Weekly Grades and Predictions

What a great and weird week. Because of Covid-19 outbreaks all over the league, a lot of games were changed, rescheduled and some teams were put on their bye week one of them was the Broncos. We will talk about that shortly. Let get started…

GRADES

Raiders

Talk about didn’t see this one coming, WOW! Jon Gruden called a game that allowed Derek Carr and company to cut it lose and boy did they. Carr was 22 of 31 (71%) for 347 yards with 3 touchdowns but his first interception of the season. Josh Jacobs had 23 carries for 77 yards and 2 touchdowns with 2 receptions for 8 yards. Henry Ruggs had 2 receptions for 119 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 3 sacks and 4 tackles for loss with 1 interception. Daniel Carlson hit 2 fieldgoals and was 4 of 5 on extra points. This was a great overall game for the Raiders coming back not once but twice from being down 11 points, BRAVO!!

Grade: A+

Chiefs

The Chiefs played well offensively but their defense was flat out horrible and it cost them a game at home against a division rival that they have not lost to since I was a teenager (Well…..not that long but you get the point). Patrick Mahomes was 22 of 43 (51%) for 340 yards with 2 touchdowns and his first interception of the season. He also had 6 carries for 21 yards and a touchdown. Clyde Edwards-Helaire had 10 carries for 40 yards. Travis Kelce had 8 receptions for 108 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 1 sack and 2 tackles for loss with interception. Harrison Butker was 1 for 1 on fieldgoals and 3 for 3 on extra points. Overall the offense played well and scored 32 points. The defense not so much surrendering 40 points, NO BUENO!

Grade: C

Chargers

This team is not to be taken lightly. They went to New Orleans and took them to overtime in a loss. They have also found their quarterback. Justin Herbert was 20 of 34 (59%) for 264 yards and 4 touchdowns. Justin Jackson had 15 carries for 71 yards and 5 receptions for 23 yards. Mike Williams had 5 receptions for 109 yards and 2 touchdowns. The defense had 2 sack and 3 tackles for loss with 1 interception. Michael Badgley missed his only fieldgoal attempt and was 3 for 4 on extra points. Overall the Chargers played well enough to win, their kicking game let them down.

Grade: C+

PREDICTIONS

Denver Broncos at New England Patriots
After two weeks it looks like this game will finally happen. Cam Newton is returning as is Drew Lock. Going on the road is hard but doing it against the Hoodie and giving him an extra week to prepare is not good.

Patriots 20 Broncos 10
Spread: -9.5 Broncos
Over/Under: 46.5

Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills
Both of these these teams are coming off of loses that no one really saw coming. I see this game as a shoot out. I think the difference in this one will be Andy Reid. He will have his team up for this one especially after the bitter taste in his mouth that last weeks lose left in it.

Chiefs 35 Bills 28
Spread: +3.5 Chiefs
Over/Under: 57.5
Week 5: 1-1 Season: 12-5
Bye Week: Raiders, Chargers

Covid-19 is screwing everything up but football continues (Thank God). We are really starting to see some good football and I hope it continues. Until next week…………..GET-ER-DONE!

Weekly Grades and Predictions

Somethings never change and it looks like the AFC West is pretty much a done deal. The Chiefs now have a two game division lead and will look to expand that lead this week. Let’s go!

GRADES

Raiders

Mistakes, turnovers, bad coaching and play calling are not a recipe for success. They are finding ways to lose instead of winning. Derek Carr was 32 of 44 (73%) for 311 yards and 2 touchdowns with 4 rushes for 20 yards. He also had a very costly fumble. Josh Jacobs had 15 carries for 48 yards and 3 receptions for 25 yards. Darren Waller had 9 receptions for 88 yards. The defense had 1 sack and 6.5 tackles for loss. Daniel Carlson was perfect with 3 fieldgoals and 2 extra points. The Raiders settled for fieldgoals while the Bills scored touchdowns. Overall, NO BUENO!

Grade: C-

Broncos

Winless team vs winless team, who saw a shootout happening. The Broncos went to Jersey and got it done with a 3rd string quarterback. Brett Rypien was 19 of 31 (61%) for 242 Yards and 2 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. Melvin Gordon had 23 carries for 107 yards and 2 touchdowns. Tim Patrick had 6 receptions for 113 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 6 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss. Brandon McManus was perfect with 3 fieldgoals and 4 extra points. The Broncos played well and found a way to win led by their defense.

Grade: B

Chargers

For the 1st half it looked like the Chargers were going to pull this one off. Then, Brady happened. Justin Herbert was 20 of 25 (80%) for 290 yards with 3 touchdowns and 1 interception. He was also the leading rusher with 5 carries for 14 yards. Jalen Guyton had 1 reception for 72 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 0 sacks and 2 tackles for loss. Michael Bagley was 1 for 2 on fieldgoals and 4 for 4 on extra points. This one is simple, you are not going to win if you let Tom Brady throw 5 touchdowns.

