Major League Baseball Post Season Preview

The 2024 Major League Baseball season is over and now it is time for the playoffs to get started. 

The Los Angeles Dodgers (98-64), led by Shohei Ohtani (the first 50/50 player in baseball history) had baseball's best overall record this year and will have the home field "advantage" throughout the post-season. In the American League, the New York Yankees, led by slugger Aaron Judge, hold that distinction after going 94-68. However, that title doesn't always matter so much, especially in recent years with so many teams making the playoffs as compared to decades ago, when just four teams made it in. 

 

Last year, the Texas Rangers went 11-0 on the road in the post-season and won the World Series. But this year, the Rangers didn't even finish .500 and the Arizona Diamondbacks didn't make it back to the playoffs either, so that just shows the fickle nature of the game. 

As for this year, the American League playoffs (as well as the National League) will be wide open and any of the six teams can get to the World Series. 

Here's a look at each league and the predictions for the 2024 MLB Playoffs. 

 

AMERICAN LEAGUE 

Wild Card Round - Baltimore over Kansas City; Houston over Detroit 

AL Division Series - Baltimore over NY Yankees; Houston over Cleveland 

AL Championship Series - Baltimore over Houston 

 

NATIONAL LEAGUE 

Wild Card Round - Milwaukee over NY Mets; Atlanta over San Diego 

NL Division Series - Los Angeles over Atlanta; Philadelphia over Milwaukee 

NL Championship Series - Philadelphia over Los Angeles 

                                                                   WORLD SERIES

                                  Baltimore Orioles over Philadelphia Phillies  (in six games) 

 

 

NFL - Week Four Recap

 

The Minnesota Vikings continue to serve notice to the rest of the NFL that they are the real deal as they beat the host Green Bay Packers, 31-29 to improve to 4-0 this season. Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold (pictured left) had three touchdown passes and wide receiver Jordan Addison scored twice (receiving and rushing TD) as they built up a 28-0 lead in the first half. The Packers (2-2) battled back as QB Jordan Love (389 passing yards, four TD, three interceptions) threw four scoring passes. However, two missed field goals by Packers kicker Brayden Narveson proved to be huge in the loss for Green Bay. 

 

The Kansas City Chiefs (4-0) survived a road game and came away with a 17-10 victory against the Los Angeles Chargers (2-2) as the defense shut down the Chargers after L.A. built a 10-0 lead in the first quarter. The Chiefs turned the ball over twice (fumble and interception) but QB Patrick Mahomes threw a 54-yard scoring pass to WR Xavier Worthy while a field goal and a fourth quarter two-yard TD run by Samaje Perine with 6:04 remaining proved to be the difference in the outcome. Chargers QB Justin Herbert had a TD pass in defeat. 

The Washington Commanders (3-1) routed the host Arizona Cardinals, 42-14 with a balanced attack (216 rushing yards, 233 passing yards) and two rushing scores by RB Jeremy McNichols and 101 rushing yards and touchdown from Brian Robinson, Jr. while rookie QB Jayden Daniels had a TD pass and a scoring run in the easy win. The Cardinals dropped to 1-3 as QB Kyler Murray was sacked four times. 

Tampa Bay (3-1) routed the visiting Philadelphia Eagles, 33-16 with QB Baker Mayfield (347 passing yards) throwing and running for a touchdown while the Buccaneers defense limited the Eagles (2-2) to 227 yards in offense. 

The San Francisco 49ers (2-2) steam rolled the visiting New England Patriots, 30-13 as linebacker Fred Warner took an interception back 45 yards for a score and tight end George Kittle caught a 12-yard TD pass from QB Brock Purdy, who had 288 passing yards in the win. The Patriots (1-3) dropped their third straight game as QB Jacoby Brissett threw for a touchdown, but was also sacked six times while they turned the ball over three times. 

Houston improved to 3-1 with a 24-20 home win against the Jacksonville Jaguars, who dropped to 0-4 this season. Texans QB C.J. Stroud (345 passing yards) threw his second TD pass (to Dare Ogunbowale) with 18 seconds remaining. Jacksonville QB Trevor Lawrence had two TD passes in the loss. 

Younghoe Koo made a 58-yard field goal with two seconds left in regulation as the Atlanta Falcons beat the visiting New Orleans Saints, 26-24 to improve to 2-2. Two defensive scores for the Falcons (fumble recovery and 47-yard INT return by Troy Andersen) and four field goals made the difference for the win. Taysom Hill had two rushing touchdowns along with a TD run by RB Alvin Kamara for the Saints (2-2) in the loss. 

The Cincinnati Bengals (1-3) won their first game this season on the road, beating Carolina, 34-24 behind two running scores by Chase Brown and a pair of TD passes from QB Joe Burrow to lead the way. Carolina QB Andy Dalton had two TD passes and Chuba Hubbard had a scoring run in defeat for the Panthers (1-3). 

The Chicago Bears (2-2) won at home, 24-18 against the Los Angeles Rams (1-3) with running backs Roschon Johnson and D'Andre Swift scoring rushing touchdowns and rookie QB Caleb Williams throwing a nine-yard TD pass to WR D.J. Moore. The Rams only scored one touchdown in the loss as kicker Joshua Karty made four field goals, but it wasn't enough. 

 

Indianapolis raced out to a 17-0 lead and then held off a furious comeback by the Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1) to earn a 27-24 home victory and improve to 2-2 this season. Quarterback Joe Flacco (pictured right) came in for injured Colts starter Anthony Richardson and threw for two touchdowns while RB Jonathan Taylor had a running score to pace the offense. Steelers QB Justin Fields had two scoring runs along with 312 passing yards and TD pass in defeat. 

 

On Thursday night, the Dallas Cowboys (2-2) beat the host New York Giants, 20-15 as they limited the Giants (1-3) to five field goals while QB Dak Prescott (221 passing yards) threw for a pair of touchdowns, including a 55-yard strike to WR CeeDee Lamb to make the difference. 

The Sunday night game in Baltimore was all Ravens (2-2) as they crushed the Buffalo Bills, 35-10 with RB Derrick Henry (199 rushing yards on 24 carries) set the tone on the first play from scrimmage with an 87-yard TD run. Ravens QB Lamar Jackson had two TD passes and a scoring run as well and the Baltimore defense limited (NFL's top scoring offense) the Bills (3-1) to just one touchdown and 236 total yards in offense. 

The Denver Broncos (2-2) won a yawner, 10-9 against the host New York Jets (2-2) in a driving rain storm with rookie QB Bo Nix (just 60 yards passing in the win) hitting WR Courtland Sutton for an eight-yard scoring pass and a 47-yard field goal by Will Lutz to offset three field goals by Jets kicker Greg Zuerlein, who missed a potential game winner from 50 yards out in the final minute of the game. Jets QB Aaron Rodgers was sacked five times in the loss. 

