NFL - Week Nine Preview

 

Without question, the game of the week around the NFL on Sunday is the Kansas City Chiefs (5-3) facing the Buffalo Bills (5-2) in Buffalo. The Bills have owned the Chiefs in recent years during the REGULAR season, but once the playoffs come around, it's all about the Chiefs. 

This Sunday should once again be a back and forth game and as long as Bills quarterback Josh Allen doesn't turn the football over, his team should come out on top. The Chiefs and QB Patrick Mahomes have it going again with people back healthy and contributing. Kansas City running back Isiah Pacheco might not play in this game due to a knee injury, but Kareem Hunt has been solid when asked to carry the ball. This game is definitely a toss up, so fans should expect to see another classic as these two teams go at it for the tenth time since the 2020 season. 

 

 

Minnesota at Detroit is another game that has questions that will be answered when the final score is posted. The Vikings (3-4) have been struggling and finally will get starting QB J.J. McCarthy back on the field. The Lions (5-2) are roaring on offense and have also shown more life on defense in recent weeks. Minnesota has lost two in a row and McCarthy hasn't played since Week Two because of a severe ankle injury, so how effective he can be is to be determined. That doesn't bode well for the Vikings playing on the road against the Lions. 

After getting shut down in the second half last Sunday night, the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3) will be looking to get back on track at home against the Indianapolis Colts, who at 7-1 have the best record in the NFL. The Colts have been the biggest surprise team in  the league and QB Daniel Jones has continued to confound the so called experts with his steady play this season. Once a turnover machine, Jones has been stellar at protecting the football through eight games and running back Jonathan Taylor is in the conversation as well for NFL Most Valuable Player so far this season. 

Taylor has already scored 14 touchdowns (including 12 rushing scores) and is chasing the "impossible" record of 31 touchdowns in one season set by LaDainian Tomlinson with the San Diego Chargers back in the 2006 season. Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers needs to get everybody involved with the offense and spread it around against a tough Colts defense if they want to get the win and the Pittsburgh defense will have their hands full against the NFL's highest scoring team, averaging 33.7 points per game. 

The rest of the action for this weekend is featured in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks follow up. 

Baltimore (2-5) at Miami (2-6) - Thursday night in Miami and the Ravens have QB Lamar Jackson coming back from his hamstring injury. That is a big deal for the most celebrated sub .500 team in recent memory. 

Chicago (4-3) at Cincinnati (3-5) - The Bears laid an egg in Baltimore last week and face yet another AFC North team on the road, so this will not be easy. The Bengals could be without QB Joe Flacco (shoulder injury) and that's not a good thing. Toss up here in this one. 

Carolina (4-4) at Green Bay (5-1-1) - The Packers are rolling and should continue to do so at Lambeau Field in this game. 

L.A. Chargers (5-3)  at Tennessee (1-7) - This game looks like a complete blowout on paper, so will the Chargers find a way to help keep it close against perhaps the worst team in the NFL?

Atlanta (3-4) at New England (6-2) - Patriots should get their sixth consecutive win, but the Jekyll-and-Hyde Falcons might show up this week and keep it close. 

San Francisco (5-3) at N.Y. Giants (2-6) - The Giants are 2-6 for a reason and now they are without both Malik Nabers and rookie RB Cam Skattebo for the rest of this season. The 49ers should get a bounce back win after a terrible effort in Houston last week. 

Denver (6-2) at Houston (3-4) - The Broncos offense has suddenly come alive in last two games, but this time they face a team from Texas that actually plays good defense. The Texans offense woke up last week, but they face one of the best defenses in the NFL this week. Toss up here in what should be a low scoring game. Turnovers will decide the outcome. 

Jacksonville (4-3) at Las Vegas (2-5) - In an unusual turn of events, the Jaguars have not won a football game since that corny TV ad with Trevor Lawrence and rookie Travis Hunter started airing. The Raiders are due for a win and this week it could happen. 

New Orleans (1-7) at L.A. Rams (5-2) - The Rams are coming off the bye week and should plaster the Saints in this home game. 

Seattle (5-2) at Washington (3-5) - If quarterback Jayden Daniels (hamstring injury) can play this week for the Commanders, this "prime time" Sunday night game will be competitive. Seahawks looking to keep pace with the Rams and 49ers in a very competitive NFC West race. 

Arizona (2-5) at Dallas (3-4-1) - The Monday night game featuring two so-so teams. Cowboys have a far better offense, but that defense they play is putrid. This game could go down to the wire and the Cardinals need to get QB Kyler Murray (foot injury) back on the field to have shot at winning this game. 

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

Baltimore over Miami 

Chicago over Cincinnati 

Detroit over Minnesota 

GREEN BAY over Carolina 

L.A. Chargers over Tennessee 

New England over Atlanta 

San Francisco over N.Y. Giants 

Pittsburgh over Indianapolis 

Houston over Denver 

Las Vegas over Jacksonville 

L.A. Rams over New Orleans 

Buffalo over Kansas City 

Seattle over Washington 

Dallas over Arizona 

 

Last Week's Record - 9-4 

SEASON RECORD - 77-43-1 

Lock of the Week Record - 8-0  

 

NFL - Week Eight Recap

Packers tight end Tucker Kraft had a huge game in victory on Sunday night.  

On Sunday night in Pittsburgh, the Green Bay Packers (5-1-1) dominated the second half and overcame a 16-7 halftime deficit to win, 35-25 against the Steelers (4-3), who dropped their second straight game.  Packers quarterback Jordan Love threw for three touchdowns and had 360 passing yards with two of the touchdown strikes going to tight end Tucker Kraft, who had seven receptions for 143 yards as the Packers scored 21 fourth quarter points. Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers passed for 219 yards and two scores in the loss. 

The Philadelphia Eagles (6-2) avenged their loss to the New York Giants two weeks ago with a resounding 38-20 home victory as quarterback Jalen Hurts had four TD passes along with running back Saquon Barkley rushing for 150 yards (on just 14 carries) and he scored on a 65-yard run and also had a touchdown reception. Philadelphia rushed for 276 yards in the game and piled up 427 yards in total offense. Giants QB Jaxson Dart had a scoring pass and run in defeat as they dropped to 2-6 this season and also lost RB Cam Skattebo for the rest of the season with an ankle injury.

The New England Patriots (6-2) woke up in the second half and steamrolled the visiting Cleveland Browns, 32-13 behind three TD passes by QB Drake Maye, who passed for 282 yards along with one interception in the rout. The Browns (2-6) had a brief 7-3 lead in the first half as rookie QB Dillon Gabriel finished the game with a pair of scoring passes while their defense had six sacks, including five by Myles Garrett in the loss. 

In Denver, the Broncos (6-2) smashed the Dallas Cowboys, 44-24 behind four TD passes by QB Bo Nix (247 passing yards and one INT) while they amassed 426 yards in offense. Running back RJ Harvey scored three times (two rushing, one receiving) and J.K. Dobbins had 111 yards on the ground to pace the attack. Cowboys QB Dak Prescott was intercepted twice as they fell to 3-4-1 for the season. 

The Indianapolis Colts improved to an NFL best record of 7-1 as they crushed the visiting Tennessee Titans, 38-14 with RB Jonathan Taylor going off for 153 rushing yards (12 carries) and he also scored three touchdowns (two rushing, one receiving) which included an 80-yard burst in the third quarter to open things up after Indy had built a 17-7 halftime lead. Colts QB Daniel Jones had three TD passes and also passed for 272 yards while the Titans fell to 1-7 as they allowed 420 yards in offense for the Colts in the loss. 

