NFL - Week Eight Preview

 

The Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens go at it on Sunday in Charm City with first place in the AFC North division on the line. The Steelers are 6-0 heading into this one while the Ravens (5-1) have only lost to the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs back in Week Three. 

The Steelers are the only undefeated team left in the NFL and you know the Ravens would love to put an end to that. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson hasn't been off to the awesome start like last season, but still has ten touchdown passes to just two interceptions and has averaged just under seven yards per carry while leading his team in rushing.  

Both teams have played excellent defense through the first six games, so look for a lower scoring game unless both teams' offenses overwhelm in this game. The Steelers have averaged 30 points per game while giving up just under 20 points per game. The Ravens average 29.8 points a game and allow 17.3 points per game. Whichever team makes the big plays in the clutch and protects the football will determine the winner of this game. 

The Las Vegas Raiders (3-3) play in Cleveland this Sunday against the Browns (5-2), who are coming off an exciting win on the road at Cincinnati. In that game, QB Baker Mayfield had five touchdown passes and the team pulled out a last second win. Meanwhile, the Raiders got spanked at home against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 45-20 in what could be called a fourth quarter collapse, getting outscored by a 21-0 count. Once again, whichever team has fewer turnovers should get the win here in a tight game. 

The late window has two games featuring playoff contenders with the New Orleans Saints (4-2) playing at the Chicago Bears (5-2) in what is expected to be a very windy day with gusts expected to exceed 40 miles per hour, so that should be a definite factor in this one. The Saints rely on QB Drew Brees and the passing game and all purpose back Alvin Kamara, who has already scored seven touchdowns. The Bears rely on a tough defense as their offense has struggled so far with virtually no running game. 

The San Francisco 49ers (4-3) face the Seattle Seahawks (5-1) at Century Link Field in Seattle in what should be another nail biter that comes down to the final possession. The 'Niners have played well in the past two weeks following a stinker loss against Miami in Week Five. The Seahawks suffered their first loss this season in Arizona last Sunday night, 37-34 in overtime with QB Russell Wilson throwing three interceptions, including one in OT that gave the Cardinals the ball back for the game winning kick. 

 

The rest of the action for Week Eight is previewed in the capsule style format with the Heftyinfo picks following. 

 New England (2-4) at Buffalo (5-2) - There are some "experts" saying this game will be close . . . maybe, maybe not. Take the Bills at home in this one. 

Tennessee (5-1) at Cincinnati (1-5-1) - Both teams are coming off tough losses at home, so look for a thriller in this game. 

Las Vegas (3-3) at Cleveland (5-2) - The Raiders and the Browns playing in a meaningful game in Cleveland? That's the NFL in 2020. 

Indianapolis (4-2) at Detroit (3-3) - The Lions have been getting some breaks lately, but the Colts play real good defense and that will be the difference in this game. 

Minnesota (1-5) at Green Bay (5-1) - Packers roll again. 

N.Y. Jets (0-7) at Kansas City (6-1) - Chiefs have no excuses to not win by at least 20 points or more in this game. 

L.A. Rams (5-2) at Miami (3-3) - It's Tua time in Miami. Only problem is he is facing a solid defense with a great pass rush with the Rams. 

Pittsburgh (6-0) at Baltimore (5-1) - The NFL game of the week for sure. Ravens pull it out in a close game, perhaps in overtime. 

L.A. Chargers (2-4) at Denver (2-4) - The loser of this game will definitely be in a hole as far as playoff hopes are concerned.  Toss up. 

New Orleans (4-2) at Chicago (5-2) - The Saints blew the Bears out last season at Soldier Field, but this game will likely be much closer. 

San Francisco (4-3) at Seattle (5-1) - Cannot see Seahawks QB Russell Wilson struggling for a second consecutive game, so take the 'Hawks in a close one as the 49ers defense keeps them in it.

Dallas (2-5) at Philadelphia (2-4-1) - The Sunday night game featuring two teams with losing records in the battle for first place in the NFC East division. Eagles get the nod. 

Tampa Bay (5-2) at N.Y. Giants (1-6) - Monday Night Football with Tom Brady and the Bucs rolling over the hapless Giants. 

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

 

Atlanta over Carolina 

Buffalo over New England 

Tennessee over Cincinnati 

Las Vegas over Cleveland 

Indianapolis over Detroit 

Green Bay over Minnesota 

KANSAS CITY over N.Y. Jets 

L.A. Rams over Miami 

Baltimore over Pittsburgh 

L.A. Chargers over Denver 

New Orleans over Chicago 

Seattle over San Francisco 

Philadelphia over Dallas 

Tampa Bay over N.Y. Giants

Last Week's Record -  11-3 

SEASON RECORD -  71-33-1

Lock of the Week Record -  5-2 

 

 

 

 

Joe Biden Is The Obvious Choice For President

After the last four years of insanity known as the Trump Administration in the United States of America, former Vice President and U.S. Senator Joe Biden is the one for the job for President of the United States of America. 

Dodgers Win World Series

The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Tampa Bay Rays, 3-1 to win  the 2020 World Series in six games. 

See you next spring baseball fans.         

Be Angry Now, But Vote The Bums Out

We all saw this coming when U.S. Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg passed away on Friday, September 18th. 

The Republican majority led U.S. Senate rammed through Trump's candidate (Amy Coney Barrett) to the United States Supreme Court on Monday evening, just a week away from the 2020 elections.

The hypocrite known as the Senate majority leader is named Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky) and he has betrayed the citizens of the U.S.A. with his shit show for the past six years when the republicans gained control in that congressional mid-term election. We know the history of republicans these past six years with stopping former president Barack Obama's judicial nominees at all levels, including the SCOTUS in 2016 with the denial of even a hearing for Merrick Garland.

Trump has been a disaster as president and he continues to be until he is blown out of the water in the election next week. There is also the likelihood the U.S. Senate is going back to the control of the Democratic party (as the U.S. House already is) so it will be a double majority - but only if the people of this country get out and vote. 

Elections have consequences the republicans like to say when they are in charge, but when it's the other way around, they cry and whine like babies. 

Vote, vote, vote. 

The thing about the republicans is they always over reach and it always comes back to bite them in the ass. This time will be no different. We are angry and rightfully so, but just get up, get out and vote, if you haven't already done so.  

Vote -  win the elections  - and then make the changes to get it back to a democracy. 

The 2018 elections were a shot across the bow, now it's time to finish the job and get the U.S. Senate back in Democratic control and take back the presidency. America, make it be like the 2006 and 2008 elections once again. 