The Las Vegas Raiders (2-2) came back and beat the visiting Cleveland Browns, 20-16 with a pair of field goals and scoring runs from Tre Tucker and DJ Turner. The Browns (1-3) led 10-0 after the first quarter as QB Deshaun Watson had a touchdown pass, but the Raiders defense took over from there (one interception and three sacks) and the only Browns score the rest of the game came on a 25-yard fumble return by Rodney McLeod, Jr. early in the fourth quarter. 

In Miami on Monday night, the Tennessee Titans (1-3) got their first win this season with a 31-12 trouncing of the Dolphins (1-3) as Tyjae Spears and Tony Pollard had scoring runs while kicker Nick Folk made five field goals and the defense got a safety and limited the Dolphins to just 184 yards in total offense. Tyler Huntley (Miami's third string quarterback) had a scoring run in the loss. 

The other Monday Night Football game in Detroit saw the Lions (3-1) win, 42-29 over the Seattle Seahawks (3-1) with QB Jared Goff completing all 18 pass attempts for 292 yards and two touchdowns and also scored on a seven-yard TD reception from Amon-Ra St. Brown while RB Jahmyr Gibbs scored two rushing touchdowns. The Seahawks rolled up 516 yards in total offense in defeat with RB Kenneth Walker III scoring three touchdowns and QB Geno Smith (395 passing yards, one TD, one INT) throwing a nine-yard scoring pass to AJ Barner.

WEEK FOUR RESULTS 

Dallas 20, N.Y. Giants 15 

Chicago 24, L.A. Rams 18 

Atlanta 26, New Orleans 24 

Minnesota 31, Green Bay 29

Indianapolis 27, Pittsburgh 24 

Houston 24, Jacksonville 20 

Tampa Bay 33, Philadelphia 16 

Cincinnati 34, Carolina 24 

Denver 10, N.Y. Jets 9 

Kansas City 17, L.A. Chargers 10

Washington 42, Arizona 14

San Francisco 30, New England 13 

Las Vegas 20, Cleveland 16 

Baltimore 35, Buffalo 10

Tennessee 31, Miami 12

Detroit 42, Seattle 29

NFL - Week Four Preview

 

 

The Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants (both 1-2) start Week Four of the 2024 NFL season on Thursday night. The host Giants got a win at Cleveland last weekend while the Cowboys lost at home to the Baltimore Ravens with their defense being gashed for the second straight game. 

The Giants have had trouble going up against Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott in recent years and who knows what will happen in this one? So far, the only predictable thing about this current NFL season is the the unpredictability of the games and teams. 

 

 

On Sunday, perhaps the NFL's hottest team, the Minnesota Vikings (3-0) travel to face their long time rivals in Green Bay. The Packers have won two in a row without starting QB Jordan Love (knee injury in opening game loss to Philadelphia) and just might have him back behind center for this game. The Vikings defense has been ridiculous so far in this season and they could make life miserable for either Love or Malik Willis on Sunday at Lambeau Field. 

Meanwhile, Vikings starting QB Sam Darnold is conjuring up very old memories of how quarterback Jim Plunkett resurrected his career with the Oakland Raiders (in 1980 season) after several disappointing seasons spent with New England and San Francisco. Darnold and the Vikings could very well improve to 4-0 with a win, but the Packers (2-1) will be ready to get a win and claim at least a share of first place in the rugged NFC North division at the one quarter mark of the 2024 season. 

The Philadelphia Eagles (2-1) travel to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1) in what could be deemed a "redemption" game for them after they were walloped by the Bucs in the wild card round of the NFC playoffs last January. The Eagles beat the New Orleans Saints on the road last week while the Bucs were manhandled by the previously winless Denver Broncos in front of their own fans. Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield needs to take charge in this one if they stand any chance to win. The Eagles defense has been solid so far this season and the offense (led by QB Jalen Hurts) has been banged up (missing wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith) so they have to make due with the players they have available. Whether it's enough to get the win in Tampa remains to be seen. 

A game between AFC West rivals Kansas City and the Los Angeles Chargers (2-1) could be dampened down with so many injuries on the Chargers roster heading into Week Four. The 'Bolts could be without star quarterback Justin Herbert (ankle injury) and perhaps standout offensive tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater as well as edge rusher/linebacker Joey Bosa, who are all nursing injuries. In addition, safety Derwin James is suspended for one game for a late hit in last week's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

The Chiefs (3-0) have been squeaking by so far this season in their three victories, needing a replay review to take away a touchdown from Baltimore in week one win and then controversial penalty calls and non calls in their favor that aided wins against Cincinnati and Atlanta. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes has done his thing to get the wins, but his numbers are way down in the early season. He has 659 passing yards with five touchdowns and four interceptions thrown so far this year. This game could be a tight one, but if Herbert is a no-go, it could be a long afternoon for the home team Chargers. 

The Monday night game in Detroit could be an exciting one as the Lions (2-1) host the Seattle Seahawks (3-0) and plenty at stake in the early part of the season. The Lions trail the first place Vikings by one game and the Green Bay Packers are right there with them with a 2-1 record. Lions QB Jared Goff and the offense have been so-so in the first three games and the Seattle defense has been allowing just over 14 points per game. The Lions defense has been a wrecking ball with defensive end Aidan Hutchinson already getting 6 1/2 sacks. The Seahawks have been steady on offense, averaging 24.3 PPG with QB Geno Smith passing for 787 yards along with three TD passes and three interceptions. 

 

The rest of the action for Week Four follows up along with the Heftyinfo picks. 

Denver (1-2) at New York Jets (2-1) - The Jets have looked good the last two weeks and the Broncos got it together in a rout on the road last week against Tampa Bay. The team with fewer turnovers will win this one. 

New Orleans (2-1) at Atlanta (1-2) - Two very evenly matched teams in this one. The Falcons rate a slight edge at home, but QB Matt Ryan and company need to get it done in crunch time. 

Cincinnati (0-3) at Carolina (1-2) - Can the Bengals get it going this week against the Panthers and former Bengals QB Andy Dalton?  

Jacksonville (0-3) at Houston (2-1) - Everything points to Houston in this game . . . but this is the NFL in 2024 and the Jaguars are a desperate team. 

Pittsburgh (3-0) at Indianapolis (1-2) - Quarterback Justin Fields and the Steelers getting it done, thanks is big part to the defense. The Colts straightened things out on defense last week. Toss up in this one. 

Los Angeles Rams (1-2) at Chicago (1-2) - The Bears offense is reeling so far and the Rams got a big win at home last week in big time come from behind fashion. Toss up here. 