Grade: C

Chiefs

What a great game. The difference was the second half changes Andy Reid made and the defense play. Patrick Mahomes was 19 of 29 (65%) for 236 yards and 2 touchdowns with 8 carries for 28 yards. Clyde Edwards-Helaire had 16 carries for 64 yards with 3 receptions for 27 yards. Travis Kelce had 3 receptions for 70 yards. The defense had 2 sacks, 4 tackles for loss and 3 interceptions with one returned for a touchdown. This was a great win for the Chiefs as they are the only undefeated team in the division.

Grade: A

PREDICTIONS

Las Vegas Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs
This is not going to be a good game at all. The Raiders don’t have the horses to stay up with this scoring machine and will more than likely be without Ruggs and Edwards again. Not a good thing.

Chiefs 52 Raiders 27

Spread: -13.5 Raiders

Over/Under: 56.5

 

Los Angeles Chargers at New Orleans Saints

The Chargers are playing good ball but going on the road to New Orleans is not an easy place to win. As good as they are playing, beating the Orleans boys at home is a very big task.

Saints 31 Chargers 21

Spread: -7.5 Chargers

Over/Under: 50.5

 

Denver Broncos at New England Patriots

This game is up in the air. It may or may not be played due to Covid-19 positive test on the Patriots. Cam Newton and now Stephon Gilmore have tested positive. If the game is played, the Patriots still have the Hoodie.

Patriots 21 Broncos 10

Spread: -11 Broncos

Over/Under: 42

Week 4: 4-0 Season: 11-4

This could be the weekend that the Chiefs secure the Division and lock up a playoff spot. (I know, I know but it is very close). Enjoy boys!!!

Weekly Grades and Game Predictions

What a weird weekend of football. The division did not do well at all except for the cream of the AFC and NFL (I just threw up in my mouth) Let’s get to it.

GRADES

Raiders

The Raiders did not look good at all in this game. Too many missed opportunities in the red zone and too many missed tackles. The worse was watching the team not make any adjustments in the second half and seeing the Patriots use screen passes and run the ball right down their throats. Derek Carr was 24 of 32 (75%) for 261 yards and 2 touchdowns but he fumbled the ball twice. Josh Jacobs rushed 16 times for 71 yards and had 3 receptions for 12 yards but he got screwed on a called fumble when it was clear that he recovered the ball. Hunter Renfrow had 6 receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 2 sacks, 6 1/2 tackles for loss and a interception but still surrendered 36 points. Daniel Carlson went 2 for 3 in field goals and 2 for 2 in extra points. Coaching and missed opportunities had a lot to do with this loss.

Grade: C-

Chargers

The Chargers played pretty well but you just can’t expect to win turning the ball over 4 times. Justin Herbert was 35 of 49 (71%) for 330 yards with a touchdown and a interception. He also had a fumble. Austin Eckler had 12 carries for 59 yards and a touchdown. Keenan Allen had 13 receptions for 132 yards with a touchdown and a fumble. The defense had 2 sacks and 7 tackles for loss. Overall, this is a game even with the turnovers that the Chargers could have won.

Grade: C

Broncos

The Broncos are a complete mess right now. For the second year in a row they have gone winless in September. Shaq Barrett returned to Denver and went nuts with 2 sacks with one of them going for a safety. Jeff Driskill went 17 of 30 (56%) for 176 yards with 1 touchdown and 1 interception. He was benched in the 4th quarter. Brett Rypien went 8 of 9 (89%) for 53 yards and a interception. Melvin Gordon had 8 carries for 26 yards and 4 receptions for 12 yards. Jerry Jeudy had 5 receptions for 55 yards. The defense had 2 sacks and 4 tackles for loss. Brandon McManus hit his sole field goal and extra point. The offensive line was horrible surrendering 6 sacks on the day. This team has too much talent to play like this.

Grade: C-

Chiefs

This team is showing the world why they are not only the cream of the AFC but of the NFL. They can beat you in so many ways but it all starts with Patrick Mahomes. This guy is a flat out baller. Mahomes went 31 of 42 (74%) for 385 yards and 4 touchdowns with 4 carries for 26 yards and a touchdown. Clyde Edwards-Helaire had 20 carries for 64 yards. Travis Kelce had 6 receptions for 87 yards. The defense had 4 sacks and 3 tackles for loss. Harrison Butker missed his only field goal attempt and went 4 for 5 on extra points. The coaching in this game was spectacular by Andy Reid.

Grade: A

 

PREDICTIONS

Denver Broncos at New York Jets

The battle between two 0-3 teams. The Broncos will be starting a 3rd string quarterback in Brett Rypien. The Jet will have their franchise quarterback Sam Darnold going for them. This one will be in prime time two. I just see the Broncos having more talent and finding a way to get their first win of the season.