The Baltimore Ravens (2-5) showed they still have life with a 30-16 home win against the Chicago Bears (4-3), who saw their four game win streak come to an end. Ravens RB Derrick Henry scored two rushing touchdowns and their defense came up with a big interception to keep the Bears in check. Chicago settled for three field goals and their only touchdown came on a two-yard run by D'Andre Swift early in the fourth quarter to cut their deficit to 16-13 before Baltimore put the game away with 14 points, including a ten-yard TD pass from QB Tyler Huntley.

 

The Buffalo Bills (5-2) went on the road and blasted the Carolina Panthers, 40-9 with RB James Cook (pictured right) scoring twice, including a 64-yard TD run while rushing for 216 yards on 19 carries. Buffalo QB Josh Allen also had a pair of rushing touchdowns and threw a 54-yard TD pass to wide receiver Khalil Shakir. The Panthers (4-4) were never in this one as they turned the football over three times (two fumbles and one interception) while allowing seven sacks. 

 

Tampa Bay beat the host New Orleans Saints, 23-3 to improve to 6-2 with Anthony Nelson scoring on a three-yard interception return while RB Sean Tucker had a scoring run and Chase McLaughlin kicked three field goals. Despite outgaining the Buccaneers in yardage, the Saints fell to 1-7 while settling for just one field goal in the loss.

The New York Jets (1-7) won their first game this season with a huge second half comeback to beat the host Cincinnati Bengals, 39-38 as running back Breece Hall threw a four-yard scoring pass to tight end Mason Taylor with 1:54 remaining. Hall also ran for 133 yards on 18 carries and scored two rushing touchdowns to lead the fourth quarter charge as the Jets scored 23 points. The Bengals (3-5) led 31-16 entering the final quarter with QB Joe Flacco throwing for two touchdowns and also scoring on a one-yard run. The Jets had their best offensive game this season, racking up 502 total yards, including 254 rushing yards. 

The Los Angeles Chargers crushed the Minnesota Vikings, 37-10 on Thursday night in Los Angeles as quarterback Justin Herbert (227 passing yards) had three touchdown passes (one interception) and running back Kimani Vidal scored a rushing touchdown while going for 117 yards on 23 carries. The Chargers (5-3) piled up 419 yards in total offense with good balance, gaining 207 yards on the ground along with 212 passing yards. Meanwhile, the Chargers defense limited the Vikings (3-4) to just 164 total yards, including just 34 rushing yards, while sacking Minnesota QB Carson Wentz (144 passing yards, one TD, one INT) five times in the rout. 

The Houston Texans improved to 3-4 with a 26-15 win at home against the San Francisco 49ers as quarterback C.J. Stroud (318 passing yards) threw two TD passes to offset a pair of scoring throws by San Francisco QB Mac Jones. The Texans had 475 yards in offense in the win and dominated in time of possession, holding the ball for over 41 minutes. The 49ers dropped to 5-3 with the loss. 

In Atlanta, the Falcons lost, 34-10 to the Miami Dolphins (2-6) as Miami QB Tua Tagovailoa tossed four touchdown passes while their defense allowed just 213 yards for the Falcons, who dropped to 3-4 this season. The Dolphins held the ball for over 37 minutes in the blowout win. 

The Monday Night Football game in Kansas City turned into a blowout in the second half and the Chiefs won, 28-7 against the Washington Commanders (3-5) with QB Patrick Mahomes throwing for three touchdowns. Running back Kareem Hunt scored twice, getting a TD run of one yard and also hauling in a two-yard scoring pass from Mahomes (299 passing yards, three TD, two INT) as the Chiefs (5-3) gained 432 yards in offense. Washington had tied the game 7-7 on an 11-yard scoring pass from Marcus Mariota to WR Terry McLaurin just before halftime, but were shut down in the second half.

 

WEEK EIGHT RESULTS 

L.A. Chargers 37, Minnesota 10  

Houston 26, San Francisco 15 

Baltimore 30, Chicago 16 

Miami 34, Atlanta 10 

Buffalo 40, Carolina 9 

New England 32, Cleveland 13

N.Y. Jets 39, Cincinnati 38 

Philadelphia 38, N.Y. Giants 20 

Tampa Bay 23, New Orleans 3

Denver 44, Dallas 24  

Indianapolis 38, Tennessee 14 

Green Bay 35, Pittsburgh 25

Kansas City 28, Washington 7  

 

 

NFL - Week Eight Preview

Thursday night football in Los Angeles will feature two struggling teams as the Chargers (4-3) host the Minnesota Vikings (3-3) and looking to keep pace with the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West division race. The Vikings have dropped into last place in the rugged NFC North division and will be without starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy (ankle injury) yet again. This game should be close and the team that does the best job of protecting the football wins it. 

 

 

The Dallas Cowboys (3-3-1) and their high powered offense travel to Denver to take on the Broncos (5-2), who lead the AFC West race and were very fortunate to win last week against the New York Giants. Dallas blew away the Washington Commanders, 44-22 last week and have been averaging 31.7 points per game while allowing just under 30 points per game. The Broncos can get after the opposing quarterback and will look to bring pressure against Cowboys QB Dak Prescott. The Broncos can mix it up on offense as well and this one should be a higher scoring game. A possible X factor in this tilt could be Cowboys running back Javonte Williams, who has been rolling lately and would love to stick it to his old team. 

The Philadelphia Eagles (5-2) lead the NFC East and take on the New York Giants at home, looking to avenge their loss to them just two weeks ago on a Thursday night. The Giants (2-5) have been scoring points in the last two games (66 total points in a win and loss) with rookies Jaxson Dart (quarterback) and running back Cam Skattebo leading the charge. If the Giants can implement the same game plan and execute like their big win two weeks ago, they could sweep the Eagles this year. However, look for Philly to make the adjustments and be ready this time. 

The Sunday night game will have the Green Bay Packers (4-1-1) on the road and facing the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2), who were humbled in Cincinnati in Week Seven, losing 33-31, which snapped their three-game winning streak. The one team that Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers has never beaten is the Packers, where he played for 18 seasons. This game should be a thrilling one and Rodgers knows the tendencies of his old team and vice versa. The Packers will try and get after Rodgers and the Pittsburgh offensive line will have to keep Packers linebacker Micah Parsons (three sacks against Arizona last week) from getting to Rodgers. Watch for a little of the old Aaron Rodgers "magic" in this game with the Steelers coming away with the victory.  

The rest of the action for Week Eight is featured in the capsule style and the Heftyinfo game picks follow up.  

Chicago (4-2) at Baltimore (1-5) - The big question here is whether Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (hamstring injury) will be able to play. The Bears are seeking their fifth straight win and lead the NFL in takeaways. 

Miami (1-6) at Atlanta (3-3) - This game should be a bounce back for the up and down Falcons against a Dolphins team that cannot get out of their own way. 

Buffalo (4-2) at Carolina (4-3) - Can the Panthers keep their magic carpet ride season going against a desperate Bills team that suddenly has been struggling to score points? 

N.Y. Jets (0-7) at Cincinnati (3-4) - The Bengals and QB Joe Flacco should have their way in this home game. 

San Francisco (5-2) at Houston (2-4) - The 49ers are rolling, even with backup QB Mac Jones leading the offense. The Texans have to win this game or could risk falling too far back in the AFC South race. 

Cleveland (2-5) at New England (5-2) - On paper, this one looks to be a mismatch, but the Browns defense will keep them hanging around in the game. Patriots looking to make it five wins in a row. 

Tampa Bay (5-2) at New Orleans (1-6) - The Buccaneers will look to the right the ship in this road game. The Saints usually play the Bucs tougher at home, so it could be a close one. 

Tennessee (1-6) at Indianapolis (6-1) - Colts roll ! 

