NFL - Week Eight Recap

Joe Burrow and the Bengals are rolling again.

What's wrong with the San Francisco 49ers? 

That seems to be the big question around the NFL these days as the 49ers (5-3) dropped their third straight game on Sunday and were manhandled by the visiting Cincinnati Bengals, 31-17. The Bengals (4-3) won for the third consecutive time as quarterback Joe Burrow passed for three touchdowns to three different players and went 28-of-32 on passing for 283 yards. Running back Joe Mixon rushed for 87 yards and scored a touchdown as well to pace the win. San Francisco QB Brock Purdy was picked off twice and San Francisco had three turnovers to seal their loss. Running back Christian McCaffrey had two touchdowns in the loss. 

 

In Denver, the Broncos (3-5) surprised the Kansas City Chiefs, 24-9 to snap a 16-game losing streak to the Chiefs (6-2) as their defense forced five turnovers, including two interceptions of K.C. quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who also lost a fumble as his team was limited to just three field goals in defeat. Broncos QB Russell Wilson threw for three scores as Denver drew away in the fourth quarter. 

The Jacksonville Jaguars (6-2) knocked off the host Pittsburgh Steelers, 20-10 with a solid defensive effort as they intercepted two passes and knocked Pittsburgh starting QB Kenny Pickett out of the game. Jags QB Trevor Lawrence threw a 56-yard TD pass to RB Travis Etienne and Brandon McManus kicked four field goals to lead the way. Pittsburgh dropped to 4-3 this season as reserve QB Mitch Trubisky threw a 22-yard TD pass to wide receiver George Pickens to trim the deficit to 17-10 with 53 seconds left in the third quarter. 

The Baltimore Ravens (6-2) won a road game at Arizona, 31-24 as QB Lamar Jackson threw a TD pass and RB Gus Edwards ran for three more scores while the Ravens defense intercepted two passes. The Cardinals (1-7) kept it close as QB Joshua Dobbs threw for two touchdowns and ran for another in defeat. 

In Washington, D.C., the host Commanders (3-5) coughed up an early 14-0 lead as they fell against the Philadelphia Eagles, 38-31. It was a back and forth game that saw the Eagles (7-1) soar to victory after trailing 17-10 at the half. Eagles QB Jalen Hurts passed for 397 yards and had four TD passes, including two to WR A.J. Brown (eight receptions for 130 yards) and RB D'Andre Swift scored a rushing touchdown in the comeback win. Washington QB Sam Howell had four TD passes as well in the loss. 

The Miami Dolphins (6-2) rolled past the visiting New England Patriots, 31-17 behind three scoring passes from QB Tua Tagovailoa (324 passing yards), including a 42-yarder to WR Tyreek Hill (eight receptions for 112 yards) and a 31-yard scoring strike to WR Jaylen Waddle, who had seven catches for 121 yards. The Patriots (2-6) only managed 216 total yards in offense as QB Mac Jones had two TD passes in the loss. 

The Seattle Seahawks (6-2) beat the Cleveland Browns, 24-20 for a home win as QB Geno Smith connected with rookie wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for a nine-yard winning TD pass with just 38 seconds remaining in the game. The Browns (4-3) got a scoring pass from QB P.J. Walker and a one-yard TD run from Kareem Hunt, but it wasn't enough. 

The Dallas Cowboys improved to 6-2 as they routed the visiting Los Angeles Rams, 43-20 with QB Dak Prescott threw for four touchdowns and DB DaRon Bland took back an interception 30 yards for another score in the easy win. The Rams fell to 3-5 as QB Matthew Stafford threw for a score along with the "pick six" interception on defeat. 

On Thursday night in Buffalo, the Bills (5-3) beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 24-18 with QB Josh Allen passing for 324 yards and two touchdowns (one INT) while also scoring on a 13-yard run. The Bucs (3-4) dropped their third game in a row as QB Baker Mayfield had two scoring passes in the loss. 

The New Orleans Saints outlasted the host Indianapolis Colts, 38-27 to get to 4-4 and a first place tie with the Atlanta Falcons in the NFC South. Saints QB Derek Carr had a pair of TD passes and RB Alvin Kamara scored twice (one rushing, one receiving) while Taysom Hill had a one-yard scoring run. The Colts (3-5) got a pair of touchdown passes from QB Gardner Minshew and a rushing TD from Zack Moss. but their defense was shredded for 511 yards in total offense by the Saints. 

 

 

The Tennessee Titans (3-4) held off the Atlanta Falcons, 28-23 to get the home win and improve to 3-4 this season as rookie QB Will Levis (pictured right) had four TD passes with three going to WR DeAndre Hopkins (four catches for 128 yards) to offset a scoring pass by QB Taylor Heinicke and scoring run by Bijan Robinson. The Falcons dropped to 4-4 for the season. 

 

The Sunday night game in Los Angeles was all Chargers (3-4) as they rolled over the Chicago Bears, 30-13 with QB Justin Herbert throwing three first half TD passes to lead the way. The Bears (2-6) got scoring runs from Tyson Bagent and Darrynton Evans in defeat. 

The Minnesota Vikings won their third straight game, 24-10 against the Green Bay Packers but lost QB Kirk Cousins for the season with a torn Achilles. The Vikings (4-4) got two TD passes from Cousins to build a 24-3 lead before Green Bay (2-5) got a TD pass from QB Jordan Love late in the third quarter, but never got any closer. 

The New York Jets rallied past the New York Giants, 13-10 in overtime as Greg Zuerlein made a 33-yard field goal to propel the Jets (4-3) to a third consecutive win. The Giants (2-6) took a 10-7 lead in the third quarter when backup QB Tommy DeVito scored on a six-yard run. The Jets tied the game on the last play of regulation on a 35-yard field goal. which followed a missed 35-yarder by Giants kicker Graham Gano. 

The Carolina Panthers (1-6) got their first win this season as they toppled the visiting Houston Texans, 15-13 on a 23-yard field goal by Eddy Pineiro as time expired. The Texans (3-4) had scoring runs from Andrew Beck and C.J. Stroud in the loss. 

In Detroit on Monday Night Football, the Lions (6-2) topped the Las Vegas Raiders, 26-14 as running back Jahmyr Gibbs ran 27 yards for a score and QB Jared Goff had a scoring pass to go with four field goals by Riley Patterson. The Raiders (3-5) managed just 157 total yards in offense with Josh Jacobs scoring a rushing touchdown and DB Marcus Peters going 75 yards for a TD on a "pick six" interception in the loss.

