Washington Nationals Win World Series

Somehow, some way, the Washington Nationals were able to win the 2019 World Series.
Game Seven went to the Nationals, 6-2 as pitcher Stephen Strasburg was named the World Series Most Valuable Player. 
This team had more comebacks than Brett Favre or any other athlete you care to name. Much like the 2003 Florida Marlins or 2006 St. Louis Cardinals, the Nationals came from nowhere and rode a hot streak into the post-season and continued to stay hot to capture the Fall Classic.
They defeated the Houston Astros in Game Seven of a historic World Series. Historic in that neither home team was able to win a single game for the first time in the history of the World Series.


Congrats to the WASHINGTON NATIONALS - 2019 WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS !!!

NFL - Week Eight Review

The New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers remained undefeated this week as they both won home games. The Patriots (8-0) knocked off the Cleveland Browns, 27-13 while the 49ers (7-0)

Tevin Coleman dominated with four scores against Carolina.

smashed the Carolina Panthers, 51-13.
San Francisco led 27-3 at halftime and coasted from there in their rout of the Panthers (4-3) as running back Tevin Coleman, the Heftyinfo NFL Player of the Week, scored four touchdowns and rushed for 105 yards (on just 11 carries) to lead the way. 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo had two TD passes and the defense intercepted three passes while holding Carolina to 230 yards in total offense. In addition, the 'Niners had seven QB sacks, including three by rookie Nick Bosa. 
New England rolled out to a 17-0 first quarter lead as the Browns (2-5) turned the ball over three times. Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower took a fumble recovery back 26 yards for a score and QB Tom Brady hooked up with wide receiver Julian Edelman on two scoring passes to provide the final outcome. The win gave Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick his 300th career victory, which is third most all time in NFL history.
The Philadelphia Eagles bounced back this week as they blasted the host Buffalo Bills, 31-13 to get back to a .500 record (4-4). The Bills (5-2) gained just 253 yards on offense as the Eagles took control in the second half, thanks in big part to a 65-yard TD run by Miles Sanders and a TD run by Jordan Howard. Philadelphia accumulated 218 rushing yards and held the ball for just under 36 minutes.
New Orleans Saints QB Drew Brees had three touchdown passes along with 373 passing yards in his first game since Week Two because of a thumb injury as the Saints (7-1) won their sixth consecutive game, 31-9 over the visiting Arizona Cardinals (3-4-1), who saw their three game winning streak snapped. Saints RB Latavius Murray (102 rushing yards) scored two touchdowns and New Orleans held the ball for 38 minutes in the rout.
In the Sunday night game, the Green Bay Packers (7-1) went into Kansas City and beat the Chiefs, 31-24 as QB Aaron Rodgers had 305 passing yards and three TD passes, including the difference maker to RB Aaron Jones on a 67-yard pass play in the fourth quarter. Jones (seven receptions for 159 yards and 67 rushing yards) had two touchdown catches in the win over the Chiefs (5-3), who were without injured starting QB Patrick Mahomes. Kansas City backup QB Matt Moore passed for two scores and 267 yards in defeat.



                                                     Elsewhere Around the NFL  . . . . . . . .    

The Houston Texans (5-3) beat the visiting Oakland Raiders, 27-24 on Sunday, but lost All-Pro defensive player J.J. Watt for the season to injury with a torn pectoral. Both Texans QB Deshaun Watson and Raiders QB Derek Carr had three TD passes in the game, with Watson connecting with tight end Darren Fells (two TD grabs) for the winning score with 6:26 remaining . . .  The much maligned Los Angeles Chargers (3-5) snapped a three-game losing skid in Chicago, 17-16 as they survived a missed 41-yard field goal try by Bears kicker Eddie Pineiro as time expired. The Bears (3-4) lost their third straight game even though they dominated in nearly every statistical category . . .  The Indianapolis Colts (5-2) won at home against stubborn Denver, 15-13 as Adam Vinatieri made a  51-yard field goal with 22 seconds left to play to atone for a missed PAT kick earlier in the game . . .  Over in London, England, the Los Angeles Rams (5-3) toppled the winless Cincinnati Bengals (0-8) by a 24-10 count as wide receiver Cooper Kupp hauled in seven receptions for 220 yards and a touchdown (65 yards) from QB Jared Goff, who had two TD passes to lead the way . . .  Seattle (6-2) stormed out to a 24-0 halftime lead as QB Russell Wilson threw for two touchdowns and then held off a second half comeback by the host Atlanta Falcons (1-7) to win 27-20 . . . The Jacksonville Jaguars (4-4) won at home, 29-15 against the New York Jets (1-6) as their defense had eight QB sacks and three interceptions in the game. Jags QB Gardener Minshew had three TD passes to pace the offense . . .  The Detroit Lions (3-3-1) won at home against the New York Giants, 31-26 as QB Matthew Stafford (342 passing yards) had three TD strikes while the defense scored on a fumble recovery to send the Giants (2-6) to their fourth consecutive defeat. Giants rookie QB Daniel Jones had four TD passes in the loss . . .  The Tennessee Titans (4-4) won their second straight game, knocking off the visiting Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 27-23. Titans QB Ryan Tannehill had three scoring passes and kicker Cody Parkey made two field goals, including a 51-yard boot to help make the difference . . .  The Minnesota Vikings (6-2) won a 19-9 yawner at home on Thursday night against the Washington Redskins (1-7) as kicker Dan Bailey made four field goals and RB Dalvin Cook (98 rushing yards) scored the only TD of the game with a four-yard run. Minnesota outgained the Redskins 434-216 in  total yardage . . .   The Pittsburgh Steelers (3-4) came back from a 14-point deficit as they topped the visiting Miami Dolphins, 27-14 on Monday Night Football. The Dolphins (0-7) scored all of their points in the first quarter before the Steelers got back into it to win by scoring 17 second half points for the final outcome. Steelers RB James Conner rushed for 145 yards and scored a touchdown while QB Mason Rudolph threw for two scores along with two interceptions.