Washington (2-1) at Arizona (1-2) - This could be a trap game for the Commanders, who had everything go just right in Cincinnati last week. Meanwhile, the Cardinals need to put together a complete game. 

New England (1-2) at San Francisco (1-2) - The 49ers should win this one, but they are injury riddled on offense. Patriots are a gritty bunch that will battle them. 

Cleveland (1-2) at Las Vegas (1-2) - Both of these teams have been a mystery so far this season. Toss up. 

Buffalo (3-0) at Baltimore (1-2) - The Sunday night game between two teams that figure to be battling in the AFC playoffs in January. Enjoy this one with the Ravens pulling it out late in the game. 

Tennessee (0-3) at Miami (1-2) - One of two Monday Night Football games again this week. The Dolphins will likely be without QB Tua Tagovailoa again (concussion) and perhaps even without backup QB Skylar Thompson. The Titans just need a win, but that could be a tall order in this one. 

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

Dallas over N.Y. Giants 

N.Y. Jets over Denver 

Green Bay over Minnesota 

Atlanta over New Orleans 

Tampa Bay over Philadelphia 

Cincinnati over Carolina 

Houston over Jacksonville 

Indianapolis over Pittsburgh 

Chicago over L.A. Rams 

Arizona over Washington 

SAN FRANCISCO over New England

Las Vegas over Cleveland 

Kansas City over L.A. Chargers 

Baltimore over Buffalo 

Miami over Tennessee 

Detroit over Seattle 

Last Week's Record - 8-8 

SEASON RECORD - 26-22 

Lock of the Week Record - 0-3 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Three Recap

Sam Darnold and the Vikings rolled to an easy win over the Texans.

Break up the Minnesota Vikings! 

They pasted the visiting Houston Texans, 34-7 on Sunday afternoon to improve to 3-0 on the young season as quarterback Sam Darnold threw four touchdown passes and the defense had five sacks and picked off Houston QB C.J. Stroud twice in the easy victory. The Texans  (2-1) out gained the Vikings in total yardage, but this one was never close.

 

The Pittsburgh Steelers (3-0) shut down the Los Angeles Chargers in the second half in a 20-10 home win as QB Justin Field scored a rushing touchdown and threw a 55-yard scoring pass to wide receiver Calvin Austin. Meanwhile, the Chargers (2-1) saw starting QB Justin Herbert leave the game after re-aggravating an ankle sprain after he threw a 27-yard TD pass to WR Quentin Johnston for a 7-0 lead. The Steelers defense held the 'Bolts to just 61 rushing yards and 168 total yards in offense and had five sacks as well.

The New York Giants (1-2) went into Cleveland and beat the Browns, 21-15 as the defense dominated with eight quarterback sacks while QB Daniel Jones had a pair of TD passes and Devin Singletary scored a rushing touchdown to lead the way on offense. The Browns (1-2) got a pair of scoring passes from QB Deshaun Watson in the loss.

Indianapolis (1-2) earned their first win this season with a 21-16 victory against the visiting Chicago Bears (1-2) as Colts running back Jonathan Taylor had two rushing touchdowns and 110 yards on the ground. Bears rookie QB Caleb Williams threw for two touchdowns (along with two interceptions) and was sacked four times in defeat.

The Baltimore Ravens (1-2) held on for a 28-25 road win against the Dallas Cowboys (1-2) after nearly blowing a 25-point lead. Baltimore led 28-3 in the third quarter before the Cowboys put up 19 unanswered points in the fourth quarter as QB Dak Prescott had two TD passes (379 passing yards) and also a rushing touchdown. Ravens running back Derrick Henry went off for 151 rushing yards and two touchdowns while QB Lamar Jackson had a scoring run and a TD pass in the win.

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas they say, but the Raiders (1-2) would like to see that phrase dry up as the visiting Carolina Panthers routed them, 36-22 with Andy Dalton taking over at quarterback this week and passing for three touchdowns and 319 yards to help the Panthers (1-2) get their first win this season. Carolina gained 437 yards in offense as they built up a 33-7 lead after three quarters.

The Green Bay Packers (2-1) won at Tennessee, 30-14 behind QB Malik Willis' 202 passing yards and a touchdown pass and run while Jaire Alexander took an interception back 35 yards for a touchdown. Green Bay's defense limited the Titans (0-3) to only 33 rushing yards and had eight QB sacks.

 

In Los Angeles, the Rams (1-2) stunned the San Francisco 49ers, 27-24 as rookie kicker Joshua Karty  (pictured right) made a 37-yard field goal with two seconds remaining to complete a 14-point comeback. San Francisco (1-2) led 24-14 in the final seven minutes, but the defense folded as Rams RB Kyren Williams scored three touchdowns (two rushing, one receiving) to pace the offense. 49ers QB Brock Purdy had three TD passes in the loss. 

The Denver Broncos (1-2) surprised the host Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 26-7 with rookie QB Bo Nix and RB Jaleel McLaughlin scoring rushing touchdowns. Meanwhile, the Bucs (2-1) struggled on offense as QB Baker Mayfield was sacked seven times as his team had two turnovers and managed just 223 total yards in offense.

The Detroit Lions (2-1) survived a trip to Arizona and won, 20-13 behind a defense that frustrated the Cardinals (1-2) offense while the Lions offense racked up 373 yards with a balanced attack (187 rushing yards, 186 passing yards) and QB Jared Goff throwing two TD passes and RB David Montgomery (105 rushing yards) scoring a rushing touchdown.

The Seattle Seahawks ripped the visiting Miami Dolphins, 24-3 to stay unbeaten and drop Miami to 1-2 as backup QB Skylar Thompson was knocked out with a chest injury. The Dolphins managed just 205 total yards in offense. Seahawks RB Zach Charbonnet gained 91 rushing yards and scored twice on the ground while QB Geno Smith hooked up with DK Metcalf on a 71-yard scoring pass and the Seattle defense had six sacks.

The Philadelphia Eagles (2-1) stole one in New Orleans, 15-12 with a late touchdown as Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (147 rushing yards) scored two touchdowns, including the game winner on a four-yard run with 1:01 remaining in the game. The Philly defense then intercepted Saints QB Derek Carr (142 passing yards, one TD, one INT) to end the game. The Saints (2-1) came in averaging 45.5 points per game, but were stymied as they were outgained 460-219 in total yardage.

On Thursday night, the New York Jets (2-1) rode a pair of touchdown passes from QB Aaron Rodgers (281 passing yards) and a solid defensive effort to blast the visiting New England Patriots, 24-3. The Patriots (1-2) only gained 139 total yards in offense and the Jets defense had seven QB sacks in the rout.

