Weekly Grade and Predictions

You unlock this door with a key of imagination. Beyond it is another dimension – a dimension of sound, a dimension of sight, a dimension of mind. You’re moving into a land of both shadow and substance, of things and ideas. You’ve just crossed over into the Twilight Zone.
-Rod Serling

WTF is going on? The division starts 4-0, Now I have seen it all. This is an interesting beginning to the season for us all. No bragging rights for anyone to start. Lets get this party started.

GRADES

Chargers
Justin Herbert came out slinging it like he did last year. He went on the road and lit up what was suppose to be one of the best defenses in the league. He was 31 of 47 (65.9%) for 337 yards and a touchdown with a interception and fumble lost. Austin Ekeler had 15 carries for 51 yards and a touchdown. Keenan Allen had 9 receptions for 100 yards. The defense had 1 sack and 4 tackles for loss. Tristan Vizcaino was 2 for 2 on fieldgoals and 2 for 2 on extra points. This was a big win on the road in the eastern time zone against a quality team.

Grade: A-

Broncos
Doctor Teddy Bridgewater went to Jersey and surgically dissected the Giants defense. He was 28 of 36 (77.7%) for 264 yards and 2 touchdowns with 3 carries for 19 yards. Melvin Gordon had 11 carries for 101 yards and a touchdown with 3 receptions for 17 yards. Jerry Jeudy had 6 receptions for 72 yards. The defense had 2 sacks and 5 tackles for loss. Brandon McManus was 2 for 2 on fieldgoals and 3 for 3 on extra points. This was a great win on the road that featured them going 3 for 3 on 4th down.

Grade: A

Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes and company came to life in the second half to pull this game out against a good Browns team. Mahomes was 27 of 36 (75%) for 337 yards and 3 touchdowns with 5 carries for 18 yards and a touchdown. Clyde Edwards-Helaire 14 carries for 43 yards with 3 receptions for 29 yards. Tyreek Hill had 11 receptions for 197 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 2 sacks and 4 takles for loss with an interception. Harrison Butker was 2 for 2 on fieldgoals and 3 for 3 on extra points.

Grade: A-

Raiders
Derek Carr and company started slow and were down against a team that has not lost when leading by 14 points since 2004. Carr was great in the second half leading his team to the win. Carr was 34 of 56 (60.7%) for 435 yards and 2 touchdowns and a interception with 4 carries for 6 yards. Josh Jacobs had 10 carries for 34 yards and 2 touchdowns with 1 reception for 6 yards. Darren Waller had 10 receptions for 101 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 3 sacks with 4 tackles for loss with 2 forced fumbles and 2 fumble recoveries. This was one of the best wins this team has had in years.

Grade: A

 

PREDICTIONS

Denver Broncos at Jacksonville Jaguars
The Broncos are going up against a rookie quarterback, Von Miller is getting his BBQ pit ready for the feast.

Broncos 27 Jaguars 17
Spread: Broncos -6
Over/Under: 45.5

Las Vegas Raiders at Pittsburgh Steelers
The Raiders are heading to the east coast to play a team with one of the best defenses in the game, OUCH!

Steelers 27 Raiders 20
Spread: Raiders +6
Over/Under: 48.5

Dallas Cowboys at Los Angeles Chargers
Strap in because this game is going to be a flat out scoring fest with the winning team having the ball last.

Chargers 31 Cowboys 27
Spread: Chargers -3
Over/Under: 55

Kansas City Chiefs at Baltimore Ravens
This game is going to see some serious offensive explosive play and will not be close or pretty.

Chiefs 37 Ravens 20
Spread: Chiefs -4
Over/Under: 55.5
Week 1: 2-2

 

Football is back and this was a fantastic first week for the division. On a different note, fuck all you haters that sat up waiting, wishing and praying the Raiders would lose in primetime so you could talk trash all week (Lord or should I say Lady, especially you).

NFL Season Kickoff and Predictions

What an insane year. Corona Virus, masks and vaccines. The attempted coup at the Capital, politics…………enough said. It is all over and something REALLY important is about to happen, the start to a new year of NFL Football.

It is that glorious time where each and every fan has hope that his/her team will make it to the playoffs and maybe even a Superbowl run.

