NFL - Week Thirteen Recap (Thanksgiving Day and Friday games)

 

Bears Head Coach Matt Eberflus was fired a day after the teams' sixth straight loss.

Oops, they did it again. 

The Chicago Bears (4-8) blew a chance to at least attempt a game tying field goal in a 23-20 loss on Thanksgiving Day against the host Detroit Lions. The Lions (11-1) won their tenth consecutive game and built a 16-0 halftime lead as quarterback Jared Goff (221 passing yards, 2 TD) threw the first of his two touchdown passes to tight end Sam LaPorta and kicker Jake Bates added three field goals.

 The Bears mounted a furious fourth quarter rally with QB Caleb Williams (256 passing yards, 3 TD) throwing two TD passes before the clock ran out on them as they failed to use their final timeout in the final 32 seconds of the game. And the following day, for the first time in team history, the Bears fired a Head Coach (Matt Eberflus) during the regular season.

In Dallas, the Cowboys (5-7) won on Thanksgiving Day, 27-20 against the New York Giants (2-10), who became the first team in the NFL to be officially eliminated from playoff contention. Dallas linebacker DeMarvion Overshown intercepted a pass and took it back 23 yards for a go ahead touchdown as the Cowboys had a 13-7 lead with 11:29 left in the second quarter and never looked back. Cowboys QB Cooper Rush threw a TD pass and running back Rico Dowdle (112 rushing yards) scored on a four-yard run in the third quarter to build a 27-10 lead. The Giants added a field goal and eight-yard scoring run by QB Drew Lock with 2:18 remaining in the game to account for the final score.

The third game on Thanksgiving saw the Green Bay Packers (9-3) win at home, 30-17 over the Miami Dolphins (5-7) as QB Jordan Love threw two touchdown passes along with 274 passing yards. Packers RB Josh Jacobs added a scoring run as they built a 30-11 lead. Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa passed for 365 yards and two touchdowns in the loss. 

In the Friday afternoon game in Kansas City, the Chiefs became the first team in the NFL to clinch a playoff spot and improved to 11-1 with another nail biting win.  The Chiefs won  a 19-17 decision against the Las Vegas Raiders (2-10) and wrapped up the victory when they recovered a fumbled shotgun snap to Raiders QB Aidan O' Connell in the closing seconds as the Raiders were driving into field goal range. Chiefs kicker Matthew Wright kicked four field goals and QB Patrick Mahomes had a TD pass and 306 passing yards to lead the way while O' Connell threw for 340 yards and a touchdown while Raiders tight end Brock Bowers had ten receptions for 140 yards and also a 33-yard touchdown reception in defeat.

WEEK THIRTEEN RESULTS 

Detroit 23, Chicago 20 

Dallas 27, N.Y. Giants 20

Green Bay 30, Miami 17

Kansas City 19, Las Vegas 17  

NFL - Week Thirteen Preview

 

The traditional Thanksgiving Day pro football games take place and once again it will be the Detroit Lions (10-1) playing and they will host the Chicago Bears (4-7) while the Dallas Cowboys (4-7) take on the New York Giants (2-9) in Texas. In the night cap game, it will be two surging teams going at it as the Miami Dolphins (5-6) travel to Green Bay to take on the Packers (8-3) at legendary Lambeau Field. 

There is also a Friday game for the second straight year and this time around it's the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs (10-1) playing at home against the Las Vegas Raiders (2-9) in what could be a lopsided affair. But the Chiefs haven't looked themselves in recent weeks, so it could be closer than expected. 

A full schedule is on tap in Week Thirteen with eleven games on Sunday, including the Buffalo Bills (9-2) taking on the injury riddled and struggling San Francisco 49ers (5-6) on Sunday night in Buffalo. The Monday night game features the Cleveland Browns (3-8) facing the host Denver Broncos (7-5), who are seeking to get back to the NFL playoffs for the first time in nine years. They won it all following the 2015 season and have been playing well to this point of the season. 

By far, the marquee matchup this weekend is the Baltimore Ravens (8-4) hosting the high flying Philadelphia Eagles (9-2), winners of seven games in a row. The Eagles have been averaging just under 29 points per game and their defense has been tremendous during the winning streak. Meanwhile, the Ravens lead the NFL in scoring, averaging 30 PPG and they just ended the Los Angeles Chargers four-game winning streak last week. This game should be a good one.

All 16 games will be featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks will follow up. 

Happy Thanksgiving football fans!

Thanksgiving Day Games  

Chicago (4-7) at Detroit (10-1) - Can the Bears spring the upset in Detroit? They always play each other tough in this NFC North matchup. Lions should get the win. 

N.Y. Giants (2-9) at Dallas (4-7) - Two also rans playing on Turkey Day. Cowboys rate the edge. 

Miami (5-6) at Green Bay (8-3) - The Packers should get the win in this one, but the Dolphins have been rolling since quarterback Tua Tagovailoa came back from his concussion.

Friday Game

Las Vegas (2-9) at Kansas City (10-1) - It bears asking yet again . . . will the Raiders win another game this season? Chiefs should bag this one on "Black Friday." 

Sunday Games

L.A. Chargers (7-4) at Atlanta (6-5) - This one could go down to the wire. Toss up. 

Pittsburgh (8-3) at Cincinnati (4-7) - From here on out, every game is like a playoff game for the Bengals. Steelers have been steady all season long. 

Houston (7-5) at Jacksonville (2-9) - Jaguars getting back starting QB Trevor Lawrence for this one. Texans have been struggling in recent weeks. 

Arizona (6-5) at Minnesota (9-2) - Can the Vikings keep their magic carpet ride going? 

Indianapolis (5-7) at New England (3-9) - Colts need to get on a roll if they want to get into the AFC playoffs. Patriots are playing spoilers the rest of the season.

Seattle (6-5) at N.Y. Jets (3-8) - Seahawks appear to be rolling but the Jets will battle them in this one. 

Tennessee (3-8) at Washington (7-5) - Can the Commanders get it going again? The Titans just pulled off a road upset against Houston and could do the same this week in D.C. 

Tampa Bay (5-6) at Carolina (3-8) - The Buccaneers are back in the hunt for the NFC South crown, but the Panthers have looked much better in recent weeks. Toss up in this one. 

L.A. Rams (5-6) at New Orleans (4-7) - Both teams need a win big time in this one. Another toss up game. 

Philadelphia (9-2) at Baltimore (8-4) - The NFL game of the week for sure. Toss up between two really good football teams. 

San Francisco (5-6) at Buffalo (9-2) - The Bills should win this game, but the 49ers are a desperate team at this point.

Monday Night Football Game

Cleveland (3-8) at Denver (7-5) - The Broncos have been rolling the last two games with rookie QB Bo Nix looking like a contender for the Rookie of the Year award. Browns are playing out the string, but will not be a push over.