Week Eight Results
Minnesota 19, Washington 9
L.A. Chargers 17, Chicago 16
Detroit 31, N.Y. Giants 26
Jacksonville 29, N.Y. Jets 15
New Orleans 31, Arizona 9
Seattle 27, Atlanta 20
Philadelphia 31, Buffalo 13
Indianapolis 15, Denver 13
Tennessee 27, Tampa Bay 23
L.A. Rams 24, Cincinnati 10
New England 27, Cleveland 13
Houston 27, Oakland 24
San Francisco 51, Carolina 13
Green Bay 31, Kansas City 24
Pittsburgh 27, Miami 14 

College Football Top Ten

Heftyinfo College Football Top Ten                     (Week ending October 27)     

1.  Clemson (8-0)
2.  Alabama (8-0)
3.  Ohio State (8-0)
4.  LSU (8-0)
5.  Penn State (8-0)
6.  Georgia (6-1)
7.  Oklahoma (7-1)
8.  Florida  (7-1)
9.  Oregon (7-1)
10.  Utah (7-1)

NFL - Week Eight Preview

Can the New England Patriots remain unbeaten at the midway point of the NFL season?
They host the Cleveland Browns (2-4) this Sunday and have allowed just 48 total points through their first seven games. That is less than seven points per game . . . Wow!
The Browns have lost two straight games and have not looked good in those defeats, so can they right their ship and challenge the mighty Patriots in this one? It all depends on how effective they are at running the football. The New England defense should prove to be too much for Cleveland in this one, so look for the Pats to stay undefeated.
The Sunday night game was supposed to be a matchup between two of the best quarterbacks in the league when the Kansas City Chiefs (5-2) host the Green Bay Packers (6-1) at Arrowhead Stadium. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes is out with the knee injury, so Packers QB Aaron Rodgers will be the main attraction in this one.
Two teams that have been reeling in recent weeks are the Los Angeles Chargers (2-5) and the 3-3 Chicago Bears. Those two teams will battle it out at Soldier Field in Chicago this Sunday afternoon. The Bears have looked toothless on offense while the Chargers continue to find ways to beat themselves, especially that loss last week in Tennessee.
All in all, it looks to be a so-so week in the NFL as far as exciting games (at least on paper that is) goes, so here goes nothing once again as Heftyinfo breaks down all the action in the capsule style format along with the predictions for Week Eight. 


Seattle (5-2) at Atlanta (1-6) - The Falcons take on an angry Seattle team that was embarrassed at home last week, and may have to do so without starting QB Matt Ryan.

Philadelphia (3-4) at Buffalo (5-1) - Can the Eagles bounce back after last week's debacle in Dallas? The Bills are on a magic carpet ride so far this season.

L.A. Chargers (2-5) at Chicago (3-3) - These two teams have been major under achievers this season. Enough said.

N.Y. Giants (2-5) at Detroit (2-3-1) - These two teams are riding three-game losing streaks, so something has to give.

Denver (2-5) at Indianapolis (4-2) - The Colts are rolling with QB Jacoby Brissett while the Broncos are still feeling their way in the 2019 season.

N.Y. Jets (1-5) at Jacksonville (3-4) - It's almost Halloween, so perhaps Jets quarterback Sam Darnold's ghosts will disappear in this one. Jags looking to get to the .500 level in this one.

Cincinnati (0-7) at L.A. Rams (4-3) - (in London) - Rams roll !

Arizona (3-3-1) at New Orleans (6-1) - Will Saints QB Drew Brees play this week? Cardinals have been rolling, but the Saints are the better team for sure.

Tampa Bay (2-4) at Tennessee (3-4) - The Titans lucked out last week against the snake bitten Chargers, so they will be looking to pound the Buccaneers.

Carolina (4-2) at San Francisco (6-0) - This game could be closer than most might be thinking. 49ers have a great defense and they rate the edge at home.

Oakland (3-3) at Houston (4-3) - Texans should win this one, but then again . . . on any given Sunday.

Cleveland (2-4) at New England (7-0) - Is Tom Brady soaking it all up in what might be his final season? Some are saying it will be, at least in New England that is. The Browns need a win in the worst way.

Green Bay (6-1) at Kansas City (5-2) - No Patrick Mahomes in this game for the Chiefs means a loss for the Chiefs. Packers are Super Bowl contenders and will take nothing for granted.

Miami (0-6) at Pittsburgh (2-4) - The Dolphins on Monday Night Football?  This is the stinker game of the week between two also rans.


The Heftyinfo predictions for Week Eight    . . . . . . . .   (Home teams are listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS)

MINNESOTA over Washington
Seattle over Atlanta 
Philadelphia over Buffalo 
L.A. Chargers over Chicago
Detroit over N.Y. Giants
Indianapolis over Denver
Jacksonville over N.Y. Jets
L.A. Rams over Cincinnati (in London)
New Orleans over Arizona
Tennessee over Tampa Bay
San Francisco over Carolina
Houston over Oakland
New England over Cleveland
Green Bay over Kansas City 
Pittsburgh over Miami


Last Week's Record -  8-6 

SEASON RECORD -  66-39-1

Lock of the Week Record -  7-0 

2019 WORLD SERIES PREVIEW

It will be the upstart Washington Nationals taking on the Houston Astros, who had Major League Baseball's best record this season, in the 2019 World Series that starts Tuesday night in Houston.
The Nationals have been rolling since late June and made a push to get back to the MLB playoffs after a 19-31 start this season. They have posted the best record in baseball since that terrible start. Led by an impressive lineup that features National League RBI leader and MVP candidate Anthony Rendon and young star outfielder Juan Soto, the Nats have been scoring runs in bunches and they swept the St. Louis Cardinals in the NLCS to get here.
The starting pitching features Max Scherzer, Stephen Strasburg, Patrick Corbin and even Anibal Sanchez, who has resurrected his career in D.C. However, the bullpen has been a big question mark all season long and unless Sean Doolittle and Daniel Hudson continue to shine, it could be lights out for the Nationals against the formidable Astros lineup.
The Astros, who defeated the New York Yankees in the ALCS, have ALCS MVP Jose Altuve leading the way along with American League MVP candidate Alex Bregman. George Springer, Carlos Correa and Yuri Gurriel are also big hitters in the lineup.
Houston also plays solid defense and their pitching is stellar as Gerrit Cole and Justin Verlander anchor the starting staff. Trade deadline pickup Zack Greinke has added even more strength to the rotation and the bullpen has proven to be another strong suit this post-season.
All in all, it looks to be an exciting World Series ahead as a team gets there for the first time ever (Nationals are the former Montreal Expos - who never made the World Series) while the Astros try to win their second World Series in the last three years.