Broncos 17 Jets 9
Spread: EVEN
Over/Under: 39

Los Angeles Chargers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Bucs really came to life against the Broncos and are playing well on both sides of the ball. This is a game that has all the makings of a one sided affair. The Chargers defense will play well but it won’t be enough.

Buccaneers 27 Chargers 13
Spread: +7 Chargers
Over/Under: 43.5

Buffalo Bills at Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders wide receiving corps, which was a strength at the start of the season is the walking wounded right now. It looks like Ruggs, Edwards and Gafford will be out for this game. Not good against a team that is 3rd in the league averaging 31 points a game.

Bills 24 Raiders 17
Spread: +3 Raiders
Over/Under: 53

New England Patriots at Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs are playing outstanding football and will be going up against a different kind of team coached by the hoodie. At this point I just do not see any team stopping this offense right now.

Chiefs 38 Patriots 20
Spread: -7 Chiefs
Over/Under: 53
Week 3: 2-2 Season: 7-4

This week could really change the outcome of the division if each game goes as predicted.

Weekly Grades and Game Predictions

“No athlete is truly tested until they’ve stared an injury in the face and come out on the other side stronger than ever.”

That could be the mantra for the entire NFL but the AFC West was hit pretty hard too. This week in football we saw so many injuries that it felt like some teams gave up on themselves. I am proud to say that is not the case in the AFC West. Team suffered key loses and still fought to the end. It was really great to see.

GRADES

Chiefs
The Chiefs, like all of the other teams in the Division had to deal with injuries. Sammy Watkins, Frank Clark, Darrell Williams and Antonio Hamilton all left the game and did not return. Patrick Mahomes was the offense in the game going 27 of 47 (57%) for 302 yards and 2 touchdowns. He was also the leading rusher with 6 carries for 54 yards. Rookie Clyde Edwards-Helaire was held in check with 10 carries for 38 yards and 6 receptions for 32 yards. Tyreek Hill had 5 receptions for 99 yards and a touchdown. The defense was just ok with 2 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss and 1 interception. The player of the game was Harrison Butker. He was asked to hit a 53 yarder in overtime and did. There was a penalty on the play, move him back 5 yards. He then hit a 58 yards. No good, a timeout was called. He then hit the 58 yarder again. Ice in his veins, BRAVO!!! The Chiefs won on the road but did it against a rookie quarterback and needed overtime to get it done.

Grade: C+

Chargers
The Chargers got hit hard again this week. Starting Quarterback Tyron Taylor was a scratch right before the start of the game with a chest injury. Bryan Bulaga, Rayshawn Jenkins and Justin Jones left the game and did not return. Justin Herbert stepped in and went 22 of 33 (66%) for 311 yards with 1 touchdown and 1 interception. He also rushed 4 times for 18 yards and 1 touchdown. Austin Ekeler was the leading rusher with 16 carries for 93 yards. He also had 4 receptions for 55 yards. Keenan Allen had 7 receptions for 96 yards. The defense played ok recording 1 sack and 2 tackles for loss. Overall, the Chargers gave the defending champs all they could handle taking them to overtime. It was a good showing.

Grade: B-

Broncos
The Broncos got hit hard yet again. Starting Quarterback Drew Lock went down with a shoulder injury. Cortland Sutton was lost for the season with a torn ACL. Dre’Mont Jones and DeMarcus Walker were also injured and did not return. Jeff Driskel came in and went 18 of 34 (53%) 256 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. Melvin Gordon had 19 carries for 70 yards. Cortland Sutton had 3 receptions for 66 yards. The defense played better than expected an had 1 sack, 5 tackles for loss and 1 interception. The offensive line flat out sucked and gave up 7 sacks and 13 tackles for loss. Overall the Broncos played better than expected but it was not quite good enough.

Grade: C

Raiders
The Raiders had a few injuries. Richie Incognito left the game with an Achilles injury and did not return. The scariest moment was watching Johnathan Abram ran into a cart that was near the field on a goal-line play. He did return. Derek Carr played lights out going 28 of 38 (73%) for 282 yards and 3 touchdowns. Josh Jacobs rushed 27 times for 88 yards and 3 receptions for 17 yards. Darren Waller had 12 receptions for 103 yards and a touchdown. The defense was flat out horrible with no sacks, no tackles for loss and 1 interception. Daniel Carlson was perfect yet again hitting 2 field goals and 4 extra points. Overall the Raiders wanted it more and earned a fantastic win in their home opener at the newly built “Death Star”.

Grade: B+

PREDICTIONS

Las Vegas Raiders at New England Patriots
Going to the East Coast to play The Patriots after a bad lose for them to the Seahawks. Some will say that the Raiders have the momentum. I would say going against The Hoodie after a loss is no bueno. The Raiders will keep it close but in the end they will fall short to Newton and company.