The AFC West has been owned by the Kansas City Chiefs of late. They are the back to back AFC Champions as well. They spent the off-season completely retooling their offensive line after being exposed in the Superbowl by Tampa Bay. Mecole Hardman will be moving into the starting line-up opposite Tyreek Hill. They are the odds-on favorite to repeat as champions if the offensive line holds up

The Denver Broncos biggest additions were already on the team. Getting Von Miller and Courtland Sutton back from season ending injury is huge for them. They then brought in Teddy Bridgewater who won the starting quarterback position. This is the team that is hardest to predict. They have the pieces to make it to the playoffs.

The Los Angeles Chargers found their franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert, the Offensive Rookie of the Year. They also get a huge upgrade on defense with the return of Derwin James. This team does not have a lot of holes and will be in contention if they become more balanced of offense. The have stars at every level on defense.

The Las Vegas Raiders are the biggest wildcards in this division. They also retooled their offensive line in the off-season. The biggest addition was bringing in Gus Bradley to run the defense. This team will either be very competitive or a flat out shit show.

 

PREDICTIONS

Los Angeles Chargers at Washington Football Team

This game will feature a great offense against a great defense. Going on the road to play in the humidity of the east coast equals a difficult task.

WFT 27 Chargers 21

Spread: Chargers -1

Over/Under: 44.5

 

Cleveland Browns at Kansas City Chiefs

This game will be won in the trenches, the Browns defensive line against the Chiefs offensive line. This one should be good.

Chiefs 31 Browns 24

Spread: Chiefs -6

Over/Under: 53

 

Denver Broncos at New York Giants

This return of Sutton and Miller will be the difference in this game. With that said, it will be a low scoring but highly competitive game.

Broncos 23 Giants 20

Spread: Broncos -2.5

Over/Under: 42

 

Baltimore Ravens at Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders in primetime against a team that features a great defense and a incredibly mobile quarterback, NO BUENO!

Ravens 31 Raiders 23

Spread: Raiders +4.5

Over/Under: 51

 

Football is back and not a second too soon. No more politics and other bullshit, time for something important. Let the good times roll and let me start the season off correctly:

FUCK GRUDEN!

FUCK YOUR TEAM!

FUCK OFF!

The Weekly Bender

Most of the time when you here the words March Madness, you immediately think about the NCAA Basketball Tournament. This year, you will also think about the NFL, the salary cap and the number of teams that will be restructuring contracts, cutting seasoned vets and looking for every way they can get their team under the cap. Let the blood letting begin!!!

Today will mark the start of Free Agency (Legal Tampering) and there are some really interesting stories out there. Thursday, team will actually be able to have new players put pen to paper and make it official.
Lets look at a few hot stories within the division and Mock Draft 2.0. Each Article will feature a new Mock Draft until we get to the actual draft. Let’s get it.

NEWS
Broncos new GM attends QB Trey Lance Pro day

Trey Lance Pro Day draws several GMs, head coaches

After 2020, where do the Broncos need help the most
https://www.espn.com/blog/denver-broncos/post/_/id/37978/rewatching-broncos-2020-season-shows-where-help-is-needed-most

Patrick Mahomes restructures his contract to help the Chiefs cap space

Patrick Mahomes restructure will free up $17 million of cap room for Chiefs

Chiefs GM has work to do to protect QB Mahomes
https://www.espn.com/blog/kansas-city-chiefs/post/_/id/29766/chiefs-will-need-all-of-gm-brett-veachs-creativity-to-protect-patrick-mahomes

OG Kyle Long coming out of retirement and his first visit is to the Raiders

Kyle Long has visits lined up with Raiders, Chiefs

What’s next for the Raiders Offensive Line
https://www.espn.com/blog/las-vegas-raiders/post/_/id/25478/whats-next-for-the-las-vegas-raiders-offensive-line

TE Hunter Henry won’t rule out a return to the Chargers

Hunter Henry won’t rule out a return to the Chargers

Chargers release CB Casey Hayward
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/31058782/los-angeles-chargers-release-cornerback-casey-hayward-jr-5-years

It is noteworthy to say that with the salary cap being cut and not increased (FUCK COVID), we have seen some interesting and head scratching cuts and trades on the offensive line within the division. Here is a list of guys that have been cut or traded:
OG Trai Turner – Released (Chargers)
OG Cole Toner – Not Tendered (Chargers)
OT Trent Brown – Traded (Raiders)
OG Richie Incognito – Released (Raiders)
OG Gabe Jackson – Released (Not Official as of yet) (Raiders
OT Eric Fisher – Released (Chiefs)
OT Mitchell Schwartz – Released (Chiefs)
OC Austin Reiter – Free Agent (Chiefs)

WTF! The weird part about this is the Broncos are the only team that will return its entire Offensive Line. That is completely WRONG!