The Sunday night game in Atlanta was an exciting one as the Kansas City Chiefs held on for a 22-17 win to improve to 3-0 this season. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes (217 passing yards, two TD, one INT) connected with wide receivers Rashee Rice (12 receptions, 110 yards) and JuJu Smith-Schuster for touchdowns and Harrison Butker made three field goals to lead the way. The Falcons (1-2) led 14-7 in the first half as QB Kirk Cousins had a scoring pass and RB Bijan Robinson scored a rushing touchdown, but the Kansas City defense held firm the rest of the way. 

On Monday night in Buffalo, it was all about the Bills (3-0) as they annihilated the Jacksonville Jaguars, 47-10 behind four TD passes from QB Josh Allen to four different receivers. Running backs James Cook and Ray Davis added touchdown runs and the defense forced two turnovers (one fumble, one interception) and had five sacks. The only touchdown for the Jaguars (0-3) came in the third quarter on a six-yard TD pass by QB Trevor Lawrence to Brenton Strange. 

The second Monday Night Football game in Cincinnati went for the Washington Commanders, 38-33 as rookie QB Jayden Daniels set an NFL record by completing 91 percent of his passes in the game for 254 yards and two touchdowns and he also had a four-yard scoring run. Running backs Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson, Jr. also scored rushing touchdowns and WR Terry McLaurin (four receptions, 100 yards) had a 27-yard TD reception with 2:10 remaining to make the score 38-26 for Washington (2-1) and ice the game. The Bengals (0-3) had 436 total yards in offense and QB Joe Burrow passed for 324 yards and three touchdowns in the loss.

WEEK THREE RESULTS 

N.Y. Jets 24, New England 3 

Pittsburgh 20, L.A. Chargers 10 

Denver 26, Tampa Bay 7 

Green Bay 30, Tennessee 14

Indianapolis 21, Chicago 16

Minnesota 34, Houston 7 

Philadelphia 15, New Orleans 12 

N.Y. Giants 21, Cleveland 15

Seattle 24, Miami 3

Carolina 36, Las Vegas 22

L.A. Rams 27, San Francisco 24

Baltimore 28, Dallas 25

Detroit 20, Arizona 13

Kansas City 22, Atlanta 17

Buffalo 47, Jacksonville 10

Washington 38, Cincinnati 33

NFL - Week Three Preview

 

The third week of the 2024 NFL season started on Thursday night with the New York Jets blasting the New England Patriots, 24-3 for the home win. There are some games that look to be solid matchups, including a pair of games between 2-0 teams as the Minnesota Vikings host the Houston Texans while the Los Angeles Chargers face the Pittsburgh Steelers for a road game. 

The Vikings won a close one at home against the San Francisco 49ers last Sunday while Houston held off the visiting Chicago Bears, 19-13 on Sunday night. Both teams have been playing good defense through the first two weeks and turnovers will likely dictate the outcome in this game. Minnesota quarterback Sam Darnold so far has been very impressive as he replaced Kirk Cousins (now with Atlanta) as the QB for 2024. 

The Chargers beat up on weak sister team Carolina last week, 26-3 with running back J.K. Dobbins going over the 100-yard rushing mark again and scoring another touchdown while QB Justin Herbert tossed two touchdown passes to wide receiver Quentin Johnston. Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh has had an impact already it seems with his emphasis on running the football as the 'Bolts are right up there in rushing yardage leaders in the NFL. The Steelers defense has been stingy (second only to the Chargers in points allowed in first two games) and they can shut down the run and pressure the quarterback, led by All-Pro defensive end T.J. Watt. This game will likely be a lower scoring one with the Steelers rating a slight edge if Herbert (high ankle sprain) cannot start on Sunday. 

The rest of the action for Week Three around the NFL is featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks (admittedly a little lackluster so far this year) follow up. 

N.Y. Giants (0-2) at Cleveland (1-1) - The Browns should win this game, but one never knows the fickle nature of pro football. 

Chicago (1-1) at Indianapolis (0-2) - The Colts desperately need a win in this one. Bears defense is among the best in the NFL so far. 

Philadelphia (1-1) at New Orleans (2-0) - Can the Eagles go into The Big Easy and steal this one? The Saints are averaging 45.5 points per game so far. Take the Saints! 

Denver (0-2) at Tampa Bay (2-0) - The Broncos have had big time problems scoring so far while the Buccaneers are riding high with QB Baker Mayfield. Bucs rate the edge. 

Green Bay (1-1) at Tennessee (0-2) - Is it possible that Packers QB Jordan Love could play this week after only missing one game with a serious knee injury? Titans will be looking to pressure whoever the Pack has playing quarterback. 

Carolina (0-2) at Las Vegas (1-1) - The Raiders should have their way at home against the worst team in the NFL. 

Miami (1-1) at Seattle (2-0) - It's simple for the Dolphins in this one . . . No Tua (concussion) at quarterback, no win. 

Detroit (1-1) at Arizona (1-1) - The Lions got a big slice of humble pie in their home loss to Tampa Bay last Sunday while the Cardinals offense exploded with QB Kyler Murray playing a perfect game. 

Baltimore (0-2) at Dallas (1-1) - Both of these teams have under achieved so far this season . . .  So something has to give. 

San Francisco (1-1) at L.A. Rams (0-2) - Both of these teams are banged up, especially on offense. 49ers are down three starters (McCaffrey, Samuel and Kittle) while the Rams are without their dynamic duo wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua. 'Niners have a better defense so they rate the edge here. 

Kansas City (2-0) at Atlanta (1-1) - The Sunday night game between two teams that can move the football. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes is far better than (Atlanta QB) Kirk Cousins, so take the Chiefs. 

Jacksonville (0-2) at Buffalo (2-0) - One of two Monday Night Football games this week. The Bills are rolling early on this year while the Jaguars cannot get out of their own way. Game could be closer than most people might think, but the Bills should get the win. 

Washington (1-1) at Cincinnati (0-2) - Can the Bengals get off the schnide? The Commanders will be a tough opponent, but Burrow and company simply cannot afford to drop to 0-3 this season. 

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

N.Y. Jets over New England 

Cleveland over N.Y. Giants 

Indianapolis over Chicago 

Houston over Minnesota 

New Orleans over Philadelphia 

Pittsburgh over L.A. Chargers 

Tampa Bay over Denver 

Green Bay over Tennessee 

LAS VEGAS over Carolina 

Seattle over Miami 

Arizona over Detroit 

Baltimore over Dallas 

San Francisco over L.A. Rams 

Kansas City over Atlanta 

Buffalo over Jacksonville 

Cincinnati over Washington 

Last Week's Record - 8-8 

SEASON RECORD - 18-14 

Lock of the Week Record - 0-2 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Two Recap

The Kansas City Chiefs got a lucky break, but they did win at home against the Cincinnati Bengals, 26-25 when Harrison Butker (pictured left) kicked a 51-yard field goal as time ran out. The Bengals were called for pass interference on 4th-and-16 that kept the Chiefs drive alive and led to the winning kick. Cincy quarterback Joe Burrow passed for 258 yards and two touchdowns in the tough loss. Kansas City QB Patrick Mahomes overcame two interceptions with two TD passes and K.C. safety Chamarri Conner took a fumble by Burrow back 38 yards for a score early in the fourth quarter to aid the win. 