Patriots 34 Raiders 28

Spread: +6 Raiders

Over/Under: 48

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Denver Broncos
Tom Brady is coming to town with a chip on his shoulder. Denver had his number when he was in New England, will that work now? With all of the injuries and the Bucs finding their running game with Leonard Fournette, this does not look good for the Broncos.

Buccaneers 27 Broncos 17

Spread: +6 Broncos

Over/Under: 43

Carolina Panthers at Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers are playing some pretty good football. They are also finding out that Justin Herbert is a pretty good player. The Panthers lost their best player in Christian McCaffrey for a month or two. That does not bold well for them coming to Los Angeles.

Chargers 24 Panthers 17

Spread: -6.5 Chargers

Over/Under: 43.5

Kansas City Chiefs at Baltimore Ravens
Another fantastic Monday Night matchup, I love it! The last two league MVPs going toe to toe. This one will be a barn burner coming down to which defense steps up and makes a play. Baltimore is hitting on all cylinders right now and this is in their house.

Ravens 31 Chiefs 27

Spread: +3.5 Chiefs

Over/Under: 53

Week 2: 2-1 Season: 5-2

“Most people give up just when they’re about to achieve success. They quit on the one yard line. They give up at the last minute of the game one foot from a winning touchdown.”
– Ross Perot

Most of you young pups know nothing about the man who ran one of the most successful independent races for President. As journalist Paul Burka wrote in Texas Monthly, “Perot is the candidate of the disaffected, the disenchanted, the fed up: the people whose contempt for politics has passed beyond cynicism to despair.”

Here’s to another great week of football, Cheers!

Weekly Grades and Game Predictions

Well…… what a great weekend of football. The division did pretty damn well (Sorry Broncos) overall. Considering we had no pre-season games and all of the rookies that started in the division, we saw some really good football.

Here are the grades for week one and the predictions for week two in the 101st season of the NFL (Fuck all of you for thinking I was at the first game).

GRADES

Chiefs

Here is a terrifying thought, the Chiefs offense is even more explosive with the running game they now have. Andy Reid has to be absolutely loving this. Rookies running back Clyde Edwards-Halaire exploded in his first game with 138 rushing yards rushing and 1 touchdown. Patrick Mahomes was 24 of 32 passes (75%) for 211 yards and 3 touchdowns. The defense racked up 4 sacks, 3 tackles for loss and 1 interception. Harrison Butker was perfect with 2 field-goals and 4 extra points. This is what a complete team looks like (I just threw-up on my laptop)

Grade: A+

Chargers

When you score 16 points on the road with a new quarterback after losing your best defensive player and still find a way to win, that says something about the team. Austin Ekeler led the team with 84 yards on 19 carries while rookie running back Joshua Kelly contributed 60 yards rushing on 12 carries and a touchdown. Tyrod Taylor completed 16 of 30 passes (53%) for 208 yards. Hunter Henry led the team with 5 receptions for 73 yards. The defense had 3 sacks, 6 tackles for loss and 1 interception. Michael Badgley hit 3 of 4 field-goals and his sole extra point. Overall it was a solid performance with the defense leading the way.

Grade: B-

Raiders

Going on the road to the East Coast and getting a win is a great way to start the season for the Raiders. Josh Jacobs is a flat out monster! He had 93 rushing yards on 25 carries and 3 touchdowns to go with 4 receptions and 46 yards. Rookie receiver Henry Ruggs had 3 receptions for 55 yards to lead the team and 2 carries for 11 yards. Derek Carr complete 22 of 30 passes (73%) for 239 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 1 sack and 2 tackles for loss but came up with two huge stops in the 4th quarter when it mattered the most. Daniel Carlson was perfect with 2 field-goals and 4 extra points. The offense was great, the defense not so much.

Grade: B+

Broncos

Starting the season at home is great. Playing without your best offensive and defensive players, not so much. To top it off, Bradley Chubb is not 100% coming off knee surgery and Phillip Lindsay and AJ Bouye both went down early in the game. New edition Melvin Gordon had 15 carries for 78 yards and a touchdown to go with 3 receptions for 8 yards. Drew Lock completed 22 of 33 passes (66%) for 216 Yards and a touchdown. Noah Fant led the team with 5 receptions for 81 yards and a touchdown while rookie Jerry Jeudy had 4 receptions for 56 yards (with 2 big drops). This game was not as close as the score and the Broncos have a lot of work to do to get this thing turned around.

Grade: C-

 

PREDICTIONS

Denver Broncos at Pittsburgh Steelers

Most times game this early in the season don’t mean much, this one does for the Broncos. They cannot start the season 0-2. Unfortunately they are the walking wounded right now and heading to the East Coast to play a team the has their leader back in Ben Roethlisberger. With all the injuries and going up against this defense, things are not looking good for the Broncos.