Be angry now, but vote the bums out. 

 

NFL - Week Seven Review

And then there was one. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-0) are the lone unbeaten team in the NFL after winning on the road, 27-24 against the Tennessee Titans (which was also unbeaten going into the game) while the Seattle Seahawks (5-1) lost their first game this season on Sunday night in Arizona. The host Cardinals defeated Seattle, 37-34 in overtime. 

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (pictured right) was intercepted three times, but also had two touchdown passes as they built up a 27-7 lead early in the second half. The Titans (5-1) battled back behind two TD passes from QB Ryan Tannehill and a scoring run by running back Derrick Henry. After getting the third pick of the game off Big Ben, the Titans drove downfield in the closing minute, but kicker Stephen Gostkowski missed the 45-yard field goal try to end the game.

 

On Sunday night, the Arizona Cardinals (5-2) beat Seattle, 37-34 in OT when kicker Zane Gonzalez (who had earlier missed from 41 yards in the OT) made a 48-yard kick to win it with 20 seconds remaining. The Cards overcame a 13-point deficit thanks in part to QB Kyler Murray, who had three TD passes and one rushing touchdown in the win. Arizona tied the game at 34-34 to force the OT session when Gonzalez drilled a 44-yard field goal. Seahawks QB Russell Wilson also threw for three scores, but was intercepted three times as well. All three of the TD passes went to wide receiver Tyler Lockett, who also had 15 receptions for 200 yards. The two teams combined for 1,091 yards in total offense.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers throttled the host Las Vegas Raiders, 45-20 to improve to 5-2 as QB Tom Brady had four touchdown passes to go along with 369 passing yards. The Raiders (3-3) trailed by just 24-20, but the Bucs scored 21 unanswered points in the fourth quarter to coast to the win. 

Green Bay improved to 5-1 with a 35-20 pasting of the Houston Texans (1-6) as QB Aaron Rodgers had four TD passes. The Packers jumped out to a 14-0 lead early in the second quarter and made it a 21-0 halftime advantage when Rodgers hooked up with WR Malik Taylor for his third scoring pass in the first half. The second half was all cruise control as the Packers got the road win. 

The Kansas City Chiefs (6-1) won on the road in snowy Denver, 43-16 on Sunday afternoon with a complete game, scoring in all facets of the game. The defense scored on a 50-yard "pick six" interception by safety Daniel Sorenson and also had a 102-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Byron Pringle. Running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire added a scoring run and QB Patrick Mahomes had a TD pass to pace the rout. The Broncos (2-4) out gained the Chiefs in total yardage, but turned the ball over four times in the loss. 

The Cleveland Browns (5-2) bounced back this week for a 37-34 road win at Cincinnati as QB Baker Mayfield had five TD passes, including the game winning 24-yard pass to rookie WR Donovan Peoples-Jones with only eleven seconds remaining in the game. It was a back and forth affair in the final quarter with five lead changes as Bengals QB Joe Burrow had 406 passing yards and three TD strikes in the loss, which dropped the Bengals to a 1-5-1 record. It was also reported just Monday morning that Browns star wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. is out for the season with a knee injury suffered during the game.

 

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

 

The Philadelphia Eagles (2-4-1) won a last second thriller against the visiting New York Giants, 22-21 on Thursday night to gain sole possession of first place in the NFC East division. Eagles QB Carson Wentz threw his second TD pass of the game to RB Boston Scott for the game winner . . .  The Los Angeles Chargers (2-4) outlasted the visiting Jacksonville Jaguars, 39-29 to snap a four-game losing streak as QB Justin Herbert had three scoring passes along with 347 passing yards and also had a TD run to lead the way . . .  The Washington football team (2-5) toppled the Dallas Cowboys, 25-3 for a home win to snap a five-game losing streak. The Cowboys (2-5) managed a meager 142 total yards of offense while Washington used a balanced attack to get the easy win . . .  The Buffalo Bills (5-2) got six field goals by rookie kicker Tyler Bass to win on the road, 18-10 against the New York Jets (0-7), which managed just 190 yards in total offense . . .  The New Orleans Saints (4-2) won their third straight game, 27-24 against the visiting Carolina Panthers (3-4) behind a pair of TD passes and a rushing touchdown by QB Drew Brees. Saints kicker Will Lutz made two field goals in the second half to help make the difference. Panthers QB Teddy Bridgewater had two TD passes in defeat . . .  The San Francisco 49ers (4-3) crushed the host New England Patriots, 33-6 as RB Jeff Wilson scored three times on the ground while rushing for 112 yards to lead the offense. The 'Niners defense had four interceptions in the rout, which dropped the Patriots to 2-4 for the season . . .  The Detroit Lions (3-3) got an 11-yard touchdown pass from QB Matthew Stafford to tight end T.J. Hockenson on the final play for a 23-22 road win against the Atlanta Falcons (1-6) in a strange game. Trailing 16-14 and with no timeouts left for Detroit, the Falcons were looking to run down the clock for an easy field goal attempt in the final minute, but RB Todd Gurley scored his second touchdown of the game instead of falling down short of the goal line, which left enough time for the Lions to drive downfield for the winning score . . . The Los Angeles Rams (5-2) dominated the Chicago Bears, 24-10 on Monday Night Football. Rams QB Jared Goff had two TD passes and the Rams defense intercepted Bears QB Nick Foles twice and registered four sacks as the Bears dropped to 5-2 with the loss.

 

Week Seven Results 

Philadelphia 22, N.Y. Giants 21

New Orleans 27, Carolina 24

Pittsburgh 27, Tennessee 24

Detroit 23, Atlanta 22

Cleveland 37, Cincinnati 34

Washington 25, Dallas 3

Buffalo 18, N.Y. Jets 10 

Green Bay 35, Houston 20

San Francisco 33, New England 6

Tampa Bay 45, Las Vegas 20 

Kansas City 43, Denver 16

L.A. Chargers 39, Jacksonville 29  

Arizona 37, Seattle 34 (OT)

L.A. Rams 24, Chicago 10

 

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Seven Preview

After a three week delay the Pittsburgh Steelers and Tennessee Titans will finally play their game in Nashville this Sunday. Both teams are 5-0 and the Steelers have been dominating opponents with a stingy defense and balanced offense. Meanwhile, the Titans have been battering opposing defenses with All-Pro running back Derrick Henry and the timely passing from quarterback Ryan Tannehill to an array of wide receivers. 

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage on across the United States of America and the Titans have been the hardest hit team in the NFL regarding outbreaks. They have fought hard and lead the AFC South division by two games over the Indianapolis Colts (4-2) while the Steelers hold a slim edge over the Baltimore Ravens (5-1) in the rugged AFC North division. 

Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger (eleven touchdown passes, one interception) has been stellar in his return from elbow surgery and the offense has been balanced while averaging 31.2 points per game. Their defense has been allowing just 18.8 PPG so far this season and their run defense is second in the NFL, allowing just 66 yards per game. The Titans have been putting up 32.8 PPG with a running game that averages 158 yards per game. The Tennessee defense has allowed 126 points this season (25.2 PPG) while also giving up big chunks of yardage on the ground and through the air, although they do have six interceptions. 

Other games that look to be intriguing include the Seattle Seahawks- Arizona Cardinals, Tampa Bay- Las Vegas and the game between the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams in L.A. on Monday night. 

The Seahawks (5-0) lead the NFC West but the Cardinals (4-2) have been surprisingly good this season and are coming off a 38-10 dismantling of the Dallas Cowboys last Monday night. The game between these two teams was moved into the "prime time" Sunday night slot because the Tampa Bay at Las Vegas game was moved up to Sunday afternoon as a result of the Raiders team having an outbreak of COVID-19 cases. The entire starting offensive line for the Raiders either tested positive for the virus or had close contact with others who were positive. 

Seattle quarterback and MVP candidate Russell Wilson have been the "cardiac kids" this season with thrilling last minute victories happening three times already. Meanwhile, Arizona and QB Kyler Murray have been lighting it up as well with their offensive attack. No doubt, this game should go down to the wire.

The Buccaneers and Raiders will go at it in Sin City and this should be another game that could be decided in the final minutes. The Bucs (4-2) appear to be coming together on offense with Tom Brady leading the way while their defense shut down Green Bay last weekend and leads the NFL against the run, allowing a meager 64 yards per game. The Raiders (3-2) stunned the Kansas City Chiefs two weeks ago on the road and are coming off their bye week. The offense has been steady and QB Derek Carr has a 73 percent completion rate and has eleven TD passes with just one interception. 

The Bears (5-1) and Rams (4-2) will wrap things up for Week Seven on Monday Night Football. The Bears defense has been rounding into form and QB Nick Foles has done just enough with the offense to keep the team on the winning end of things. Los Angeles is still trying to prove their record is no fluke after dropping a 24-16 decision last weekend in San Francisco. The Rams wins came against the four NFC East teams. The NFC East is by far the worst division in pro football, so they have to prove they can beat a formidable foe and the Bears defense will provide the stiffest of challenges.

The rest of the games for Week Seven are featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo predictions follow up. 

 

Detroit (2-3) at Atlanta (1-5) - Two stinker teams go at it in this one. Which one will find a way to blow the game? 

Cleveland (4-2) at Cincinnati (1-4-1) - The battle of Ohio. Is it really worth fighting for? 

Green Bay (4-1) at Houston (1-5) - The Packers laid an egg last week while the Texans finally got a win after firing head coach Bill O' Brien. Toss up. 

Carolina (3-3) at New Orleans (3-2) - The Panthers have been on a magic carpet ride without star player Christian McCaffrey so far this season, but the Saints should send them crashing back to reality in this game. 

Buffalo (4-2) at N.Y. Jets (0-6) - Will the Bills lose their third consecutive game?  Not against this hapless Jets team. 

Dallas (2-4) at Washington (1-5) - The Cowboys are reeling and their defense is the worst in the NFL. The Washington team is looking to snap a five-game losing streak. 

Kansas City (5-1) at Denver (2-3) - The Chiefs have had problems with Denver in recent years, so this will be no easy task for them. 

San Francisco (3-3) at New England (2-3) - Two teams that need a victory in the worst way. This game should go down to the wire. 

Jacksonville (1-5) at L.A. Chargers (1-4) - The Chargers have been banged up on both sides of the ball, but they are due for a big win after losing four games by a combined total of just 18 points. The Jaguars are just a bad team. 

 

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

Philadelphia over N.Y. Giants 

Atlanta over Detroit 

Cleveland over Cincinnati 

Green Bay over Houston 

New Orleans over Carolina 

Buffalo over N.Y. Jets 

Dallas over Washington 

Pittsburgh over Tennessee 

Tampa Bay over Las Vegas

Kansas City over Denver 

San Francisco over New England 

L.A. CHARGERS over Jacksonville

Arizona over Seattle 

Chicago over L.A. Rams 

Last Week's Record -  10-4 

SEASON RECORD -  60-30-1 

Lock of the Week Record -  4-2 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Six Review

 

The Tampa Bay defense dominated Aaron Rodgers and the Packers in big win

The big showdown between quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady turned out to be a big dud.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-2) routed the Green Bay Packers, 38-10 handing the Packers (4-1) their first loss this season as Brady had two touchdown passes and the Bucs defense intercepted Rodgers twice, including a "pick six" that got them back into the game after falling behind 10-0 in the second quarter. The Tampa Bay defense also had five quarterback sacks and limited the Packers to just 201 yards in total offense. Bucs running back Ronald Jones rushed for 113 yards and scored twice to help pace the rout. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-0) flexed their muscles and crushed the visiting Cleveland Browns, 38-7 as their defense dominated the game, sacking Cleveland QB Baker Mayfield four times, intercepting two passes (including a pick six) and limited the Browns (4-2) to 220 yards in total offense. The Steelers used a balanced offense to get the easy win and maintain first place in the AFC North. 

The Baltimore Ravens held off the host Philadelphia Eagles, 30-28 to improve to 5-1 behind a balanced offense (182 rushing, 173 passing) and a TD pass and run from QB Lamar Jackson. The Eagles fell to 1-4-1 even though they roared back from a 18-point fourth quarter deficit as QB Carson Wentz passed for two scores and rushed for another. The two-point conversion worked on two of the touchdowns but fell short to tie the game with just under two minutes remaining. 

The most exciting game of the day was in Tennessee where the Titans (5-0) beat the visiting Houston Texans, 42-36 in overtime. Titans running back Derrick Henry had a monster game, rushing for 212 yards and scoring two touchdowns, including the game winner in OT on a five-yard run. His other score was a 94-yard romp. Tennessee QB Ryan Tannehill had four TD passes to go with 364 passing yards as the Titans racked up 601 total yards in offense. Houston (1-5) held a seven-point lead when QB Deshaun Watson threw his fourth TD pass of the game with just 1:50 remaining in the fourth quarter, but the Texans defense couldn't hold as Tannehill connected with wide receiver A.J. Brown for a seven-yard touchdown with just four seconds left. 