 

How about those Minnesota Vikings and quarterback Sam Darnold? The Vikings beat the visiting San Francisco 49ers, 23-17 with Darnold passing for two touchdowns, including a 97-yard TD pass to wide receiver Justin Jefferson. The Minnesota defense sacked 'Niners QB Brock Purdy six times while the offense racked up 403 yards in total offense. 

The Las Vegas Raiders stunned the host Baltimore Ravens, 26-23 on a 38-yard field goal by Daniel Carlson with 27 seconds left. The first half was all field goals with Baltimore leading, 9-6 before each team scored a pair of second half touchdowns. Raiders QB Gardner Minshew had a TD pass and 276 passing yards as they overcame a ten-point deficit to win. Ravens QB Lamar Jackson passed for 247 yards with a TD pass and one interception. 

The New Orleans Saints throttled the host Dallas Cowboys, 44-19 with QB Derek Carr throwing a pair of scoring passes and one rushing touchdown. Meanwhile, running back Alvin Kamara scored four touchdowns (three rushing, one receiving) and racked up 180 total yards (115 rushing) to lead the way in the rout. Dallas QB Dak Prescott was intercepted twice as the Cowboys offense managed just 68 rushing yards. The Saints gained 432 yards (190 rushing, 242 passing) with a balanced attack. 

The Houston Texans beat the visiting Chicago Bears, 19-13 on Sunday Night Football with QB C.J. Stroud throwing a 28-yard scoring pass to WR Nico Collins while Ka'imi Fairbairn made four field goals. The Bears managed just 205 total yards in offense and their only touchdown was a two-yard run from Khalil Herbert. The Texans defense had seven sacks in the win.

On Thursday night, the Buffalo Bills crushed the host Miami Dolphins, 31-10 behind two rushing scores from RB James Cook and a 17-yard TD pass from QB Josh Allen to Cook. The Dolphins outgained the Bills (351-247) in yardage, but three turnovers proved to be the big difference as QB Tua Tagovailoa was picked off three times and was forced out of the game with a concussion. 

 

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers went into Detroit and beat the Lions, 20-16 with QB Baker Mayfield (pictured right) passing and running for a touchdown as they only managed to gain 216 yards in total offense. The Lions racked up 463 yards, but only scored one touchdown in the setback. Aidan Hutchinson had 4 1/2 QB sacks for the Lions in the loss. 

 

Arizona blasted the visiting L.A. Rams, 41-10 behind three TD passes from QB Kyler Murray, who had a perfect quarterback passer rating in the easy win. Murray passed for 266 yards and ran for 59 yards as the Cardinals amassed 489 yards in total offense. Rams WR Cooper Kupp suffered an injured ankle and could be out for multiple weeks. 

The Green Bay Packers won a hard fought game, 16-10 against the visiting Indianapolis Colts as Packers QB Malik Willis threw a TD pass to go with three field goals for the victory. Colts QB Anthony Richardson also had a scoring pass in the loss as the Packers defense had three interceptions.

The Los Angeles Chargers rolled past the host Carolina Panthers, 26-3 as their defense held the Panthers to 159 yards in total offense. Chargers RB J.K. Dobbins ran for 131 yards (17 carries) and scored a rushing touchdown and QB Justin Herbert threw two TD passes to WR Quentin Johnston to pace the win. 

In Denver, the Pittsburgh Steelers outlasted the Broncos, 13-6 with QB Justin Fields connecting with WR Darnell Washington on a five-yard TD pass and the defense getting two interceptions to lead the way. 

The New York Jets won a road game in Tennessee, 24-17 as QB Aaron Rodgers had two scoring passes and the Jets defense had four sacks and forced two turnovers. Titans WR Calvin Ridley scored two touchdowns (one rushing, one receiving) in defeat. 

The Cleveland Browns bounced back from a terrible opening game to win on the road, 18-13 against the Jacksonville Jaguars as their defense racked up four sacks, including one for a safety late in the fourth quarter to help seal the win. 

Washington won at home, 21-18 against the New York Giants as kicker Austin Seibert made seven field goals. The Giants lost kicker Graham Gano to injury as they scored three touchdowns, but were forced to go for the two-point conversion twice after the first PAT kick (by punter Jamie Gillan) missed. Giants QB Daniel Jones had two TD passes in the loss. 

The Seattle Seahawks won in overtime, 23-20 at New England as kicker Jason Myers made a 31-yard field goal to win the road game. The Patriots took a 20-17 lead early in the fourth quarter when RB Rhamondre Stevenson scored on a one-yard run, but the Seahawks forced the OT when Myers drilled a 38-yard field goal with 55 seconds left in regulation.

The Atlanta Falcons scored the game winning touchdown with 34 seconds remaining in the game for a 22-21 road win against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night Football. Falcons QB Kirk Cousins (241 passing yards, two TD) threw a seven-yard TD pass to WR Drake London to make the difference after Philadelphia scored 11 unanswered points to take a 21-15 lead with 1:39 remaining in the game. Eagles QB Jalen Hurts (183 passing yards) had a TD pass and running score in defeat, which was sealed when he threw an interception on the final drive.

WEEK TWO RESULTS 

Buffalo 31, Miami 10 

Minnesota 23, San Francisco 17 

Tampa Bay 20, Detroit 16 

Cleveland 18, Jacksonville 13 

Seattle 23, New England 20 (OT)

L.A. Chargers 26, Carolina 3 

Las Vegas 26, Baltimore 23 

Green Bay 16, Indianapolis 10 

N.Y. Jets 24, Tennessee 17 

Washington 21, N.Y. Giants 18 

New Orleans 44, Dallas 19

Arizona 41, L.A. Rams 10

Pittsburgh 13, Denver 6

Kansas City 26, Cincinnati 25 

Houston 19, Chicago 13

Atlanta 22, Philadelphia 21

NFL - Week Two Preview

Some good games are on tap around the NFL heading into Week Two as the Buffalo Bills travel down to Miami on Thursday night to face their AFC East rivals in what is always a good divisional matchup. 

The Dolphins survived a tight on at home last Sunday against Jacksonville, winning on a field goal as  time expired. Meanwhile, the Bills knocked off a stubborn Arizona Cardinals team in Buffalo, 34-28 as quarterback Josh Allen took things over with two touchdown passes and also a pair of scoring runs. Last year, these two teams went down to the final week in the AFC East race and the Bills swept the Dolphins in the regular season to win the division. Since Allen took over at QB in Buffalo (2018), the Bills are 10-2 vs. Miami and Allen has dominated with 33 touchdown passes and just seven interceptions.