                  PREDICTION -  Houston Astros over Washington Nationals in six games.

NFL - Week Seven Review

The Baltimore Ravens went into Seattle and punched the Seahawks (5-2) in the mouth, emerging with a 30-16 win to improve to 5-2 this season. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson ran wild against the Seattle defense, gaining 116 yards on the ground and scored on an eight-yard rushing touchdown to lead the way.
The game was tied 13-13 at halftime, but the Ravens took things over in the second half as Jackson continually confounded the 'Hawks defense with his scrambling runs for first downs. Baltimore's defense scored twice, including on a fumble recovery return to seal the game late in the fourth quarter as the lead swelled to 30-13.
The Thursday night game saw the Kansas City Chiefs (5-2) go into Denver and roll the Broncos, 30-6 as they built a 20-6 halftime lead and then held their collective breath as starting QB Patrick Mahomes left the game in the first half with a dislocated knee cap injury. The early indications were Mahomes would miss at least three weeks, and possibly could be out four to six weeks with the knee injury. Reserve QB Matt Moore will take over until Mahomes is back in action.

The Green Bay Packers continue to roll as QB Aaron Rodgers (pictured left), the Heftyinfo NFL Player of the Week, threw for five touchdowns and ran for another score as the Packers (6-1) crushed the visiting Oakland Raiders, 42-24. Rodgers had a perfect passer rating, completing 25-of-31 passes for 429 yards along with the five TD passes.
The Raiders dropped to 3-3 as QB Derek Carr had two TD passes and RB Josh Jacobs rushed for 124 yards in defeat.


The Minnesota Vikings (5-2) won a 42-30 shootout over the host Detroit Lions (2-3-1) behind another huge game from QB Kirk Cousins, who passed for 337 yards and four touchdowns to lead the way. Lions QB Matthew Stafford had four TD passes as well along with 364 yards passing in the loss, which was their third straight after the 2-0-1 start.
The Dallas Cowboys (4-3) trashed the visiting Philadelphia Eagles, 37-10 on Sunday night to improve to 4-3 and first place in the NFC East while snapping a three-game losing streak. Cowboys QB Dak Prescott was 21-of27 passing with a TD pass and a rushing score as well while running back Ezekiel Elliott rushed for 111 yards and a touchdown to pace a balanced offensive attack. The Cowboys defense had three QB sacks and forced four turnovers as the Eagles (3-4) managed just 283 yards in total offense.
The most bizarre ending to a football game had to be in Tennessee where the Titans (3-4) held off the Los Angeles Chargers, 23-20 as their defense was aided by two review overturns of Chargers touchdowns in the final 44 seconds of the game. Titans QB Ryan Tannehill had two TD passes and RB Derrick Henry (90 yards rushing) scored on an 11-yard run to make it 23-13 with 6:39 left to play.
The Chargers (2-5) scored on a 41-yard TD pass from Philip Rivers to Austin Ekeler to cut the deficit to 23-20 and then later drove downfield after making a fourth down stop at midfield to the Titans 16-yard line. From there,  Rivers (329 yards passing with two TD) hit Ekeler (seven receptions for 119 yards and TD) over the middle for an apparent score, but Ekeler was ruled down just inside the one-yard line.
With first-and-goal, running back Melvin Gordon dove forward, but again a review determined he also was just short of the goal line and the TD was overturned. On second down, Gordon fumbled the ball and Titans DL Jurrell Casey recovered in the end zone (again on review) for a touchback and the Titans escaped with the win.


                                               Elsewhere Around the NFL   . . . . . . . .  

Indianapolis (4-2) won at home, 30-23 against the Houston Texans (4-3) as QB Jacoby Brissett had four TD passes. Texans QB Deshaun Watson hooked up with WR DeAndre Hopkins on a four-yard scoring pass to make it 28-23 late in the fourth quarter. But the Colts defense recorded a safety to provide the final outcome . . .  The Los Angeles Rams (4-3) throttled the host Atlanta Falcons, 37-10 as their defense limited Atlanta to only 224 total yards while also scoring a touchdown. Rams QB Jared Goff had two TD passes and a scoring run as well. Falcons QB Matt Ryan was injured (sprained ankle) and did not return after being sacked five times in the loss . . .  Arizona (3-3-1) won their third straight game, 27-21 against the host New York Giants (2-5) as RB Chase Edmonds (126 yards rushing) scored three rushing touchdowns and the Cardinals defense had eight QB sacks (four of them by Chandler Jones) and forced three turnovers . . .  The San Francisco 49ers stayed undefeated (6-0) as they won at Washington, 9-0 behind three field goals by Robbie Gould. The Redskins (1-6) managed just 154 yards in offense, including a paltry 50 passing yards . . .  The Buffalo Bills improved to 5-1 this season with a 31-21 home victory against the winless Miami Dolphins (0-6). Bills QB Josh Allen had a pair of scoring passes and Micah Hyde returned an onside kickoff 45 yards for the clinching score . . . The Jacksonville Jaguars (3-4) beat the host Cincinnati Bengals, 27-17 as the defense scored on a "pick six" INT return, QB Gardener Minshew had a TD pass and kicker Josh Lambo made four field goals. The Bengals (0-7) turned the ball over four times, including three interceptions thrown by QB Andy Dalton . . . The New Orleans Saints (6-1) roughed up the host Chicago Bears, 36-25 as they turned a close game (12-10 Saints lead at halftime) into a rout by scoring 24 unanswered points in the second half with RB Latavius Murray scoring two rushing touchdowns while the Saints outgained the Bears (3-3) by a 424-252 margin, including 151 yards on the ground . . .  The New England Patriots (7-0) dismantled the host New York Jets, 33-0 on Monday Night Football. The Patriots defense smothered the Jets (1-5) all game long, forcing six turnovers by intercepting four passes and recovering two fumbles as well. The Pats had a 17-0 lead after one quarter and limited the Jets to just 154 total yards in offense.