The Heftyinfo picks for Week 13   . . . . . . . . . . . .    (Home teams are listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS) 

Detroit over Chicago 

Dallas over N.Y. Giants 

Green Bay over Miami 

KANSAS CITY over Las Vegas 

L.A. Chargers over Atlanta 

Cincinnati over Pittsburgh 

Houston over Jacksonville 

Minnesota over Arizona  

Indianapolis over New England 

N.Y. Jets over Seattle 

Washington over Tennessee 

Tampa Bay over Carolina 

L.A. Rams over New Orleans 

Baltimore over Philadelphia 

Buffalo over San Francisco 

Denver over Cleveland 

 

Last Week's Record - 8-5 

SEASON RECORD - 118-61 

Lock of the Week Record - 9-3 

NFL - Week Twelve Recap

 

The Philadelphia Eagles continue to steam roll opposing teams and on Sunday night in Los Angeles, running back Saquon Barkley (pictured left) took over and ran for 255 yards on 26 carries and scored two touchdowns on long runs of 70 and 72 yards in the second half of a 37-20 victory for the Eagles (9-2), who have a seven-game winning streak. The Rams (5-6) had a 7-0 lead on an impressive first quarter drive that ended with a one yard TD run by RB Kyren Williams. In addition, Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford threw two TD passes in the loss. The Eagles rolled up 481 total yards in offense, including 314 rushing yards. 

The Detroit Lions improved to 10-1 by winning their ninth straight game, 24-6 against the host Indianapolis Colts (5-7) as RB Jahmyr Gibbs scored two rushing touchdowns while David Montgomery added another scoring run to pace the offense. The Colts managed just eleven first downs and two field goals in the setback. 

The Minnesota Vikings (9-2) won a wild road game against the Chicago Bears, 30-27 in overtime as kicker John Parker Romo made a 29-yard field goal with 2:10 remaining in OT to win it. The Bears (4-7) dropped their fifth straight game, but battled back with 17 fourth quarter points to force the OT as rookie QB Caleb Williams threw two touchdown passes and finished with 340 passing yards in the loss. Bears kicker Cairo Santos made a 48-yard field goal as time ran out to tie it up at 27-27. The Vikings opened up a 24-10 lead late in the third quarter when RB Aaron Jones (22 carries for 106 yards) scored on a two-yard run. Vikings QB Sam Darnold also had two scoring passes and threw for 330 yards as Minnesota piled up 452 total yards in the win. 

The Green Bay Packers (8-3) won at home with a resounding 38-10 result against the injury riddled San Francisco 49ers (5-6), who only gained 241 yards in total offense with backup QB Brandon Allen starting in place of Brock Purdy (shoulder injury). Packers QB Jordan Love had two TD passes and running back Josh Jacobs (106 yards on 26 carries) scored three rushing touchdowns to lead the rout. 

Improving to 10-1 and coming off their first loss last weekend, the Kansas City Chiefs beat the stubborn Carolina Panthers, 30-27 when kicker Spencer Shrader made a 31-yard field goal as time expired for the win. Kansas City QB Patrick Mahomes (269 passing yards) had three scoring passes to offset a TD run by Panthers RB Chuba Hubbard and a TD pass by QB Bryce Young. The Panthers dropped to 3-8 as their two-game winning streak ended. 

The Miami Dolphins (5-6) crushed the visiting New England Patriots, 34-15 to win their third game in a row as QB Tua Tagovailoa passed for 317 yards with four touchdowns as they built up a 31-0 lead over the Patriots (3-8) after three quarters. New England got a TD pass from rookie QB Drake Maye and a 63 yard fumble return for another score by Christian Gonzalez to avoid being shut out. 

The Denver Broncos (7-5) won, 29-19 at Las Vegas as they got it rolling in the second half with rookie QB Bo Nix throwing for two touchdowns while the defense had five sacks and forced a pair of turnovers to aid the win. The Raiders (2-9) lost their seventh consecutive game as starting QB Gardner Minshew (shoulder injury) left the game after a first half TD pass for a 7-3 lead that held up until Denver took over, limiting the Raiders to four field goals the rest of the way. 

In a wild one in Washington, D.C., the Dallas Cowboys (4-7) snapped a five game losing streak with a 34-26 win over the Commanders (7-5) as they had two kickoff returns for touchdowns, which included a 43-yard return by Juanyeh Thomas on an onside kick after Washington got to within 27-26 in the final 21 seconds of the game. KaVontae Turner took a kickoff back 99 yards with 2:49 left to go for a 27-17 Dallas lead. From there, the Commanders got a 51-yard field goal by Austin Siebert, who also missed two PAT kicks to help make the difference in their loss. Washington rookie QB Jayden Daniels threw a 86-yard TD pass to Terry McLaurin prior to the drama by Siebert (missed PAT) and the dagger by Thomas for the Cowboys. The two teams combined for 41 points in the fourth quarter, including five touchdowns in the final five minutes.

 

The Seattle Seahawks (6-5) won at home, 16-6 over the Arizona Cardinals for a tie for first place in the NFC West as their defense came up big by limiting the Cardinals (6-5) to just two field goals and also sacking Kyler Murray five times. Seattle QB Geno Smith had a TD pass and defensive back Coby Bryant (number 8, pictured right) took an interception 69 yards for another touchdown to lead the way to the win. 

 

Four different players scored rushing touchdowns for the visiting Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-6) as they pasted the New York Giants, 30-7 and also racked up 450 yards in total offense, compared to 245 yards for the Giants (2-9). 

The Tennessee Titans stunned the Houston Texans, 32-27 for a road win to improve to 3-8 as QB Will Levis had a pair of scoring passes and Tony Pollard scored a rushing touchdown while rushing for 119 yards on 24 carries. The Texans (7-5) were limited to 260 yards in total offense and their defense had eight QB sacks in the loss, which saw QB C.J. Stroud throw for two touchdowns and safety Jimmie Ward score on a 65 yard interception return for a 24-23 lead. In the fourth quarter, Levis hooked up with tight end Chig Okonkwo for a 70-yard touchdown pass with 9:35 remaining. A safety on a sack with 1:13 left to go iced the win.

On Thursday night in snowy Cleveland, the Browns (3-8) beat the Pittsburgh Steelers, 24-19 with RB Nick Chubb scoring two rushing touchdowns, including the game winner on a two-yard run with just 57 seconds remaining. The Steelers (8-3) scored twice in the final quarter to erase an 18-6 deficit with Jaylen Warren scoring on a three-yard run and QB Russell Wilson throwing for another score with 6:15 left to play. Browns QB Jameis Winston had a two-yard scoring as well to help the winning effort. 

In the "Harbaugh Bowl" on Monday Night Football, score another one for John Harbaugh against his brother Jim as the Baltimore Ravens (8-4) knocked off the host Los Angeles Chargers, 30-23 behind QB Lamar Jackson rushing for a touchdown and passing for two more along with Justice Hill going 51 yards to pay dirt and RB Derrick Henry gaining 140 yards on 24 carries. The Chargers (7-4) saw their four game win streak snapped as QB Justin Herbert and RB Gus Edwards had rushing touchdowns in the loss and Chargers starting back J.K. Dobbins left the game with a knee injury.