WEEK EIGHT RESULTS 

Buffalo 24, Tampa Bay 18 

Minnesota 24, Green Bay 10

Miami 31, New England 17

Dallas 43, L.A. Rams 20

Carolina 15, Houston 13

Tennessee 28, Atlanta 23

New Orleans 38, Indianapolis 27

Jacksonville 20, Pittsburgh 10

Philadelphia 38, Washington 31

N.Y. Jets 13, N.Y. Giants 10 (OT)

Cincinnati 31, San Francisco 17

Seattle 24, Cleveland 20

Denver 24, Kansas City 9

Baltimore 31, Arizona 24

L.A. Chargers 30, Chicago 13  

Detroit 26, Las Vegas 14

 

NFL - Week Eight Preview

It's on to Week Eight around the NFL and the action starts Thursday night in Buffalo where the Bills (4-3) will play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-3) and both teams have lost two games in the last three weeks, so something has to give in this one. The Bills should pull away in the second half to get the win.

On Sunday, the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2) host the red hot Jacksonville Jaguars (5-2), a team that has four consecutive victories and have been clicking on all cylinders on both sides of the ball. The Steelers will need to protect quarterback Kenny Pickett and run the ball effectively if they are to win this one. The Jaguars have shown good balance on offense with QB Trevor Lawrence and running back Travis Etienne taking care of business. The Jags have outscored opponents 116-71 in the four game winning streak. The Steelers have shown a lot of moxie so far this season.

The Cincinnati Bengals (3-3) have won two straight with QB Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase getting back to form. They play at San Francisco on Sunday afternoon and the 'Niners have been stung with two consecutive losses and QB Brock Purdy is listed in the concussion protocol this week. Cincy may come away with the win in this game, especially if their defense can get after San Francisco backup QB Sam Darnold. This game will likely go down to the final minutes. 

Out in Seattle, the Seahawks (4-2) will face the Cleveland Browns (4-2) is what should be a close game. The Browns rallied to beat the Indianapolis Colts last week while the 'Hawks won a hard fought game against Arizona. Browns defensive lineman Myles Garrett has been a one-man wrecking crew in recent weeks and the Seahawks had better be ready. Expect a tight one in this game with the Seahawks pulling it out.

All 32 teams are in action this weekend and the rest of the action is featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks follow up. 

 

L.A. Rams (3-4) at Dallas (4-2) - Cowboys should come away with a win in this one. 

Minnesota (3-4) at Green Bay (2-4) - One never knows quite what to expect when these two teams go at it. Toss up.

Atlanta (4-3) at Tennessee (2-4) - Toss up here as Tennessee is in desperation mode. Falcons are flying high in first place in the NFC South. 

New Orleans (3-4) at Indianapolis (3-4) - Can QB Gardner Minshew conjure up some "Minshew Magic" for the Colts? 

New England (2-5) at Miami (5-2) - The Patriots will look to shock a second straight AFC East opponent in this one. But the Dolphins are looking to bounce back after a bad loss on national TV last Sunday night. 

N.Y. Jets (3-3) at N.Y. Giants (2-5) - Both of these teams play in the same stadium, so who is really the visitor/home team? 

Philadelphia (6-1) at Washington (3-4) - The Commanders always play the Eagles tough, especially at home. This one will likely be a close game.

Houston (3-3) at Carolina (0-6) - This could be the week the Panthers get their first win this season. Then again, maybe not. 

Kansas City (6-1) at Denver (2-5) - The Chiefs are on fire with six straight wins and should roll a seven in Denver. 

Baltimore (5-2) at Arizona (1-6) - This game has the markings of what could be a "trap" game for the Ravens, especially with three tough opponents coming up on their schedule. 

Chicago (2-5) at L.A. Chargers (2-4) - If the Chargers lose this game at home on Sunday Night Football, they might as well pack it in for the 2023 season. No excuses. 

Las Vegas (3-4) at Detroit (5-2) - The Lions got spanked last week and they are now looking to do the same against an injury depleted Raiders team on Monday night. 

 

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

Buffalo over Tampa Bay 

Dallas over L.A. Rams 

Green Bay over Minnesota 

Tennessee over Atlanta 

New Orleans over Indianapolis 

Miami over New England 

N.Y. Jets over N.Y. Giants 

Pittsburgh over Jacksonville 

Philadelphia over Washington 

Houston over Carolina 

Seattle over Cleveland 

Kansas City over Denver 

Baltimore over Arizona 

San Francisco over Cincinnati 

L.A. CHARGERS over Chicago 

Detroit over Las Vegas 

 

Last Week's Record - 7-6 

SEASON RECORD - 67-39 

Lock of the Week Record - 7-0 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Seven Recap

The Baltimore Ravens crushed the Lions on Sunday.

The Baltimore Ravens (5-2) thoroughly crushed the visiting Detroit Lions, 38-6 on Sunday afternoon as quarterback Lamar Jackson had a huge game, passing for three touchdowns and 357 yards as well as scoring a rushing touchdown. The Baltimore defense dominated the Lions (5-2) all game long, getting five QB sacks while the offense racked up 503 yards. The game was never close as Baltimore built up a 28-0 halftime lead.

 

The Sunday night game in Philadelphia went to the Eagles (6-1) as they whacked the Miami Dolphins, 31-17 behind a pair of TD passes from QB Jalen Hurts, who also scored on a one-yard run. The Eagles defense limited the vaunted Dolphins (5-2) to 244 yards in total offense as their only offensive score came on a 27-yard TD pass from Tua Tagovailoa to WR Tyreek Hill. The game was tied at 17-17 thanks to a 22-yard "pick six" INT by Jerome Baker with 4:02 left in the third quarter. From there, the Eagles took over with two scores to put the game away.

A wild game took place in Indianapolis as the host Colts (3-4) fell to the Cleveland Browns, 39-38 as the Browns (4-2) scored the go ahead touchdown (one yard TD run by Kareem Hunt) with 15 seconds remaining, thanks in big part to two defensive penalties against the Colts that helped to sustain the winning touchdown drive. Browns kicker Dustin Hopkins made four field goals (including three from 50-plus yards) to help make the difference in  the final score. 

The Colts (3-4) had the lead as QB Gardner Minshew carved up the vaunted Browns defense for 305 yards and a pair of scoring passes as well as two scoring runs. Browns defensive lineman Myles Garrett had a sack that resulted in a touchdown and also forced two fumbles (Browns recovered three in the win) and blocked a field goal. 