Washington (3-4) at Kansas City (4-3) - These two teams are heading in opposite directions and the visiting Commanders will be without starting QB Jayden Daniels (hamstring injury) as well. Chiefs and QB Patrick Mahomes are once again clicking on offense. 

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

L.A. Chargers over Minnesota 

Baltimore over Chicago  

Atlanta over Miami 

Buffalo over Carolina 

Cincinnati over N.Y. Jets 

Houston over San Francisco 

New England over Cleveland 

Philadelphia over N.Y. Giants 

Tampa Bay over New Orleans 

Dallas over Denver 

INDIANAPOLIS over Tennessee 

Pittsburgh over Green Bay 

Kansas City over Washington  

 

Last Week's Record - 12-3 

SEASON RECORD - 68-39-1 

Lock of the Week Record - 7-0  

WORLD SERIES PREVIEW

 

The 2025 World Series gets started on Friday night in Toronto with the American league champion Blue Jays facing the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers. 

The Dodgers swept the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series and Shohei Ohtani stole the show in the clincher with his three home runs and 10 strikeouts in six innings as the starting pitcher that has already become legendary. 

Toronto really had to earn their way into the Fall Classic for the first time in 32 years. They beat out the Seattle Mariners in seven games with George Springer hitting a three-run home run to help clinch the 4-3 win in Canada. After falling behind two games to none in the American League Championship Series, the Blue Jays took two of three in Seattle and then won both games six and seven back in Toronto while outscoring the Mariners, 37-30 in the series. 

As for this series, look for the Dodgers to prevail yet again due to their experience and the fact their starting pitching has been rolling in the post-season. Even their much beleaguered bullpen seems to be back in form heading into this one. The Blue Jays also boast a strong starting staff and their bullpen has been near perfect in recent weeks. 

Both teams can mash the ball and in particular, Ohtani and (Toronto first baseman) Vladimir Guererro, Jr. have been leading the way for their team. Both players won the Most Valuable Player awards in the league championship series and will look to continue their torrid pace for the next week or so. All in all, this one could go either way as baseball is a funny game and anything can happen once the games begin. 

                        

                       PREDICTION  -  Los Angeles Dodgers over Toronto Blue Jays in SIX GAMES  

 

 

NFL - Week Seven Recap

The Denver Broncos (5-2) staged the most improbable comeback yet this season in a 33-32 win against the visiting New York Giants (2-5) as kicker Will Lutz (pictured left) made a 39-yard field goal as time ran out. The Broncos scored all 33 points in the fourth quarter to overcome a 19-0 deficit. The Giants led 26-8 with less than six minutes left to play and then Denver scored three touchdowns to take a 30-26 lead with 1:51 remaining. Denver quarterback Bo Nix (279 passing yards, two TD) scored two rushing touchdowns and RJ Harvey had a two-yard TD reception as well along with Nix also throwing a two-yard scoring pass to Troy Franklin for their first score early in the fourth quarter.  

Giants QB Jaxson Dart (283 passing yards, one interception and one rushing TD) threw three touchdown passes and running back Tyrone Tracy, Jr. added in a 31-yard TD run for the big lead. However, Giants kicker Jude McAtamney missed TWO extra point kicks, including on their final touchdown (by Dart) in the fourth quarter, that proved to be the difference in the final score.  

The Indianapolis Colts (6-1) continued their winning ways in a 38-24 road win against the Los Angeles Chargers (4-3) with running back Jonathan Taylor (94 yards on 16 carries) scoring three rushing touchdowns and QB Daniel Jones (288 passing yards) adding two more scoring passes to lead the way. Chargers QB Justin Herbert had three TD passes and two interceptions along with 420 passing yards in the loss. 

New England (5-2) throttled the host Tennessee Titans, 31-13 behind Drake Maye, who was 21-for-23 passing for 222 yards and two touchdowns and the Patriots defense had five sacks and two turnovers, including a fumble return (four yards) for a touchdown by K'Lavon Chaisson to finish out the scoring. The Titans (1-6) led 13-10 after the second field goal by Joey Slye and a 38-yard TD pass from rookie QB Cam Ward to Chimere Dike. But then Maye threw a TD pass before the half and RB Rhamondre Stevenson (88 rushing yards) scored on a four-yard run in the third quarter for a 24-13 lead. 

The Kansas City Chiefs (4-3) blanked the visiting Las Vegas Raiders, 31-0 with QB Patrick Mahomes (286 passing yards) throwing for three scores (two of them to WR Rashee Rice) and RB Isiah Pacheco rushing for another touchdown to pace the rout. The Raiders (2-5) had just THREE first downs and 95 total yards in offense, including a paltry 25 rushing yards while possessing the football for only 18 minutes.

The Chicago Bears (4-2) racked up 222 rushing yards and won their fourth straight game, 26-14 against the visiting New Orleans Saints (1-6) as running backs D'Andre Swift (124 rushing yards) and Kyle Monangai scored rushing touchdowns and kicker Jake Moody made four field goals to offset a pair of scoring passes by Saints QB Spencer Rattler, who was sacked four times (including lost fumble) and intercepted three times in the loss. 

In Minnesota, the Philadelphia Eagles (5-2)  got back on track in a 28-22 win against the Vikings (3-3) as QB Jalen Hurts had 326 yards passing along with three TD passes, including a pair of them to wide receiver A.J. Brown (four receptions for 121 yards) and another to WR DeVonta Smith, who had nine receptions for 183 yards. The Eagles defense did their part as well with two interceptions, including a 42-yard "pick six" return for score by Jalyx Hunt and also held the Vikings to five field goals in six red zone trips. Vikings kicker Will Reichard made five goals while QB Carson Wentz had 313 passing yards in defeat.

How about that finish out in Arizona between the Cardinals and Green Bay Packers? The Cardinals last second "Hail Mary" pass fell incomplete in the end zone and the Packers (4-1-1) held on for the 27-23 win. Green Bay RB Josh Jacobs had two rushing touchdowns and defensive star (linebacker) Micah Parsons had three of the Packers' six sacks to help lead the way. The Cardinals (2-5) had a 13-6 halftime lead and QB Jacoby Brissett (279 passing yards) had two TD passes, but the Packers stormed back in the fourth quarter with QB Jordan Love tossing a scoring pass and Jacobs giving the Packers their first lead on a one-yard run with 1:50 left to play. 

Rams QB Matthew Stafford had 5 TD passes in easy win.

 

Over in London, England, the Los Angeles Rams (5-2) dominated the Jacksonville Jaguars, 35-7, sending the Jags to their second straight loss and a 4-3 record. Rams QB Matthew Stafford threw three touchdown passes to WR Davante Adams and had five scoring strikes in the game. The Rams defense sacked Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence (296 passing yards, one TD) seven times in the easy win.  

 

 

The Dallas Cowboys (3-3-1) rolled past the visiting Washington Commanders, 44-22 with QB Dak Prescott (264 passing yards) tossing three touchdown passes while RB Javonte Williams (116 rushing yards) had a rushing TD and DaRon Bland added a 68-yard TD return of an interception that gave Dallas a 41-15 lead in the third quarter. The Cowboys defense had four sacks and forced two turnovers to aid the win while the Commanders (3-4) saw QB Jayden Daniels run and pass for touchdowns in defeat. 

In Cleveland, the Browns (2-5) crushed the hapless Miami Dolphins, 31-6 behind their defense (four sacks and four turnovers, including three interceptions) and rookie running back Quinshon Judkins scoring three rushing touchdowns. The Dolphins (1-6) dropped their third straight game as QB Tua Tagovailoa passed for only 100 yards and was intercepted three times while they managed only two field goals to avoid being shut out. 