 

MOCK DRAFT 2.0 – 1ST ROUND
Denver – (9th Overall) Caleb Farley CB, Virginia Tech
Nothing changes here. This guy is a great fit for this team and has the skill set to be a pro bowler.

Chargers – (13th Overall) Rashawn Slater OT, Northwestern
Again, nothing changes here. After his pro day, the only thing that change this pick is him going higher. This guy is a flat out MONSTER!!!

Raiders – (17th Overall) Zaven Collins LB, Tulsa
First Change. The Raiders need a “Sam” backer that can rush the quarterback and also drop into coverage. At 6’4″ and 260 pounds, this guy is the chess piece that DC Bradley covets.

Chiefs – (31st Overall) Alijah Vera-Tucker OG, USC
Nothing changing here either. This guy is a stud and addressing the offensive line has become a flat out necessity for this team.

The next week will be flat out nuts so enjoy the mayhem. Follow ups to come…….

The Weekly Bender

Well the season is over and the Chiefs were flat out smashed in the Super Bowl. It is that time of the year where we turn our attention to the Combine, Free Agency and the Draft. This article will focus on a few news update but mainly on the each team’s top needs, top target in free agency, and a mock pick. Let’s get this going

NEWS
Broncos promote Chris Beake to defensive pass-game specialist

Broncos promote Chris Beake to defensive pass-game specialist

Five-year-old girl injured in Britt Reid crash emerges from coma

Five-year-old girl injured in Britt Reid crash emerges from coma

Raiders resign DT/DE David Irving

Raiders re-sign David Irving

Hunter Henry set money, good QB as free agency priorities

Hunter Henry sets money, good QB as free agency priorities

 

TEAM NEEDS
Denver – CB, EDGE, LB, QB (Draft Network) QB, CB, IOL (PFF) QB, CB, OL (NFL.COM)
One thing is for sure, Drew Lock is not getting any respect. I think with a new GM, he will want to bring in his guy. I think they will end up giving him one last year if they don’t get mortgage the future for Watson.

Chiefs – IOL, WR, OT, LB (Draft Network) OG, EDGE, LB (PFF) OL, EDGE, WR (NFL.COM)
After seeing their offensive line get destroyed it is their top priority. The second level also has to be addressed as it is biggest need on defense.

Raiders -EDGE, IDL, IOL, LB (Draft Network) EDGE, IDL, S (PFF) DT, EDGE, S (NFL.COM)
The defense needs help at every level. Finding a Free Safety that can play cover 3 in Gus Bradley’s scheme is imperative. The defensive tackle position must be addressed as well. Finding a “Sam” linebacker that can rush the passer and also cover is also paramount.

Chargers – OT, IOL, CB, EDGE (Draft Network) IDL, TE, IOL (PFF) OL, TE, CB (NFL.COM)
Fixing the offensive line is a flat out must to protect franchise QB Herbert. If Hunter Henry departs via free agency, finding a starting Tight End will be a top priority. Secondary help and depth is also a priority.

 

TOP FREE AGENCY TARGET
Denver – QB Deshaun Watson
Right now Houston is standing their ground saying Watson is NOT available. Somehow, this is going to change. Denver will be one of the teams that will go all in to get him. The price will be crazy high but teams will be willing to pay it and the Broncos are one of them.

Chiefs – OG Brandon Scherff
This guy has been a stalwart at guard for sometime in the NFL. Adding this monster to the offensive line would be a great addition although a costly one. If OT Mitchel Schwartz decides to retire this off season, tackle will become the number one priority.