Steelers 31 Broncos 20 

Spread: +7.5 Broncos 

Over/Under: 41.5

 

Kansas City Chiefs at Los Angeles Chargers

Division games are always great and even better at the start of the season. This one however is not going to be very nice. The Chiefs are one of if not the most complete teams in the NFL, the Chargers, not so much. I think the Chargers will play hard but won’t be able to slow down this monster for the mid-west.

Chiefs 38 Chargers 17

Spread: +9 Chargers

Over/Under: 47.5

 

New Orleans Saint st Las Vegas Raiders

So excited for the very first game at home for the Las Vegas Raiders in their new stadium AKA The Death Star. Unfortunately it is against a first ballot Hall of Fame quarterback in Drew Brees. The Raiders offense is good enough to win this game, the defense, not so much. This could be a true barn burner.

Saints 34 Raiders 27

Spread: +6 Raiders

Over/Under: 50

Week 1: 3-1

A great NFL saying is simplicity itself: You are never as good or as bad as you looked in week one. This year that takes on an even bigger meaning considering there were no OTAs, mini-camp or pre-season games. By week 3-4 we will start to see some serious improvement in play on both side of the ball.

Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride! We are only getting started.

AFC West Week 1 Predictions

“Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!”

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

We have endured one hell of an off season. I am thankful that most of you have survived it with class (Not talking about you Lord). After all we have gone through we finally have NFL Football. Even with limited or no fans in the stadiums, it is football and it is happening.

With all that said, here are the predictions for the season openers for the AFC West:

Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs

This game will be interesting from an offensive perspective. I can see this as a shoot out in respects to the Chiefs’ offense and their questionable cornerbacks. The Texans traded away DeAndre Hopkins in the off season for David Johnson. The Texans now have a bunch of small, quick receivers but who will assume the WR1 for them? This game will be close for about 10 minutes before the high powered offense of the Chiefs takes over.

Chiefs 34 Texans 20

Spread:-9 Chiefs

Over/Under: 54.5

Las Vegas Raiders at Carolina Panthers

This is going to be a interesting game. The Panthers will turn loose the most versatile running back in football in Christian McCaffery while the Raiders will pound you with sophomore sensation Josh Jacobs. This one will come down to which team can stop the run and which quarterback makes some big plays. I think the Raiders offensive line will be the difference and they will pull away late in the game.

Raiders 27 Panthers 20

Spread:-3 Raiders

Over/Under: 48

Los Angeles Chargers at Cincinnati Bengals

This will begin the Tyrod Taylor era for the Chargers and the Joe Burrow era for the Bengals. This could turn into a bit of a shoot out. AJ Green returns and if healthy is one of the best in the league. Keenan Allen is still a match-up nightmare. Both teams have good running games but this will come down to defense. That being said, I have to give the edge to the Chargers.

Chargers 24 Bengals 17

Spread: -3 Chargers

Over/Under: 43.5

Tennessee Titans at Denver Broncos

Monday night in Denver and it will be a fun one. The Titans have the NFL’s leading rusher in Derrick Henry. They have just signed Jadeveon Clowney too. The Broncos drafted Jerry Jeudy to go with Courtland Sutton to form a pretty formidable receiver pair. This game will come down to the quarterbacks. Lock is still a mystery and Tannehill was hot and cold last year. The Broncos get a late game score and their defense takes over from there.

Broncos 31 Titans 21

Spread: 1.5 Broncos

Over/Under: 41.5

There you have it. The AFC West starts the season 4-0. Who saw that coming. Here is to a very unique season of football, CHEERS!!!! (Holds up a cup of coffee)

AFC West New Updates

Well, we are 8 weeks out to the start of the season. Pre-season football has been cut to only two weeks because of the corona virus. Oakley, has developed a face shield to help protect the players from the virus. The NFL seems to be doing all it can to ensure the season not only happens but starts on time. With cases increasing throughout the country, we can only hope that it does not effect the season (I am starting to think it will).

With all of the craziness, we do have some interesting news in the division staring with the Division and Super Bowl Champion, Kansas City Chiefs (I just threw up in my mouth typing that). Let’s rock and roll!

Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs sign QB Mahomes to a 10 year contract for record breaking money: https://www.si.com/nfl/chiefs/news/breaking-patrick-mahomes-signs-10-year-contract-extension-with-kansas-city-chiefs

If one big contract is good than two is better. The Chiefs sign DT Jones to a four year contract extension: https://www.nfl.com/news/chris-jones-chiefs-agree-on-four-year-85-million-contract

The Chiefs have invested some serious money in both their offensive and defensive lead players. They are going to be a very formitable team over the next few years. FUCK THE CHIEFS!!!