The Cincinnati Bengals knocked off the Pittsburgh Steelers, their division rivals, 33-31 on Thursday night to improve to 3-4 this season. The Bengals totaled 470 yards in offense in the home win as quarterback Joe Flacco threw for three touchdowns and 342 yards in the game while Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers had 249 passing yards with four TD passes and two interceptions. Flacco threw scoring passes to Tee Higgins (six receptions for 96 yards) and also to Ja'Marr Chase, who hauled in 16 receptions for 161 yards. The Steelers (4-2) jumped out to a 10-0 lead, but Flacco shredded their defense as Cincy led 17-10 at the half and that continued into the second half before Rodgers connected with tight end Pat Freiermuth for a 68-yard scoring pass and a 31-30 lead with 2:21 left to play. The Bengals then drove downfield and kicker Evan McPherson made a 36-yard field goal with seven seconds remaining to seal the outcome. 

The Carolina Panthers improved to 4-3 with a 13-6 road victory against the winless New York Jets as QB Bryce Young threw a 13-yard scoring pass to WR Xavier Legette for a 10-3 halftime lead and the defense did the rest, getting two interceptions and six sacks. Jets QB Justin Fields was taken out of the game and backup Tyrod Taylor was intercepted twice as the Jets (0-7) were held without a touchdown for the second consecutive game.  

On Sunday night in San Francisco, the 49ers improved to 5-2 this season with a 20-10 win over the Atlanta Falcons (3-3) as running back Christian McCaffrey scored two rushing touchdowns and ran for 129 yards on 24 carries and also had 72 receiving yards on seven catches. 49ers kicker Eddy Pineiro made two field goals and the defense limited Atlanta to just 62 rushing yards. Falcons QB Michael Penix, Jr. (241 passing yards) threw a ten-yard scoring pass to Bijan Robinson to get the Falcons to within 13-10 late in the third quarter. 

Monday Night Football saw two games take pace and in Detroit, the Lions improved to 5-2 this season with a 24-9 victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2) with RB Jahmyr Gibbs taking over and scoring two rushing touchdowns, including a 78-yard romp as he rushed for 136 yards on 17 carries. The Lions took a 7-0 lead on their first drive in the game when QB Jared Goff threw a 27-yard TD pass to WR Amon-Ra St. Brown. The Bucs bounced back early in the third quarter to trim their 14-3 halftime deficit to 14-9 on a 22-yard scoring pass from Baker Mayfield to WR Tez Johnson, but that was as close as it would be as Gibbs scored his second touchdown and Jake Bates added on a 58-yard field goal to help decide the final score. Tampa Bay lost wide receiver Mike Evans to a broken collar bone, which could keep him out the rest of this season. 

In Seattle, the Seahawks won, 27-19 against the Houston Texans (2-4) as running back Zach Charbonnet had two rushing touchdowns and QB Sam Darnold threw an 11-yard scoring pass to WR Jaxon Smith-Nigba (eight receptions for 123 yards) as they built a 14-0 lead. The Texans climbed to within 17-12 when defensive end Will Anderson, Jr. recovered a fumble after sacking Darnold in the end zone with 7:24 left in the third quarter. The Seahawks (5-2) came right back with a field goal and then Charbonnet scored on a two-yard run for a 27-12 lead with 54 seconds remaining in the third quarter. Houston scored with 2:04 left in the game on a four-yard scoring pass from quarterback C.J. Stroud to Woody Marks to provide the final outcome. 

WEEK SEVEN RESULTS 

Cincinnati 33, Pittsburgh 31  

L.A. Rams 35, Jacksonville 7 (game played in London, England)  

Chicago 26, New Orleans 14

Philadelphia 28, Minnesota 22

New England 31, Tennessee 13

Cleveland 31, Miami 6 

Carolina 13, N.Y. Jets 6 

Kansas City 31, Las Vegas 0 

Indianapolis 38, L.A. Chargers 24

Denver 33, N.Y. Giants 32

Dallas 44, Washington 22   

Green Bay 27, Arizona 23

San Francisco 20, Atlanta 10 

Detroit 24, Tampa Bay 9 

Seattle 27, Houston 19  

 

 

NFL - Week Seven Preview

 

Week Seven around the NFL kicks off Thursday night in Cincinnati with the Bengals (2-4) hosting the first place Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1) in an AFC North battle. The Bengals have lost four straight games and have 40-year old Joe Flacco at quarterback. The Steelers are led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is 41 years old. Cynics are calling this game the "Geriatric Bowl." Whatever, but this game should be a back and forth game with the Steelers coming out on top, thanks in big part to their defense, which is much better than the Bengals. 

Sunday will see another game played in London, England when the Jacksonville Jaguars (4-2) make their annual trek overseas to play. The Los Angeles Rams (4-2) will be waiting with their high flying offense and stellar defense. Both teams can move the football and a key factor in this game will be whether Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua will play after suffering an ankle injury last week. The Jags were humbled by Seattle last Sunday after beating the Kansas City Chiefs in Week Five. This game should go down to the wire and the call here is the Rams do just enough to earn the victory. 

 

The Philadelphia Eagles are 4-2 and have been reeling after losing their last two games, which included a 34-17 beating they took against the New York Giants last week. They will travel to face the Minnesota Vikings, who come off their bye week after spending two weeks in a row playing in Ireland and England. The Vikings are 3-2 and will look to stay competitive in the rugged NFC North, where all four teams are better than .500 this season. The Eagles need to get it going with the offense and get back to their bread and butter, which is the running game. Former Eagles QB Carson Wentz may be the starter for Minnesota if J.J. McCarthy (ankle injury) still cannot go in this home game. Expect a tight game and it's likely that turnovers will dictate the outcome in this one. 

In Los Angeles, the Chargers (4-2) will face the Indianapolis Colts (5-1), a team that has scored 194 points already (32.3 PPG) and features a strong running game led by Jonathan Taylor, who has rushed for 603 yards and scored seven rushing touchdowns (eight total TD) in the  first six games. The L.A. defense has been solid, but has struggled against good rushing offenses in their two losses. The big factor in the game will be the Chargers being able to balance the offense with QB Justin Herbert and company showing a good running attack last week, even with their top two running backs out with injuries. 

Atlanta will travel to face the injury depleted San Francisco 49ers (4-2) this week. The Falcons (3-2) toppled the Buffalo Bills on Monday night and it's never easy to go across the country following a Monday night game. The 49ers defense took a big hit when All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner was lost for the season with a broken ankle. They already are without premier pass rusher Nick Bosa (season ending knee surgery) so it will be a challenge to slow down Falcons running back Bijan Robinson, who has rushed for 484 yards in five games, including 170 yards last week against the Bills. If the Falcons show balance on offense, they could come away with the win in this game, but it won't be easy. 

Perhaps the game of the week will be on Monday night in Detroit when the Lions (4-2) face the surging Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-1) and their red hot quarterback Baker Mayfield. The Detroit defense will look to pressure and contain Mayfield, who has been without several top wide receivers in recent games, but still finding ways to win. The Lions had been leading the NFL in scoring until last Sunday night, when they were limited to 17 points in a setback against Kansas City, which snapped their four-game win streak. Playing at home will help, so look for the Lions to get back on track in this game in what should be a tight one. 

The rest of the games in Week Seven are featured in the capsule style previews and the Heftyinfo picks follow up. 

Carolina (3-3) at New York Jets (0-6) - Jets are due to play a game that will get them a win. The Panthers have won two straight games by three points, so they better be ready in this one on the road. 

New Orleans (1-5) at Chicago (3-2) - The Bears have been rolling and that should continue in a home game against a Saints team that has been playing better, but still finds ways to lose games. 