Look for the Dolphins and their explosive air attack (QB Tua Tagovailoa throwing to wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle) to try and light it up against the Bills defense. It could be a wet one in south Florida as the bad weather down in the Gulf Coast has had an effect throughout the southern area. This game should go down to the wire and could be decided by a late field goal. 

The Sunday night game in Houston features the Texans hosting the Chicago Bears, who had a strong game from the defense last week in their win over Tennessee. The Texans held off the Indianapolis Colts for a season opening win on the road. Texans QB C.J. Stroud is looking to continue his winning ways after a sensational rookie season while Bears hot shot rookie QB Caleb Williams had a rough start last weekend. This game should be another one that could come down to the final minutes. 

The Dallas Cowboys will host the New Orleans Saints (both teams had blowout wins in Week One) in a game that might be the highest scoring in the second week. Dallas QB Dak Prescott got paid just hours prior to the opener with the NFL's biggest contract ever. He and WR CeeDee Lamb will look to get it going this week against the Saints defense, which dominated the Carolina Panthers last Sunday. New Orleans QB Derek Carr had three TD passes and will do well to repeat that effort against a solid Cowboys defense that held the Cleveland Browns in check a week ago. 

The Kansas City Chiefs will host the Cincinnati Bengals, who looked absolutely dreadful in their home opener loss to the New England Patriots. Meanwhile, the Chiefs won a thriller at home against the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL opening game last Thursday night. K.C. quarterback Patrick Mahomes nearly always one-ups the league, but for whatever reasons, the Bengals and QB Joe Burrow seem to have the Chiefs number. This game is another one that could go down to the last minutes and perhaps whoever has the football last will win the game. 

The rest of the NFL action for Week Two is featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks for all 16 games follow up. 

Las Vegas (0-1) at Baltimore (1-0) - The Ravens are smarting after a replay review took away a potential game tying touchdown. The Raiders were manhandled by the L.A.Chargers last weekend. Take the Ravens. 

L.A. Chargers (1-0) at Carolina (0-1) - The Chargers ground and pound attack looked impressive while the Panthers allowed 47 points in their opening game loss. Chargers should get another win this Sunday. 

Tampa Bay (1-0) at Detroit (1-0) - The Lions should prevail at home in this one, but the Buccaneers are a gritty bunch and will battle it out in Motown. 

Indianapolis (0-1) at Green Bay (0-1) - Two teams that lost nail biters last week go at it in Lambeau Field. Packers are missing star quarterback Jordan Love (knee injury) so the Colts could win this one. 

Cleveland (0-1) at Jacksonville (0-1) - The Jaguars let one get away at Miami last week and need to get a win against a Browns team that looked downright listless in their home opening blowout loss against Dallas. 

San Francisco (1-0) at Minnesota (1-0) - The Vikings crushed the N.Y. Giants last week while the 49ers did the same against the N.Y. Jets on Monday Night Football . . . without Christian McCaffrey. This game could be closer than most might think, but the 49ers should get the win. 

Seattle (1-0) at New England (1-0) - This could be the yawner game of the week. Toss up here. 

N.Y. Jets (0-1) at Tennessee (0-1) - Will Aaron Rodgers and the Jets start the season at 0-2? Not likely, but the Titans showed they will not be pushovers in a close game last week in Chicago. 

N.Y. Giants (0-1) at Washington (0-1) - NFC East battle of two teams not expected to do much this season. Toss up. 

L.A. Rams (0-1) at Arizona (0-1) - The Rams took the Detroit Lions to OT last Sunday night while the Cardinals squandered a 14-point lead in a loss at Buffalo. Something has to give. 

Pittsburgh (1-0) at Denver (0-1) - Steelers likely going with Justin Fields at QB again with Russell Wilson still nursing a calf injury. Broncos should be chomping at the bit to show Wilson was a bust while with the team in recent years. Toss up here. 

Atlanta (0-1) at Philadelphia (1-0) - The Monday night game in Philly . . . the crowd will be raucous and the Falcons come limping in after a terrible effort (at home) against the Steelers last week. Falcons QB Kirk Cousins has to have a bounce back game, but the Eagles will be ready. Their offense was rolling in their opening game win against the Packers and the trio of (QB) Jalen Hurts and (wideouts) A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith is explosive and running back Saquon Barkley scored three touchdowns last week.
 

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

Miami over Buffalo 

BALTIMORE over Las Vegas 

L.A. Chargers over Carolina 

Dallas over New Orleans 

Detroit over Tampa Bay 

Green Bay over Indianapolis 

Jacksonville over Cleveland

San Francisco over Minnesota 

Seattle over New England 

N.Y. Jets over Tennessee 

Washington over N.Y. Giants 

L.A. Rams over Arizona 

Pittsburgh over Denver 

Kansas City over Cincinnati 

Houston over Chicago 

Philadelphia over Atlanta  

Last Week's Record - 10-6

SEASON RECORD - 10-6 

Lock of the Week Record - 0-1

 

 

The U.S. Presidential Debate In A Nutshell

This sums it all up . . . 

 

 

NFL - Week One Recap

 

Upon review, no TD and the Ravens lose.

The Kansas City Chiefs began the new season with a 27-20 home victory against the Baltimore Ravens to begin their Super Bowl title defense as rookie Xavier Worthy scored a rushing and receiving touchdown as running back Isiah Pacheco scored a rushing touchdown while quarterback Patrick Mahomes passed for a touchdown along with one interception and 291 yards. Baltimore QB Lamar Jackson passed for 273 yards and one TD and rushed for 122 yards (on 16 carries) in defeat. The game ended on a replay review that overturned an apparent touchdown pass (on the game's final play) from Jackson to tight end Isaiah Likely, but he was ruled out of bounds in the end zone and the Chiefs got the win. 

 

On Friday night, the first ever NFL game was played in Brazil and Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley scored three touchdowns (two rushing, one receiving) while rushing for 109 yards as Philly beat the Green Bay Packers, 34-29. Philadelphia QB Jalen Hurts had two TD passes and two interceptions along with 278 passing yards in the win. Green Bay QB Jordan Love was injured late in the fourth quarter (knee) and had 260 passing yards with two TD passes and one INT before exiting. He is expected to miss 4-6 weeks as a result of the injury.  

The Sunday night game in Detroit went to the host Lions, 26-20 in overtime as RB David Montgomery scored on a one-yard to seal the win. Rams QB Matthew Stafford passed for 317 yards with a TD pass and one INT in the loss. Lions QB Jared Goff also had a TD pass and pick thrown to go with 217 passing yards. Detroit kicker Jake Bates made a 32-yard field goal with 17 seconds left to play to force the OT. Rams WR Cooper Kupp had 14 receptions for 110 yards (one TD) in defeat. 