In Chicago, the Bears (2-5) throttled the Las Vegas Raiders, 30-12 as rookie backup QB Tyson Bagent won his first start (in place of injured starter Justin Fields) with a TD pass while Bears running back D'Onta Foreman had two rushing scores and also a TD reception. The Chicago defense had three interceptions, including a "pick six" interception return for score from DB Jaylen Johnson against Brian Hoyer as the Raiders fell to 3-4 this season.

 

The New England Patriots (2-5) snapped a three-game losing streak by stunning the visiting Buffalo Bills (4-3), 29-25 as QB Mac Jones found tight end Mike Gesicki on a two-yard scoring pass with twelve seconds left in the game. It was also the 300th career win for Head Coach Bill Belichick (pictured right), who has been with the Patriots since the 2000 season. The Pats squandered a 22-10 lead in the fourth quarter as Bills QB Josh Allen ran and passed for touchdowns to put his team ahead 25-22 with 1:58 remaining. 

 

On Thursday night in New Orleans, the Jacksonville Jaguars raced out to a big lead against the Saints and held them off, 31-24 to improve to 5-2 as they earned their fourth consecutive win. Jags RB Travis Etienne scored two rushing touchdowns and Foyesade Oluokun took an interception back 24 yards for a score to lead the way.   The Saints (3-4) rallied back from a 24-9 deficit to tie the game in the fourth quarter before Jacksonville QB Trevor Lawrence hooked up with wide receiver Christian Kirk on a 44-yard TD pass to wrap it up.

The New York Giants (2-5) defeated the visiting Washington Commanders, 14-7 to snap a four-game skid as reserve QB Tyrod Taylor had a pair of TD passeswhile the defense sacked Washington QB Sam Howell six times as the Commanders fell to 3-4.

The Atlanta Falcons (4-3) won a road game, 16-13 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-3) to take over first place in the NFC South division as kicker Younghoe Koo made a 51-yard field goal as time ran out. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers outlasted the host Los Angeles Rams, 24-17 to go to 4-2 this season. The Rams (3-4) led 17-10 entering the fourth quarter and their defense allowed two rushing touchdowns as Pittsburgh secured the win.

In Kansas City, the Chiefs (6-1) defeated the Los Angeles Chargers, 31-17 as the defense took over in the second half, shutting down the Chargers offense as they had five sacks and intercepted Justin Herbert twice to help seal the victory. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes threw for 424 yards and four touchdowns and tight end Travis Kelce had 12 receptions for 179 yards and one score. The Chargers (2-4) tied the game 17-17 late in the second quarter, but then allowed the Chiefs to score just before halftime and never recovered.

The Seattle Seahawks (4-2) won at home against the Arizona Cardinals, 20-10 as QB Geno Smith had two TD passes and the defense stymied the Cardinals (1-6) by allowing 249 total yards and shutting them out in the second half.

The Denver Broncos (2-5) defeated the Green Bay Packers, 19-17 as kicker Will Lutz drilled a 52-yard field goal with 3:50 remaining in the fourth quarter and then the defense intercepted Jordan Love to finish the game off. The Packers (2-4) had gone ahead, 17-16 when Love (180 passing yards, two TD, one INT)  found Jayden Reed for a four-yard TD pass with just under nine minutes to go in the final quarter. The difference was Lutz' four field goals and an 18-yard scoring pass from QB Russell Wilson to WR Courtland Sutton as Denver surged ahead 16-3 at that point.

On Monday Night Football, the Minnesota Vikings (3-4) pulled off a surprise win, 22-17 against the San Francisco 49ers (5-2) as QB Kirk Cousins had two touchdown passes along with 378 passing yards. The 49ers offense struggled all game long, managing only 65 rushing yards and QB Brock Purdy was intercepted twice as the 'Niners turned the ball over three times while losing their second consecutive game, even with RB Christian McCaffrey scoring two touchdowns.

WEEK SEVEN RESULTS 

Jacksonville 31, New Orleans 24

Atlanta 16, Tampa Bay 13 

Chicago 30, Las Vegas 12 

New England 29, Buffalo 25

Baltimore 38, Detroit 6

Cleveland 39, Indianapolis 38

N.Y. Giants 14, Washington 7

Kansas City 31, L.A. Chargers 17

Pittsburgh 24, L.A. Rams 17

Seattle 20, Arizona 10

Denver 19, Green Bay 17

Philadelphia 31, Miami 17

Minnesota 22, San Francisco 17

NFL - Week Seven Preview

Two games in particular stand out this week in the NFL as the Detroit Lions (5-1) travel to face the Baltimore Ravens (4-2) on Sunday afternoon in what should be a physical one. On Sunday night, the Miami Dolphins and Philadelphia Eagles (both at 5-1) will go at it in Philly. Both of those teams have been playing well, though the Eagles suffered a surprising loss to the New York Jets last week. 

Between the Lions and Ravens, it could come down to which team can run the ball effectively. The Lions have a strong run defense (allowing just under 65 yards per game) while Baltimore has been very effective against the pass, giving up just 198 yards per game. 

Both teams can run the ball and unlike Detroit quarterback Jared Goff, Lamar Jackson is the dual threat as he can make a play or two with his legs. This game should come down to the wire as so many do in the NFL, but look for Baltimore to pull it out on a late field goal by Justin Tucker. 

 

How many points will the Dolphins and Eagles combine to score in the Sunday night game? 

The Eagles definitely have the better defense, but the Dolphins seem to score at will, so this one could be a shootout that comes down to which team has the football last. The call here is the Eagles defense forces a couple of turnovers to help them to a close win. 

 

The other ten games (six teams have the bye week) in Week Seven are featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks follow up. 

 

Las Vegas (3-3) at Chicago (1-5) - Both teams will be without their starting quarterbacks in this one. Fewer turnovers will likely determine the winner.  

Cleveland (3-2) at Indianapolis (3-3) - The Browns pulled one out at home against the 49ers last weekend while the Colts were getting spanked by Jacksonville. Something has to give. 

Buffalo (4-2) at New England (1-5) - Can the Patriots stop the bleeding? Not likely against a good Buffalo Bills team. 

Atlanta (3-3) at Tampa Bay (3-2) - This game is for sole possession of first place in the NFC South division. Bucs rate a slight edge at home. 

Washington (3-3) at N.Y. Giants (1-5) - The Giants are due to win a game soon . . . perhaps this Sunday will be the time. 

Pittsburgh (3-2) at L.A. Rams (3-3) - Will the real Rams team please stand up? Same goes for the Steelers. Toss up in this one. 

Arizona (1-5) at Seattle (3-2) - Seahawks should win this one, but the Cardinals are a divisional foe and won't be easy opponent. 