WEEK TWELVE RESULTS 

Cleveland 24, Pittsburgh 19 

Tampa Bay 30, N.Y. Giants 7 

Miami 34, New England 15 

Detroit 24, Indianapolis 6 

Tennessee 32, Houston 27 

Dallas 34, Washington 26 

Kansas City 30, Carolina 27 

Minnesota 30, Chicago 27 (OT) 

Seattle 16, Arizona 6

Green Bay 38, San Francisco 10

Denver 29, Las Vegas 19

Philadelphia 37, L.A. Rams 20

Baltimore 30, L.A. Chargers 23

 

NFL - Week Twelve Preview

Six teams will be on the "Bye Week" as the NFL gets into Week 12 action. The Monday Night Football game is the prime time game of the week for sure with the Baltimore Ravens (7-4) taking on the Los Angeles Chargers (7-3) in L.A. in the "Harbaugh Bowl."

Brothers John (Head Coach for Baltimore) and Jim (L.A. Chargers Head Coach) have done this before in the NFL, but it's been nearly twelve years since the last time. The Ravens beat the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl 47 and also in the 2011 regular season (Thanksgiving night time game), the Ravens also won (16-6) so John is undefeated against Jim. The Chargers have been surging, winners of four straight games, including a thriller last Sunday night against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Ravens are coming off an 18-16 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers last week and need this one to stay competitive in the AFC North division race. 

Both teams play solid defense, although it's been the Chargers D being better this season and they have allowed the least amount of points in league play. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson will be looking to get back on track after last week's debacle against the Steelers. Chargers QB Justin Herbert has been steady all season long, throwing for 13 touchdowns with only one interception. This one could go down to the wire, but the Ravens need it more and should get the road win as long as they win the turnover battle. 

The Sunday night game features the Philadelphia Eagles facing the Los Angeles Rams (also in L.A.) and they have won six consecutive games and stand at 8-2 this season. The Rams (5-5) beat the New England Patriots last Sunday and both wide receivers (Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua) had huge games, combining for three touchdowns. The Eagles rely on running back Saquon Barkley and he has delivered big time so far and if he has a big game against the Rams, Philly should run their winning streak to seven games. This game likely will be a tight one.

The battle for a share of first place in the NFC West takes place in the Great Northwest as the Seattle Seahawks (5-5) host the Arizona Cardinals (6-4 and coming off their bye week) in what should be a good tilt. The Seahawks roared back last week and beat the San Francisco 49ers with QB Geno Smith scoring the winning touchdown in the final 12 seconds. The Seattle defense has been improving as the season goes on and the Cardinals have also played steady on the defensive side in recent weeks. Seahawks at home rate the edge, but do not count out Cards QB Kyler Murray and company. 

The rest of the NFL action for Week Twelve follows up in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks as well. 

 
Kansas City (9-1) at Carolina (3-7) - Chiefs roll ! 

Minnesota (8-2) at Chicago (4-6) - The Bears always battle the Vikings tough and this one should be a good one in Soldier Field. 

Tennessee (2-8) at Houston (7-4) - The old Houston (Oilers) team playing at the current Houston team (Texans) in what could be a decent game. Take the Texans. 

Detroit (9-1) at Indianapolis (5-6) - The Lions should get another win, but the Colts will battle them. 

New England (3-8) at Miami (4-6) - The Dolphins going for their third straight win and the Patriots are playing out the string. 

Tampa Bay (4-6) at N.Y. Giants (2-8) - It's Tommy DeVito time for the Giants after former QB Daniel Jones was cut from the team. Take the Buccaneers. 

Dallas (3-7) at Washington (7-4) - This game lacks the luster it once had . .  .  But the Commanders should win this one. 

Denver (6-5) at Las Vegas (2-8) - Will the Raiders win another game the rest of this season? 

San Francisco (5-5) at Green Bay (7-3) - The Packers should get the win here, especially with the 49ers missing so many players, now including starting QB Brock Purdy. 

The Heftyinfo picks for Week Twelve   . . . . . . . . . . . .      (Home team is listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS)

Pittsburgh over Cleveland

KANSAS CITY over Carolina 

Chicago over Minnesota 

Houston over Tennessee 

Detroit over Indianapolis 

Miami over New England 

Tampa Bay over N.Y. Giants 

Washington over Dallas 

Denver over Las Vegas 

Green Bay over San Francisco 

Seattle over Arizona 

L.A. Rams over Philadelphia 

Baltimore over L.A. Chargers 

 

 Last Week's Record - 11-3 

SEASON RECORD - 110-56 

Lock of the Week Record - 8-3 

NFL - Week Eleven Recap

 

There will be no perfect season around the NFL for the 52nd consecutive season as the Buffalo Bills (9-2) beat the visiting Kansas City Chiefs, 30-21 on Sunday afternoon, giving Kansas City (9-1) their first loss in the 2024 season. Bills quarterback Josh Allen (pictured left) sealed their fate with a 26-yard scoring run with 2:17 remaining and then Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes threw his second interception of the game and that was it. The Bills led 16-14 at the half thanks to two scoring runs by running back James Cook and then increased the lead when Allen threw a 12-yard scoring pass to wide receiver Curtis Samuel. Mahomes connected with tight end Noah Gray for his third TD pass of the game to cut the deficit to 23-21, but the Bills put the game away after that. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers (8-2) held off the visiting Baltimore Ravens, 18-16 thanks to solid defense (three forced turnovers) and six field goals by kicker Chris Boswell, which included three from 50 yards or beyond. Trailing 18-10, Baltimore QB Lamar Jackson threw a TD pass with 1:11 left to play, but the two-point conversion attempt failed and the Steelers now have a two-game lead in the AFC North as the Ravens slipped to 7-4 this season. 

In Detroit, the Lions (9-1) continue to dominate the league as they devastated the Jacksonville Jaguars, 52-6 behind four TD passes from QB Jared Goff (412 passing yards), two rushing scores by David Montgomery and two more touchdowns by WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, who hauled in 11 receptions for 161 yards in the rout as the Lions piled up 645 yards in total offense along with an incredible 38 first downs while the Jaguars (2-9) were held to 170 yards in offense. 

Last Thursday night in Philadelphia, the red hot Eagles (8-2) won their sixth straight game, 26-18 against the Washington Commanders (7-4) with RB Saquon Barkley dominating with 146 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Eagles QB Jalen Hurts (221 passing yards) also had a touchdown run. Commanders rookie QB Jayden Daniels had a TD pass and one interception in the loss. 

The Green Bay Packers blocked a 46-yard field goal attempt as time expired to beat the host Chicago Bears, 20-19 to improve to 7-3 this season while sending the Bears (4-6) to their fourth consecutive loss. Packers QB Jordan Love (261 passing yards) had a TD pass and run along with one interception in the victory and Josh Jacobs had a seven-yard TD run as well. The Bears had a 19-14 lead entering the fourth quarter thanks to D'Andre Swift's 39-yard scoring run late in the third quarter. 