Miami (1-5) at Cleveland (1-5) - This game will go a long way to determine which team gets the top pick in the next NFL draft. 

New England (4-2) at Tennessee (1-5) - Former Titans head coach Mike Vrabel returns and he would love to show his former bosses how wrong they were to let him go. Patriots have been playing good football and should get another win in this one. 

Las Vegas (2-4) at Kansas City (3-3) - Chiefs getting healthy and now will have speedy wide receiver  Rashee Rice back (from six-game suspension) for this game . . . as if QB Patrick Mahomes needs more weapons. Take the Chiefs. 

New York Giants (2-4) at Denver (4-2) - Can the Giants get a big win on the road? The Broncos strong defense will provide the stiffest of challenges for hot shot rookies (QB) Jaxson Dart and (RB) Cam Skattebo. Giants pass rush will look to force Denver quarterback Bo Nix into mistakes. 

Washington (3-3) at Dallas (2-3-1) - This game will most likely be a high scoring one and obviously fits the definition of a toss up. Cowboys win in a squeaker.

Green Bay (3-1-1) at Arizona (2-4) - Can the Cardinals stop their four game skid? A lot depends on how their defense does against the Packers attack. 

Houston (2-3) at Seattle (4-2) - The second of the Monday night games in the Great Northwest . . . take the Seahawks in this game, which will be a close one. 

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

Pittsburgh over Cincinnati 

L.A. Rams over Jacksonville (game being played in London, England) 

N.Y. Jets over Carolina 

Chicago over New Orleans 

Cleveland over Miami 

New England over Tennessee 

KANSAS CITY over Las Vegas 

Philadelphia over Minnesota 

Denver over N.Y. Giants 

L.A. Chargers over Indianapolis 

Dallas over Washington 

Green Bay over Arizona 

San Francisco over Atlanta 

Detroit over Tampa Bay 

Seattle over Houston  

 

Last Week's Record - 9-6

SEASON RECORD - 56-36-1 

Lock of the Week Record - 6-0  

NFL - Week Six Recap

 

Giants rookies Jaxson Dart (6) and Cam Skattebo helped dominate the Eagles.

The New York Giants (2-4) walloped the visiting Philadelphia Eagles, 34-17 on Thursday night thanks to a suffocating defense in the second half and quarterback Jaxson Dart (198 passing yards, 58 rushing yards)  throwing for a touchdown while rushing for another along with running back Cam Skattebo rushing for 98 yards (on 19 carries) and scoring three touchdowns. The Eagles (4-2) took a 17-13 lead in the second quarter when QB Jalen Hurts scored on a one-yard run and he also threw a TD pass to tight end Dallas Goedert, but the Giants held the Eagles scoreless in the second half of the win. 

The Indianapolis Colts held off the stubborn Arizona Cardinals, 31-27 to improve to 5-1 for the season and running back Jonathan Taylor ran for 123 yards and scored the game sealing touchdown on a one-yard run with 4:32 left. The Cardinals (2-4) lost their fourth straight game despite three touchdown passes from reserve QB Jacoby Brissett, who also passed for 320 yards and had one interception playing for injured starter Kyler Murray. Colts QB Daniel Jones tossed a pair of scoring passes and also added a three-yard rushing touchdown to aid the win. 

On Sunday night in  Kansas City, the Chiefs improved to 3-3 on the season with a convincing 30-17 triumph against the Detroit Lions (4-2), who saw their four game win streak snapped. Kansas City QB Patrick Mahomes (257 passing yards) had three TD passes and also ran for another score. Lions QB Jared Goff had a pair of touchdown passes and threw for 203 yards in defeat.  

The Los Angeles Rams (4-2) stuffed the host Baltimore Ravens, 17-3 behind solid defense, which forced three turnovers (two fumbles, one interception) and had four sacks. Rams QB Matthew Stafford threw a TD pass and RB Kyren Williams added a three-yard scoring run in the third quarter to break a 3-3 halftime tie. The Ravens fell to 1-5 as they were without many starters again, including QB Lamar Jackson who missed his second consecutive game with a hamstring injury. 

In Pittsburgh, the Steelers (4-1) dominated the Cleveland Browns, 23-9 with QB Aaron Rodgers tossing two scoring passes and he also had 235 passing yards in the win. The Pittsburgh defense had six sacks and the Browns (1-5) managed only three field goals in the loss. 

Carolina improved to 3-3 this year with a 30-27 thriller over the visiting Dallas Cowboys (2-3-1) as running back Rico Dowdle had a huge game, amassing a team record 239 yards from scrimmage (183 rushing, 56 receiving yards) and also scored a touchdown to lead the way. The game was back and forth and Panthers kicker Ryan Fitzgerald made the game winning 33-yard field goal as time expired. Panthers QB Bryce Young had three TD passes as did Cowboys QB Dak Prescott, who was also picked off once in the loss. 

The Los Angeles Chargers (4-2) blew a 13-point fourth quarter lead, but managed to drive 44 yards in 36 seconds to set up the game winning 33-yard field goal by Cameron Dicker (five-for-five on field goals in the game) for a 29-27 road win against the Miami Dolphins. The key play was a 42-yard pass to WR Ladd McConkey (seven receptions, 100 yards and one TD) as Chargers QB Justin Herbert had a pair of TD passes along with 264 passing yards. Chargers RB Kimani Vidal rushed for 124 yards on 18 carries and also hauled in a seven-yard scoring pass to help pace the offense. The Dolphins (1-5) rallied for two fourth quarter touchdowns and they took a 27-26 lead with just 41 seconds remaining when QB Tua Tagovailoa (205 passing yards, one TD, three INT) found tight end Darren Waller wide open for a seven-yard TD pass. Miami RB De'Von Achane scored two touchdowns and rushed for 128 yards on 16 carries in defeat.
 

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-1) continued their winning ways in a 30-19 victory against the visiting San Francisco 49ers (4-2) with QB Baker Mayfield (pictured right) passing for 256 yards and he also threw two touchdown passes to lead the offense. The Bucs defense had six sacks and two interceptions in the win. Meanwhile, the 49ers only touchdown came on a one-yard run by RB Christian McCaffrey. 

 

 

The Green Bay Packers (3-1-1) knocked off the visiting Cincinnati Bengals, 27-18 as they piled up 408 yards in offense with RB Josh Jacobs (93 yards on 18 carries) scoring twice on the ground and QB Jordan Love passing for another score. The Bengals (2-4) dropped their fourth game in a row as QB Joe Flacco had two TD passes in the loss. 

The New England Patriots (4-2) bested the host New Orleans Saints, 25-19 behind three TD passes from QB Drake Maye (261 passing yards) in a game that featured 19 penalties. The Saints (1-5) only TD came from Taysom Hill on a rushing score and kicker Blake Grupe added four field goals in the setback. 

In Jacksonville, the Seattle Seahawks (4-2) knocked off the Jaguars, 20-12 behind two TD passes from QB Sam Darnold (295 passing yards) and a defense that sacked Jags QB Trevor Lawrence seven times and limited Jacksonville to only 59 rushing yards. The Jaguars (4-2) took a 6-0 lead in the first quarter on a 21-yard TD strike from Lawrence (258 passing yards, two TD) to WR Brian Thomas, but didn't score again until the fourth quarter on another scoring pass. 

In London, England, the Denver Broncos (4-2) survived against the winless New York Jets (0-6) for a 13-11 victory to improve to 4-2 this season. The only touchdown in the defensive struggle came on a 16-yard pass play from Denver QB Bo Nix to WR Nate Adkins for a 10-6 halftime edge. The Jets scored on three field goals from Nick Folk and a safety on defense via Denver holding penalty in their own end zone. The Broncos defense sacked Jets QB Justin Fields NINE times and limited the Jets to just 82 total yards in offense, which included minus-10 net passing yards. 