The Chicago Bears used their defense to win at home, 24-17 against the Tennessee Titans as the Bears offense managed just 148 total yards. Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson took back an interception 43 yards for the game winning score with 7:35 remaining in the fourth quarter. Tennessee raced out to a 17-0 lead before Chicago rebounded with 24 unanswered points, thanks to the defense and also a blocked punt that was returned for a 21-yard score by Jonathan Owens. Bears kicker Cairo Santos made three field goals in the win. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers won a tough road game, 18-10 against the Atlanta Falcons as kicker Chris Boswell made six field goals (including three from beyond 50 yards) to key the win along with a defense that forced three turnovers (two interceptions and one fumble) and limited the Falcons to 226 yards in total offense. 

The New England Patriots pulled off the shocker of the day as the beat the host Cincinnati Bengals, 16-10 with a solid defensive effort, limiting the Bengals to 224 yards in total offense and forcing two fumbles, including one at the goal line as Cincy was about to score late in the first half. Patriots kicker Joey Slye made three field goals and RB Rhamondre Stevenson had a three-yard scoring run to pace the victory. 

The Minnesota Vikings got a road win, 28-6 against the New York Giants with QB Sam Darnold throwing two TD passes and Aaron Jones had a rushing TD along with Andrew Van Ginkel getting a ten yard pick six interception late in the third quarter. Giants QB Daniel Jones was sacked five times and threw two interceptions in the loss. 

The Houston Texans won at Indianapolis, 29-27 as QB C.J. Stroud threw a pair of scoring passes to WR Stefon Diggs and RB Joe Mixon ran for 159 yards (on 30 carries) and scored a touchdown. Colts QB Anthony Richardson threw for two touchdowns (one INT) and had a rushing score as well in the loss. 

Buffalo roared back for a 34-28 home victory against the Arizona Cardinals after trailing 1703 early in the game. Bills QB Josh Allen had two TD passes and two TD runs to led the way. Cardinals QB Kyler Murray threw for a score and RB James Conner had a three-yard TD run, but the effort fell short. 

 

Dallas surprised the host Cleveland Browns, 33-17 as KaVontae Turpin ran back a punt 60 yards for a TD and RB Ezekiel Elliott scored a rushing touchdown in his return to the Cowboys and QB Dak Prescott (pictured right) threw a 21-yard TD pass to Brandin Cooks. The Browns fell behind, 20-3 at the half as QB Deshaun Watson was intercepted twice and sacked six times in the loss. 

 

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers rolled over the visiting Washington Commanders, 37-20 as QB Baker Mayfield passed for 289 yards and had four TD passes to offset a pair of scoring runs by Washington rookie QB Jayden Daniels. 

The host Miami Dolphins toppled the Jacksonville Jaguars, 20-17 when kicker Jason Sanders drilled a 52-yard field goal as time expired. Jags QB Trevor Lawrence had a TD pass in the setback and Miami QB Tua Tagovailoa (338 passing yards) hooked up with WR Tyreek Hill on an 80-yard TD pass. Hill had seven receptions for 130 yards as the Dolphins racked up 400 yards in total offense. 

The New Orleans Saints smashed the visiting Carolina Panthers, 47-10 behind a balanced offense (180 rushing yards, 199 passing) as QB Derek Carr had three TD passes while the defense stymied Carolina with four sacks, three turnovers (two INT, one fumble) and just 193 total yards in offense. 

The Los Angeles Chargers knocked off the visiting Las Vegas Raiders, 22-10 as running back J.K. Dobbins rushed for 135 yards (on just 10 carries) and scored a touchdown (12-yard run) and QB Justin Herbert led an efficient attack (176 rushing yards, 140 passing) with a scoring pass. The Chargers defense got three turnovers (two fumbles, one interception) and had four sacks while limiting the Raiders only 71 rushing yards. 

The host Seattle Seahawks held off the Denver Broncos, 26-20 behind QB Geno Smith's 34-yard scoring run along with a TD pass and Kenneth Walker (103 rushing yards) scoring on a 23-yard run as well. Denver only had one touchdown (QB Bo Nix scoring run) as they scored a pair of safeties on defense and three field goals by Will Lutz in the loss.  

In the Monday Night Football game, the host San Francisco 49ers pounded the New York Jets, 32-19 as running back Jordan Mason scored a rushing touchdown and gained 147 yards (28 carries) while Deebo Samuel also scored a rushing TD to pace the offense, which accumulated 401 total yards in the win. Jets QB Aaron Rodgers, playing for the first time since last year's season ending Achilles injury, passed for 167 yards with a TD pass and an interception.

 

WEEK ONE RESULTS 

Kansas City 27, Baltimore 20 

Philadelphia 34, Green Bay 29

Chicago 24, Tennessee 17

Miami 20, Jacksonville 17 

Buffalo 34, Arizona 28

Pittsburgh 18, Atlanta 10 

New Orleans 47, Carolina 10 

New England 16, Cincinnati 10 

Houston 29, Indianapolis 27

Minnesota 28, N.Y. Giants 6

Dallas 33, Cleveland 17

Tampa Bay 37, Washington 20 

L.A. Chargers 22, Las Vegas 10 

Seattle 26, Denver 20 

Detroit 26, L.A. Rams 20 (OT) 

San Francisco 32, N.Y. Jets 19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week One Preview

The NFL season kicks off for 2024 on Thursday night in Kansas City as the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs will host the Baltimore Ravens. The Chiefs beat the Ravens, 17-10 last season in the AFC Championship Game in Baltimore as their defense dominated the game. 

This game will be getting all the hype as the NFL loves to do that sort of thing and this year features two football games taking place before the traditional Sunday games and of course, the Monday Night Football game. Look for Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes to deliver yet again in this one against the Ravens and their staunch defense. Baltimore QB Lamar Jackson will look to atone for a subpar performance in that AFC title game last January that put a damper on what was his second MVP season (following his other one in the 2019 season).

The Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles will play on Friday night in Sao Paulo, Brazil in what could very well be a high scoring game between two teams that moved the football with consistency last season. The Monday night game will be in San Francisco as the 49ers take on the New York Jets, who are hoping that quarterback Aaron Rodgers will last more than just four plays this season. 

 

All in all, Week One is very unpredictable as not too many regular players were in action in the pre-season contests. However, it's looking like quite a bit of "home" cooking in the opening week of the 2024 season.

The following will offer a capsule style preview of all the games and of course, the Heftyinfo predictions for the games as well. 