Green Bay (2-3) at Denver (1-5) - This one will be close and could go either way. Turnovers will tell the story. 

L.A. Chargers (2-3) at Kansas City (5-1) - Chiefs going for six wins in a row and will likely get it against a team that cannot get out of its own way. 

San Francisco (5-1) at Minnesota (2-4) - The Monday night game and the 49ers are angry after blowing a game on the road last week. Vikings struggled to beat a bad Chicago Bears team. 

 

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

 

New Orleans over Jacksonville 

Las Vegas over Chicago 

Cleveland over Indianapolis 

Buffalo over New England 

Tampa Bay over Atlanta 

N.Y. Giants over Washington 

Baltimore over Detroit 

L.A. Rams over Pittsburgh 

SEATTLE over Arizona 

Denver over Green Bay 

Kansas City over L.A. Chargers 

Philadelphia over Miami 

San Francisco over Minnesota 

 

Last Week's Record - 10-5 

SEASON RECORD - 60-33

Lock of the Week Record - 6-0 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Six Recap

The Browns defense dominated in their win over 49ers.

 The Cleveland Browns (3-2) knocked the San Francisco 49ers (5-1) from the ranks of the unbeaten with a 19-17 triumph at home on Sunday as 49ers rookie kicker Jake Moody missed a potential 41-yard game winning field goal in the final seconds. The Browns defense limited San Francisco to 215 total yards of offense as QB Brock Purdy had a TD pass and running back Jordan Mason scored a rushing touchdown in the losing effort. The Browns got four field goals from Dustin Hopkins and a 16-yard scoring run by Kareem Hunt to make the difference for the win. 

Likewise, the Philadelphia Eagles (5-1) lost their first game this season, 20-14 on the road against the New York Jets (3-3) as they turned the ball over four times on a fumble and three interceptions thrown by QB Jalen Hurts, who also had a scoring pass and run in defeat. The Jets trailed 14-3 in the second quarter, but rallied back behind four field goals by Greg Zuerlein and an eight-yard TD run by RB Breece Hall. 

On Thursday night, the Kansas City Chiefs (5-1) beat the visiting Denver Broncos, 19-8 as QB Patrick Mahomes threw a TD pass and Harrsion Butker made four field goals, including a 60-yarder. Denver (1-5) scored on an 11-yard TD pass from Russell Wilson to wide receiver Courtland Sutton. 

The Detroit Lions continue to roll as they improved to 5-1 with a 20-6 road win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2). Lions QB Jared Goff (353 passing yards) had two TD passes (one each to WR Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams) and the defense shutting down the Bucs offense, allowing just 46 rushing yards and getting an interception. 

The Houston Texans (3-3) won at home, 20-13 against New Orleans (3-3) as rookie QB C.J. Stroud had two TD passes while the defense forced two turnovers. The Saints lone touchdown came on a 34-yard TD pass from Derek Carr to WR Rashid Shaheed. 

In Miami, the Dolphins (5-1) overcame a slow start (14-0 deficit) to win, 42-21 against the winless Carolina Panthers (0-6) as QB Tua Tagovailoa threw for three touchdowns and RB Raheem Mostert (115 rushing yards) scored three times (two running touchdowns and also a TD reception) as they piled up 424 total yards in offense. The Panthers got a TD pass from rookie QB Bryce Young and also scored on a 61-yard interception return by Troy Hill. 

Over in London, England, the Baltimore Ravens (4-2) outlasted the Tennessee Titans, 24-16 as kicker Justin Tucker made six field goals and QB Lamar Jackson threw a 10-yard TD pass to WR Zay Flowers. The Titans (2-4) got three field goals by Nick Folk and a 15-yard scoring run from RB Derrick Henry in the loss. 

Cincinnati improved to 3-3 as they bested the visiting Seattle Seahawks, 17-13 in a defensive struggle. Only six combined points were scored in the second half by the teams. Bengals QB Joe Burrow (185 passing yards and two TD passes) was efficient while the defense intercepted 'Hawks QB Geno Smith twice to aid the victory. The only TD for Seattle (3-2) was a one-yard run by Kenneth Walker. 

 

 

Jacksonville defense had three sacks and four turnovers in big win.

The Jacksonville Jaguars (4-2) beat the visiting Indianapolis Colts, 37-20 for their third straight win as QB Trevor Lawrence threw a pair of TD passes and RB Travis Etienne scored two rushing touchdowns while the defense got four turnovers (three INT and fumble) to lead the way. The sweep of Indianapolis (3-3) puts the Jaguars in sole possession of first place in the AFC South. Colts QB Gardner Minshew had a TD pass and RB Zack Moss had a rushing score in the loss. 

 

Washington won in Atlanta, 24-16 to snap a three-game losing streak as QB Sam Howell had three TD passes while the defense had three interceptions to help the Commanders improve to 3-3 this season. The Falcons (3-3) got a pair of TD passes (along with 307 pass yards and the three picks thrown) from QB Desmond Ridder in defeat. 

The Los Angeles Rams (3-3) smacked down the visiting Arizona Cardinals, 26-9 as QB Matthew Stafford hooked up with WR Cooper Kupp on a 13-yard TD strike and RB Kyren Williams had a five-yard TD run to lead the win. The Cardinals (1-5) managed only three field goals in the game. 

The Minnesota Vikings (2-4) toppled the host Chicago Bears (1-5) in Soldier Field, 19-13 behind a TD pass from QB Kirk Cousins and a 42-yard fumble return for TD by linebacker Jordan Hicks. The Bears not only lost the game, but also starting QB Justin Fields to a thumb injury for possibly four to six weeks. Bears backup QB Tyson Bagent scored a rushing TD in defeat. 

Over in Las Vegas, the Raiders (3-3) made it two wins in a row as they beat the New England Patriots, 21-17 as QB Jimmy Garoppolo threw a 12-yard TD pass to WR Jakobi Meyers and kicker Dan Carlson made four field goals to go with a safety on a QB sack by Maxx Crosby. The Patriots (1-5) dropped their third straight game as QB Mac Jones was sacked four times and threw an interception. 

The Sunday night game in Buffalo was a defensive struggle with the Bills (4-2) emerging with a 14-9 win over the New York Giants. Buffalo QB Josh Allen had a pair of scoring passes and the defense limited the Giants (1-5) to just three field goals as backup QB Tyrod Taylor was sacked three times.