Denver Broncos
With social distancing in mind and the NFL setting standards on how many fans can attend games, the Broncos are one of the first teams to announce they will be refunding season ticket holder a full refund: https://kdvr.com/sports/denver-broncos/denver-broncos-offer-refunds-for-2020-season-ticket-holders/

The Broncos and FS Simmons fail to reach a long term contract and he will play this year on the Franchise Tag: https://www.9news.com/article/sports/nfl/denver-broncos/mike-klis/wait-til-next-year-justin-simmons-declines-broncos-long-term-offer-will-play-2020-on-one-year-114-million-salary/73-41e1ad7f-4c1f-4c53-9825-e989c19783ef

Elway has been great at getting long term deals done with franchise tagged players but for the first time he did not accomplish his goal. The virus had quite a bit to do with this. With that said, FUCK THE BRONCOS!!!

Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers failed to agree with TE Henry on a long term contract so he will play on the Franchise Tag: https://www.nfl.com/news/chargers-te-hunter-henry-to-play-2020-on-franchise-tag

The Chargers will be faced with a big decision next year after DE Garrett signed a HUGE contract this year and DE Bosa being a free agent next year: https://boltbeat.com/2020/07/14/chargers-myles-garrett-extension-bad-news-joey-bosa/

The Chargers defense should be really good this year. The biggest question is what will the offense be with QB Rivers leaving and who will be the starting signal caller. FUCK THE CHARGERS!!!

Las Vegas Raiders
Raiders make an offer to Free Agent DE Jadeveon Clowney: https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/07/08/report-raiders-make-offer-to-free-agent-jadeveon-clowney/

Rookie WR Edwards is working out in Vegas with QB Carr and looks really good. He did not run at the Combine because of a foot injury but that looks to be behind him: https://www.fanduel.com/theduel/posts/video-raiders-rookie-looking-great-in-offseason-workout-with-derek-carr-01ed1rppv2h6

The Raiders wide receivers were a weakness last year. I think this year will be different and QB Carr will put up numbers to keep him in the MVP conversation all year. GO RAIDERS!!!

Politics, Covid-19, BLM and Police Brutality. These issues need to be addressed but we need football and we need it now if only to give us something else to talk about. Let’s hope we have a season and maybe a little piece of mind.

AFC West News Updates

JMC Weekly Report – With Training Camps slated to start for the division on July 28th (Except for the Chiefs who will open Training Camp on July 25th due to their season opener on Thursday, September 10th), most of us are chomping at the bit for football. Let’s keep it real, we are chomping at the bit for ANY kind of sports because of Covid 19.

The AFC West is presently owned by the Superbowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs (I just threw-up in my mouth writing that) and they are the odds on favorite to win it again according to SportsLine’s R.J. White. Here are the odds so far:

1. Kansas City Chiefs – 4-1
14. Los Angeles Chargers – 25-1
17. Las Vegas Raiders – 30-1
21. Denver Broncos – 50-1

The interesting thing is the other teams in the division have vastly improved (on paper) and should make this division one of the best. Each team has addressed most of their needs but also have some questions (Chiefs – Cornerback, Chargers – Offensive Tackle, Raiders – Wide Receiver, Broncos – Offensive Tackle). I am very interested in seeing how these positions will work out for each team.

News Updates

Kansas City Chiefs
NFL.COM has a very good look at the Chiefs and the upcoming year. This is a good read and assessment of the team: https://www.nfl.com/news/state-of-the-franchise-repeat-or-bust-for-mahomes-chiefs-in-2020

The Kansas City Star ran a great story on QB Patrick Mahomes for speaking out: https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/for-petes-sake/article243535597.html

Bleacher Report has a story on the top 7 Pass Rush Duos and the Chiefs have the #5 duo: https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2896070-ranking-the-top-7-pass-rushing-duos-heading-into-2020-nfl-season

Los Angeles Chargers
ESPN.com has a interesting take on the Chargers big name secondary: https://www.espn.com/blog/los-angeles-chargers/post/_/id/27538/chargers-secondary-hopes-big-name-players-bring-big-time-production

SI.com is reporting that QB Colin Kaepernick is in play for the Chargers: https://www.si.com/nfl/chargers/news/chargers-colin-kaepernick-espn-jeremy-fowler-2020

Bleacher Report did a story on the top 7 Pass Rusher Duos and the Chargers have the #2 duo: https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2896070-ranking-the-top-7-pass-rushing-duos-heading-into-2020-nfl-season

Denver Broncos
ESPN.com ranks the Peyton Manning as the best free agent signing in the decade: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29195179/best-worst-decade-nfl-signings-fantasy-players-game-more

Bleacher Report did a story on the top 7 Pass Rush Duos and the Broncos have the #4 duo: https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2896070-ranking-the-top-7-pass-rushing-duos-heading-into-2020-nfl-season

Broncoswire ran a story about Jerry Jeudy’s workout he posted on twitter: https://broncoswire.usatoday.com/2020/06/15/denver-broncos-jerry-jeudy-amazing-footwork-video/

Las Vegas Raiders
The Athletic has a great story about the 30-35 players working out in Las Vegas: https://theathletic.com/1873218/2020/06/15/behind-the-scenes-of-the-raiders-unofficial-30-player-workouts-in-las-vegas/

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The Las Vegas Review-Journal has a story and a first look at the Raiders new practice facility and Headquarters in Henderson, NV: https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/raiders/take-a-look-inside-raiders-henderson-hq-practice-facility-2053442/

NFL.COM is reporting that the Raiders will host the Pro Bowl in 2021: https://www.nfl.com/news/las-vegas-raiders-allegiant-stadium-to-host-2021-pro-bowl

Football will be here soon (we hope) and it is just what the doctor ordered. More news updates to come.