Week Seven Results
Kansas City 30, Denver 6
Minnesota 42, Detroit 30
Indianapolis 30, Houston 23
Jacksonville 27, Cincinnati 17
San Francisco 9, Washington 0
Arizona 27, N.Y. Giants 21
Green Bay 42, Oakland 24
Buffalo 31, Miami 21
L.A. Rams 37, Atlanta 10
Tennessee 23, L.A. Chargers 20
Baltimore 30, Seattle 16
New Orleans 36, Chicago 25
Dallas 37, Philadelphia 10
New England 33, N.Y. Jets 0 

College Football Top Ten

Heftyinfo College Football Top Ten                   (Week ending October 20)    

1.  Clemson (7-0) 
2.  Alabama (7-0)
3.  Oklahoma (7-0) 
4.  LSU (7-0)
5.  Ohio State (7-0) 
6.  Penn State (7-0)
7.  Georgia (6-1) 
8.  Notre Dame (5-1)
9.  Florida  (7-1)
10.  Auburn (6-1) 
10. (tie)  Oregon (6-1)

NFL - Week Seven Preview

Two big divisional battles take place this weekend when the Houston Texans face the Indianapolis Colts in an AFC South tilt. The Texans are 4-2 and on top of the division race while the host Colts are 3-2 and alone in second place. The Sunday night game will see the Philadelphia Eagles taking on the host Dallas Cowboys in the battle for first place in the NFC East. Both of those teams have 3-3 records.
Dallas started out 3-0 against weaker teams, but have lost three straight games, which included a loss to to the 0-4 New York Jets last Sunday afternoon. The Eagles have been up and down so far in the 2019 season and last Sunday, they got smashed up in Minnesota, 38-20 as the Vikings raced out to a big lead and won going away.
The Kansas City Chiefs (5-2) blew out the host Denver Broncos, 30-6 on Thursday night to get Week Seven started. However, their star quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a dislocated knee cap and could be out several weeks. If he is gone for an extended period of time, that could make things very interesting in the AFC West race.
The Oakland Raiders (3-2) have been a pleasant surprise so far this season and they face the host Green Bay Packers (5-1) on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers (2-4) have been a huge disappointment to this point as they were expected to be the top challenger to Kansas City once again this year. Denver (2-5) is the bottom team in the division and probably won't be a contender this season.
Another big game will see the Baltimore Ravens (4-2) at the Seattle Seahawks (5-1) with both teams coming off one-score victories last weekend. The Seahawks have won three consecutive games while the Ravens have won two in a row following a two-game losing streak.
Seattle QB Russell Wilson has been playing at an MVP level so far as he has tossed 14 touchdown passes with zero interceptions and has a QB rating of 124.7 through the first six games. The Ravens have a balanced offense (205 rushing yards per game and 246 passing) and are currently third in the NFL in scoring, averaging 30.7 points per game. This game could go down to the wire in the great Northwest.
Two other games that will have impact in the NFC North division race include the Minnesota Vikings (4-2) at the Detroit Lions (2-2-1) and the Chicago Bears (3-2) hosting the red hot New Orleans Saints (5-1) at Soldier Field. The Lions feel they got hosed by the officiating crew in their Monday night loss, 23-22 at Green Bay and they face a Vikings team that has won two straight in blowout fashion.
The Bears are coming off their bye week after losing to the Oakland Raiders in London, 24-21 as their vaunted defense was gashed by the Raiders ground attack. The Saints have won four straight games with Teddy Bridgewater at quarterback in place of Drew Brees, who's been out with the thumb injury. In addition, Saints play maker on offense Alvin Kamara has been ruled out for the game with ankle and knee injuries. This game should be close and if the Bears can pressure Teddy B, they will likely come out on top in this one.

The rest of the Week Seven action is previewed in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks for all the games follows.

Los Angeles Rams (3-3) at Atlanta Falcons (1-5) - The Rams have lost three straight and the Falcons have dropped four games in a row. Something has to give, unless it's a tie game this Sunday.

Miami Dolphins (0-5) at Buffalo Bills (4-1) - If the Bills lose this one, they might as well forget about calling themselves serious AFC playoff contenders.

Jacksonville Jaguars (2-4) at Cincinnati Bengals (0-6) - The Jaguars finally dealt Jalen Ramsey this week, but will they be able to keep the Bengals winless?

Minnesota Vikings (4-2) at Detroit Lions (2-2-1) - Lions looking to restore the roar at home in this game. Vikings steadily improving since their debacle in Chicago three weeks ago.

Oakland Raiders (3-2) at Green Bay Packers (5-1) - The Pack is back!

Houston Texans (4-2) at Indianapolis Colts (3-2) - Can the Colts tough defense stymie Texans QB Deshaun Watson?

Arizona Cardinals (2-3-1) at New York Giants (2-4) - The Giants have been blown out two straight games while the Cards have won two in a row in last minute drama.

San Francisco 49ers (5-0) at Washington Redskins (1-5) - The 49ers have perhaps the best defense in the NFL to this point. The Redskins are a mess.

Los Angeles Chargers (2-4) at Tennessee Titans (2-4) - So far, the Chargers have to be considered the most over rated team in the league in 2019 season. Titans not much better as they have benched starting QB Marcus Mariota.

New Orleans Saints (5-1) at Chicago Bears (3-2) - This is a  must win game for the Bears if they want to stay close in the NFC North.

Baltimore Ravens (4-2) at Seattle Seahawks (5-1) - The game of the week featuring two solid teams. Take the Seahawks at home in this one.