 

Baltimore Ravens at Kansas City Chiefs - This one is the game of the week for sure. Mahomes and the Chiefs defending their back-to-back Super Bowl titles against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens at Arrowhead Stadium. Let's Go!  

Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles (in Brazil) - There are serious safety concerns surrounding this game with all the chaos in Brazil, so both teams will play on and head back to the United States of America. Game will likely go down to the wire.

Pittsburgh Steelers at Atlanta Falcons - This game, like so many others in the season opener, could go either way. The Steelers have Russell Wilson at quarterback and the Falcons now have Kirk Cousins at QB for this season. Here we go! 

Arizona Cardinals at Buffalo Bills - Cardinals QB Kyler Murray is looking forward to an injury free season while the Bills, with some starters out on defense, will look to QB Josh Allen and the offense to get it going. 

Tennessee Titans at Chicago Bears - The new look Bears are gearing up for what could be a big season with rookie QB Caleb Williams and a strong defense and will take on a rebuilding Titans team in the Windy City. 

New England Patriots at Cincinnati Bengals - Bengals roll ! 

Houston Texans at Indianapolis Colts - The Texans and hot shot second year QB C.J. Stroud take on the Colts and their second year QB Anthony Richardson, who missed most of last season with injuries. Toss up in this one. 

Jacksonville Jaguars at Miami Dolphins - Can the Jaguars defense slow down the high powered Dolphins offensive attack? This one should be a high scoring affair.

Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints - The Panthers are looking to spring the upset in The Big Easy. Saints just missed the playoffs a year ago and QB Derek Carr wants to get the season off to good start. 

Minnesota Vikings at New York Giants - The Vikings still have All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson, but no more Kirk Cousins at QB . . . Sam Darnold is now the man in Minnesota. Meanwhile, the Giants are looking to rebound after a poor season as is QB Daniel Jones. Toss up here. 

Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers - The Jim Harbaugh era begins in L.A. as the revamped  Chargers offense goes against a decent Raiders defense, led by mad man Maxx Crosby. Another toss up. 

Denver Broncos at Seattle Seahawks - The Broncos are going with rookie QB Bo Nix while Seattle has veteran Geno Smith, who took a step back in 2023 after a superb year prior to that. Another toss up game. 

Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns - The rugged Browns defense takes on Dallas' high powered offense, led by QB Dak Prescott and newly (signed) extended wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. The Browns can also move the ball, so they rate the edge with their defense and also playing at home.

Washington Commanders at Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Washington is yet another team starting a rookie at quarterback (Jayden Daniels) against a solid Bucs defense. Can Bucs QB Baker Mayfield duplicate last season's numbers? Bucs win this one in a tight game with a late score. 

Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions - The Rams and QB Matthew Stafford back in Detroit for the Sunday night opener against a team that was oh so close to getting to their first ever Super Bowl. Will there be a hangover for the Lions this year? Not likely. 

New York Jets at San Francisco 49ers - The Monday night game with the Super Bowl runners up (49ers) taking on 40-year old Jets QB Aaron Rodgers. Is there still magic in the arm of Rodgers? It will be tested against a formidable San Francisco defense. Meanwhile, the stingy Jets defense will look to limit 'Niners QB Brock Purdy and his offense. 

 

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

Kansas City over Baltimore 

Green Bay over Philadelphia (game played in Brazil)

Atlanta over Pittsburgh 

Buffalo over Arizona 

Chicago over Tennessee  

CINCINNATI over New England 

Indianapolis over Houston 

Miami over Jacksonville 

New Orleans over Carolina 

N.Y. Giants over Minnesota 

L.A. Chargers over Las Vegas 

Seattle over Denver 

Cleveland over Dallas 

Tampa Bay over Washington 

Detroit over L.A. Rams 

San Francisco over N.Y. Jets 

 

Last Season's Record - 178-94

Lock of the Week Record - 14-4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NFL - 2024 Season Preview And Predictions

The 2024 NFL season is ready to kick off and the most asked question entering this year is can the Kansas City Chiefs win a third consecutive Super Bowl? 

The Chiefs got it going when it mattered most . . . in the playoffs and they won their third Super Bowl title in the last five years. No team has ever won three consecutive Super Bowls since the inception of that game back in 1967. It seems that Kansas City head coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes have replaced former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick and QB Tom Brady as the dynamic duo that was the dominant force in the NFL for nearly two decades. 

This season should be another interesting one and anything can happen (and usually does) as the 32 NFL teams go at it for 18 weeks until the post-season gets started in January. This site Heftyinfo has been covering the NFL since the 2009 season and a lot has changed since then with the game. Passing is the way to go for most offenses nowadays and the defenses have become less blitz oriented it seems, so that gives the quarterback more time to pick the coverage apart and the results are usually higher scoring games. 

Miami had a record setting offense a year ago, but they bowed out in the first round of the AFC playoffs as the strong Kansas City defense shut them down for the easy victory. The once lowly Detroit Lions rose up and almost made it to the Super Bowl. However, they too couldn't quite get it finished as they blew a 17-point lead and saw the San Francisco 49ers advance to meet the Chiefs in the Super Bowl. 

This is a new season and without any reservations, the picks for the divisional winners and the playoffs and Super Bowl follow up. We will see how the outcome goes next February when the final two teams standing go at it in Super Bowl 59 in New Orleans.  (*-wild card team; Bold for top team in conference)

NFC 

East - 1. Philadelphia 2. Dallas 3. N.Y. Giants 4. Washington 

North - 1. Green Bay 2. *Detroit 3. *Chicago 4. Minnesota 

South - 1. Atlanta 2. Tampa Bay 3. New Orleans 4. Carolina 

West - 1. San Francisco 2. *L.A. Rams 3. Seattle 4. Arizona 

AFC 

East - 1. Miami 2. *N.Y. Jets 3. Buffalo 4. New England 

North - 1. Cincinnati 2. *Baltimore 3. *Cleveland 4. Pittsburgh

South - 1. Houston 2. Indianapolis 3. Jacksonville 4. Tennessee 

West - 1. Kansas City 2. Denver 3. L.A. Chargers 4. Las Vegas 

 

NFC Playoffs 

Wild Card Round

Detroit over Philadelphia; Green Bay over Chicago; Atlanta over L.A. Rams

Divisional Round 

San Francisco over Detroit; Green Bay over Atlanta 

NFC Championship Game 

San Francisco over Green Bay 

AFC Playoffs 

Wild Card Round 

Kansas City over N.Y. Jets; Cleveland over Cincinnati; Baltimore over Miami

Divisional Round 

Houston over Cleveland; Baltimore over Kansas City 

AFC Championship Game   

Baltimore over Houston 

 

                                                                     SUPER BOWL LIX 

                                                San Francisco 49ers over Baltimore Ravens