The Kansas City Chiefs (5-1) went into Buffalo on Monday and beat the Bills, 26-17 as quarterback Patrick Mahomes had two scoring passes to tight end Travis Kelce and running back Darrel Williams scored a rushing touchdown while rookie RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire rushed for 161 yards to pace the offense. The Bills (4-2) dropped their second straight game as the Chiefs outgained them by 466-206 in total offense. 

 

 

                                                         Elsewhere Around the NFL  . . . . . . .     

 

The Chicago Bears (5-1) won at Carolina, 23-16 as their defense forced three turnovers and had four sacks to lead the way and snapped the Panthers (3-3) three-game win streak. Bears QB Nick Foles had a scoring run and a passing TD while Cairo Santos kicked three field goals to help make the difference . . .  The Indianapolis Colts (4-2) overcame an early 21-point deficit to defeat the visiting Cincinnati Bengals, 31-27 as QB Philip Rivers had three TD passes and 371 yards through the air . . .  The Detroit Lions (2-3) blasted the host Jacksonville Jaguars, 34-16 sending the Jags (1-5) to their fifth straight defeat. Lions RB D'Andre Swift rushed for two scores and gained 116 yards to pace the win . . .  The Miami Dolphins blanked the hapless New York Jets (0-6) in a 24-0 win to even their own record at 3-3 behind three TD passes from QB Ryan Fitzpatrick . . .  The Atlanta Falcons (1-5) won their first game of the season, 40-23 in Minnesota behind four TD passes (along with 371 passing yards) from QB Matt Ryan. The Vikings (1-5) managed just 32 rushing yards in the loss and QB Kirk Cousins was intercepted three times . . .   The New York Giants (1-5) also won their first game this season, 20-19 against the Washington football team (1-5) with linebacker Tae Crowder scoring on a 43-yard fumble return and their defense stopping Washington on a two-point conversion attempt with 36 seconds remaining in regulation time . . .  The Denver Broncos (2-3) surprised the host New England Patriots, 18-12 behind six field goals by kicker Brandon McManus (including two of them from beyond 50 yards) and a defensive effort that had four sacks and three turnovers. Cam Newton scored a rushing touchdown in his return as starting QB, but also threw two interceptions for the Patriots (2-3) after missing a game due to the being on the COVID-19 IR list . . .  In the Sunday night game the San Francisco 49ers (3-3) snapped a two-game losing streak with a 24-16 home win against the Los Angeles Rams (4-2) with QB Jimmy Garoppolo throwing for three touchdowns and 268 yards while leading a balanced offense that controlled the football for nearly 38 minutes. Rams QB Jared Goff had two scoring passes in defeat . . .  In the Monday night game, it was all Arizona Cardinals (4-2) as they routed the host Dallas Cowboys, 38-10 behind two TD passes and a scoring run by QB Kyler Murray. One of the scoring passes was an 80-yard strike to WR Christian Kirk, who had both TD throws from Murray in the win. Cardinals running back Kenyan Drake scored two rushing touchdowns (including a 69-yard run in the final two minutes of the game) and went for 164 yards while Murray added another 74 yards to the ground attack. Dallas turned the ball over four times (two fumbles, two INT) as they slipped to 2-4 this season.

 

Week Six Results 

Chicago 23, Carolina 16

Pittsburgh 38, Cleveland 7

Baltimore 30, Philadelphia 28

N.Y. Giants 20, Washington 19

Indianapolis 31, Cincinnati 27

Atlanta 40, Minnesota 23

Denver 18, New England 12

Tennessee 42, Houston 36 (OT)

Detroit 34, Jacksonville 16

Miami 24, N.Y. Jets 0 

Tampa Bay 38, Green Bay 10 

San Francisco 24, L.A. Rams 16 

Kansas City 26, Buffalo 17 

Arizona 38, Dallas 10

 

 

 

NFL - Week Six Preview

 As the NFL rolls into Week Six, it's pretty much the same narrative as the COVID-19 virus has done it again with possible interruptions to the league schedule. It is still pending as to whether the Atlanta Falcons will play against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, although the game is still getting the green light as of today. The Falcons had some positive tests and so did the Indianapolis Colts just this morning it was being reported. 

The Colts are supposed to be hosting the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday afternoon as well, but that game could be put on hold and moved to another day or perhaps a different week later on this season, much the same as was the game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Tennessee Titans about two weeks ago. Needless to say, it has been a mess that keeps going week after week with this pandemic. 

The NFL is doing whatever they can to keep continuity for the schedule, but it's obvious that the virus is here to stay until this country puts forth a real effort to get it under real control. Who knows if that will ever happen? 

As far as the games that are scheduled to go this weekend, the one between the Buffalo Bills (4-1) and Kansas City Chiefs (in Buffalo) is definitely one to look forward to. Kansas City is also 4-1 and just signed running back Le'Veon Bell (who was cut loose by the New York Jets) so he might not be ready to play this weekend, but he is definitely an asset for the Chiefs already high powered offensive attack. The Bills were blown out last Tuesday night in Tennessee for their first loss, so they are looking to get back in gear after that setback. 

That game will be one of two Monday night games once again due to schedule adjustments which also put the Los Angeles Chargers into a bye this week rather than having their home game against the Jets as originally scheduled. Other teams with the bye this weekend include the Las Vegas Raiders, New Orleans Saints and Seattle Seahawks. The original scheduled Monday night game between the Arizona Cardinals (3-2) and Dallas Cowboys (2-3) is also on the slate for "prime time" viewing. 

The Cleveland Browns (4-1) at the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-0) will be a big game in the AFC North division and also the games between the Green Bay Packers (4-0) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2) and Los Angeles Rams (4-1) at San Francisco 49ers (2-3) should be as well. 

The Rams and 'Niners go at it in the Sunday night game and San Francisco really needs a win in this one as they have fallen three full games behind the NFC West leading Seattle Seahawks (5-0) while the Rams have beaten up the NFC East teams for their four wins. The NFC East is by far the worst division in pro football, so the Rams are looking to show their win-loss record to date is no fluke. 

As for the Browns and Steelers game, both of these teams do not care for each other and it could be interesting to see if the dust up between Browns' defensive star Myles Garrett and (Steelers reserve quarterback) Mason Rudolph will be rehashed from last year when Garrett clobbered Rudolph over the head with his own helmet during a skirmish late in the game. Both of these teams, along with the Baltimore Ravens (4-1) are battling for the top of the AFC North division lead. 