Philadelphia Eagles (3-3) at Dallas Cowboys (3-3) - The Sunday night game between two teams that have struggled recently. Cowboys rate slight edge as the home team.

New England Patriots (6-0) at New York Jets (1-4) - Jets are flying high after their big win last week vs. Dallas, but the Patriots are the top scoring team in the NFL and have also allowed the fewest points through six games.


The Heftyinfo picks for Week Seven  . . . . . . . .       (Home teams are listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS)

Kansas City over Denver
Atlanta over LA Rams
BUFFALO over Miami
Cincinnati over Jacksonville
Detroit over Minnesota
Green Bay over Oakland
Indianapolis over Houston
NY Giants over Arizona
San Francisco over Washington 
Tennessee over LA Chargers
Chicago over New Orleans
Seattle over Baltimore
Dallas over Philadelphia
New England over NY Jets 


Last Week's Record -  9-5

SEASON RECORD -  58-33-1

Lock of the Week Record -  6-0 

NFL - Week Six Review

The Houston Texans served notice they are for real as they defeated the host Kansas City Chiefs, 31-24 to improve to 4-2 this season. Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson rushed for two scores, including the game winner from one yard out with 6:17 left in the game, and also had a TD pass. Kansas City QB Patrick Mahomes threw for three scores and was intercepted once in the loss.
The Texans rushed for 192 yards in the win and limited the Chiefs to just 20 minutes of possession time in the game. It was the second straight loss (both at home) for the Chiefs, who are also 4-2 this season.
The San Francisco 49ers improved to 5-0 as they smashed the Los Angeles Rams, 20-7 as their defense limited L.A. quarterback Jared Goff to a ridiculously low 78 passing yards. In addition, the Rams (3-3) gained a total of 165 yards in offense and had only ten first downs in the loss, which was their third in a row. 49ers running back Tevin Coleman and QB Jimmy Garoppolo each had a rushing touchdown in the win.

Vikings QB Kirk Cousins had a big day in team win.

The Minnesota Vikings (4-2) knocked off the visiting Philadelphia Eagles, 38-20 as QB Kirk Cousins, the Heftyinfo NFL Player of the Week, passed for 333 yards and four touchdowns to lead the way. Vikings wide receiver Stefon Diggs caught seven passes for 167 yards and three touchdowns while Eagles QB Carson Wentz had two TD passes in defeat.
In the Thursday night game, the New England Patriots improved to 6-0 as they pounded the visiting New York Giants, 35-14 while getting touchdowns from the special teams and defense. Pats QB Tom Brady had a pair of rushing touchdowns and their defense intercepted three passes.
The New York Jets shocked the visiting Dallas Cowboys, 24-22 as QB Sam Darnold had two TD passes and RB Le'Veon Bell rushed for another score to help lead them to their first win of the season. Meanwhile, Dallas (3-3) lost their third consecutive game as they fell behind 21-3 in the second quarter before mounting a furious fourth quarter rally to pull within two points with 43 seconds remaining. But the two-point conversion try failed and the Jets (1-4) got the win.


                                          Elsewhere Around the NFL  . . . . . . . .   

The Seattle Sehawks (5-1) won on the road at Cleveland, beating the Browns, 32-28 as QB Russell Wilson had two TD passes and a rushing score to pace the win.  The Browns (2-4) turned the ball over four times, including QB Baker Mayfield tossing three interceptions . . .  Teddy Bridgewater hooked up with tight end Jared Cook on a four-yard scoring pass in the fourth quarter as the New Orleans Saints (5-1) won at Jacksonville, 13-6. The Jaguars managed just 226 yards of total offense and just eleven first downs . . .  The Pittsburgh Steelers rolled past the hapless L.A. Chargers, 24-17 on Sunday Night Football as running back James Conner scored twice and the defense also got a touchdown on a fumbled lateral return by rookie linebacker Devin Bush. The Chargers turned the ball over three times (including two INT by QB Philip Rivers) as they slipped to 2-4 this season . . .  Over in London, the Carolina Panthers (4-2) beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 37-26 as Curtis Samuel and RB Christian McCaffrey each had two touchdowns and QB Kyle Allen had a pair of TD passes. Bucs QB Jameis Winston was intercepted five times in the loss . . .  The Baltimore Ravens knocked off the visiting Cincinnati Bengals, 23-17 as Lamar Jackson and Mark Ingram scored rushing touchdowns and kicker Justin Tucker made three field goals to provide the difference against the winless Bengals . . .  Arizona rookie QB Kyler

Murray (pictured at right) passed for 340 yards and three TD to offset four scoring passes by Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan as the host Cardinals (2-3-1) topped the Falcons, 34-33 as Atlanta kicker Matt Bryant missed the PAT kick that would have tied the game . . .  The Denver Broncos (2-4) won their second consecutive game, a 16-0 shutout against the visiting Tennessee Titans as their defense held the Titans (2-4) to just 204 total yards and just 39 rushing yards while also picking off three passes. Broncos RB Phillip Lindsay scored a rushing TD and three field goals by PK Brandon McManus helped make the difference . . .  The Washington Redskins (1-5) held off the host Miami Dolphins, 17-16 in a battle of winless teams. Redskins WR Terry McLaurin caught two TD passes prior to a Dolphins rally as reserve QB Ryan Fitzpatrick had a TD pass with just six seconds left to play to get to within one point, but Miami (0-5) went for the two point conversion for the win and failed . . . The Monday Night Football game was a squeaker won by the host Green Bay Packers, 23-22 against the Detroit Lions (2-2-1) as kicker Mason Crosby made a 23-yard field goal as time expired. The game had controversy regarding penalties called by the refs as Lions defensive lineman Trey Flowers was twice called for illegal hands to the face that gave Green Bay (5-1) automatic first downs and kept alive a touchdown drive to get them close and then the final drive that helped to allow the game winning kick. Packers QB Aaron Rodgers had two TD passes in the game while Lions kicker Matt Prater made five goals, including two from over 50 yards, in the loss.


