Weekly Grades and Predictions

This season just got a whole lot more exciting. There are two teams in the division that are in the playoff hut. These final few weeks will be crazy exciting and crazy stressful, wouldn’t have it any other way. Let’s get it………

GRADES

Chargers
Another week, another loss. When will this stop? The Chargers played well enough to loss and this time it never really felt like they were in the game. Justin Herbert was 20 of 32 (62.5%) for 187 yards and 2 touchdowns with 1 interception. He also had 4 carries for 10 yards and a touchdown. Kalen Ballage had 18 carries for 68 yards with 5 receptions for 34 yards. Keenan Allen had 3 receptions for 39 yards and a touchdown. The defense had no sack and 3 tackles for loss. Michael Badgley was 3 for 3 on extra points. They kept it close but did not look good. (Hey Lord, TUA, TUA, TUA!)

Grade: C

Broncos
At the end of last season, Elway and the Broncos thought they had finally found their quarterback of the future. They are starting to doubt that as of late and Sunday’s performance really didn’t help Drew Lock’s cause. It was flat out horrible! Lock was 23 of 47 (48.9%) for 257 yards with 1 touchdown and 4 interceptions. He had 2 carries for 7 yards. Melvin Gordon had 11 carries for 46 yards. Jerry Jeudy had 4 receptions for 46 yards. The defense had no sacks and 1 tackle for loss. Brandon McManus was 2 for 2 on fieldgoals. This was one of the worse games of the year.

Grade: F

Raiders
The way this game started you thought this one was going to get away from the Raiders as their receivers dropped two maybe three passes for touchdowns. Derek Carr’s numbers don’t reflect it but he had an outstanding game. He was 16 of 25 (64%) for 154 yards with 4 carries for 10 yards. Josh Jacobs had 21 carries for 112 yards and 2 touchdowns with 4 receptions for 24 yards. Devontae Booker had 16 carries for 81 yards and 2 touchdowns with 1 reception for 2 yards. The defense had 2 sacks and 4 tackles for loss with 4 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery. Daniel Carlson was 3 for 3 on fieldgoals and 4 for 4 on extra points. This was a complete beatdown plain and simple and if the receivers would have made 3 more plays, this score would have been much, much worse.

Grade: A

PREDICTIONS

Miami Dolphins at Denver Broncos
The Broncos are hosting the hottest team in the NFL. The Dolphins have won 5 in a row and are playing great football all around. Tua is 3-0 (That was for Lord) and playing well. Lock, well, not so much. With that said, this game will be close with a surprise ending.

Broncos 24 Dolphins 21
Spread: Broncos +3
Over/Under: 45

New York Jets at Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers get a Jets team at home that is a flat out train wreck. I think this is the game the Chargers not only win but get their season on track and start to see a few more in the “W’ column. Herbert is going to go nuts in this game.

Chargers 37 Jets 17
Spread: Chargers -8.5
Over/Under: 47

Kansas City Chiefs at Las Vegas Raiders
This is the game of the year as far as the AFC West goes. If the Raiders win, they will be 1 game behind the Chiefs and hold the tie breaker with a season sweep and a 4-0 record in the Division, big if. Andy Reid has a 18-3 record coming off a bye week. This will be the 4th time in 5 years the Raiders will face the Chiefs after their bye with them winning each time, NO BEUNO!!!

Chiefs 34 Raiders 27
Spread: Raiders +7
Over/Under: 56.5

Week 10: 2-0 Season: 21-9

The Raiders/Chiefs game in prime time, on Sunday night, in Sin City will be absolute must see tv. This game will have a HUGE effect on not only the division but the Wildcard playoff race as well. Division games are always great but division games that have this much at stake make it even more important and fun or should I say nerve racking. One thing is for sure, I can’t wait for this weekend!

Weekly Grades and Predictions

This week of football was insane. The division saw some fantastic and some not so fantastic football. Overall, it was must see football as all three games came down to the final quarter and in some cases, down to the the final possession.
Let’s rock and roll…………..

GRADES

Chiefs

At the start of the season it was a two man race for MVP between Russell Wilson and Josh Allen. Not so fast, Patrick Mahomes showed everyone in this game that he is in the mix for that honor. Mahomes was 30 of 45 (67%) for 372 yards and 4 touchdowns. Clyde Edwards-Helaire had 5 carries for 14 yards with 3 receptions for 20 yards and a touchdown. The Chiefs had a total of 30 rushing yards on 12 carries. Travis Kelce had 10 receptions for 159 yards while Tyreek Hill had 9 receptions for 113 yards and 2 touchdowns. The defense had 2 sacks and 3 tackles for loss but surrendered 435 yards of offense to go with 31 points, NO BUENO! Harrison Butker was 2 of 3 on fieldgoals and 3 of 4 on extra points. This game could have gone the other way as the Panthers missed a 67 yard fieldgoal to end the game. Mahomes put this team on his back and pulled this one out.

