotten a win on a QB sneak by Thomas Sirk with six seconds to play. The Blue Devils got the two-point conversion and kicked a squib to try to run off the remaining seconds. Then, madness ensued. Dallas Crawford picked it up and lateraled it to Corn Elder, who lateraled it to Jaquan Johnson, who lateraled it to Mark Walton, who lateraled it back to Johnson, who lateraled it to Tyre Brady, who lateraled it back to Elder, who lateraled it back to Crawford, who lateraled it back to Elder, who returned it 91 yards for a game-winning touchdown. The Canes pulled off the backyard football lateral play that never works. It wasn't without controversy, of course (I'll get to that later), but it was one of the most amazing plays in college football history, and it provided a shocking ending for the third week in a row.
Top Performances
Clemson QB Deshaun Watson @ NC State (W 56-41): 23-30, 383 yards, 5 TD; 14 rushes, 54 yards, TD
Watson accounted for 36 of the Tigers' 56 points in a shootout win over N.C. State.
Arkansas RB Alex Collins vs. Tennessee-Martin (W 63-28): 16 rushes, 173 yards, 5 TD
Five of Collins' 16 carries were touchdowns in a rout of Tennessee-Martin
Oklahoma State WR James Washington @ Texas Tech (W 70-53): 4 catches, 200 yards, 2 TD
Washington only had four receptions, but he averaged 50 yards on those four receptions, and half of them were touchdowns.
Play of the Week
There was a very exciting Pac-12 game Thursday night between former ranked teams Oregon and Arizona State. On fourth down with 12 seconds left, Oregon quarterback Vernon Adams rolled out of the pocket looking for someone, and heaved a desperation pass that was hauled in in the back of the end zone by Dwayne Stanford to send the game into overtime. Oregon would win in the third overtime.
Play of the Weak
This one goes to "The Return" Miami had against Duke. It is in "Play of the Weak" because of the multiple mistakes officials made on that final play. In fact, that officiating crew was suspended for the errors. First, it looked like Mark Walton's knee might have been down as he lateraled it. Second, a flag was initially called for a block in the back, but after meeting about it, the officials called it off. Third, someone on the Miami sideline came on to the field before the touchdown was scored, which should have been a penalty. All of this shouldn't take away from the amazement of the play.
Grant's Initial Playoff Rankings
1. Ohio State
Starting quarterback J.T. Barrett was cited for operating a vehicle while intoxicated Saturday morning, and is suspended for Saturday night's game against Minnesota. That means Cardale Jones gets another crack at the starting job. Next Game: Minnesota, Saturday, 8:00 PM
2. Clemson
The #1 team in the actual Playoff rankings gets my #2 spot. Deshaun Watson is a stud, and the defense is stout. They face a tough test this weekend at home against Florida State, followed by three winnable games and the ACC Championship. Next Game: Florida State, Saturday, 3:30 PM
3. LSU
The talented Tigers face the most daunting task of any of the top teams, traveling to Tuscaloosa for a clash with the Crimson Tide Saturday night. Three of LSU's next (and final) four opponents are ranked. Next Game: @ Alabama, Saturday, 8:00 PM
4. TCU
The Horned Frogs have a couple of close wins, but they have a high-octane offense featuring a Heisman Trophy contender in Trevone Boykin, and they're now the favorite to win the Big 12 with Baylor losing Seth Russell. Next Game: @ #14 Oklahoma State, Saturday, 3:30 PM
5. Baylor
6. Michigan State
7. Alabama
8. Notre Dame
9. Iowa
10. Stanford
Week 10 Preview
Quick Picks (home team listed last)
Last Week: 16-1
Overall: 70-20
Northern Illinois 10, #24 Toledo 27 (Final Score: Northern Illinois 32, Toledo 27)
#6 Baylor 32, Kansas State 24 (Thursday, 7:30 PM, Fox Sports 1)
#20 Mississippi State 28, Missouri 21 (Thursday, 9:00 PM, ESPN)
#22 Temple 35, SMU 17 (Friday, 8:00 PM, ESPN 2)
Vanderbilt 13, #10 Florida 28 (Saturday, Noon, ESPN)
#5 Notre Dame 38, Pittsburgh 28 (Saturday, Noon, ABC)
Penn State 24, #21 Northwestern 28 (Saturday, Noon, ESPNU)
#11 Stanford 42, Colorado 14 (Saturday, 1:00 PM, Pac-12)
Arkansas 19, #18 Ole Miss 34 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, CBS)
#16 Florida State 30, #1 Clemson 32 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ABC/ESPN Deportes)
#8 TCU 52, #14 Oklahoma State 50 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, FOX)
#9 Iowa 32, Indiana 28 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ESPN)
Rutgers 14, #17 Michigan 35 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, BTN)
Cincinnati 21, #25 Houston 35 (Saturday, 3:30 PM, ESPN 2)
#23 UCLA 32, Oregon State 17 (Saturday, 4:30 PM, Pac-12)
#7 Michigan State 35, Nebraska 20 (Saturday, 7:00 PM, ESPN)
Iowa State 27, #15 Oklahoma 45 (Saturday, 7:00 PM, ESPNU)
Navy 32, #13 Memphis 40 (Saturday, 7:00 PM, ESPN 2)
#12 Utah 42, Washington 34 (Saturday, 7:30 PM, FOX)
Auburn 28, #19 Texas A&M 42 (Saturday, 7:30 PM, SEC)
Minnesota 24, #3 Ohio State 38 (Saturday, 8:00 PM, ABC)
Game of the Week: #2 LSU 35, #4 Alabama 32 (Saturday, 8:00 PM, CBS)
This is probably the biggest matchup so far this season. Two SEC heavyweights and top five teams go at it. LSU's prolific offense goes against Alabama's ferocious defense, and the winner will be in the driver's seat not just for the SEC West, but for a playoff spot.
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