Week Six Results
New England 35, N.Y. Giants 14
Carolina 37, Tampa Bay 26
Minnesota 38, Philadelphia 20
Washington 17, Miami 16
Seattle 32, Cleveland 28
Houston 31, Kansas City 24
New Orleans 13, Jacksonville 6
Baltimore 23, Cincinnati 17
Arizona 34, Atlanta 33
San Francisco 20, L.A. Rams 7
N.Y. Jets 24, Dallas 22
Denver 16, Tennessee 0
Pittsburgh 24, L.A. Chargers 17
Green Bay 23, Detroit 22

College Football Top Ten

Heftyinfo College Football Top Ten                       (Week ending October 13)   

1.  Clemson (6-0)
2.  Alabama (6-0)
3.  Oklahoma (6-0)
4.  LSU (6-0)
5.  Ohio State (6-0)
6.  Wisconsin (6-0)
7.  Penn State (6-0)
8.  Georgia (5-1)
9.  Notre Dame (5-1)
10. (tie) Florida  (6-1)
10. (tie)  Oregon (5-1)

NFL - Week Six Preview

Week Six around the NFL and the Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers will do battle over in London this Sunday while the other teams will also go at it as a total of 14 games take place. The New England Patriots blew out the visiting New York Giants, 35-14 on Thursday night (no surprise there) to get the weekend started.
A game that looks real interesting is the one between the Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings (both 3-2) being played in Minnesota, where the Vikings have had two easy wins. The Eagles are coming off back-to-back wins, which includes a road win at Green Bay, so they won't be an easy task for the Vikings.
The game in Kansas City between the Chiefs and Houston Texans features two of the top quarterbacks in the NFL. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (11 TD passes and no interceptions, 114.7 QB rating and 5.4 ypc rushing average) is dinged up a bit (ankle) and has been missing his main target as wide receiver Tyreek Hill is still injured. Houston QB Deshaun Watson also has passed for eleven touchdowns (with one interception) and has a QB rating of 115.9 and averages 5.5 ypc rushing.
The numbers between the two young quarterbacks are nearly identical and as long as the defenses show some improvement, this game should be an exciting match and could go right down to the wire at Arrowhead Stadium.
The San Francisco 49ers are 4-0 and take that unbeaten mark on the road against the NFC West foe Los Angeles Rams (3-2), who have lost two straight games and are in third place in the division. The Rams lost a squeaker at Seattle last week while the 'Niners buried the Cleveland Browns, 31-3 on Monday Night Football.
But we all know the long history of teams playing on the road following a shorter week after playing on Monday night. So the 49ers better be ready because the Rams know they cannot afford a third straight defeat and falling further behind in the division race.


The rest of the action for Week Six is previewed in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo predictions follow.

Carolina (3-2) at Tampa Bay (2-3) - (game being played in London) - The Panthers have been rolling with reserve QB Kyle Allen. Can Tampa Bay's defense put a stop to it?
 
Washington (0-5) at Miami (0-4) - Whoever wins this game could be blowing their chance at the number one pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

New Orleans (4-1) at Jacksonville (2-3) - Teddy B. and the Saints are flying high, but the Jaguars believe in "Minshew Magic."  Something has to give.

Philadelphia (3-2) at Minnesota (3-2) - This game could be decided by a late field goal. Vikings rate the edge at home.

Seattle (4-1) at Cleveland (2-3) - Which Baker Mayfield will show up at quarterback for the host Browns? On the other hand, Seattle QB Russell Wilson is putting together another solid season.

Cincinnati (0-5) at Baltimore (3-2) - The Bengals lost as time ran out last week while the Ravens won in OT. Ravens should cruise in this one.

Houston (3-2) at Kansas City (4-1) - Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes is banged up (ankle) while Texans QB Deshaun Watson is rolling hot right now. Toss up in this one.

Atlanta (1-4) at Arizona (1-3-1) - The Falcons season is fast becoming a disaster. Cards won their first game last week and could make it two in a row in this one.

San Francisco (4-0) at L.A. Rams (3-2) - Rams have been reeling the last two weeks, but seem to have 49ers number in recent seasons. Should be a close game that goes down to the wire.

Dallas (3-2) at N.Y. Jets (0-4) - The Jets are a disaster, but Dallas has struggled in last two weeks. Cowboys should win this one, but it could be closer than most might think.

Tennessee (2-3) at Denver (1-4) - The Broncos make it two in a row.

Pittsburgh (1-4) at L.A. Chargers (2-3) - Steelers are playing this game with third string QB, but if the Chargers play like they did last week in loss to Denver, they could be ripe for the picking again.

Detroit (2-1-1) at Green Bay (4-1) - The Packers are rolling early on this season, but the Lions are tough and cannot be taken lightly in this MNF game.


The Heftyinfo picks for Week Six  . . . . . . . .    (Home teams are listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS)


NEW ENGLAND over NY Giants
Carolina over Tampa Bay (in London)
Miami over Washington
New Orleans over Jacksonville 
Minnesota over Philadelphia
Seattle over Cleveland 
Baltimore over Cincinnati
Kansas City over Houston
Arizona over Atlanta
LA Rams over San Francisco
Dallas over NY Jets 
Denver over Tennessee
LA Chargers over Pittsburgh
Green Bay over Detroit


Last Week's Record -  9-6

SEASON RECORD -  49-28-1

Lock of the Week Record -  5-0

NFL - Week Five Review

Colts defense roughed up Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes on Sunday night