Raiders – FS Malik Hooker
When healthy, this guy is one of the best true center fielders in the game. He is the perfect cover 3 safety, something the Raiders do not have on the roster. He will also be available at a reasonable price. Even if the position is addressed in the draft, signing Hooker is a no-brainer.

Chargers – OT Taylor Moton
This guy will be very expensive but he is well worth it. Protecting Herbert is priority one and adding Moton would be a HUGE upgrade. No quarterback in the NFL was pressured more than Herbert last year. Its time to give up on Sam Tevi and Trey Pipkins and get Herbert some real help.

 

MOCK DRAFT – 1ST ROUND
Denver – (9th overall) Caleb Farley CB, Virginia Tech
Denver recently released A.J. Bouye. In a division with Patrick Mahomes, adding cornerbacks who can cover will greatly benefit your team.

Chargers – (13th Overall) Rashawn Slater OT, Northwestern
Protecting Herbert has to be priority one for this team and drafting a offensive tackle of this caliber has to happen.

Raiders – (17th Overall) Jayson Oweh LB/DE, Penn State
This guy is a bit raw but athletes that play the way he does do not come along often. According to Penn State coaches, he run a jaw-dropping 4.33 40, vertical jumped 36 inches and broad jumped 10-7 all at 6’5″, 255 LBS.

Chiefs – (31st Overall) Alijah Vera-Tucker
The Super Bowl exposed the Chiefs’ interior offensive line. They have to protect their $500 million quarterback. This kid has the makings of an all-pro.

 

It is going to de an interesting off season with no combine, salary cap numbers and massive trades. Stay tuned for all the fun.

Have a great day!

The Weekly Bender

As the Chiefs prepare to play in Superbowl for the second year in a row (that thought makes me sick to my stomach), the rest of the division prepares for free agency and the draft. Here are some of the latest news on division and the the prediction of the season.

Denver Broncos
Sutton ready to prove it in his return from ACL Injury

Courtland Sutton ready to prove it in his return from ACL injury

Questions abound about the running game
https://www.espn.com/blog/denver-broncos/post/_/id/37754/denver-broncos-at-their-best-behind-a-strong-running-game-but-questions-linger

Broncos linked to quarterbacks
https://www.si.com/nfl/broncos/news/broncos-jameis-winston-tyrod-taylor-free-agency-interest-rumor

Los Angeles Chargers
Chargers hire Shane Day as Quarterback Coach

Report: Chargers hiring Shane Day as quarterbacks coach

Fixing Special Teams a priority
https://www.espn.com/blog/los-angeles-chargers/post/_/id/28030/fixing-broken-special-teams-top-priority-for-new-los-angeles-chargers-coaching-staff

Joe Lombardi hired as new Offensive Coordinator
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/chargers-tab-longtime-saints-assistant-joe-lombardi-as-new-offensive-coordinator-per-report/

Las Vegas Raiders
Quarterback rumors concerning Derek Carr and Deshaun Watson

Are Raiders plotting to trade Derek Carr, pursue Deshaun Watson?

Jason Witten retires and becomes a High School Head Coach
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30816423/retired-nfl-star-jason-witten-named-head-coach-texas-hs

The Safford trade could be big for the Raiders
https://www.silverandblackpride.com/2021/2/1/22260976/raiders-derek-carr-matthew-stafford-trade-rams

Kansas City Chiefs
GM says if he can make a deal work with Watkins he’ll try

Brett Veach on Sammy Watkins: If there’s a way to make it work, we’ll try

Bieniemy won’t dwell in pity
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30821716/chiefs-oc-eric-bieniemy-dwell-pity-not-getting-head-coaching-job

Chiefs have injury concerns prior to Superbowl

KC Chiefs have serious injury concerns for Super Bowl LV

PREDICTIONS
Kansas City Chiefs vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Old lion vs young lion. This game is truly a toss-up. The Chiefs great offense against a top 5 defense. The Bucs are the more complete team and the Chiefs are without their two starting offensive tackles. With that said, it is hard to pick against either team or quarterback.
Bucs 31 Chiefs 27
Spread: -3 Chiefs
Over/Under: 56
Season: 36-17

Chiefs win, Bucs win, either way it sucks.

The Weekly Bender

The post-season is upon us and only the Chiefs are preparing to play. The rest of the teams in the division have started their off-seasons and have made some moves. We will be taking a look at that and more. Without further ado…….