…Thank you JMC for your write up.

2020 AFC West Draft Outlook

Well the draft is over and we are in hurry up and wait mode to see if we will have a season this year. The NFL is to the point that they are letting team facilities reopen on May 19th if they have met the standards set by the league and are allowed to by local and state regulations.

Enough about that drama. This outlook is going to look at some projections for the following in the division:

⦁ OROY
⦁ DROY
⦁ Biggest Upside
⦁ Worse Pick
⦁ Biggest Steal
⦁ Safest Pick

OROY:

Well this one is going to be a flat out slobber-knocker. The offenses in the division got a lot faster and much better. With that said, here are the front runners:

Clyde Edwards-Helaire – This guy is a match-up nightmare for everyone. He is a great runner that is hard to take down. He has great hands and catches the ball exceptionally well out of the backfield. Add the fact that he is going to one of if not the most explosive offenses in the league and he is the odds on top prospect.

Jerry Jeudy – The ankle breaker could not have gone to a better situation. He does not have to be the #1 receiver, has a flat out MONSTER on the other side and will be covered by mostly #2 corners. This should allow him to put up some serious numbers. His production will depend heavily on the development of 2nd year quarterback Drew Lock.

Henry Ruggs – He has the ability to blow past any corner but he also has the skill set to take a simple bubble screen to the house. This guy has the hands, speed and toughness to do it all. His production will come down to the way Gruden uses him.

Wildcard – Justin Herbert – Will he start or will he sit a year? This one is truly up in the air and that is why he will remain a wildcard.

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DROY:

This is an area that was addressed heavily via free agency in the division. The draft saw a few key additions added.

Kenneth Murray – This guy is a flat out tackling machine and will lead a very talented Chargers defense in that category. They gave up a lot to go and get him but he has the ability and character to be a stud for years to come.

Willie Gay – This guy has the athletic ability to be a every down player. He will have to clean up his angles and show much more production. His mental makeup will be what makes or breaks him.

Damon Arnette – He has production and a nasty disposition when he is on the field. The key for his success will be how he is used. He is scheme diverse but thrives in press man.

Wildcard – Amik Robinson – This guy is a flat out DOG! He has excellent ball skills and plays incredibly hard. Will he start or will he sit? That will be the determining factor.

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Biggest Upside:

There are some serious prospects for this category as each team did well in the draft.

Justin Herbert – He has the size, arm talent and smarts to be a franchise quarterback. The key will be his development and weapons. The Chargers drafted 2 wide receivers and a running back to aid him in the weapons department.

Jerry Jeudy – This guy could easily become Lock’s favorite target. They will get a chance to develop together. Sutton is the #1 right now but Jeudy’s route running could change that quickly.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire – He is not big (5’8″ and 210 LBS), but he is a complete back. He runs, catches and even returned some kick offs. This guy should become the bell cow back in Kansas City.

Wildcard – Henry Ruggs – You can’t coach speed. This guy has the ability to take the top off of any defense. With a top running game, top receiving tight end and one of the best o-lines in the game, Ruggs could post some insane numbers.

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Worse Pick:

There were quite a few head scratchers in this draft. This division had its share.

Damon Arnette – He has the experience, ability and production as well as playing at a power 5 school. No issue with him but a HUGE issue with where he was selected. I just don’t think he was a 1st round Cornerback.

KJ Hamler – I love his speed and the thought that he could be a great slot receiver is fantastic. The issue is his size (5’8″, 178) and his below average hands and being selected in the 2nd round. There were better prospects on the board.

Willie Gay – This kid is very athletic but he is not a 2nd round prospect. The Chiefs needed two things in this draft, a running back and a Cornerback. They got their back in the 1st round but did not draft a Cornerback until the 7th round.

Wildcard – Tanner Muse – I called this as a possibility but in the 3rd round, FO! Can you say overdrafted.

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Biggest Steal:

This one is really good because overall the division had a few steals and it will only make it stronger.

Amik Robinson – I love this guys game. He plays with his hair on fire. This guy will be a starter sooner rather than later. Getting him in the 4th round was flat out insane.