Surprises around the NFL this weekend, especially the Sunday night game in Kansas City where the Indianapolis Colts (3-2) defeated the host Chiefs, 19-13, giving Kansas City (4-1) its first loss this season. Colts quarterback Jacoby Brissett ran for the only touchdown for Indy and kicker Adam Vinatieri drilled four field goals to help make the difference in the final outcome.
Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes had a TD pass, but the Colts defense limited the Chiefs to a paltry 36 yards rushing for the game and had four QB sacks. Indianapolis running back Marlon Mack rushed for 132 yards in a balanced offensive attack.
Over in London, England, the Oakland Raiders (3-2) won their second game in a row, beating the Chicago Bears, 24-21 as rookie running back Josh Jacobs (123 rushing yards) scored on a two-yard run with 1:57 remaining in the game. From there, the Oakland defense intercepted Bears QB Chase Daniel for the second time to seal the win.
The Raiders raced out to a 17-0 halftime lead as Jacobs scored on a 12-yard run and a three-yard scoring run by RB DeAndre Washington. Oakland rushed for 169 yards against the vaunted Bears defense, which also had no sacks in the loss. The Bears (3-2) did take a 21-17 lead in the third quarter as Daniel hooked up with wide receiver Allen Robinson for two scoring passes and a one-yard rushing TD by rookie RB David Montgomery.
The Houston Texans (3-2) buried the hapless Atlanta Falcons, 53-32 as QB Deshaun Watson (pictured below), the Heftyinfo NFL Player of the Week, passed for 426 yards and five touchdowns to lead the rout.

Watson hooked up with WR Will Fuller (14 receptions for 217 yards) for three touchdowns and also had two scoring passes to tight end Darren Fells. The Texans outscored Atlanta (1-4) by a 37-15 count in the second half as they gained 592 yards in total offense, including 166 yards on the ground.
The Green Bay Packers (4-1) went into Dallas and hammered the Cowboys, 34-24 as RB Aaron Jones scored four rushing touchdowns and gained 107 yards on the ground and also caught seven passes for 75 more yards to lead the way. It was the second straight loss for Dallas (3-2) as QB Dak Prescott (463 passing yards) threw three interceptions in the loss.
In the Thursday night game, the Seattle Seahawks rallied back against the visiting Los Angeles Rams, 30-29 to improve to 4-1 this season. It was the Rams second straight loss following a 3-0 start this season.
Seattle QB Russell Wilson (268 passing yards) had four TD passes, including the game deciding five-yard scoring pass to RB Chris Carson (118 yards rushing) late in the fourth quarter. Rams QB Jared Goff passed for 395 yards with one TD pass and one interception in defeat.
The Baltimore Ravens (3-2) beat the host Pittsburgh Steelers, 26-23 in overtime as kicker Justin Tucker kicked his fourth field goal of the game (a 46-yarder) to win it. The Steelers (1-4) had taken a 23-20 lead in the fourth quarter when RB James Conner scored on a one-yard run.
But Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (161 passing yards with one TD and three INT) led the drive to get into field goal range and Tucker connected from 48 yards with ten seconds left in regulation. Steelers starting QB Mason Rudolph left the game with a concussion.


                                                  Elsewhere Around the NFL  . . . . . . . .


The Carolina Panthers won a 34-27 home game thriller against Jacksonville (2-3) as RB Christian McCaffrey scored two rushing TD, including an 84-yard scoring run and also caught a TD pass while running for 176 yards. Carolina (3-2) rushed for 285 yards against the Jaguars defense. Jags QB Gardner Minshew had 374 yards passing and two TD in the loss . . .  The New Orleans Saints held off the visiting Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 31-24 as QB Teddy Bridgewater had four TD passes (two to WR Michael Thomas) and 314 passing yards as the Saints (4-1) rolled up 457 total yards . . .  The New England Patriots (5-0) crushed the host Washington Redskins, 33-7 as QB Tom Brady threw for three touchdowns. The Redskins (0-5) fired Head Coach Jay Gruden following the loss . . .  The Philadelphia Eagles improved to 3-2 as they pasted the visiting New York Jets, 31-6 in a dominating way. The Eagles defense had TEN quarterback sacks and scored twice (fumble return and "pick six" interception) while holding the Jets (0-4) to just 128 yards in total offense . . .  The Minnesota Vikings (3-2) won on the road, 28-10 against the New York Giants (2-3) as kicker Dan Bailey made four field goals and QB Kirk Cousins threw two scoring passes to WR Adam Thielen (130 receiving yards) and running back Dalvin Cook rushed for 132 yards in a balanced offensive attack (211 rush yards, 279 passing yards) for the Vikings . . .  In a defensive struggle, the Buffalo Bills (4-1) won at Tennessee, 14-7 as QB Josh Allen had two TD passes while Titans kicker Cairo Santos missed four field goals and was cut following the loss as the Titans dropped to 2-3 . . .  The Arizona Cardinals (1-3-1) won their first game this season as they beat the host Cincinnati Bengals, 26-23 as kicker Zane Gonzalez (4-for-5 on field goal attempts) made a 31-yard boot as time expired. The Bengals (0-5) rallied back from a 23-9 fourth quarter deficit on two TD passes by QB Andy Dalton . . .  The Denver Broncos (1-4) took it to the host Los Angeles Chargers, 20-13 to earn their first win this season as Phillip Lindsay (114 rushing yards) scored a rushing TD and QB Joe Flacco hit WR Courtland Sutton for a 70-yard scoring pass to build a 17-0 halftime lead. The Chargers (2-3) managed only 35 yards rushing and QB Philip Rivers was picked off twice, including an end zone interception as the only L.A. touchdown came on a 68-yard punt return by Desmond King . . .  In the Monday Night Football game, the San Francisco 49ers (4-0) scored on their first play from scrimmage when RB Matt Breida went 83 yards for the touchdown and never looked back as they crushed the visiting Cleveland Browns, 31-3. The 49ers rushed for 275 yards in the game and QB Jimmy Garoppolo threw two TD passes to pace the rout.