The Las Vegas Raiders (2-4) won at home, 20-10 against the Tennessee Titans (1-5) as rookie RB Ashton Jeanty scored a rushing TD and a four-yard TD pass from QB Geno Smith to WR Michael Mayer. The Las Vegas defense had six sacks and also forced three turnovers, all by Titans rookie QB Cam Ward (two fumbles, one interception) that helped set up a touchdown and the other one in the fourth quarter that essentially ended any chance the Titans had of making a comeback in the game. Ward threw a scoring pass in the final quarter with 3:03 left, but on the next possession turned it over with his second fumble of the game. The Titans fired Head Coach Brian Callahan following the game. 

Monday Night Football in Atlanta turned out to be the Bijan Robinson show as the Falcons won, 24-14 against the Buffalo Bills (4-2) with Robinson rushing for 170 yards. Robinson scored on an 81-yard run for a 21-7 halftime lead. The Falcons (3-2) piled up 443 yards in offense, including 210 on the ground while the defense had four sacks and intercepted two passes. Bills QB Josh Allen passed for 180 yards and two touchdowns, but the two picks thrown proved to be too much to overcome.  

The second Monday night game saw the Chicago Bears pull out a 25-24 win against the host Washington Commanders (3-3) when kicker Jake Moody, who made four field goals in the win, drilled a 38-yard boot as time ran out. The Bears (3-2) jumped out 13-0 as QB Caleb Williams (252 passing yards, one TD) scored on a one-yard run. The Commanders eventually would go ahead 17-16 in the third quarter when QB Jayden Daniels (211 passing yards, three TD, one INT) hit WR Luke McCaffrey for a 33-yard touchdown pass. A third TD pass from Daniels to tight end Zach Ertz made it 24-16. The Bears fought back when Williams found RB D'Andre Swift (108 rushing yards, 67 receiving yards) for a 55-yard scoring pass to get to within 24-22 with 10:26 left to play. The Bears defense recovered a second fumble with three minutes left, setting up the drive for the game winning field goal. 

 

WEEK SIX RESULTS 

N.Y. Giants 34, Philadelphia 17  

Denver 13, N.Y. Jets 11  

L.A. Rams 17, Baltimore 3 

L.A. Chargers 29, Miami 27 

Pittsburgh 23, Cleveland 9 

New England 25, New Orleans 19 

Seattle 20, Jacksonville 12 

Indianapolis 31, Arizona 27 

Carolina 30, Dallas 27 

Las Vegas 20, Tennessee 10 

Green Bay 27, Cincinnati 18 

Tampa Bay 30, San Francisco 19  

Kansas City 30, Detroit 17  

Atlanta 24, Buffalo 14

Chicago 25, Washington 24

NFL - Week Six Preview

Coming off the worst week of NFL picks in about two years, here's hoping that NFL teams don't blow so many big second half leads and play all the way through four quarters. 

Yes sir, Heftyinfo took an ass kicking in Week Five, but now it's on to Week Six and the action starts Thursday night with the Philadelphia Eagles (4-1) facing the New York Giants (1-4) on the road. The Eagles are coming off their first loss this season (against Denver) while the Giants got smacked down in New Orleans after jumping out to a 14-3 lead. In addition, the Kansas City Chiefs blew a 14-point lead in their loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday night. 

Go figure. 

As for this week's games, there is a game in London, England once again and also two Monday night games. On Sunday, the Denver Broncos take on the lowly New York Jets overseas in what should be a one-sided affair. The Broncos (3-2) have been improving each week and their defense is among the best in pro football. The Jets are 0-5 and seem to be regressing as the season goes along. They were blown out by Dallas in a home game last week and a defense that was highly touted coming into the 2025 NFL season has been getting lit up by opponents in the first five games. 

The Seattle Seahawks (3-2) face the upstart Jacksonville Jaguars (4-1) in Florida on Sunday afternoon. The Jags are fresh off their upset win against the Kansas City Chiefs and the offense showed a lot, especially quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who had two rushing touchdowns in the win. Seattle blew it late last week in a loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and will look to shore things up in this one. Another high scoring game going down to the wire could be possible here. 

The Green Bay Packers (2-1-1) are coming off the bye week and will host the Cincinnati Bengals (2-3), who now have the ageless Joe Flacco at quarterback. The Bengals would have a much better chance of winning this one if they had the other JOE (Burrow) playing quarterback. Green Bay will be looking to get back in the win column after a loss (to Cleveland three weeks ago with Flacco playing QB) and then the tie with Dallas. The Packers defense should be able to pressure Flacco as Cincy has a bad offensive line. Look for the Packers to get out quick and coast to the victory. 

San Francisco and Tampa Bay will go at it in the "sunshine state" and each team is 4-1 to this point, so this looks to be one of the better games.  The 49ers showed out last week (26-23 upset win vs. L.A. Rams on the road) with backup QB Mac Jones having a big game. The Bucs won a thriller against Seattle and QB Baker Mayfield and company continue to get it done, especially late in ball games. This one should be no different and the Buccaneers will look to do it yet again. 

The Sunday night game in Kansas City will have the Chiefs (2-3) hosting the red hot Detroit Lions (4-1) and their high flying offense, which leads the NFL in scoring, averaging just under 35 points per game. The Chiefs blew a game last Monday night in Jacksonville and haven't been consistent on both sides of the football this season. When the defense has done well, the offense struggles and vice versa. The key will be whether QB Patrick Mahomes and the offense can torch the Lions secondary. The Lions should do their usual thing and this game will likely be high scoring. Whoever has the ball last will be able to get the win in this game. 

The Chicago Bears face the Washington Commanders on Monday night in D.C. and they will no doubt be reminded of how they literally gave away the game last year against the Commanders on the "Hail Mary" play when QB Jayden Daniels had all day to throw the pass, which was deflected to Noah Brown in the Bears end zone for the win. Inexplicably, Bears defensive back Tyrique Stevenson was jawing with Commanders fans when the snap occurred and then he went into the crowd at the two-yard line and knocked the ball INTO the air and it wound up in the hands of Brown for the winning touchdown as time ran out. Rest assured, that will not be the case this year and this game will be close again, but look for the home team to come away on top in less dramatic fashion. 

The rest of the action for Week Six is featured in the capsule style previews and then the Heftyinfo picks will follow up. 

Philadelphia (4-1) at N.Y. Giants (1-4) - The Thursday night game and the Eagles looking for answers to get the offense on track. The Giants are a mess. 

Arizona (2-3) at Indianapolis (4-1) - This game looks like a blowout for the home team Colts on paper, but the games are played on the football field. 

L.A. Chargers (3-2) at Miami (1-4) - The Chargers are a walking M*A*S*H unit on offense, so this game could be a tight one. Teams under duress coached by Jim Harbaugh usually rise to the occasion. Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa needs to shine if they want to win. 

New England (3-2) at New Orleans (1-4) - Saints facing a similar situation as last week when they played against a QB coming off a big win with the hype machine in full force behind him. Saints will be ready again, so let's pump the brakes on Pats QB Drake Maye dominating this game. 

Cleveland (1-4) at Pittsburgh (3-1) - Defense will be the story of this game. Take the Steelers at home. 

Dallas (2-2-1) at Carolina (2-3) - Cowboys offense is rolling, but the Panthers have been a pleasant surprise so far this year. Toss up in this one. 

L.A. Rams (3-2) at Baltimore (1-4) - Like the other team in  Los Angeles, the Ravens are so banged up with injuries it is not even fair. Take the Rams in this game. 