The Minnesota Vikings (8-2) beat the host Tennessee Titans, 23-13 as QB Sam Darnold had a pair of scoring passes and a TD run to lead the offense while the defense had five sacks. The Titans dropped to 2-8 as QB Will Levis (295 passing yards) threw a 98-yard TD pass to Nick Westbrook-Ikhine to get to within 16-10 with seven minutes left in the third quarter. 

The Denver Broncos (6-5) crushed the visiting Atlanta Falcons, 38-6 with rookie QB Bo Nix throwing four touchdown passes while going for 307 passing yards on 28-of-33 accuracy. The Falcons (6-5) only gained 226 yards in total offense in the loss. 

Seattle improved to 5-5 this season with a dramatic come from behind 20-17 win against the host San Francisco 49ers (5-5) as QB Geno Smith ran 13 yards for the winning score with just 12 seconds remaining in the game. 49ers QB Brock Purdy scored a rushing touchdown and also threw for another score in defeat. 

 

The Sunday night game went to the Los Angeles Chargers (7-3) as they beat the Cincinnati Bengals, 34-27 when running back J.K. Dobbins (pictured right) rambled 29 yards for the winning score with 18 seconds left to go in the game. The Chargers led 24-6 at the half as QB Justin Herbert (297 passing yards) had two TD passes. The Bengals (4-7) battled back with three touchdowns in the second half as QB Joe Burrow (356 passing yards) threw for three scores, including two to WR Ja'Marr Chase. Both teams went for over 400 yards in total offense and the Chargers got it done in crunch time, going 84 yards in four plays in 27 seconds to get it done. 

 

The Los Angeles Rams (5-5) won, 28-22 on the road against the New England Patriots (3-8) as QB Matthew Stafford had four TD passes along with 295 passing yards to lead the way. The Patriots hung around with rookie QB Drake Maye throwing for a pair of touchdowns along with an interception that ended the game for the Pats. The Rams wide receiving duo of Cooper Kupp (six receptions for 106 yards, two TD) and Puka Nacua (seven receptions for 123 yards, one TD) made a huge difference in the final outcome. 

The Miami Dolphins (4-6) won at home, 34-19 against the Las Vegas Raiders (2-8) as QB Tua Tagovailoa had three touchdown passes to lead the way. Raiders QB Gardner Minshew had two scoring passes in the loss, which was their sixth in a row.

The Indianapolis Colts (5-6) improved their chance to get back into the playoff chase with a 28-27 road win against the New York Jets (3-8) as QB Anthony Richardson (272 passing yards) had two scoring runs, including the go ahead score on a four-yard run with just 46 seconds left in the game, and also threw for another score. Jets QB Aaron Rodgers had two scoring passes in the loss. 

The New Orleans Saints (4-7) throttled the visiting Cleveland Browns, 35-14 with QB/RB Taysom Hill going off for 138 rushing yards (on just seven carries) and three touchdowns, including a 75-yard TD run while QB Derek Carr had two TD passes to pace the easy win. The Browns (2-8) had tied the game 14-14 in the third quarter when QB Jameis Winston (395 passing yards) threw his second TD pass of the game, but the Saints scored 21 points in the fourth quarter to get the win. 

On Monday Night Football, running back Joe Mixon scored three touchdowns and rushed for 109 yards as the Houston Texans (7-4) smashed the host Dallas Cowboys, 34-10. Dallas dropped to 3-7 this season as backup QB Cooper Rush had a TD pass along with 354 passing yards and an interception in defeat. Derek Barnett took a fumble back 28 yards for a score that gave Houston a 27-10 lead early in the fourth quarter to erase any doubts to the outcome. 

WEEK ELEVEN RESULTS 

Philadelphia 26, Washington 18 

Detroit 52, Jacksonville 6 

Green Bay 20, Chicago 19 

Indianapolis 28, N.Y. Jets 27 

Minnesota 23, Tennessee 13 

L.A. Rams 28, New England 22 

Pittsburgh 18, Baltimore 16

New Orleans 35, Cleveland 14 

Miami 34, Las Vegas 19

Denver 38, Atlanta 6

Seattle 20, San Francisco 17

Buffalo 30, Kansas City 21

L.A. Chargers 34, Cincinnati 27

Houston 34, Dallas 10

NFL - Week Eleven Preview

So many games around the NFL that feature top teams going at it this weekend and it kicks off on Thursday night in Philadelphia with the Eagles (7-2) taking on the Washington Commanders (7-3) in a battle for first place in the NFC East division. The Eagles will have their offense ready to go against Washington, which lost to Pittsburgh, 28-27 last Sunday. The Eagles crushed Dallas, 34-6 and this time around it will not be so easy playing the Commanders. 

If the Commanders can get the running game going, it will do so much for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and the passing game. On the other side, Philadelphia has running back Saquon Barkley (991 rushing yards and six TD) pounding the ball and QB Jalen Hurts will look to wide receiver A.J. Brown to keep things going with the passing attack. This one should be close and do not be surprised if the Commanders can get the win, provided their defense can get turnovers. 

On Sunday, the Pittsburgh Steelers (7-2) host the Baltimore Ravens (7-3) in a big AFC North tilt. The Steelers have been tough on Baltimore in recent games and give Ravens QB Lamar Jackson fits with the pressure they bring. Pass rusher T.J. Watt (6 1/2 sacks) and company will look to hassle Jackson, but the Ravens can counter with NFL rushing leader Derrick Henry (1,120 rushing yards, 14 total TD, 12 of them rushing) to keep them honest. 

The Ravens defense has 31 quarterback sacks, but their secondary has been torched many times this season. Just last week, Bengals QB Joe Burrow passed for nearly 500 yards and wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase had 264 receiving yards and three touchdowns in the 35-34 loss to Baltimore. Steelers QB Russell Wilson can light it up and George Pickens has been the main target in the three games Wilson has started since coming off the injury list. Look for another tight game between these two fierce rivals and possibly another overtime finish. 

In Buffalo, the Bills (8-2 and running away with the AFC East) face the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs (9-0), fresh off their miracle win at home last Sunday (against Denver) thanks to a blocked field goal as time expired. The Chiefs have been consistent on both sides of the football this season and QB Patrick Mahomes has so many weapons with tight end Travis Kelce, receivers JuJu Smith-Schuster and DeAndre Hopkins and running back Kareem Hunt, who has flourished since coming back to K.C. and filling the shoes of injured starter Isiah Pacheco. 

The Bills have scored 290 points (tied for 2nd most in the NFL) this season and QB Josh Allen continues to do it all with his passing and running, throwing for 2,281 yards with 17 TD and four interceptions while also gaining 261 rushing yards and scoring four touchdowns. Buffalo's defense has been suspect at times against the pass, but they seem to find a way to limit opponents when it matters most in the red zone. In addition, the Bills have picked off eleven passes. Kansas City will need to pressure Allen and stuff the run if they want to get to a 10-0 record. 