Kansas City Chiefs
Eric Bieniemy sees head coaching interviews “as a honor and a priviledge”

Eric Bieniemy sees head coaching interviews “as an honor and a privilege”

Clyde Edwards-Halaire returns to practice ahead of playoff game:
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30706542/kansas-city-chiefs-rb-clyde-edwards-helaire-returns-practice-ahead-playoff-game

The Chiefs host the Browns in the Divisional playoffs on Sunday:
https://www.espn.com/nfl/game/_/gameId/401220400

Denver Broncos
Melvin Gordon pleads not guilty in DUI case:
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30712072/denver-broncos-rb-melvin-gordon-pleads-not-guilty-dui-case

Broncos hire George Paton as their new General Manager:
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30705220/denver-broncos-george-paton-finalizing-deal-gm-job-source-says

George Paton gets protection against ownership turmoil:

George Paton gets protection against ownership turmoil

Las Vegas Raiders
Josh Jacobs won’t face DUI charges after all:
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30693732/lawyers-las-vegas-raiders-rb-josh-jacobs-say-face-dui-charges

Gus Bradley hired as the new Defensive Coordinator:
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30699099/gus-bradley-tabbed-las-vegas-raiders-team-dc

Mark Davis buys Las Vegas WNBA team

Mark Davis buys Las Vegas WNBA team

Los Angeles Chargers
Chargers fire Anthony Lynn after 4 seasons:
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30650606/los-angeles-chargers-fire-anthony-lynn-four-seasons-coach

Ten potential candidates for open head coaching job:
https://www.espn.com/blog/los-angeles-chargers/post/_/id/27983/looking-at-10-potential-head-coaching-candidates-for-open-los-angeles-chargers-job

Washington to interview JoJo Wooden for General Manager position:

Washington adds Nick Polk, JoJo Wooden to G.M. candidate list

PREDICTIONS
Cleveland Browns at Kansas City Chiefs
This game will be all about who can run the ball effectively in cold weather.

Chiefs 34 Browns 24
Spread: -10 Chiefs
Over/Under: 57
Season 35-17

Good luck to the Chiefs in the playoffs (Not really).

Weekly Grade and Predictions

Congrats to the Kansas City Chiefs on not only winning the Division but also getting the first round bye for the number one seed. They will be the only team going to the playoffs from the division as the rest of the division sucked the big one. Let’s go.

GRADES

Raiders
Talk about horrible play calling and defense, the Raiders sucked on a whole new level in this game. You cannot get inside the 5 yards line of the opponent 4 times and score only 1 touchdown. Derek Carr returned and was 21 of 34 (61.7%) for 326 and a touchdown with 2 carries for 2 yards and a touchdown. Josh Jacobs has 13 carries for 69 yards. Nelson Agholor had 5 receptions for 155 yards and a touchdown while Darren Waller had 5 receptions for 112 yards. The defense had 3 sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss. Daniel Carlson was 4 for 4 on fieldgaols and 1 for 2 on extra points. You can’t be up by 2 point with 19 seconds left in the game with your opponent at their 25 yards line and lose unless you are the Raiders. This is beyond embarrassing.

Grade: D-

Chiefs
Talk about pulling one out at the last minute. This game was more of a Falcons loss than a Chiefs win. The Falcons made two huge mistakes with a fumble inside the Chiefs 20 yard line and the missed fieldgoal that would have tied the game with 14 seconds on the clock. Patrick Mahomes was 24 of 44 (54.5%) for 278 yards and 2 touchdowns and a interception with 3 carries for 21 yards. Sammy Watkins had a pass on a trick play that was intercepted. Darrell Williams has 10 carries for 46 yards and 4 receptions for 27 yards. Travis Kelce had 7 receptions for 98 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 4 sacks and 6 tackles for loss with a fumble recovery. Harrison Butker was 1 for 1 on fieldgoals and 2 for 2 on extra points. This is one of those game you take the win and run away as quick as you can.