The game between the Packers and Buccaneers is being touted as the battle between two legendary quarterbacks as Aaron Rodgers (13 touchdown passes and zero interceptions through four games) and Tom Brady (12 TD and four INT through five games) will go at it. The Bucs have a stellar defense and are giving up just 54 rushing yards per game. Green Bay running back Aaron Jones is fifth in the NFL in rushing yardage so far this year with 374 yards with a 5.8 yards per carry average and four touchdowns. This one should go down to the wire.

All in all if everything goes as planned in Week Six, NFL fans should be in for a real treat. So here goes nothing as Heftyinfo again tries to pick the winners for this weekend's action. The following is a capsule style preview of the games and the predictions follow up. 

 

Chicago (4-1) at Carolina (3-2) - Two teams getting absolutely no respect for their winning records go at it in this tilt. Toss up in this one. 

Denver (1-3) at New England (2-2) - This game was to have taken place last week but the COVID-19 virus had its way instead. Take the Patriots. 

Cincinnati (1-3-1) at Indianapolis (3-2) - The Colts should this one, but they have to limit the turnovers. Are you listening (QB) Philip Rivers? 

Detroit (1-3) at Jacksonville (1-4) - Who cares? 

Atlanta (0-5) at Minnesota (1-4) - Another stinker game, but the Falcons did just fire their head coach so who knows what to expect. 

Washington (1-4) at N.Y. Giants (0-5) - Third stinker game of the week . . .  take the Giants. 

Baltimore (4-1) at Philadelphia (1-3-1) - The Eagles have been up and down so far this season while the Ravens have been steady. This game could go down to the wire because the Eagles really need to win. 

Cleveland (4-1) at Pittsburgh (4-0) - This one could be a real shootout and might come down to the last possession. Steelers in a tight one. 

Houston (1-4) at Tennessee (4-0) - Must win for the visiting Texans if they want to have any chance in the AFC South this year. Titans have been getting it done despite their difficulties with the virus. 

N.Y. Jets (0-5) at Miami (2-3) - Dolphins QB Ryan Fitzpatrick put on a show last week in big road win at San Francisco so beware of a letdown against the lowly Jets, but Miami should win this one. 

Green Bay (4-0) at Tampa Bay (3-2) - Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady . . .  enough said. 

L.A. Rams (4-1) at San Francisco (2-3) - 49ers need this one and the Rams are looking to prove they're for real. Toss up.

Kansas City (4-1) at Buffalo (4-1) - This is definitely the better of the two Monday games. Toss up. 

Arizona (3-2) at Dallas (2-3) - The Andy Dalton era begins in Dallas after the season ending injury to starting QB Dak Prescott. Which version will the Cowboys get? . . .  The "Red Rifle" or the Red Ryder BB gun? 

 

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

 

Chicago over Carolina 

NEW ENGLAND over Denver 

Indianapolis over Cincinnati 

Detroit over Jacksonville 

Minnesota over Atlanta 

N.Y. Giants over Washington 

Baltimore over Philadelphia 

Pittsburgh over Cleveland 

Tennessee over Houston 

Miami over N.Y. Jets 

Tampa Bay over Green Bay 

San Francisco over L.A. Rams 

Buffalo over Kansas City 

Dallas over Arizona 

Last Week's Record -  9-5

SEASON RECORD -  50-26-1

Lock of the Week Record -  4-1

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Five Review

Raiders QB Derek Carr (right) celebrates big win over the Chiefs.

The Las Vegas Raiders went into Kansas City and hammered the Chiefs, 40-32 as they improved to 3-2 while Kansas City (4-1) suffered their first loss this season. Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (347 passing yards) threw for three touchdowns while the team racked up 490 yards in total offense. Kansas City QB Patrick Mahomes had two TD passes and a rushing score while being sacked three times and throwing his first interception this season in the loss.

The Cleveland Browns outlasted the Indianapolis Colts, 32-23 for a home win to improve to 4-1 for the first time in 26 years while the Colts fell to 3-2. Browns QB Baker Mayfield had two TD passes (along with two INT) to lead the offense while Ronnie Harrison took an interception back 47 yards for another score. Colts QB Philip Rivers was intercepted twice in defeat.

Dallas (2-3) beat the visiting New York Giants, 37-34 but lost starting quarterback Dak Prescott to a severe ankle injury that will keep him out for the rest of the season. Andy Dalton took over for Prescott and led the Cowboys final drives in the second half, including the winning drive that resulted in the 34-yard field goal by Greg Zuerlein to win it as time expired. Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott scored twice on the ground and the Dallas defense scored on a fumble recovery as well. The Giants dropped to 0-5 with the loss.

The Seattle Seahawks (5-0) pulled out a 27-26 victory at home in the Sunday night game against Minnesota as QB Russell Wilson completed a six-yard TD pass, his third of the game, to wide receiver DK Metcalf (six receptions for 93 yards and two TD) with 15 seconds remaining in the game. Minnesota (1-4) squandered a 13-point first half lead as the Seahawks scored 21 straight points in a span of 1:53 in the third quarter. The Vikings took the lead back on a pair of scoring passes by QB Kirk Cousins to WR Adam Thielen. Minnesota bypassed a chip shot field in the final two minutes but were stopped by the Seattle defense, setting up the game winning 94-yard drive by Wilson and company.

On Thursday night, the host Chicago Bears (4-1) beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 20-19 as the defense sacked Bucs QB Tom Brady three times. Bears QB Nick Foles had a TD pass and RB David Montgomery scored a rushing touchdown while kicker Cairo Santos made two field goals, including the game-winner from 38 yards late in the fourth quarter. Kicker Ryan Succop made four field goals in the loss, which snapped the Buccaneers (3-2) three game win streak.  

The New Orleans Saints (3-2) won a 30-27 overtime thriller in the Monday night game against the Los Angeles Chargers (1-4) when Will Lutz made his third field goal of the game from 36 yards out and then the Saints defense made the stop on fourth-and-seven at midfield to end the game. Saints QB Drew Brees had 325 passing yards with one TD pass and one interception and also scored on a one-yard run while Taysom Hill ran nine yards for a touchdown to tie the game at 27-27 with just under one minute remaining in the fourth quarter. Chargers kicker Mike Badgley's 50-yard field goal attempt hit the right upright as time ran out to force the overtime. Chargers QB Justin Herbert had four touchdown passes in the loss, two of them going to WR Mike Williams as they dropped their fourth straight game.