On Sunday night in Los Angeles, the Chargers (6-3) will be going for their fourth straight win, but it will be a tough test against the Cincinnati Bengals (4-6) who really need to win this game to stay in the thick of the AFC Wild Card hunt. The Chargers have adapted to the style of Head Coach Jim Harbaugh and have been steady on both offense and defense. The Chargers mix it up with the run and pass and QB Justin Herbert has 11 TD passes and just one interception this season. 

The Bengals counter with QB Joe Burrow (2,672 passing yards with 24 TD and only four interceptions), who has been spectacular and along with WR Ja'marr Chase (66 receptions, 981 yards, 10 TD) and Tee Higgins in this game, could keep the Chargers defense on its toes. The Bengals average 27 PPG and allow 26.6 PPG, so they will look to turn this one into a shootout. The Chargers allow a league low 13.1 PPG and have 31 sacks and are a plus-9 in the turnover category. Look for a tight one and if the Chargers can pound the football and mix it up enough to keep Burrow and company on the sidelines, they should get the win. 

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

Jacksonville (2-8) at Detroit (8-1) - Lions roll ! 

L.A. Rams (4-5) at New England (3-7) - Beware the Patriots, who suddenly have been playing solid football, particularly on defense. Rams need to get the offense going again. 

Cleveland (2-7) at New Orleans (2-7) - Who cares? 

Indianapolis (4-6) at N.Y. Jets (3-7) - This game was "flexed off" the Sunday night game and for good reason. These two teams are struggling and the loser of this one is likely to be out of the AFC playoff hunt. 

Minnesota (7-2) at Tennessee (2-7) - The Vikings seem to have things going again following two straight losses. The Titans have been floundering so far this season. 

Las Vegas (2-7) at Miami (3-6) - The Dolphins can continue to keep their resurgence going in this one. The Raiders are terrible. 

Green Bay (6-3) at Chicago (4-5) - The Bears are in free fall mode and the Packers would love to continue that trend against their old rivals. 

Seattle (4-5) at San Francisco (5-4) - The 49ers at home with a chance to get back into a first place tie with Arizona in this game . . . Seahawks coming off the bye week need this one to stay in contention. 

Atlanta (6-4) at Denver (5-5) - This game could be one of the better ones featuring two teams that need a win to continue to remain relevant in the playoff picture. 

Houston (6-4) at Dallas (3-6) - The Cowboys are a mess right now with so many injuries while the Texans are looking to stop a two-game skid. This Monday Night Football game might be closer than most people think. 

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

Washington over Philadelphia 

Pittsburgh over Baltimore 

DETROIT over Jacksonville 

L.A. Rams over New England 

New Orleans over Cleveland 

N.Y. Jets over Indianapolis 

Minnesota over Tennessee 

Miami over Las Vegas 

Green Bay over Chicago 

San Francisco over Seattle 

Denver over Atlanta 

Buffalo over Kansas City 

L.A. Chargers over Cincinnati 

Houston over Dallas 

Last Week's Record - 9-5

SEASON RECORD - 99-53 

Lock of the Week Record - 7-3 

NFL - Week Ten Recap

Bengals QB Joe Burrow and Ravens QB Lamar Jackson both had monster games on Thursday night.

The Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals played another epic game on Thursday night, with the home team Ravens winning, 35-34 as quarterback Lamar Jackson had four touchdown passes along with 290 passing yards to help improve the team to 7-3 this season. The Bengals (4-6) had a chance to win it after QB Joe Burrow (428 passing yards, four TD) connected with wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase for a five-yard scoring pass with 38 seconds remaining in the game, but the two-point conversion pass play failed. Chase had a monster game, catching 11 passes for 264 yards and three touchdowns in the loss. 

On Sunday, the Pittsburgh Steelers (7-2) kept pace with Baltimore in the AFC North division by beating the Washington Commanders, 28-27 with QB Russell Wilson throwing three TD passes while the defense held the Commanders (7-3) to just 242 yards in total offense. It was a back and forth game with Washington ahead 17-14 at the half thanks to a pair of touchdown runs by running back Austin Ekeler. The Steelers trailed 24-14 before RB Najee Harris scored on a one-yard run before Wilson hooked up with WR Mike Williams for a 32-yard TD pass with 2:27 left in the game. 

The Buffalo Bills improved to 8-2 as they blasted the host Indianapolis Colts, 30-20 as defensive back Taron Johnson intercepted a pass and went 23 yards for the touchdown to get things started. The Colts (4-6) took a 13-10 lead in the second quarter and then the Bills took over as the defense forced four turnovers, including three interceptions of Colts QB Joe Flacco. Quarterback Josh Allen and RB James Cook added scoring runs in the win while Flacco had a TD pass and 272 passing yards in defeat. 

The Kansas City Chiefs had a horse shoe with them as they survived the Denver Broncos (5-5) to remain unbeaten at 9-0 with a 16-14 win as linebacker Leo Chenal blocked a 35-yard field goal attempt (by Will Lutz) as time expired. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes threw a two-yard TD pass to tight end Travis Kelce and Harrison Butker made three field goals to provide the difference. The Broncos built a 14-3 lead in the first half as rookie QB Bo Nix threw two scoring passes, but were held scoreless the rest of the game. 

The Philadelphia Eagles (7-2) crushed the Dallas Cowboys (3-6) for a 34-6 road victory as QB Jalen Hurts ran for two scores and passed for two more touchdowns while the defense held the Cowboys to 146 yards in total offense and forced five turnovers, including four fumble recoveries. 

In Arizona, the Cardinals (6-4) thrashed the New York Jets, 31-6 behind a balanced offense (147 rushing yards, 259 passing yards) and QB Kyler Murray throwing a TD pass and rushing for two more while RB James Conner also had a rushing touchdown to pace the easy win. The Jets (3-7) managed only 207 yards in offense in defeat. 

The Los Angeles Chargers (6-3) won their third straight game with a 27-17 home victory against the Tennessee Titans (2-7) as QB Justin Herbert passed for a TD and ran for another one while the defense had seven sacks against Titans QB Will Levis, who threw two TD passes to WR Calvin Ridley in the loss. 

 

In Chicago, the Bears (4-5) were dominated by the New England Patriots (3-7) in a 19-3 loss in which they gained a paltry 142 yards in total offense. The Patriots rushed for 144 yards in the game by comparison and rookie QB Drake Maye had a touchdown pass and Joey Slye kicked four field goals. Bears rookie QB Caleb Williams (pictured right) was sacked NINE times in the loss. 