Grade: C

Broncos
Drew Lock is doing all he can to force Elway to take another quarterback with his play of late. Can’t drive the ball all the way down the field and throw a interception on the 16 yard line. Drew Lock was 24 of 47 (51%) for 264 yards and 2 interceptions with 5 carries for 15 yards and a touchdown. Melvin Gordon had 16 carries for 79 yards. DaeSean Hamilton had 5 receptions for 77 yards. The defense had 2 sacks and 5 tackles for loss. Brandon McManus was 3 for 4 on fieldgoals and 1 for 1 on extra points. The defense played well enough to win this game, the offense not so much.

Grade: C-

Chargers
This was a slugfest. The Chargers won this one because of the kicking game and the defense. The offense struggled and scored only 1 touchdown on 4 trips inside the Broncos 20 yards line. Justin Herbert was 21 of 33 (63.6%) for 253 yards and a touchdown with 4 carries for 26 yards. Austin Ekeler had 10 carries for 45 yards with 3 receptions for 27 yards and a touchdown. Mike Williams had 4 receptions for 54 yards. The defense had 2 sacks and 2 tackles for loss with 2 interceptions. Michael Badgley was 4 for 4 on fieldgoals and 1 for 1 on extra points. Good division win.

Grade: C

PREDICTIONS

Las Vegas Raiders at Denver Broncos
This game will be all about draft position and who can tank the best. I just have this feeling that this one will come down to the last possession.

Broncos 27 Raiders 24
Spread: Raiders -2.5
Over/Under: 51

Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs will be resting a lot of starters getting ready for the playoffs. They will still be very competitive in this game.

Chiefs 24 Chargers 20
Spread: Chiefs -3.5
Over/Under: 44
Week 16: 3-0 Season: 35-15

Have a safe and very Happy Hew Year my MS Family! Here is to a much better year for you all and for your families.

Weekly Grade and Predictions

Well, there will be only one team from the AFC West that will make the playoffs this year and that will be the defending champs. The rest of the division is sheer window dressing, nothing more. Lets go.

GRADES

Chargers
To get your first win in the division since 2018 and do it on the road says a lot about the character of the team. Justin Herbert was 22 of 32 (67.7%) for 314 yards and 2 touchdowns with 4 carries for 14 yards and a touchdown. Austin Ekeler had 13 carries for 60 yards with 4 receptions for 19 yards. Jalen Guyton had 4 receptions for 91 yards. The defense had 1 sack and 5 tackles for loss with 1 interception. Michael Badgley was 1 for 3 on fieldgoals and 3 for 3 on extra points. To win in overtime like this was big.

Grade: B+

Raiders
Losing Derek Carr in the 1st quarter was no where near as bad as the way the defense played. Carr was 3 for 5 (60%) for 53 yards before getting injured. Marcus Mariota was 17 of 28 (60.7%) for 226 yards with a touchdown and a interception. Mariota had 9 carries for 88 yards a touchdown. Josh Jacobs had 26 carries for 76 yards and touchdown with 3 receptions for 38 yards. Darren Waller had 9 receptions for 150 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 1 sack with 5 tackles for loss. Daniel Carlson was 2 for 2 on fieldgoals and 3 for 3 on extra points. This defense is flat out horrible and so is the coaching staff.

Grade: D-

Broncos
The first half was close, the second not so much. Drew lock was 20 of 32 (62.5%) for 132 yards and a touchdown with 5 carries for 32 yards and a fumble. Melvin Gordon had 11 carries for 61 yards and 2 touchdowns with 4 receptions for 20 yards. Noah Fant had 8 receptions for 68 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 1 sack and 1 tackle for loss. Taylor Russoliho was 0 for 1 on fieldgoals and 1 for 3 on extra points. The Broncos fell apart in the second half and it was bad!

Grade: D-

Chiefs
Talk about peaking at the right time, that is exactly what the Chiefs are doing. Andy Reid’s game plan week to week have been masterpieces. Patrick Mahomes was 26 of 47 (55.3%) for 254 yards and 3 touchdowns with 7 carries for 37 yards and 2 fumbles with 1 lost. Clyde Edwards-Helaire had 14 carries for 79 yards with 1 receptions for 4 yards. Travis Kelce had 8 receptions for 68 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 1 sack with 2 tackles for loss and a interception. Harrison Butker was 1 for 1 on fieldgoals and 3 for 3 on extra points. This was a great win against a great defense.