In a penalty filled game on Monday night in L.A., the Dallas Cowboys (4-2) came away with a 20-17 win against the Chargers (2-3) as Brandon Aubrey kicked a 39-yard field goal with 2:19 left to play and then the Dallas defense came up with a sack and interception (Stephon Gilmore) on 3rd-and-10 to seal the win. Both teams combined for 20 penalties and twice the Chargers defense helped the Cowboys extend drives with critical penalties on third down stops. Cowboys QB Dak Prescott had a TD pass and also an 18-yard scoring run to offset two TD passes from Chargers QB Justin Herbert.

 

WEEK SIX RESULTS 

Kansas City 19, Denver 8 

Baltimore 24, Tennessee 16  

Minnesota 19, Chicago 13

Cincinnati 17, Seattle 13

Miami 42, Carolina 21 

Washington 24, Atlanta 16

Houston 20, New Orleans 13 

Jacksonville 37, Indianapolis 20 

Cleveland 19, San Francisco 17 

L.A. Rams 26, Arizona 9

N.Y. Jets 20, Philadelphia 14

Las Vegas 21, New England 17

Detroit 20, Tampa Bay 6

Buffalo 14, N.Y. Giants 9 

Dallas 20, L.A. Chargers 17

NFL - Week Six Preview

The NFL season goes into Week Six and there are not a whole lot of games that stand out this weekend. The Kansas City Chiefs won a lackluster game against the hapless Denver Broncos on Thursday night to get it all started and the most exciting game on Sunday looks to be the Detroit Lions (4-1) traveling down to Florida to face the surprising Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1), who lead the NFC South division. 

The Monday night game features the Los Angeles Chargers (2-2) hosting the Dallas Cowboys (3-2) in what could be a shootout, but both squads are banged up on both sides of the ball, so who knows what this game ends up looking like. The Chargers should have running back Austin Ekeler (ankle injury) back for this tilt, but they have struggled on defense and allow a league worst 300 passing yards per game. They also just traded cornerback J.C. Jackson back to the New England Patriots as he just didn't have it going on with the Chargers defense in the last season and change. 

Meanwhile, the Dallas defense which looked so dominant in the first three weeks this season, has been only slightly above average since defensive back Trevon Diggs was injured. Add to that linebacker Leighton Vander Esch being sidelined with injuries as well and suddenly the new "Dooms Day" defense is rather ordinary looking. They also got lit up for 42 points last Sunday night in San Francisco. This game could go either way, but the Chargers have been better so far this season at protecting the football, so give them the edge in a close game.

Going back to that Lions at Buccaneers game, the Bucs have been solid on defense and so far quarterback Baker Mayfield has been a new man with this team, completing just under 70 percent of his passes and he has seven touchdown passes and only two interceptions. The Lions are rolling early in 2023 and QB Jared Goff and the offense is averaging just under 30 points per game. The Detroit offense has good balance as well, averaging 253 passing yards per game and 141 rushing yards per game. The Lions should win this one as long as they protect Goff from the Bucs pass rush (12 sacks in four games) and don't turn the football over. 

The rest of this week's action is featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks follow up.  

 

Baltimore (3-2) at Tennessee (2-3) - (game is being played in London, England) - Both of these teams suffered close losses last week, so expect anything and everything in this one. Toss up. 

Washington (2-3) at Atlanta (3-2) - The Falcons have been impressive so far while the Commanders are a streaky team, looking to snap a three-game skid. 

Minnesota (1-4) at Chicago (1-4) - Somebody has to win this game. Bears rate slight edge at home and Vikes will be without All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson (hamstring injury). 

Seattle (3-1) at Cincinnati (2-3) - Can the Bengals continue what they did last weekend? The Seahawks are a much better opponent than Arizona. Toss up. 

San Francisco (5-0) at Cleveland (2-2) - No Deshaun Watson at QB again this week for Cleveland . . . 49ers should win this one. They look to be the best team in the NFL at this point. 

New Orleans (3-2) at Houston (2-3) - There's a line in the Grateful Dead song "Truckin" that says Houston is too close to New Orleans . . . just sayin' . . .  Take the host Texans in a squeaker. 

Indianapolis (3-2) at Jacksonville (3-2) - This game is for first place in the AFC South division. Take the Jags at home in this one. 

Carolina (0-5) at Miami (4-1) - Can the Dolphins score 70 points again? It's possible against the worst team in the NFL. 

New England (1-4) at Las Vegas (2-3) - The Raiders face a depleted and deflated Patriots team. 

Arizona (1-4) at L.A. Rams (2-3) - The Rams should win this one, but the Cardinals do not roll over for any teams so far in the 2023 season. 

Philadelphia (5-0) at N.Y. Jets (2-3) - Fly Eagles Fly ! 

N. Y. Giants (1-4) at Buffalo (3-2) - The Bills at home on Sunday night against a really bad Giants team that will be without starting QB Daniel Jones (neck injury) . . . this one could be decided by half time. 

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

KANSAS CITY over Denver 

Baltimore over Tennessee (game being played in London, England) 

Atlanta over Washington 

Chicago over Minnesota 

Cincinnati over Seattle 

San Francisco over Cleveland 

Houston over New Orleans 

Jacksonville over Indianapolis

Miami over Carolina 

Las Vegas over New England 

Detroit over Tampa Bay 

L.A. Rams over Arizona 

Philadelphia over N.Y. Jets

Buffalo over N.Y. Giants  

L.A. Chargers over Dallas

 

Last Week's Record - 7-7 

SEASON RECORD - 50-28

Lock of the Week Record - 5-0

NFL - Week Five Recap

Bears QB Justin Fields had a big game in win against Washington.

Last Thursday night in Washington, D.C., the Chicago Bears (1-4) rose to the occasion and won their first game this season by knocking off the host Commanders (2-3), 40-20 behind four touchdown passes from quarterback Justin Fields. Bears wide receiver D.J. Moore hauled in three TD passes and had 230 yards on eight receptions. The Bears defense, perhaps inspired to win the game for Bears legend (and Hall of Fame linebacker) Dick Butkus, who passed away earlier in the day, played a stellar game as they had five sacks and forced two turnovers as the Commanders (2-3) lost their third game in a row even with QB Sam Howell passing for 388 yards and two scores. 

The game over in London, England on Sunday was the second consecutive one for the Jacksonville Jaguars (3-2) and they beat the Buffalo Bills, 25-20 to make it two wins in a row with the offense scoring 14 points in the fourth quarter to help hold off the Bills (3-2) as running back Travis Etienne (26 carries for 136 yards) scored two rushing touchdowns. Jags QB Trevor Lawrence passed for 315 yards and one score to offset Bills QB Josh Allen (359 passing yards, two TD, one interception). 