 

On Sunday night in Houston, the Detroit Lions (8-1) won the game, 26-23 when Jake Bates kicked a 52-yard field goal as time ran out. He also made a 58-yard kick to tie the game at 23-23 with 5:01 left in the fourth quarter. The Texans (6-4) intercepted Lions QB Jared Goff five times and had a 23-7 lead at halftime. In the second half, it was all Lions as Goff (240 passing yards, two TD, five INT) hit WR Amon-Ra St. Brown for his second TD pass in the game and RB David Montgomery had a three-yard TD run to get them back into the game. Texans RB Joe Mixon had a scoring run and C.J. Stroud passed for 232 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions in defeat. 

The San Francisco 49ers (5-4) win at Tampa Bay, 23-20 on a game ending 44-yard field goal by kicker Jake Moody, who was 3-for-6 in field goals in the game. The 49ers trailed 17-13 as the Buccaneers (4-6) got a 12-yard scoring run from Bucky Irving and a TD pass from QB Baker Mayfield. 49ers QB Brock Purdy had two TD passes and 353 passing yards to help aid the win. 

The Minnesota Vikings (7-2) won on the road against the Jacksonville Jaguars, 12-7 as kicker John Parker Romo made four field goals and the defense held the Jaguars (2-8) to 143 yards in total offense and forced three turnovers. Minnesota QB Sam Darnold was intercepted three times, but the defense made up the difference. The only touchdown in the game was a one-yard scoring run by Jags QB Mac Jones. 

Over in Germany, the Carolina Panthers (3-7) beat the New York Giants in a yawner, 20-17 in overtime when kicker Eddy Pineiro made a 36-yard field goal following a fumble recovery by the defense. Panthers RB Chuba Hubbard (153 yards on 28 carries) had a scoring run and QB Bryce Young threw a scoring pass in the win while running back Tyrone Tracy, Jr. (103 yards on 18 carries) had a 32-yard TD run and QB Daniel Jones also scored a rushing touchdown for the Giants (2-8), who forced the OT when Graham Gano made a 42-yard field goal with five seconds left in regulation. 

In New Orleans, the Saints (3-7) snapped their seven game losing streak with a 20-17 win against the Atlanta Falcons (6-4) with QB Derek Carr throwing two TD passes to WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling to offset a pair of scoring runs by Bijan Robinson, who had 20 carries for 116 yards in defeat. In addition, usually reliable Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo missed three field goal attempts while Saints kicker Blake Grupe made two field goals to help make the difference in the final score.

On Monday Night Football, the Miami Dolphins (3-6) knocked off the host Los Angeles Rams, 23-15 as Malik Washington scored on an 18-yard run and QB Tua Tagovailoa threw a one-yard scoring pass to WR Tyreek Hill while Jason Sanders made three field goals. The Rams (4-5) were limited to five field goals in the game and even though their defense held the Dolphins to 238 total yards in offense, they fell short.

 

WEEK TEN RESULTS 

Baltimore 35, Cincinnati 34 

Carolina 20, N.Y. Giants 17 (OT)

New England 19, Chicago 3 

New Orleans 20, Atlanta 17

Kansas City 16, Denver 14 

Buffalo 30, Indianapolis 20

San Francisco 23, Tampa Bay 20 

Minnesota 12, Jacksonville 7 

Pittsburgh 28, Washington 27 

L.A. Chargers 27, Tennessee 17

Arizona 31, N.Y. Jets 6

Philadelphia 34, Dallas 6

Detroit 26, Houston 23

Miami 23, L.A. Rams 15

Take A Good Look At What People Voted For

 

This is what Trump supporters voted for . . . when it hits them (and it will) it will be too late for them and their families. 

Stay tuned and we'll see what happens. 

 

NFL - Week Ten Preview

 

The Cincinnati Bengals (4-5) take on the Baltimore Ravens (6-3) in a road game on Thursday night to get the action going for Week Ten. About a month ago, the Ravens won at Cincinnati, 41-38 in overtime and tonight's game could offer more of the same. 

The Ravens pounded the Denver Broncos, 41-10 last week while the Bengals blasted the Las Vegas Raiders, 41-24 with quarterback Joe Burrow throwing five touchdown passes. The Bengals have averaged 26 points per game and can mix the run and pass much the same as the Ravens do with their offense. Ravens QB Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry spear head the offense and wide receiver Zay Flowers has been on fire of late, catching a pair of TD passes last Sunday. This game could go down to the wire like the last time these two played. 

 

Will any team challenge the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs this year? The Denver Broncos will have their chance this Sunday with a road game against their AFC West division rivals. The Chiefs are 8-0 while the Broncos stand at 5-4, so even if they were to surprise the Chiefs, they would still be three games back in the standings. Kansas City's defense continues to play excellent football and will look to keep the clamps on rookie QB Bo Nix, who has been pretty solid so far this season. 

Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes has eleven touchdown passes (along with nine interceptions) this season and will look to his main targets (tight end) Travis Kelce and (WR) DeAndre Hopkins, who caught a pair of touchdown passes in the Chiefs 30-24 OT win on Monday night against Tampa Bay. As long as the K.C. defense does its job and Mahomes and company can get things going against a pretty good Broncos defense, the Chiefs should stay undefeated. 

The red hot Washington Commanders (7-2) will host the equally strong Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2 and coming off the bye week) this Sunday. Both teams have won three straight games and Steelers QB Russell Wilson has been solid in his first two starts since coming off the injury list (542 passing yards with three TD in two games) and the defense has been tremendous as usual, ranking number two in the NFL in points allowed. 

The Commanders rely on rookie QB Jayden Daniels running the offense and he has nine TD passes and only two interceptions along with 1,945 yards. He also has rushed for 459 yards and four touchdowns. His main targets in the passing game are WR Terry McLaurin (42 receptions, six TD) and tight end Zach Ertz, who has 33 receptions. This one should be a great game and whoever can protect the football will likely get the win. 

The Sunday night game in Houston will feature the Texans (6-3) playing the Detroit Lions, the best team in the NFC with a 7-1 record. Detroit's offense averages 32 points per game while the Texans have struggled of late, scoring only 58 points in the last three games, two of them losses with QB C.J. Stroud (2,139 passing yards, 11 TD, four INT) scuffling in those games. Meanwhile, Lions QB Jared Goff has been having a record setting season thus far, passing for 1,840 yards with 14 TD and four interceptions, and an outstanding 75 percent pass completion percentage. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown has six touchdown receptions (48 receptions) and the running duo of Jahmyr Gibbs (656 yards, seven TD) and David Montgomery (488, seven TD) has been nearly unstoppable this season. The Lions defense has been more steady than Houston's and rates the edge, especially getting after the quarterback in recent games, even without Aidan Hutchinson (broken leg). 

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

New York Giants (2-7) at Carolina Panthers (2-7) - (game played in Munich, Germany) - This Sunday morning "wake up" game could put many fans back to sleep. 

Minnesota Vikings (6-2) at Jacksonville Jaguars (2-7) - Vikings should win this one, but the Jaguars will put up a fight at home. 

Atlanta Falcons (6-3) at New Orleans Saints (2-7) - Will the Saints get a bump with new coach after firing Dennis Allen and snap their seven game skid? Not likely against the red hot Falcons, winners of five of their last six games. 