Tennessee (1-4) at Las Vegas (1-4) - Who cares? 

Buffalo (4-1) at Atlanta (2-2) - Monday Night Football with the Bills coming off a frustrating home defeat and looking to atone for it. The Falcons have been hit and miss so far this season. Take the Bills in what should be a hard fought game. 

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

Philadelphia over N.Y. Giants 

Denver over N.Y. Jets (game played in London, England) 

Indianapolis over Arizona 

L.A. CHARGERS over Miami 

New Orleans over New England 

Pittsburgh over Cleveland

Carolina over Dallas

Jacksonville over Seattle 

L.A. Rams over Baltimore 

Las Vegas over Tennessee 

Green Bay over Cincinnati 

Tampa Bay over San Francisco 

Detroit over Kansas City 

Buffalo over Atlanta 

Washington over Chicago 

 

Last Week's Record - 5-9 

SEASON RECORD - 47-30-1 

Lock of the Week Record - 5-0  

NFL - Week Five Recap

The Denver Broncos stormed back to beat the Eagles on Sunday. 

The defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles (4-1) are no longer undefeated, losing 21-17 against the visiting Denver Broncos, who scored 18 points in the fourth quarter to steal the game. Denver (3-2) mixed it up on offense as quarterback Bo Nix (242 passing yards) had a touchdown pass while running back J.K. Dobbins had a two-yard rushing touchdown to help make the difference and kicker Will Lutz nailed a 36-yard field goal with 1:11 left to finish the scoring. The Eagles had a 17-3 lead thanks to a pair of TD passes by QB Jalen Hurts, who also passed for 280 yards. But Denver roared back in the fourth quarter and even made the two-point conversion after Nix threw the 11-yard scoring pass to tight end Evan Engram for an 18-17 edge with 7:36 left to play. The Broncos defense had six sacks in the win and shut down the Eagles running game, allowing just 45 yards. 

In Buffalo on Sunday night, the Bills (4-1) fell to the New England Patriots, 23-20 as three turnovers (two fumbles, one interception) proved costly, especially the pick thrown by quarterback Josh Allen (253 passing yards, two TD, one INT and 53 rushing yards) late in third quarter and deep in New England territory. Patriots kicker Andy Borregales nailed his third field goal of the game (from 52 yards) with just 15 seconds remaining to win it. Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson scored two rushing touchdowns for New England (3-2). Pats WR Stefon Diggs, a former Bills player, had a big game catching ten passes for 146 yards and QB Drake Maye had 273 passing yards and was clutch in the fourth quarter to sustain the winning drive as he completed 22 of 30 passes on the night. 

The Houston Texans (2-3) blasted the Baltimore Ravens, 44-10 for an easy road win as quarterback C.J. Stroud (244 passing yards) had four TD passes while their defense intercepted three passes. The Ravens (1-4) were without starting QB Lamar Jackson (hamstring injury) and the offense struggled with backup QB Cooper Rush throwing three picks in the blowout loss. Houston held a 24-3 halftime lead and didn't let up in the second half while RB Nick Chubb scored on a 27-yard run and they outgained the Ravens 417-207 in total yardage. 

The Indianapolis Colts went to 4-1 this year with a resounding 40-6 home win against the Las Vegas Raiders (1-4) as QB Daniel Jones (212 passing yards) threw for two scores and running back Jonathan Taylor ran for three more touchdowns. The Colts defense limited Las Vegas to just two field goals and also intercepted two passes and had four sacks to help out in the easy win. 

The Washington Commanders (3-2) spotted the host Los Angeles Chargers a 10-0 lead in the first quarter and then took over the game and won, 27-10 as their defense had five sacks and forced two turnovers, including a fumble recovery on their own 23-yard line that swung the game midway through the second quarter. Commanders rookie RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt scored twice on the ground and had 111 yards on 14 carries while QB Jayden Daniels passed for 231 yards and a touchdown to lead the way. The Chargers (3-2) lost their second straight game as QB Justin Herbert (166 passing yards, one TD, one INT) threw a two-yard scoring pass to WR Ladd McConkey in the first quarter, but after that the offense could do nothing against the Washington defense while turning the ball over twice. In addition, the Chargers had a 57-yard punt return TD (by McConkey) called back for a roughing the punter penalty late in the first half that allowed the Commanders to eventually get a field goal to tie the game 10-10 at halftime. 

Tampa Bay and Seattle went back and forth in this one and the Buccaneers (4-1) finally emerged with a hard fought 38-35 win on the road when Chase McLaughlin made a 39-yard field goal as time expired. The Buccaneers tied the game 35-35 when QB Baker Mayfield (379 passing yards, two TD) threw an 11-yard TD pass to WR Sterling Shepard with 1:08 remaining. After that, Bucs linebacker Lavonte David intercepted Seahawks QB Sam Darnold (341 passing yards, four TD, one INT) at the Seattle 35-yard line to set up the winning field goal. Mayfield also connected with WR Emeka Egbuka (seven receptions for 163 yards, one TD) on a 20-yard scoring strike for a 21-14 lead midway through the third quarter.  Trailing 13-7 at the half, the Seahawks (3-2) would eventually take a 35-28 lead with 3:18 to go when Darnold hit WR Tory Horton with a 21-yard scoring pass. Seattle totaled 463 total yards in offense while the Bucs gained 426 yards in this wild game. 

Carolina rallied from a 17-0 deficit to upend the visiting Miami Dolphins, 27-24 with QB Bryce Young tossing a four-yard scoring pass to tight end Mitchell Evans with 1:59 remaining. Young had a pair of scoring passes in the win and RB Rico Dowdle ran for 206 yards on 23 carries and scored a touchdown as the Panthers (2-3) rolled up 418 yards in offense, including a whopping 239 rushing yards. The Dolphins (1-4) raced out to the 17-0 lead behind two TD passes from QB Tua Tagovailoa, who passed for three scores along with 256 passing yards in defeat. 

Over in London, England, the Minnesota Vikings (3-2) scored on a 12-yard touchdown pass from QB Carson Wentz to WR Jordan Addison with 25 seconds remaining to earn a 21-17 victory against the Cleveland Browns. The Browns (1-4) went ahead 17-14 late in the third quarter when rookie QB Dillon Gabriel (190 passing yards, two TD) threw a nine-yard TD pass to tight end David Njoku with 3:05 left in the fourth quarter. But the Vikings then drove 80 yards in ten plays to get the win. 

Dallas crushed the host New York Jets (0-5) in a 37-21 decision as QB Dak Prescott had another big game, throwing four touchdown passes and had 237 passing yards while RB Javonte Williams ran for another score and also caught a scoring pass while running for 135 yards on 16 carries. The Cowboys (2-2-1) led 30-3 at one point and their defense sacked Jets QB Justin Fields five times. Fields threw for 283 yards and two touchdowns in the loss. 

The New Orleans Saints (1-4) ambushed the visiting New York Giants, 26-14 for their first win this season as QB Spencer Rattler threw an 87-yard TD pass to WR Rashid Shaheed and kicker Blake Grupe made four field goals to help lead the comeback. The Giants (1-4) led 14-3 in the second quarter when rookie QB Jaxson Dart (202 passing yards, two TD, two INT) threw a 15-yard TD pass to tight end Theo Johnson, who also caught a one-yard scoring toss for the first score in the game. The Saints defense took over in the second half, shutting out the Giants and had five turnovers (two interceptions and three fumble recoveries) and also scored a touchdown when safety Jordan Howden took a fumble back 86 yards for a 26-14 lead early in the fourth quarter.