The Detroit Lions improved to 4-1 with a 42-24 thrashing of the visiting Carolina Panthers (0-5) as QB Jared Goff threw for three touchdowns and also ran for another along with rushing scores from David Montgomery (109 rushing yards) and Craig Reynolds. The Lions defense forced three turnovers (two INT, one fumble) in the win. Carolina rookie QB Bryce Young had three TD passes along with the two picks thrown in defeat.  

In Miami, the Dolphins (4-1) beat the New York Giants (1-4) by a 31-16 count as running back De'Von Achane went off for 151 yards on 11 carries and scored on a 76-yard run. Miami QB Tua Tagovailoa (308 passing yards) had two TD passes, but also served up a 102-yard pick six INT to Giants DB Jason Pinnock. Giants QB Daniel Jones was sacked six times and left the game with a neck injury.

 

The Pittsburgh Steelers (3-2) won a low scoring affair at home, 17-10 against the Baltimore Ravens (3-2) as the defense came up big in the final quarter, getting two big turnovers from Ravens QB Lamar Jackson on an interception and later a fumble recovery. The only Baltimore touchdown came on a 14-yard scoring run by RB Justice Hill. The Steelers got a blocked punt for a safety and kicker Chris Boswell made three field goals to go with a 41-yard scoring pass from QB Kenny Pickett to WR George Pickens (pictured right) with 1:17 remaining in the game.  

 

The Atlanta Falcons (3-2) won a last second thriller, 21-19 against the Houston Texans (2-3) as kicker Younghoe Koo made a 37-yard field goal as time expired. Falcons QB Desmond Ridder (329 passing yards) had a scoring pass and run to lead the offense. Texans rookie QB C.J. Stroud threw a TD pass and kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn made four field goals in the loss. 

The Indianapolis Colts improved to 3-2 and a share of first place in the AFC South (with Jacksonville) as they won at home, 23-16 against the Tennessee Titans (2-3) with RB Zach Moss scoring two rushing touchdowns and gaining 165 yards on 23 carries and kicker Matt Gay made three field goals. Titans rookie RB Tyjae Spears had a rushing score in defeat.

What is going with on with Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots? They got crushed last week in Dallas (38-3) and this weekend they were blasted 34-0 at home by the New Orleans Saints (3-2) as their QB Mac Jones was benched for the second straight game. The Patriots (1-4) managed just 156 total yards in offense and eight first downs. The Saints defense scored on a pick six INT by Tyrann Mathieu and QB Derek Carr had two TD passes and RB Alvin Kamara scored a rushing TD to lead the rout. 

The Kansas City Chiefs (4-1) outlasted the host Minnesota Vikings, 27-20 to win their fourth straight game as QB Patrick Mahomes had a pair of scoring passes to offset Vikings QB Kirk Cousins two TD passes as Minnesota fell to 1-4 this season. 

In Denver, the New York Jets (2-3) got it going on both ends as they bested the Broncos, 31-21 behind solid defense that had three fumble recoveries along with a safety and a defensive score by Bryce Hall (39-yard fumble return) to help seal the win. The Broncos (1-4) lead 13-8 at the half as QB Russell Wilson finished the game with two TD passes, but the Jets took over in the second half with RB Breece Hall (22 carries for 177 yards) going 72 yards for a touchdown while kicker Greg Zuerlein made five field goals.

The Philadelphia Eagles sauntered to another win to improve to 5-0 as they beat the host Los Angeles Rams, 23-14 with QB Jalen Hurts scoring a rushing TD and thrwoing for another score to tight end Dallas Goeddert. Kicker Jake Elliott added three field goals as well. The Rams led 14-10 behind two TD passes from QB Matthew Stafford, but were shut out in the second half as they dropped to 2-3 this season.

The Cincinnati Bengals (2-3) won on the road, 34-20 against the Arizona Cardinals (1-4) with the offense finally getting it going as QB Joe Burrow (317 passing yards) connected with WR Ja'Marr Chase for three touchdowns, including a 63-yard strike. Chase hauled in 15 receptions for 192 yards in the win. Bengals cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt took back an interception 11 yards for a score and the defense got three turnovers (two INT and one fumble) to help make the difference in the final score. Arizona QB Joshua Dobbs had two TD passes and the two interceptions thrown in the loss.

In the Sunday night game, the host San Francisco 49ers (5-0) demolished the Dallas Cowboys, 42-10 as QB Brock Purdy (252 passing yards, four TD) and tight end George Kittle hooked up for three scoring passes while the defense intercepted three passes, had four QB sacks and limited Dallas (3-2) to just eight first downs and 197 total yards. 

In Las Vegas on Monday Night Football, the Raiders (2-3) beat the Green Bay Packers, 17-13 with the defense getting three interceptions to spark the victory. Raiders RB Josh Jacobs scored on a two-yard run on the first play in the fourth quarter to settle the score. Earlier in the game, Las Vegas QB Jimmy Garoppolo threw a nine-yard TD pass to WR Jakobi Meyers for a 7-3 lead. In the third quarter, the Packers (2-3) took a 13-10 lead on a field goal and five-yard scoring run from running back AJ Dillon.

 

WEEK FIVE RESULTS 

Chicago 40, Washington 20 

Jacksonville 25, Buffalo 20 

Detroit 42, Carolina 24 

Pittsburgh 17, Baltimore 10 

Miami 31, N.Y. Giants 16

New Orleans 34, New England 0 

Atlanta 21, Houston 19 

Indianapolis 23, Tennessee 16 

Cincinnati 34, Arizona 20

Philadelphia 23, L.A. Rams 14

Kansas City 27, Minnesota 20 

N.Y. Jets 31, Denver 21 

San Francisco 42, Dallas 10

Las Vegas 17, Green Bay 13 

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Five Preview

 

As the pro football season goes to Week Five, it's condolences and remembrance to one of the greatest defensive players ever to play in the NFL. Dick Butkus, legendary linebacker who played for the Chicago Bears from 1965-1973 and was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio in 1979, died today at the age of 80. 

 

RIP legendary Dick Butkus. 

 

 

As for the current Bears team, they are 0-4 and face the Washington Commanders (2-2) on the road on Thursday night. The Commanders narrowly lost against Philadelphia in overtime last week while the Bears squandered a 21-point lead to Denver and lost 31-28 at Soldier Field. Odds are the Commanders will win the game against Chicago, but let's see if the current Bears team can win one for a legend from the Windy City. 

The biggest game this weekend takes place in San Francisco on Sunday night when the undefeated 49ers (4-0) take on the Dallas Cowboys (3-1) in what could be a playoff preview (San Francisco has knocked Dallas out of the playoffs the past two years) and that's important for the Cowboys if they want to compete in the NFC against both the 49ers and the Eagles. 