Lloyd Cushenberry – This guy is one of the smartest and strongest players I have seen in a long time at Center. He will take the starting position as a rookie. Elway got his o-line leader in the 3rd round, great steal.

Lucus Niang – This guy is a dancing bear. He slipped a bit this year because he played all year with a hip injury. Once healthy this guy will take a starting position at Offensive Tackle.

Wildcard – Lynn Bolden – He makes this list because of what he will be asked to do. Kick Returner, Punt Returner, Back-up Running Back, Wild Cat Quarterback, Slot Receiver, Gunner. This guy will be everywhere.

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Safest Pick:

The division had a few safe picks that will pay instant dividends.

Jerry Jeudy – Getting one of if not the highest regarded receiver at 15 is very safe. This guy will be a monster for years. (FO Elway!)

Kenneth Murray – This guy is a dog on the field and has the absolute highest character off of it. This is as safe as safe can be. (FO TT!)

Clyde Edwards-Helaire – National Championship winner with over 1,400 yards rushing and over 450 yards receiving. Go to the Superbowl Champions. That is a pretty safe pick. (FO Fat Andy!)

Wildcard – Henry Ruggs – His hands, work ethic and speed make him a pretty safe pick. What will Gruden do with the offense now that he is part of it is the bigger question.

Here is to a great season of football.

Your AFCW Pointless Draft Grades

With the conclusion of the NFL Draft, it’s every expert’s favorite article time… draft grades. I couldn’t think of a more pointless activity than grading a draft that has yet to step foot on the field, but I’m going to do it anyway. So, fuck off. And who better to grade the draft than this year’s MS predict the pick champ? No one, that’s who. So let’s get to it, dickheads.

Broncos:

Best Pick – Jerry “The Jew” Jeudy. Safe to say Elway landed his top target at #15 overall, and Jeudy will pair with Courtland Sutton to make a dynamic duo for the Broncos at WR. This was best case scenario for the Broncos in Rd 1.

Worst Pick – KJ Hamler. This is more nitpicking than your typical worst pick because I wouldn’t necessarily call this a bad pick. Double dipping at WR this early in a draft that’s loaded at the position seems like a luxury for a team that has holes to fill elsewhere.

Overall – Elway had himself a helluva draft. In my best draft prognosticator terminology, he let the board come to him. Obviously found great value with Jeudy in rd 1, and that trend continued throughout the draft with picks of Cushenberry in the 3rd, and Muti in the 6th.

Grade – A. Fuck you, Elway.

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Chargers:

Best Pick – Kenneth Murray. Very high character guy, team captain at OU, good athlete. He’s an instant starter at MLB.

Worst pick – Also Kenneth Murray LOL. In 3 years as a starter at OU he has managed 0 INT’s and 4 PBUs. While he most likely will be dynamic against the run, he doesn’t excel in coverage which doesn’t bode well in the modern-day NFL. Trading back into the 1st for a 2 down LB makes my list of worst picks. Sorry not sorry.

Overall – The key to this draft is obviously Herbert at 6 overall, but the failure to address the OT position is a huge miss on TT’s part. Not to mention only coming away with 6 total picks on a roster that obviously lacked depth. TT just did a terrible job at navigating the draft board.

Grade – C-. And that’s being generous.

Chiefs:

Best Pick – Willie Gay Jr. Hard hitting prospect who can run sideline to sideline, and has the coverage abilities to play in sub packages. The only thing that kept him out of the first round were some character concerns that lead to suspensions in college. Which makes him perfect for the scumbag Chiefs.

Worst Pick – Michael Danna. Spent last season as a reserve for Michigan, after a decent career at Central Michigan. Not a great athlete, undersized… Don’t see any potential here for the 5th round pick.

Overall – Andy Reid had a solid day 1 and 2, with the LSU RB in rd 1, Gay in the 2nd, and Lucas Niang in Rd 3, but fell asleep at the wheel for day 3. Perhaps in a food comma after a long couple of nights. IDK.

Grade – C+

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Raiders:

Best Pick – Amik Robertson. Mayock and Gruden found good value in the 4th round with Robertson. He’s undersized for a CB, but as competitive and tough as they come. He’ll compete for snaps in the slot as early as week 1.

Worst Pick – Tanner Muse. Tough to justify drafting a player who’s ceiling is a ST captain in the 3rd round. Played S at Clemson, but projects as a LB in the NFL. I’d be shocked if he ever gets on the field outside of ST.

Overall – It’s a mixed bag for Mayock and Gruden amongst the “experts”. A couple early round reaches in Damon Arnette, and Muse, but addressed the team’s biggest needs by double dipping at both WR, most notably Henry Ruggs, and CB. Sat out the majority of day 2 with the last 2 picks coming in the 4th round, but still ended the draft with 7 selections overall.

Grade – B-

Congrats, Broncos. You won the draft. EAD, Elway.

Yours truly,

Whori