San Francisco 49ers (4-4) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-5) - Will the 49ers finally have running back Christian McCaffrey on the field this weekend? The Bucs defense has been reeling in recent weeks,  allowing 33 points per game in the last five games. 

Buffalo Bills (7-2) at Indianapolis Colts (4-5) - Could this be a trap game for Buffalo as they look toward their huge game (Week 11) against Kansas City? The Colts will play them tough and could spring the surprise. 

New England Patriots (2-7) at Chicago Bears (4-4) - If the Bears cannot get the win this week at home, the cries for Head Coach Matt Eberflus' job will get really loud. 

Tennessee Titans (2-6) at Los Angeles Chargers (5-3) - The Chargers defense is the best in the NFL in points allowed. Tennessee averages 17 PPG, so will this one be a high scoring affair? Not likely, but the 'Bolts get the win. 

Philadelphia Eagles (6-2) at Dallas Cowboys (3-5) - Can the Eagles make it five in a row? The Cowboys are really hurting and will be without starting QB Dak Prescott (hamstring injury) for at least a month. Take the Eagles. 

New York Jets (3-6) at Arizona Cardinals (5-4) - The red hot Cardinals face Aaron Rodgers and the Jets, who are in "must win" mode for the rest of the season. Cardinals win in a thriller.

Miami Dolphins (2-6) at Los Angeles Rams (4-4) - The Monday Night Football game between two teams heading in opposite directions. Rams should make it four straight wins and send the Dolphins to their fourth consecutive defeat. 

The Heftyinfo picks for Week Ten  . . . . . . . . . . . .       (Home team is listed in bold; Lock of the Week is listed in BOLD CAPS) 

Baltimore over Cincinnati 

Carolina over N.Y. Giants (Game played in Munich, Germany) 

Kansas City over Denver 

Washington over Pittsburgh 

Minnesota over Jacksonville 

Atlanta over New Orleans 

San Francisco over Tampa Bay 

Indianapolis over Buffalo 

Chicago over New England 

L.A. CHARGERS over Tennessee 

Philadelphia over Dallas 

Arizona over N.Y. Jets 

Detroit over Houston 

L.A. Rams over Miami 

Last Week's Record - 13-2 

SEASON RECORD - 90-48 

Lock of the Week Record - 6-3 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

America - You Screwed It Up Again

Electing a traitor and convicted felon to be the President of the United States of America?

We'll see what happens.

Election Day 2024

 

NFL - Week Nine Recap

 

The Buffalo Bills went to 7-2 this season with a thrilling 30-27 win against the visiting Miami Dolphins (2-6) when Tyler Bass (pictured left) kicked a 61-yard field goal with five seconds left. Miami had tied the game at 27-27 when quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw a seven-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Jaylen Waddle with 1:38 remaining. But the Bills drove downfield and got the winning kick. Buffalo QB Josh Allen had three TD passes in the win while Dolphins running back De'Von Achane scored a rushing TD and also had a receiving score in defeat.

The Atlanta Falcons (6-3) knocked off the Dallas Cowboys, 27-21 behind three touchdown passes by QB Kirk Cousins. The Cowboys (3-5) scored late on a TD pass by backup QB Cooper Rush (starter Dak Prescott left with a hamstring injury that could keep him out for several weeks), but the Falcons recovered the onside kick to seal the game.

In Baltimore, it was all Ravens (6-3) in a 41-10 beat down of the Denver Broncos (5-4) as QB Lamar Jackson had three TD passes, with two of them going to WR Zay Flowers, who had five receptions for 127 yards. Ravens RB Derrick Henry scored twice and rushed for 106 yards in the rout.

The Washington Commanders (7-2) won again, this time 27-22 on the road against the New York Giants (2-7) with rookie QB Jayden Daniels throwing for two scores and RB Austin Ekeler getting a rushing touchdown to lead the way. The Giants kept it interesting with a late scoring pass from QB Daniel Jones, who had two of them in defeat.

The Detroit Lions (7-1) toppled the host Green Bay Packers, 24-14 as QB Jared Goff threw for a score and RB Jahmyr Gibbs had a 15-yard TD run to go along with a "pick six" 27-yard interception score by Kerby Joseph to give the Lions a 17-3 halftime lead. The Packers (6-3) out gained the Lions 411-261 in total yardage, but didn't score a touchdown until late in the fourth quarter to account for the final score.

The Los Angeles Chargers roughed up the host Cleveland Browns, 27-10 to improve to 5-3 with QB Justin Herbert passing for two scores and passing for 282 yards while the Chargers defense had three interceptions and six sacks. Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston hauled in a 66-yard TD pass and had four receptions for 118 yards. The Browns (2-7) turned it over three times (all on interceptions thrown by QB Jameis Winston) but did manage six QB sacks in the loss.

Cincinnati clobbered the visiting Las Vegas Raiders, 41-24 as QB Joe Burrow had five touchdown passes. The Bengals (4-5) had 373 yards in total offense. The Raiders dropped to 2-7 this season and managed only 217 total yards in offense. 

The Arizona Cardinals (5-4) continue to roll along as they remained atop the NFC West division with a 29-9 win against the visiting Chicago Bears (4-4) and rushed for 213 yards with all three touchdowns being scored on the ground, including a 53 yard scoring run by Emari Demercado just before the first half ended. Cardinals RB James Conner rushed for 107 yards in the easy win. Bears rookie QB Caleb Williams was sacked six times and suffered an ankle injury at the end of the game.

In overtime, the Los Angeles Rams (4-4) won their third straight game as they got a 26-20 win against the host Seattle Seahawks (4-5) when QB Matthew Stafford threw a 39-yard scoring pass to WR DeMarcus Robinson, who had two scoring catches. The Seahawks led 13-3 at halftime, but the Rams took the lead 20-13 in the fourth quarter when DB Kamren Kinchens (two interceptions) took a pick back 102 yards for a touchdown. Seattle QB Geno Smith (363 passing yards, two TD, three INT) led a game tying scoring drive and hit WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba (seven receptions for 180 yards) on a 14-yard TD pass with 51 seconds left in the game.  

The Philadelphia Eagles improved to 6-2 with their fourth straight win as they beat the Jacksonville Jaguars, 28-23 after nearly blowing a 22-0 lead. The Jaguars (2-7) had a chance to win the game, but QB Trevor Lawrence was intercepted in the end zone with just over a minute to play. Eagles RB Saquon Barkley had a monster game, going for 159 rushing yards and scored two touchdowns, including a 20-yard receiving score. Eagles QB Jalen Hurts had a passing and rushing TD in the victory. Jacksonville closed to within 22-16 with 5:12 left in the third quarter when Trevon Walker scooped up a fumble and took it 35 yards for a touchdown. (Jags QB) Lawrence scored two rushing touchdowns in defeat. 