San Francisco has been outstanding on both sides of the football so far this season while the Cowboys have been dominant on defense as well. The offense needs to pick it up if they want to win this game. The 49ers can score on Dallas' defense, so it will be vital for Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and the offense to get it rolling early. 

There are some other intriguing games this week and the capsule style previews and the Heftyinfo predictions for all the games follow up. 

 

Jacksonville (2-2) at Buffalo (3-1) - (Game is being played in London, England) - The Bills annihilated the Dolphins last week and should win this game as well. 

N.Y. Giants (1-3) at Miami (3-1) - The Dolphins are smarting after getting spanked last week and should rebound at home against a weak Giants team. 

Tennessee (2-2) at Indianapolis (2-2) - These two teams are very evenly matched. Toss up. 

New Orleans (2-2) at New England (1-3) - Can the Patriots avoid a 1-4 start? Yes they can. Saints have been inconsistent so far this season. 

Baltimore (3-1) at Pittsburgh (2-2) - Smash mouth football between these two teams. Ravens rate the edge as the Steelers are banged up and might not have starting QB Kenny Pickett. 

Houston (2-2) at Atlanta (2-2) - Another toss up game. Falcons rate slight edge (at home) against a plucky Texans team. 

Carolina (0-4) at Detroit (3-1) - Take the Lions. 

Cincinnati (1-3) at Arizona (1-3) - As QB Joe Burrow goes, so go the Bengals . . . and he is hurt right now. Cardinals should win this one at home. 

Philadelphia (4-0) at L.A. Rams (2-2) - Surprise! Rams edge the Eagles out in this one. 

N.Y. Jets (1-3) at Denver (1-3) - The Broncos finally got a win last week while the Jets battled the mighty Kansas City Chiefs down to the wire. Toss up. 

Kansas City (3-1) at Minnesota (1-3) - Chiefs should win this one, but they didn't look too sharp last week against the Jets. Vikings have struggled early on this year. 

Green Bay (2-2) at Las Vegas (1-3) - The Monday night game in Vegas . . . these Raiders are hardly a must watch team. Packers have been so-so through four games. 

 

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

Chicago over Washington 

Miami over N.Y. Giants 

Buffalo over Jacksonville (in London, England)

Indianapolis over Tennessee 

New England over New Orleans 

Baltimore over Pittsburgh 

Atlanta over Houston 

DETROIT over Carolina 

Arizona over Cincinnati 

L.A. Rams over Philadelphia 

Denver over N.Y. Jets 

Kansas City over Minnesota 

San Francisco over Dallas 

Green Bay over Las Vegas 

 

 Last Week's Record - 11-5

SEASON RECORD - 43-21

Lock of the Week Record - 4-0 

NFL - Week Four Recap

The Buffalo Bills (3-1) served notice on Sunday they are still the beast of the AFC East division as they blasted the visiting Miami Dolphins, 48-20 with quarterback Josh Allen (pictured left) throwing four touchdown passes,  with three of them to wide receiver Stefon Diggs (six receptions for 120 yards) and also rushed for a score as well while passing for 310 yards. It was the first loss this season for the Dolphins (3-1) and running back Devon Achane scored two rushing touchdowns and gained 101 yards on just eight carries in defeat. 

 

Break up the Houston Texans!

Who expected these guys to be 2-2 at this point following back-to-back blowout wins, this time against the Pittsburgh Steelers (2-2) to the tune of a 30-6 home win? Rookie QB C.J. Stroud passed for two scores and 306 yards to lead the offense while the Texans defense held the Steelers to just 225 yards in total offense. 

The Baltimore Ravens (3-1) grabbed sole possession of first place in the AFC North as they crushed the host Cleveland Browns, 28-3 behind a big game from QB Lamar Jackson, who ran for two touchdowns and also had two TD passes. The Browns were without injured starting QB Deshaun Watson and the Ravens defense intercepted rookie QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson three times and limited the Browns (2-2) to 166 yards in total offense. 

The Los Angeles Rams (2-2) played giveaway as they blew a 23-0 lead against the host Indianapolis Colts (2-2) but recovered to win, 29-23 in overtime when QB Matthew Stafford hit WR Puka Nacua (nine receptions for 163 yards) for the game winning touchdown. Rams RB Kyren Williams scored twice on the ground and rushed for 103 yards in the win. The Colts (2-2) scored 23 points to force the OT session when rookie QB Anthony Richardson ran for a score and threw for two more touchdowns and the Colts also converted a pair of two-point conversions. 

In Chicago, the Denver Broncos (1-3) rallied from a 28-7 deficit to stun the host Chicago Bears, 31-28 when kicker Will Lutz drilled a 41-yard field goal with 1:46 remaining in the game. The Broncos tied the game when linebacker Jonathon Cooper took a fumble back 35 yards for a score late in the fourth quarter. The Bears (0-4) scored 28 unanswered points as QB Justin Fields had four TD passes (335 passing yards and one interception) before the Broncos got a pair of scoring passes from QB Russell Wilson (223 passing yards, three TD) to spark the comeback win. The Bears set Denver up for their winning field goal drive when Head Coach Matt Eberflus decided to go for it on fourth-and-one from the Broncos' 18-yard line rather than kick a field goal with three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.

The Philadelphia Eagles (4-0) shook off a rough start and eventually won, 34-31 in overtime against the visiting Washington Commanders (2-2) when kicker Jake Elliott made a 54-yard field goal to win it. Washington led 17-10 at halftime and fell behind 24-17 in the fourth quarter before Brian Robinson, Jr. scored a rushing touchdown and then QB Sam Howell connected with WR Jahan Dotson on a 10-yard TD pass as time expired to tie it at 31-31 and force the overtime. The Eagles offense was led by QB Jalen Hurts (319 passing yards) and WR A.J. Brown (nine receptions for 175 yards) connecting on two TD passes (59 and 28 yards) to get the lead in the final quarter. 

Last Thursday night in Green Bay, the Detroit Lions (3-1) smashed the host Packers, 34-20 with RB David Montgomery (32 carries for 131 yards) scoring three touchdowns to lead the way as the Lions built a 27-3 halftime lead. The Packers (2-2) rallied back to within 10 points early in the fourth quarter when QB Jordan Love threw for a score and also ran for another before Montgomery scored his third TD with six minutes left to play to seal the win. 

Over in London, England, the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-2) made good in their "home away from home" by beating the Atlanta Falcons, 23-7 with QB Trevor Lawrence passing for a touchdown and Darious Williams going 61 yards with a pick six interception for another score. The Falcons (2-2) only score came on a scoring pass from QB Desmond Ridder in the third quarter. 