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

The Baltimore Ravens (4-1) rolled over the visiting Cincinnati Bengals, 27-3 behind a pair of TD passes from QB Lamar Jackson and a 53-yard fumble return for score by linebacker Patrick Queen. Cincy QB Joe Burrow was sacked seven times and had two turnovers (one INT, one fumble) as the Bengals (1-3-1) managed just 205 total yards . . .  The Los Angeles Rams (4-1) completed a sweep of the NFC East division as they toppled host Washington, 30-10. The Rams defense registered eight QB Sacks (four by Aaron Donald) and held Washington (1-4) to 108 yards in total offense. Rams RB Darrell Henderson had two touchdowns, including an 11-yard scoring pass from QB Jared Goff (two pass TD) to seal the win. Washington Quarterback Alex Smith played for the first time in  nearly two years in the game. Smith had been out of action after a terrible leg injury during the 2018 season  . . .  The Houston Texans (1-4) beat the visiting Jacksonville Jaguars, 30-14 to get their first win this season as the defense had four sacks and also two fumble recoveries while QB Deshaun Watson had three TD passes to lead the offense.

Jacksonville (1-4) lost their fourth consecutive game  . . .  The Miami Dolphins (2-3) smashed the host San Francisco 49ers, 43-17 behind three touchdown passes from QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (pictured right) and five field goals by kicker Jason Sanders. San Francisco fell to 2-3 as they allowed five QB sacks and starting QB Jimmy Garoppolo (only 77 passing yards and two INT) was benched in his first game back from injury since Week Two . . .  The Arizona Cardinals (3-2) snapped a two-game losing streak with a 30-10 trouncing of the host New York Jets (0-5) as QB Kyler Murray scored on a rushing touchdown and also threw a 37-yard scoring pass to WR DeAndre Hopkins . . .  The Pittsburgh Steelers improved to 4-0 as WR Chase Claypool scored four touchdowns, including one rushing score, in a 38-29 shootout win over the Philadelphia Eagles (1-3-1). Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger had three TD passes in the win and Eagles running back Miles Sanders scored twice, including a 74-yard TD run while QB Carson Wentz had a pair of scoring passes, but was also sacked five times . . .  The Carolina Panthers won their third straight game as they knocked off the host Atlanta Falcons, 23-16 to improve to 3-2 this season. Panthers QB Teddy Bridgewater had two TD passes to pace the win. Falcons RB Todd Gurley rushed for 121 yards and scored on a 35-yard run in defeat. Atlanta (0-5) fired Head Coach Dan Quinn following the game . . .  The Tennessee Titans rolled past the Buffalo Bills, 42-16 on Tuesday night to go to 4-0 as QB Ryan Tannehill had three TD passes and rushed for another score and RB Derrick Henry scored two rushing touchdowns to lead the way. Josh Allen had two TD passes and two interceptions for the Bills (4-1), who committed three turnovers in the loss.

Week Five Results 

Chicago 20, Tampa Bay 19 

Las Vegas 40, Kansas City 32

Carolina 23, Atlanta 16

Baltimore 27, Cincinnati 3 

Houston 30, Jacksonville 14

Arizona 30, N.Y. Jets 10 

Pittsburgh 38, Philadelphia 29 

L.A. Rams 30, Washington 10 

Miami 43, San Francisco 17 

Cleveland 32, Indianapolis 23

Dallas 37,  N.Y. Giants 34

Seattle 27, Minnesota 26  

New Orleans 30, L.A. Chargers 27 (OT) 

Tennessee 42, Buffalo 16

Denver at New England - game postponed until Week Six

 

Los Angeles Lakers Win NBA Championship

It's finally over folks.

The Los Angeles Lakers won the NBA title, their 17th overall, in six games with a 106-93 victory over the Miami Heat. 

See you all next season.

NFL - Week Five Preview

There are 15 games on the NFL schedule this weekend, but who knows if they all will go on as scheduled as the COVID-19 virus rages on in the United States of America. The Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions have the scheduled bye week this time around but they could be joined by other teams.

Already the New England Patriots (another positive COVID-19 test was reported in recent days) home game with the Denver Broncos has been moved back from Sunday to Monday evening while the Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans will now play on Tuesday night in Nashville. The Titans continue to have problems with the outbreak on their team. (Note- As of Sunday, October 11 the Denver at New England game has been canceled indefinitely due to COVID-19 with Patriots team)

The top games include the Bills-Titans tilt as well as the Las Vegas Raiders playing against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Cleveland Browns host the Indianapolis Colts and both of those teams are 3-1 so far this season. The originally scheduled Monday Night Football game is the Los Angeles Chargers (1-3) at the New Orleans Saints (2-2) but who knows if that game could be moved due to Hurricane Delta that is ready to slam Louisiana. 

2020 just won't stop with the nastiness. 

Anyway, the Chicago Bears defeated the visiting Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 20-19 on Thursday night to get Week Five started, so we football fans have that going for us. The scheduled games for Week Five are previewed in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks follow up. 

Carolina (2-2) at Atlanta (0-4) - The Falcons are due for a win. 

Cincinnati (1-2-1) at Baltimore (3-1) - Take the Ravens. 

Jacksonville (1-3) at Houston (0-4) - The Texans shook things up this week with coaching change. Jags have dropped three straight games. 

Las Vegas (2-2) at Kansas City (4-0) - The Chiefs are keeping their fingers crossed that star quarterback Patrick Mahomes doesn't test positive for COVID-19 after coming in contact with Stephon Gilmore (Patriots DB) last week. 

Arizona (2-2) at N.Y. Jets (0-4) - The Jets are going with Joe Flacco at quarterback in this game, if it is even played.

Philadelphia (1-2-1) at Pittsburgh (3-0) - The Steelers are back at it after an unscheduled week off. Eagles finally got a win last week. 

L.A. Rams (3-1) at Washington (1-3) - The Washington football team is making a change at quarterback. The Rams should win this one. 

Miami (1-3) at San Francisco (2-2) - The 49ers are trying to stay healthy as they face "Fitz Magic" this week. 

Indianapolis (3-1) at Cleveland (3-1) - This could very well be the most exciting game of the week. Colts win in a squeaker. 

N.Y. Giants (0-4) at Dallas (1-3) - The Cowboys have been the biggest under achievers in the NFL so far this season. 

Minnesota (1-3) at Seattle (4-0) - The Seahawks better be ready because the Vikings are already in a tough spot this season. 

L.A. Chargers (1-3) at New Orleans (2-2) - Saints should win this Monday night game, but the Chargers have been in every game they lost so far this season.

Buffalo (4-0) at Tennessee (3-0) -  Tuesday Night Football  . . .  Who knows if this game will even get played? Titans are a mess and need to get it together with the COVID-19 outbreaks. 