Grade: A

PREDICTIONS

Miami Dolphins at Las Vegas Raiders
This will not be a good matchup for the Raiders. The Dolphins defense plays hard and are very good and only surrender about 18 points a game, NO BEUNO.

Dolphins 31 Raiders 24
Spread: Raiders +3
Over/Under: 48

Atlanta Falcons at Kansas City Chiefs
This game will be all about offense and the Chiefs are playing at a level that is a step above everyone else in the league.

Chiefs 34 Falcons 21
Spread: Chiefs -10.5
Over/Under: 54

Denver Broncos vs Los Angeles Chargers
There is nothing like division games at the end of the season. This will be a flat out war and one that will be great to watch.

Chargers 27 Broncos 21
Spread : Chargers -3
Over/Under: 49
Week 15: 3-0 Season: 32-15

I want to wish all of my MS family a very safe and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I wish you all a bigger, brighter and better 2021. CHEERS!!!

Weekly Grade and Predictions

The division did well this week. Every team won except for the Raiders (which probably cost them their shot at the playoffs). Let the fun begin……

GRADES

Chiefs
This was kinda an off game for Patrick Mahomes but give credit where credit is due, the Dolphins defense came to play. When every phase of your team finds a way to score, you seldom lose. That is what the Chiefs did. Patrick Mahomes was 24 of 34 (70.5%) for 393 yards with 2 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. Tyreek Hill had 1 carry for 32 and a touchdown with 3 receptions for 79 yards and a touchdown. Travis Kelce had 8 receptions for 136 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 4 sacks with 9 tackles for loss, a interception and a safety. The special teams did work too. Harrison Butker was 1 for 1 on fieldgoals and 4 for 4 on extra points. Mecole Hardman had a 67 yard punt return for a touchdown. This team is just sick with it and they are peaking at the perfect time.

Grade: A-

Chargers
Well what do you know, the Chargers found the secret to winning a game. Take a lead on the last play of the game. Justin Herbert was 36 of 44 (81.8%) for 243 yards and 2 touchdowns with 1 interception. Austin Ekeler had 15 carries for 79 yards with 9 receptions for 67 yards. Tyron Johnson had 6 receptions for 55 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 2 sacks and 4 tackles for loss with 3 interceptions. Michael Badgley was 2 for 2 on fieldgoals and 2 for 2 on extra points. It was good to see the Chargers come out on the other side of a close game.

Grade: B

Raiders
With the season on the line the Raiders found a way to surrender 44 points and over 200 yards of rushing in a blowout loss. Derek Carr was 31 of 45 (68.8%) for 316 yards and 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions with one returned for a touchdown. He also had 3 carries for 12 yards and a touchdown. Josh Jacobs had 13 carries for 49 yards with 3 receptions for 25 yards. Nelson Agholor had 5 receptions for 100 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 6.5 tackles for loss and gave up 456 yards of offense. Daniel Carlson was 2 for 2 on fieldgoals and 3 for 3 on extra points. This game marked the end of Paul Guenther’s tenure with the team (It’s about damn time) but this is too little, too late.

Grade: D

Broncos
A big return for a touchdown along with 4 passing touchdowns and great defense down the stretch helped the Broncos pull this one out. Drew Lock was 21 of 27 (77.8%) for 280 yards and 4 touchdowns. He also had 2 fumbles and lost one. Melvin Gordon had 13 carries for 68 yards with 3 receptions for 23 yards. KJ Hamler had 2 receptions for 86 yards and 2 touchdowns. The defense had 4 sacks with 5 tackles for loss. Brandon McManus was 2 for 4 on extra points. This team has a lot of fight left in them and it showed in this game.

Grade: B+

PREDICTIONS

Los Angeles Chargers at Las Vegas Raiders
This one is going to be an offensive battle. Neither team plays decent defense but the edge goes to the Chargers because of their pass rush.

Chargers 31 Raiders 24
Spread: +3 Chargers
Over/Under: 53.5

Buffalo Bills at Denver Broncos
The Bills are trying to secure one of the top seeds while the Broncos are playing for pride at this point. This game will come down to defense.