 

 

In Cincinnati, the Detroit Lions (4-1) won, 37-24 over the Bengals (1-4) for their fourth consecutive victory. Lions QB Jared Goff (pictured right) had three TD passes and also threw for 258 yards and RB David Montgomery ran for a touchdown and also threw for a score. Bengals QB Jake Browning (251 passing yards) had three TD passes, but also threw three interceptions in the loss. 

 

The Arizona Cardinals (2-3) squandered a 21-6 lead in the second half and lost to the visiting Tennessee Titans, 22-21 when Titans kicker Joey Slye drilled the game winning 29-yard field goal as time ran out. Cardinals running back Emari Demercado inexplicably dropped the football before crossing the end zone line and a 72-yard TD run was wiped out as a touchback early in the fourth quarter and instead of a 27-6 lead, the Titans (1-4) took over and scored two touchdowns. Running back Tony Pollard capped an 80-yard, six play drive with a one-yard TD run and later Tyler Lockett recovered a fumble for a touchdown to get his team to within 21-19 with 4:39 remaining. Tennessee got the ball back and drove 71 yards in eleven plays to set up the winning field goal. 

On Thursday night, the San Francisco 49ers (4-1) surprised the host Los Angeles Rams, 26-23 in overtime thanks to a 41-yard field goal by Eddy Pineiro and a fourth down stop of the Rams' offense on the San Francisco 11-yard line to clinch it. Backup 49ers quarterback Mac Jones, playing for injured starter Brock Purdy, threw for two scores and 342 passing yards. The Rams (3-2) had tied the game when kicker Joshua Karty made a 48-yard field goal with two seconds remaining to force the overtime. Rams QB Matthew Stafford had 389 passing yards and three touchdowns in the loss. 

The Monday Night Football game was a back and forth affair and the host Jacksonville Jaguars (4-1) survived for a 31-28 victory against the Kansas City Chiefs. Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence (221 passing yards, one TD, one INT, two rushing TD) scrambled for a one-yard touchdown run with 23 seconds remaining in the game to provide the difference. The Chiefs (2-3) took a 28-24 lead with 1:45 left when RB Kareem Hunt scored on a five-yard run. Jags linebacker Devin Lloyd took back an interception 99 yards for a score and a 21-14 lead with 2:19 left in the third quarter and that proved to be huge in the final outcome. Along with that interception thrown, Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes had a TD pass and a rushing touchdown along with 318 passing yards in the loss. 

 

WEEK FIVE RESULTS 

San Francisco 26, L.A. Rams 23 (OT)  

Minnesota 21, Cleveland 17  

Houston 44, Baltimore 10 

Indianapolis 40, Las Vegas 6 

Dallas 37, N.Y. Jets 22 

New Orleans 26, N.Y. Giants 14 

Carolina 27, Miami 24 

Denver 21, Philadelphia 17 

Detroit 37, Cincinnati 24

Tennessee 22, Arizona 21   

Washington 27, L.A. Chargers 10

Tampa Bay 38, Seattle 35

New England 23, Buffalo 20

Jacksonville 31, Kansas City 28  

 

 

 

 

 

NFL - Week Five Preview

October is here and the 2025 NFL season is one-quarter of the way home. In addition, the first "Bye" weeks are taking place as the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, Atlanta Falcons and Pittsburgh Steelers get the week off. 

The action gets started Thursday night in an NFC West tilt as the Los Angeles Rams (3-1) host the San Francisco 49ers (3-1), who are ravaged with injuries and come into this game after their first loss this year. The 'Niners will be without quarterback Brock Purdy (toe injury) among many others on offense and defense and that will be a big factor in this one. 

On Sunday in Philadelphia, the unbeaten Eagles (4-0) take on the Denver Broncos (2-2) and their rugged defense. Philadelphia has been struggling offensively (ZERO pass yards last week in the second half) but still managed to win all their games so far. Look for this game to likely go down to the wire and the Eagles using the "tush push" play to decide the outcome. 

 

The Seattle Seahawks are 3-1 and will host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1) in what could be the most competitive game this weekend. The Bucs struggled early last week in their loss to the Eagles, but QB Baker Mayfield always brings the fire and passion into the game, so the Seahawks defense will be tested. Can Seattle's offense make it happen enough against Tampa Bay's defense to win this one? 

Another game out west will feature the Washington Commanders (2-2) facing the Los Angeles Chargers (3-1), who are coming off a tough loss against the New York Giants. Jayden Daniels is expected to start at quarterback for Washington in this game after missing two weeks with a knee sprain. The Chargers defense will look to pressure him and take away the running game. On offense, the 'Bolts must protect QB Justin Herbert, who threw two interceptions last Sunday. If rookie running back Omarion Hampton gets it going, look for the Chargers to win. 

The Sunday night game in Buffalo will have the Bills, the only other NFL unbeaten team at 4-0 (like Philadelphia) facing the New England Patriots (2-2) who put a beat down on the Carolina Panthers last week. The Bills defense must get after Pats QB Drake Maye if they are going to win this game. On offense, look for Josh Allen and company to put up plenty of points, so this game could go down to the wire if the Patriots offense can keep up. 

On Monday Night Football, the Kansas City Chiefs (2-2) travel to play the upstart Jacksonville Jaguars (3-1) in what could be a very entertaining game. Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes has some weapons back in the offensive attack and it showed big time last week in their rout of the Baltimore Ravens, including four touchdown passes from Mahomes to four different teammates. Jacksonville has been playing strong defense so far this season and doing just enough on offense to make the difference. 

The rest of the games in Week Five are in the capsule style format and the Heftyinfo picks follow up. 

Minnesota Vikings (2-2) vs. Cleveland Browns (1-3) - (game played in London, England) - The Vikings have been overseas for two weeks and are itching to get back home. The Browns play defense, so they could hang around in this one.  

Las Vegas Raiders (1-3) at Indianapolis Colts (3-1) - Looks like a blowout on paper for the host Colts . . . but the Raiders pass rush could force Indy QB Daniel Jones into some mistakes. Beware!

New York Giants (1-3) at New Orleans Saints (0-4) - Giants rookie QB Jaxson Dart is coming off a big win in his first start, but he better not be too cocky coming into this game. 

Dallas Cowboys (1-2-1) at New York Jets (0-4) - Can the Cowboys light up the scoreboard again this week? The Jets need to hit the reset button, because they have been a disaster so far this season. 

Miami Dolphins (1-3) at Carolina Panthers (1-3) - Toss up in this one. 

Houston Texans (1-3) at Baltimore Ravens (1-3) - The Ravens are so banged up with injuries it is beyond ridiculous. The Texans have struggled so far, so they could be just the tonic that is needed for Baltimore to get back on the winning side. 

Tennessee Titans (0-4) at Arizona Cardinals (2-2) - Cardinals should get it done at home against a terrible Titans teams, but they seem to find ways to hurt themselves in crucial moments of games. 

Detroit Lions (3-1) at Cincinnati Bengals (2-2) - The Lions have restored the roar and they are the bigger cats in this one. Bengals defense would do well to prevent 40-plus points this weekend. 

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

L.A. Rams over San Francisco 

Minnesota over Cleveland (game played in London, England)

Indianapolis over Las Vegas 

New Orleans over N.Y. Giants  

Dallas over N.Y. Jets 

Philadelphia over Denver 

Miami over Carolina 

Baltimore over Houston

Arizona over Tennessee 

Seattle over Tampa Bay 

DETROIT over Cincinnati 

L.A. Chargers over Washington 

Buffalo over New England 

Kansas City over Jacksonville 

   

Last Week's Record - 10-5-1 

SEASON RECORD - 42-21-1 

Lock of the Week Record - 4-0