Week Five Results
Seattle 30, LA Rams 29
Oakland 24, Chicago 21
Minnesota 28, NY Giants 10
Philadelphia 31, NY Jets 6
New England 33, Washington 7
Baltimore 26, Pittsburgh 23 (OT)
Arizona 26, Cincinnati 23
Houston 53, Atlanta 32
Carolina 34, Jacksonville 27
Buffalo 14, Tennessee 7
New Orleans 31, Tampa Bay 24
Denver 20, LA Chargers 13
Green Bay 34, Dallas 24
Indianapolis 19, Kansas City 13 
San Francisco 31, Cleveland 3 

College Football Top Ten

Heftyinfo College Football Top Ten                           (Week ending October 6)     

1.  Clemson (5-0)
2.  Alabama (5-0)
3.  Georgia (5-0)
4.  Oklahoma (5-0)
5.  LSU (5-0)
6.  Ohio State (6-0)
7.  Florida (6-0)
8.  Wisconsin (5-0)
9.  Penn State (5-0)
10.  Notre Dame (4-1)

NFL - Week Five Preview

It's October and on to Week Five around the NFL and the Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams got things going on Thursday night. The Seahawks rallied for a thrilling 30-29 win in Seattle to move to 4-1 while the Rams slipped to 3-2 and third place in the NFC West division.
This Sunday, the Chicago Bears and Oakland Raiders will play the first of the four games over in London, England. The Bears are 3-1 while the Raiders are off to a 2-2 start and are coming off an upset road win against the Indianapolis Colts last week.
The Bears defense is among the best in pro football and will be a real test for Raiders quarterback Derek Carr and rookie running back Josh Jacobs, who is averaging five yards per carry. The Chicago offense has struggled through the first four games, averaging just 16.5 points per game. Chase Daniel will start at QB again as starter Mitch Trubisky suffered a dislocated left (non throwing) shoulder injury last Sunday.
The Baltimore Ravens (2-2) travel to face the Pittsburgh Steelers (1-3), who finally won their first game of the 2019 season last Monday night, a 27-3 trouncing of the visiting Cincinnati Bengals. The Ravens were blown out at home by the Cleveland Browns, 40-25 as their defense was obliterated by running back Nick Chubb for 165 rushing yards and three touchdowns. These two teams dislike each other and it should be a hard hitting affair as in years past.
The New Orleans Saints (3-1) will host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-2) on Sunday afternoon. The Saints defense dominated the Dallas Cowboys last Sunday night in a 12-10 win. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay offense gained 464 yards in a 55-40 rout of the host L.A. Rams as QB Jameis Winston threw four TD passes. The Saints defense will look to limit the Bucs QB this week and they will look to QB Teddy Bridgewater once again to lead the offense as Drew Brees continues to sit out with the thumb injury suffered back in Week Two.
The Green Bay Packers (3-1) travel to face the 3-1 Dallas Cowboys and both of these teams suffered their first defeat of the season in Week Four action. The Cowboys offense had been rolling along until the New Orleans Saints held them in check last Sunday night, limiting QB Dak Prescott to no touchdown passes and running back Ezekiel Elliott to only 35 yards rushing.
Meanwhile, Packers QB Aaron Rodgers had a decent game in defeat against Philadelphia, but the Green Bay defense, which had been stellar in the first three games, struggled against the Eagles in a 34-27 loss at Lambeau Field.
The unbeaten Kansas City Chiefs (4-0) will host the Indianapolis Colts (2-2) in the Sunday night game. Kansas City survived a 34-30 victory in Detroit last Sunday, but for the first time in a long time, QB Patrick Mahomes didn't have a scoring pass. The Colts lost at home against Oakland, even though QB Jacoby Brissett had three TD passes.
This game could be a very high scoring one as Kansas City has been averaging 33.7 points per game so far this season while giving up 23.5 points a game. The Colts have averaged 23.5 ppg and have yielded 102 points in four games (25.5 ppg allowed average) so far in the 2019 season.

The rest of the games for Week Five are featured in the capsule style previews, followed up by the Heftyinfo picks for all the action.

New England (4-0) at Washington (0-4) - On any given Sunday it has been said through the years . . . yeah right. Patriots roll big time in this one.

Buffalo (3-1) at Tennessee (2-2) - Two teams looking to keep some early season momentum going. Take the Titans in a close one.

Baltimore (2-2) at Pittsburgh (1-3) - Can the Ravens bounce back after last weekend's debacle?

NY Jets (0-3) at Philadelphia (2-2) - Jets are coming off the bye week, but the Eagles are simply the better team.

Chicago (3-1) at Oakland (2-2) - (game being played in London) - The Bears defense should be strong enough to keep the Oakland attack in check.

Minnesota (2-2) at NY Giants (2-2) - Will Giants QB Daniel Jones suffer his first pro defeat?

Tampa Bay (2-2) at New Orleans (3-1) - This should be a good game between two divisional rivals.

Atlanta (1-3) at Houston (2-2) - What is up with the Falcons so far this season?  Texans have been up and down so far as well, so something has to give.

Arizona (0-3-1) at Cincinnati (0-4) - The stinker game of the week. Bengals rate a slight edge as the home team.

Jacksonville (2-2) at Carolina (2-2) - Two teams getting it done so far with backup quarterbacks. Toss up in this one.

Denver (0-4) at L.A. Chargers (2-2) - The Broncos surprised the Chargers in L.A. last season. But that was then and this now . . . Take the Chargers.

Green Bay (3-1) at Dallas (3-1) - This should be a high scoring game as two of the hotter quarterbacks go at it in this game.

Indianapolis (2-2) at Kansas City (4-0) - Patrick Mahomes is looking for a bounce back game, so the Colts could be in for a very long night at Arrowhead Stadium in the "prime time" game.

Cleveland (2-2) at San Francisco (3-0) - Two young upstart teams go at it on Monday Night Football. Baker Mayfield vs. Jimmy G . . . should be a great game.


The Heftyinfo predictions for Week Five  . . . . . . . .   (Home teams are listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS)

Seattle over L.A. Rams
NEW ENGLAND over Washington
Tennessee over Buffalo
Baltimore over Pittsburgh
Philadelphia over N.Y. Jets
Chicago over Oakland (in London)
Minnesota over N.Y. Giants 
New Orleans over Tampa Bay
Houston over Atlanta
Cincinnati over Arizona
Carolina over Jacksonville
L.A. Chargers over Denver
Dallas over Green Bay
Kansas City over Indianapolis
San Francisco over Cleveland


Last Week's Record -  9-6

SEASON RECORD -  40-22-1

Lock of the Week Record -  4-0