Bills 27 Broncos 20
Spread: +6 Broncos
Over/Under: 49.5

Kansas City Chiefs at New Orleans Saints
Mahomes and Company are clicking on all cylinders and as good as the Saints defense is, they will not slow them down.

Chiefs 31 Saints 20
Spread: -3 Chiefs
Over/Under: 51.5
Week 14: 1-3 Season: 29-15

I can only hope that the last three weeks of the season produce some excellent football from the division. Christmas is right around the corner and Santa has not granted my wish this year (I guess I was on the naughty list. FO Lord). Let the Foolsball begin!

Weekly Grade and Predictions

This division is nerve racking and infuriating. Other than the Chiefs, you never know what what you are going to get from the other teams. Rock and roll…….

GRADES

Chargers
Talk about bad, WOW! The Chargers special teams were beyond bad, they were special in the worse sense of the word pretty much like the rest of team. Justin Herbert was 26 of 53 (49%) for 209 yards and 2 interceptions. Austin Eckler had 8 carries for 36 yards with 4 receptions for 32 yards. Keenan Allen had 5 receptions for 48 yards. The defense had 1 sack and 3 tackles for loss. Michael Badgley was 0 for 2 on fieldgoals. Giving up 2 touchdowns on special teams is NO BEUNO!

Grade: F

Broncos
This was a really great effort by this team. They played hard but came up short in the 4th quarter and it cost them the game. Drew Lock was 15 of 28 (53.5%) for 151 Yards with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. Melvin Gordon had 15 carries for 131 yards with 1 reception for 11 yards. Noah Fant had 4 receptions for 57 yards. The defense had 1 sack and 3 tackles for loss. Brandon McManus was 1 for 2 on fieldgoals and 1 for 1 on extra points. Holding the champs to 5 fieldgoals is great but you have to score especially in the 4th quarter.

Grade: C

Chiefs
We have come to expect so much more from this team. They played an average game but turned on the switch to pull it out at the end. Patrick Mahomes was 25 of 40 (62.5%) for 318 yards and a touchdown with 4 carries for 26 yards. Le’Veon Bell had 11 carries for 49 yards with 2 receptions for 15 yards. Travis Kelce had 8 receptions for 136 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 2.5 tackles for loss and 2 interceptions. Harrison Butker was 5 for 5 on fieldgoals and 1 for 1 on extra points. Even when they don’t play their best they find a way to win.

Grade: B

Raiders
Talk about horrible play, WOW! Is it safe to say they that most fan felt better about the loss to the Chiefs than this win against the winless Jets? Derek Carr was 28 of 47 (59.5%) for 381 yards and 3 touchdowns and 1 interceptions with 2 carries for 5 yards and a touchdown. Devontae Booker had 16 carries for 50 yards. Darren Waller had 13 receptions for 200 yards and 2 touchdowns. The defense had 3 sack and 3 tackles for loss with 2 forced fumbles and 2 fumble recoveries and 1 interception. Daniel Carlson was 1 for 1 on fieldgoals and 4 for 4 on extra points. Ruggs went from the goat to the hero with his 46 yards last second touchdown. This game should have never been this close.

Grade: C+

PROJECTIONS

Denver Broncos at Carolina Panthers
This one could be a really great ball control game. Both teams have pretty decent running game but this one will come down to plays made in the passing game.

Panthers 24 Broncos 21
Spread: +3 Broncos
Over/Under: 45.5

Kansas City Chiefs at Miami Dolphins
A great defense host as great offense. This is the kind of game you circle on the calendar at the start of the season.

Chiefs 31 Dolphins 20
Spread: -7 Chiefs
Over/Under: 50.5

Indianapolis Colts at Las Vegas Raiders
Can you say slobberknocker? This will be an old school, 15 round, kill or be killed type game. This game will be the season for both teams so expect a barn burner.

Raiders 28 Colts 23
Spread: +3 Raiders
Over/Under: 51.5

Atlanta Falcons at Los Angeles Chargers
Which team will show up for the Chargers and the Falcons? Who knows. This one is either going to be high scoring or flat out sloppy and ugly.

Falcons 27 Chargers 24
Spread: +2.5 Chargers
Over/Under: 49
Week 13: 1-2 Season: 28-12

The den TV survived last weekend. Will it this weekend? Stay tuned!