 

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

Chicago over Tampa Bay 

Atlanta over Carolina 

BALTIMORE over Cincinnati 

Houston over Jacksonville 

Kansas City over Las Vegas 

Arizona over N.Y. Jets

Pittsburgh over Philadelphia 

L.A. Rams over Washington 

San Francisco over Miami 

Indianapolis over Cleveland 

Dallas over N.Y. Giants 

Seattle over Minnesota 

New Orleans over L.A. Chargers

Buffalo over Tennessee 

 

Last Week's Record -  10-5

SEASON RECORD -  41-21-1

Lock of the Week Record -  3-1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Four Review

 The Cleveland Browns (3-1) went into Dallas on Sunday afternoon and blasted the Dallas Cowboys in a 49-38 victory as they rushed for 307 yards in the game. Wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. scored three

OBJ scores clinching TD against Dallas.

touchdowns, including one of them on a 50-yard run to seal the win late in the fourth quarter. Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott passed for 502 yards and four touchdowns but the Cowboys (1-3) had three turnovers in the loss. 

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers won their third straight game, 38-31 over the visiting Los Angeles Chargers (1-3) by overcoming a 17-point deficit as QB Tom Brady had five touchdown passes. Brady overcame his own pick-six interception in the first half as he passed for 369 yards. Chargers QB Justin Herbert had three scoring passes with one interception in the loss. The Chargers lost top running back Austin Ekeler to a hamstring injury in the first half. 

Buffalo improved to 4-0 as they toppled the host Las Vegas Raiders, 30-23 behind a rushing touchdown and two TD passes from QB Josh Allen. The Raiders (2-2) had two turnovers while QB Derek Carr threw a pair of TD passes in defeat. 

The Baltimore Ravens (3-1) bounced back from a rough loss last Monday night as they beat down the host Washington (1-3) football team, 31-17 with QB Lamar Jackson scoring a 50-yard rushing touchdown and also throwing for two more scores to lead the way.  

The Kansas City Chiefs beat the New England Patriots, 26-10 on Monday night to go to 4-0 this season as QB Patrick Mahomes had a pair of touchdown passes and safety Tyrann Mathieu took back an interception 25 yards for a score. The Chiefs defense intercepted three passes while the Patriots (2-2) went with two different quarterbacks in the loss because starter Cam Newton was out due to testing positive for COVID-19 over the weekend.

 

                                                      Elsewhere Around the NFL  . . . . . . .   

 

The Indianapolis Colts (3-1) beat the Chicago Bears, 19-11 with QB Philip Rivers throwing a TD pass and Rodrigo Blankenship kicking four field goals to lead the way . . .  The New Orleans Saints (2-2) overcame a slow start to beat the host Detroit Lions, 35-29 as QB Drew Brees threw a pair of scoring passes and running back Latavius Murray getting two rushing touchdowns. Lions QB Matthew Stafford had three TD passes as they fell to 1-3 with the loss . . .  The Carolina Panthers (2-2) beat the visiting Arizona Cardinals, 31-21 behind a balanced offense (444 yards with 168 rushing and 276 passing) and two passing touchdowns and a rushing TD from QB Teddy Bridgewater. The Panthers defense limited the Cards (2-2) to just 262 yards in total offense even with QB Kyler Murray throwing for three scores . . .  The Los Angeles Rams (3-1) won a yawner game at home, 17-9 against the winless New York Giants as neither team could muster even 300 yards in offense . . .  Cincinnati (1-2-1) won at home against Jacksonville, 33-25 as rookie QB Joe Burrow had a scoring pass and RB Joe Mixon rushed for 151 yards and scored three times (two rush TD and one receiving) while Randy Bullock kicked four field goals . . .  The Minnesota Vikings (1-3) won their first game this season as they beat the host Houston Texans, 31-23 with RB Dalvin Cook (130 rushing yards) scoring twice on the ground. The Texans (0-4) saw a late TD pass overturned on review on fourth down as wide receiver Will Fuller couldn't hold onto the ball as he went out of bounds in the end zone . . .  The Seattle Seahawks (4-0) remained undefeated as they topped the stubborn Miami Dolphins (1-3) on the road, 31-23 with QB Russell Wilson getting two TD passes and RB Chris Carson getting a pair of rushing touchdowns . . .  In the Thursday night game, the Denver Broncos (1-3) beat the New York Jets, 37-28 on the road as QB Brett Rypien had three TD passes and RB Melvin Gordon (107 rushing yards) scored two rushing touchdowns. The Jets (0-4) only had one score on offense in the loss as they had a defensive score and five field goals . . . The Philadelphia Eagles (1-2-1) won at San Francisco, 25-20 on Sunday night as QB Carson Wentz had a TD pass along with an 11-yard TD run and linebacker Alex Singleton took an interception back 30 yards for the clinching score. 49ers QB Nick Mullens threw two interceptions as the replacement for injured starter Jimmy Garoppolo before being replaced following the pick six throw as they fell to 2-2 this season . . .  In the Monday Night Football game, Green Bay (4-0) knocked off the visiting Atlanta Falcons, 30-16 as QB Aaron Rodgers had 327 passing yards and four TD passes, with three of them going to tight end Robert Tonyan. The Falcons slipped to 0-4 with the loss.

 

Week Four Results

Denver 37, N.Y. Jets 28 

Cincinnati 33, Jacksonville 25

Baltimore 31, Washington 17

Tampa Bay 38, L.A. Chargers 31

New Orleans 35, Detroit 29

Cleveland 49, Dallas 38

Minnesota 31, Houston 23

Carolina 31, Arizona 21

Seattle 31, Miami 23

Indianapolis 19, Chicago 11

L.A. Rams 17, N.Y. Giants 9

Buffalo 30, Las Vegas 23 

Philadelphia 25, San Francisco 20

Kansas City 26, New England 10

Green Bay 30, Atlanta 16

Pittsburgh at Tennessee - game postponed until Week Seven

 

 

Is It Real Or Just A Hoax?

It was announced that President Trump and his wife Melania both tested positive for the COVID-19 virus and since then a slew of big time republican operatives and U.S. Senators have also been identified as positive for it. 

Sad part is it didn't have to be this way. Just like with the coronavirus pandemic that hit the United States late last winter, it didn't have to be this way at all. 