The Tennessee Titans (2-2) drubbed the listless Cincinnati Bengals (1-3) for a 27-3 home victory as the defense had three sacks and limited the Bengals to 211 total yards in offense. The Titans got a 29-yard TD run from Derrick Henry, who also threw a two-yard scoring pass while rushing for 122 yards in the easy win. 

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1) went into New Orleans and smacked the Saints, 26-9 as QB Baker Mayfield had three TD passes while the defense limited the Saints (2-2) to 197 yards in total offense as QB Derek Carr made a surprise start for New Orleans after nursing a shoulder injury all week. The Saints managed only three field goals in the loss.

The Minnesota Vikings (1-3) won their first game of the season with a 21-13 decision on the road against the Carolina Panthers (0-4) as linebacker D.J. Wonnum went 51 yards for a TD with a fumble return to give Minnesota a 14-13 lead in the third quarter. The Panthers lead 10-0 thanks to a 99-yard INT return for touchdown by DB Sam Franklin, Jr. early in the first quarter. Vikings QB Kirk Cousins threw a pair of TD passes to WR Justin Jefferson to help pace the win. 

 

The Los Angeles Chargers (2-2) held off the Las Vegas Raiders (1-3) for a 24-17 home victory as QB Justin Herbert overcame a hand injury (non-throwing hand) and ran for two scores and passed for another to lead the offense. The Chargers defense forced three turnovers (two fumbles, one INT) and rush end Khalil Mack (pictured right) had SIX quarterback sacks in the game. The Raiders trailed 24-7 at the half and rallied back to within seven points when Josh Jacobs scored a one-yard rushing touchdown with four minutes left to play.  

 

The San Francisco 49ers continue to roll as they improved to 4-0 with a 35-16 home win against the Arizona Cardinals (1-3) behind four touchdowns (three rushing, one receiving) from RB Christian McCaffrey, who ran for 106 yards and had seven receptions for 71 yards. Arizona hung around until midway through the third quarter (21-16 deficit) before San Francisco scored 14 points in the fourth quarter to erase any doubts. 

The Dallas Cowboys (3-1) thrashed the visiting New England Patriots, 38-3 as their defense scored twice (Leighton Vander Esch on an 11-yard fumble return and DaRon Bland taking an interception back 54 yards) while QB Dak Prescott had a TD pass in the first quarter to help build a 28-3 halftime advantage. New England fell to 1-3 as they had just ten first downs and QB Mac Jones (150 passing yards, two INT) was benched in the blowout loss. 

The Sunday night game between the Kansas City Chiefs (3-1) and New York Jets (1-3) was a tight one with the Chiefs earning a hard fought 23-20 decision. The Jets defense intercepted QB Patrick Mahomes twice to get back into the game. The Chiefs lead 17-0 after one quarter as RB Isiah Pacheco (115 rushing yards) scored on a 48-yard run and Mahomes threw a 34-yards TD pass to tight end Noah Gray. The Jets defense scored a safety and then QB Zach Wilson threw the first of his two TD passes (one yard to tight end C.J. Uzomah) to get the deficit to 20-12 at halftime. In the third quarter, New York tied the game at 20-20 when Wilson hit WR Allen Lazard on a ten-yard scoring pass with 10:40 remaining. Kansas City kicker Harrison Butker made his third field goal (from 26 yards) with 10:51 to go in the final quarter to account for the final score. 

The Monday night game was all Seattle Seahawks (3-1) as they routed the host New York Giants, 24-3 with the defense getting ELEVEN quarterback sacks and intercepting Giants QB Daniel Jones twice, including a 97-yard pick six for TD by Devon Witherspoon late in the third quarter to give Seattle a 21-3 lead. Running back Kenneth Walker III had a one-yard scoring run and QB Geno Smith threw a six-yard touchdown pass to WR DK Metcalf to help provide the final outcome. The Giants turned the football over three times as they dropped to 1-3 this season.

WEEK FOUR RESULTS 

Detroit 34, Green Bay 20 

Jacksonville 23, Atlanta 7 

Philadelphia 34, Washington 31 (OT)

L.A. Rams 29, Indianapolis 23 (OT) 

Denver 31, Chicago 28

Tampa Bay 26, New Orleans 9 

Baltimore 28, Cleveland 3 

Houston 30, Pittsburgh 6 

Tennessee 27, Cincinnati 3 

Minnesota 21, Carolina 13 

Buffalo 48, Miami 20 

L.A. Chargers 24, Las Vegas  17 

Dallas 38, New England 3 

San Francisco 35, Arizona 16 

Kansas City 23, N.Y. Jets 20

Seattle 24, N.Y. Giants 3

 

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL - Post-Season Preview

The 2023 Major League Baseball season is over with and now it's on to the post-season. 

 

In the National League, the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers both finished with 100 or more wins in the regular season and will have the "byes" while four other teams battle it out in the Wild Card round. The Philadelphia Phillies will host the Miami Marlins and the Milwaukee Brewers will also have the home field edge as they take on the Arizona Diamondbacks. 

Over in the American League, the Baltimore Orioles surprised the junior circuit this season and are the top team (at 101-61 record) and the Houston Astros stormed back to snatch the A.L. West division title from the Texas Rangers to get the two-seed and the other bye. 

The four wild card teams are the Minnesota Twins (A.L. Central division winners), Tampa Bay Rays, Texas Rangers and Toronto Blue Jays. The Twins will host the Blue Jays and Texas will travel to face the Rays in the other wild card series. 

All in all, it should be fun to watch what happens over the next month or so and here's a quick look at the possibilities for all the series and the eventual World Series teams and winner as Heftyinfo makes the post-season predictions. 

 

NATIONAL LEAGUE WILD CARD SERIES (Best of three)

Miami over Philadelphia in three games.

Milwaukee over Arizona in three games.

 

AMERICAN LEAGUE WILD CARD SERIES (Best of three)

Toronto over Minnesota in two games. 

Tampa Bay over Texas in three games.

 

 NL DIVISION SERIES  (Best of five)

Atlanta over Miami in four games. 

Los Angeles over Milwaukee in three games.

AL DIVISION SERIES (Best of five)

Baltimore over Tampa Bay in five games. 

Houston over Toronto in four games.

NL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES (Best of seven)

Atlanta over Los Angeles in six games.

AL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES (Best of seven)

Houston over Baltimore in seven games.

WORLD SERIES 

Houston Astros over Atlanta Braves in six games.