The Tennessee Titans (2-6) won in overtime, 20-17 against the visiting New England Patriots (2-7) on a 25-yard field goal by Nick Folk with 2:32 remaining. The Patriots forced the OT session when rookie QB Drake Maye threw a five yard scoring pass to RB Rhamondre Stevensson on the final play. Titans QB Mason Rudolph had a pair of scoring passes in the win.

The Carolina Panthers (2-7) won at home, 23-22 over the New Orleans Saints (2-7), who dropped their seventh game in a row and fired Head Coach Dennis Allen. Panthers QB Bryce Young had a TD pass and RB Chubba Hubbard scored two rushing touchdowns to lead the way. Saints QB Derek Carr threw a TD pass and Taysom Hill had a rushing score in the loss.

On Thursday night, the New York Jets (3-6) snapped a five-game losing streak with a 21-13 come from behind win at home against the Houston Texans (6-3) as QB Aaron Rodgers had three TD passes with two of them going to WR Garrett Wilson. Texans RB Joe Mixon rushed for 106 yards and scored a touchdown in the setback.

The Sunday Night Football Game in Minnesota saw the Vikings (6-2) knock off the Indianapolis Colts, 21-13 as QB Sam Darnold had three TD passes in the second half comeback win. The Colts (4-5) had a 7-0 halftime lead, thanks to a 38 yard fumble return score by Kenny Moore II in the second quarter. Indianapolis managed only 227 yards in total offense and had the ball for just over 23 minutes. 

On Monday night, the host Kansas City Chiefs stayed undefeated this season (8-0) with a 30-24 win in overtime against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-5) as running back Kareem Hunt (106 rushing yards) scored on a two-yard run with 4:08 left in OT to get it done. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes passed for three touchdowns (along with 291 yards) with two of them going to WR DeAndre Hopkins. The Buccaneers took a 14-10 lead in the third quarter when QB Baker Mayfield threw an 11-yard TD pass to Cade Otton. The Chiefs battled back with two touchdowns in the fourth quarter for a 24-17 lead before the Bucs scored on a one-yard TD pass from Mayfield to Ryan Miller with just 27 seconds left to force the overtime.

WEEK NINE RESULTS 

N.Y. Jets 21, Houston 13 

Baltimore 41, Denver 10 

Cincinnati 41, Las Vegas 24

L.A. Chargers 27, Cleveland 10

Carolina 23, New Orleans 22

Washington 27, N.Y. Giants 22

Buffalo 30, Miami 27

Atlanta 27, Dallas 21 

Tennessee 20, New England 17 (OT)

Arizona 29, Chicago 9

Philadelphia 28, Jacksonville 23

Detroit 24, Green Bay 14

L.A. Rams 26, Seattle 20 (OT)  

Minnesota 21, Indianapolis 13  

Kansas City 30, Tampa Bay 24 (OT) 

The Obvious And Only Choice For President of the United States of America

NFL - Week Nine Preview

 

Week Nine around the NFL brings some good games, including the Green Bay Packers (6-2) hosting the Detroit Lions (6-1) in a battle for first place in the NFC North division. The Lions are coming off a 52-14 beating they inflicted against the Tennessee Titans while the Packers won on the road against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Both teams have been rolling lately and this one will probably go back and forth. 

Lions quarterback Jared Goff continues to impress even with only passing for less than 100 yards in the easy win last weekend. The running game for the Lions is solid (5.1 yards per rush) and even with the defense losing Aidan Hutchinson to a broken leg, the Lions continue to dominate their opponents. The Packers offense may have to go with backup QB Malik Willis if Jordan Love (groin injury) cannot answer the bell this Sunday afternoon, which could mean more carries for running back Josh Jacobs. 

The Baltimore Ravens (5-3) are coming off a disappointing loss to Cleveland and now face the surging Denver Broncos (5-3) and their tough defense. The Ravens will be at home, but they have to be more consistent on defense after getting torched by Browns QB Jameis Winston last week. Quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry continue to carry the offense and a ball control attack against Denver should help to provide the margin of victory this week. The Broncos will be ready to go and if rookie QB Bo Nix gets protection from the offensive line, the Broncos could pull off the upset. 

The Monday night game in Kansas City is a throwback to Super Bowl 55 as the unbeaten Chiefs (7-0) take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-4), who are coming off a tough loss to the Atlanta Falcons. The Chiefs just keep on rolling along and the defense does the job week after week. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes and company average just under 25 points per game, but still have been criticized for not playing well. The running game has been adequate and now with wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins on the team, it gives another option to the passing game. 

The Buccaneers defense will be tested again this weekend and QB Baker Mayfield will be looking to air it out against a solid defensive squad. However, being without injured top receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin will make it tougher. The likely outcome in this game is another Chiefs win. 

The rest of the NFL action for Week Nine follows up in the capsule style and the Heftyinfo picks follow up. 

Dallas (3-4) at Atlanta (5-3) - The Falcons should win this one as the Cowboys are so banged up on defense and cannot stop the run. 

Miami (2-5) at Buffalo (6-2) - The Bills are running away with the AFC East this season and should continue that this weekend. 

New Orleans (2-6) at Carolina (1-7) - Who cares? 

Las Vegas (2-6) at Cincinnati (3-5) - Must win game for the Bengals . . . they must find a way to get it done. 

L.A. Chargers (4-3) at Cleveland (2-6) - Can the Browns get two wins in a row? The Chargers better be ready for this one. 

Indianapolis (4-4) at Minnesota (5-2) - This game could be a tight one and was "flexed" to Sunday night. Vikings have dropped two in a row and the Colts always show up and play hard and will have veteran QB Joe Flacco starting this week. 

Washington (6-2) at N.Y. Giants (2-6) - The Commanders really lucked out last week for a win and the Giants battled the Steelers on Monday night, but came up short. Look for a competitive game in this one. 

New England (2-6) at Tennessee (1-6) - Neither of these two teams scores many points, so will that mean a high scoring game? 

Chicago (4-3) at Arizona (4-4) - The Bears need a big bounce back after that crazy, last second loss last week to the Commanders. The Cardinals have quietly played well and share first place in the NFC West. Toss up here. 

L.A. Rams (3-4) at Seattle (4-4) - Which Seahawks team will show up this week? The Rams have steadily improved each week. Another toss up game.

Jacksonville (2-6) at Philadelphia (5-2) - This game could be decided in a hurry, which could be why it was moved from the "prime time" Sunday night slot. Fly Eagles Fly! 

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

N.Y. Jets over Houston 

Atlanta over Dallas 

Baltimore over Denver 

Buffalo over Miami 

Carolina over New Orleans 

Cincinnati over Las Vegas 

L.A. Chargers over Cleveland

Minnesota over Indianapolis 

Washington over N.Y. Giants 

Tennessee over New England 

Chicago over Arizona 

Detroit over Green Bay 

Seattle over L.A. Rams 

PHILADELPHIA over Jacksonville 

Kansas City over Tampa Bay 

Last Week's Record - 9-7

SEASON RECORD - 77-46 

Lock of the Week Record - 5-3