 

 

Keeping this short and sweet because Trump really goofed back then and he and his cohorts continue to goof on this shitty virus called COVID-19. He said back in March (it was Friday the 13th to be exact) that he took no responsibility at all for the fact the virus hit our shores and he did nothing to stop the influx and later admitted he downplayed it all and continues to do so. But this time he got caught by the COVID-19 virus and is at Walter Reed Hospital for treatment for his symptoms. 

Fact is the 74-year-old Trump through his own sheer negligence got the virus, mostly by not wearing a mask and also by holding those super spreader events (campaign rallies, RNC at the White House, introduction of a SCOTUS nominee, etc.) because his own ego won't allow things to just be simple. 

You know - KISS - Keep It Simple Stupid. 

The call here is that Trump gets well pretty quick and goes right back to being his old ass cranky, miserable self and picks up right where he left off with the rallies and name calling and blame game crap he is known for.

He takes no responsibility. 

Well Mr. President, you try telling that to the families and loved ones of the near 210,000 dead Americans because of the COVID-19 virus that YOU take no responsibility for. After all, it is what it is to use your own words regarding the departed people because of this shitty virus.  

Some call it KARMA, but I say this - you don't tempt God Mr. President and you and all of your staff and cohorts have been doing just that since this virus became known to the people of this country. 

In the infamous words of Joe Wilson - You Lie!

And it is because of those numerous lies Trump has told these past four years he has been president that so many people are skeptical of his even having the virus. Some people are going with the conspiracy theories that Trump is doing this whole thing to get out of the hot water he's in over his tax (cheating) situation that could land him in jail following the election. He knows he's done as far that goes and the republicans are doing all they can to suppress the vote in key swing states that they are currently controlling.

But God has plans and all of our petty plans as human beings don't matter and only now is Trump finding that out the hard way. Americans remember what has happened since last March and even if he is able to continue in the election process, it's just a matter of time before the phrase "former President Trump" will be uttered by the many people in this land we call the United States of America. 

Good Luck. 

And just remember, this whole thing (in Trump's own words) is just a big hoax.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Four Preview

It's Week Four around the NFL and there were some surprises last weekend, which led to Heftyinfo having a rough week predicting the games. For the first time since late September of the 2017 NFL season, it was a losing record for the weekly predictions as eight road teams won last weekend. So much for home cooking, but then again it does make a difference with no fans in the stadiums. 

The only game featuring two undefeated teams (3-0) this weekend would have been the Pittsburgh Steelers at the Tennessee Titans. However, the game has been canceled due to the COVID-19 virus outbreak within the Titans team. It is to be rescheduled at a later date this season. Hopefully the remaining 14 games (the Broncos and Jets played Thursday night) will go off without a hitch. But the NFL made the right call by pushing the game back to a later date and not trying to force the issue. The pandemic continues to dominate in 2020. 

The New England Patriots (2-1) play the Kansas City Chiefs (3-0) on Sunday afternoon in what looks to be the most anticipated game (since the Steelers-Titans game in canceled) of Week Four. The Chiefs blew out the Baltimore Ravens on the road last Monday night while the Patriots rolled past the visiting Las Vegas Raiders. Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been brilliant so far this season and Pats QB Cam Newton has been doing his thing, mixing the run and pass in the offense. (Note- as of Sunday, October 4, this game has been postponed until either Monday or Tuesday, Oct. 5 or 6 due to Cam Newton testing positive for COVID-19 as well as a player for the Chiefs' practice squad.)

The Indianapolis Colts (2-1) travel to face the Chicago Bears (3-0) in what should be a close game. The Bears will be going with Nick Foles at quarterback after he came off the bench last week (throwing for three TD) is a huge comeback win at Atlanta. The Colts crushed the hapless New York Jets and will bring their balanced attack featuring rookie running back Jonathan Taylor and QB Philip Rivers leading the way. 

The Buffalo Bills will be on the road, putting their 3-0 record on the line against the Las Vegas Raiders (2-1) who have been decent so far this season. The Bills blew a big lead last week against the Los Angeles Rams, but they rallied to win the game as QB Josh Allen threw a late TD pass to save the day. The Raiders feature a slew of fast wide receivers that QB Derek Carr has been using to help make the offensive attack fly high. This game could very well go down to the last possession. 

 

The games for Week Four are featured in capsule style format and the picks for all 15 games follow up. 

 

Arizona (2-1) at Carolina (1-2) - The Cardinals got a rude surprise last week in a home loss while the Panthers defense was the difference in a road win against the Chargers. 

Baltimore (2-1) at Washington (1-2) - The Ravens got a big slice of humble pie last week. Washington has been competitive so far this season. 

L.A. Chargers (1-2) at Tampa Bay (2-1) - The Buccaneers are playing well, especially on defense, while the Chargers have laid eggs in two straight games. 

Seattle (3-0) at Miami (1-2) - Russell Wilson has 14 TD passes in three games. Can Miami slow the Seahawks down?

Indianapolis (2-1) at Chicago (3-0) - Toss up in this one. 

Jacksonville (1-2) at Cincinnati (0-2-1) - The Bengals and rookie QB Joe Burrow should get their first win in this game. 

Cleveland (2-1) at Dallas (1-2) - The Cowboys are angry after letting one get away last week. Browns are over .500 for the first time in six seasons. 

New Orleans (1-2) at Detroit (1-2) - The Saints need to get it going and the Lions will not just lay down and roll over. Toss up.

Minnesota (0-3) at Houston (0-3) - Two winless teams going at it in this one. Texans should win, but one never knows in this strange year. 

N.Y. Giants (0-3) at L.A. Rams (2-1) - Rams roll !

Buffalo (3-0) at Las Vegas (2-1) - Two old rivals battle it out in new surroundings. Toss up here. 

New England (2-1) at Kansas City (3-0) - Chiefs should win, but the Patriots will likely keep things close. 

Philadelphia (0-2-1) at San Francisco (2-1) - The 49ers and their defense should prevail. 

Atlanta (0-3) at Green Bay (3-0) - The Monday night game in Lambeau Field. Packers should win without having to rally back against the Falcons, who cannot hold a big lead. 

 

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

Denver over N.Y. Jets 

Arizona over Carolina 

Baltimore over Washington 

Tampa Bay over L.A.Chargers 

Seattle over Miami 

Indianapolis over Chicago 

Cincinnati over Jacksonville 

Dallas over Cleveland 

New Orleans over Detroit 

Houston over Minnesota 

L.A. RAMS over N.Y. Giants 

Las Vegas over Buffalo 

Kansas City over New England 

San Francisco over Philadelphia 

Green Bay over Atlanta 

 

Last Week's Record - 7-8-1

SEASON RECORD - 31-16-1

Lock of the Week Record - 2-1