Grade: B

Broncos

The Broncos have got to find a way to score better in the first half. For the second week in a row they fell behind by double digit points at the half. This week they could not pull off the last second dub. Drew Lock was 25 of 48 (52%) for 313 yards and 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. He was also the leading rusher with 7 carries for 47 yards and a touchdown. Jerry Jeudy had 7 receptions for 125 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 2 sacks and 7 tackles for loss with 1 interception. Brandon McManus was 2 for 2 on fieldgoals and 3 for 3 on extra points. This team may not be winning but they are starting to make plays and are developing.

Grade: C

Chargers

Heartbreak after heartbreak, they just keep on coming for this team. They had what appeared to be the winning last second touchdown play only to have it overturned after replay showed that Donald Parham had the ball stripped away from him and it hit the ground. Rookie quarterback Justin Herbert continues his OROY play by going 28 of 42 (67%) for 326 yards and 2 touchdowns with 5 carries for 24 yards. Kalen Ballage made his Chargers debut with 16 carries for 69 yards and a touchdown with 2 receptions for 15 yards. Keenan Allen had 9 receptions for 103 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 1 sack and 1 tackle for loss with a fumble recovery. Michael Badgley went 2 for 3 on fieldgoals and 2 for 2 on extra points. This will be a dangerous team once they are healthy.

Grade: C

Raiders

This game should not have been close but the horrible coaching and play calling almost cost them a win. This one came down to two outstanding defensive plays by reserve cornerback Isaiah Johnson and the running game. Derek Carr was 13 of 23 (57%) for 165 Yards and 2 touchdown with two carries for 14 yards. Devontae Booker had 8 carries for 68 yards and a touchdown and Josh Jacobs had 14 carries for 65 yards and a touchdown. Hunter Renfrow had 2 receptions for 60 yards and Nelson Agholor had 2 receptions for 55 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 2 sacks and 3 tackles for loss with a fumble recovery. Daniel Carlson was 1 for 1 on fieldgoals and 4 for 4 on extra points. The Raiders were lucky to walk away with a win. Gruden has some serious work to do on his coaching and play calling if this team is going to make a playoff run.

Grade: B

PREDICTIONS

Los Angeles Chargers at Miami Dolphins                                                                                                          This one will be one of the better game of the season featuring two young guns in Tua and Justin. Miami has won 4 in a row and they are playing inspired defense. The Chargers have lost 4 of their last 5 by a total of 16 points. Something has to give.

Dolphins 31 Chargers 28                                                                                                                        Spread: Chargers +2.5                                                                                                                    Over/Under: 48

Denver Broncos at Las Vegas Raiders                                                                                                                   The Broncos have been playing very well in the second half of games but not so much in the first half. The play calling and coaching has not been good for the Raiders yet they are finding ways to win despite of that.

Raiders 34 Broncos 24                                                                                                                            Spread: Broncos +5                                                                                                                        Over/Under: 51.5                                                                                                                                            Week 9: 3-0 Season: 19-9                                                                                                                               Bye Week: Kansas City Chiefs

Sometimes this game we love can drive you flat out crazy. Bad plays, bad calls and bad execution. On the other side of that coin, this game can bring us great joy and happiness. This season is different in so many ways but two things remain the same, we love this game and we love to talk shit about each other’s team. Long live Football. Enjoy the Week!

Weekly Grades and Predictions

The NFL is good for a crazy weekend throughout the year a few times. Well, this was the weekend that the AFC West provided that. The Raiders went and played in the crazy winds and snow of Cleveland. The Charger and Broncos went at each other like a Wednesday in MS and the primary subject is politics. Lets not forget about the blood letting that transpired in Kansas City with the Chiefs and Jets.

Without further ado, lets jump right in……….

GRADES

Chiefs

Patrick Mahomes should be fined for what he did to the Jets defense. It was like watching a debate between a Rhodes Scholar and a High School drop out. Mahomes was 31 of 42 (74%) for 416 yards and 5 touchdowns. Clyde Edwards-Helaire had 6 carries for 21 yards with 3 receptions for 10 yards. Travis Kelce had 8 receptions for 109 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 1 sack and 3 tackles for loss with 1 fumble recovery. Harrison Butker went 5 for 5 on extra points. This was an old school beatdown.

Grade: A

Broncos

You want to talk about an incredible comeback, Bravo Broncos! With half the 3rd quarter gone and down 24-3, the Broncos caught fire and would not be denied. Drew Lock was a man on fire in the 4th quarter after a flat out horrible first 3 quarters. Lock was 26 of 41 (63%) for 248 yards and 3 touchdowns with 1 interception. Phillip Lindsay had 6 carries for 83 yards and a touchdown with 1 reception for 3 yards. DaeSean Hamilton had 4 receptions for 82 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 2 sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss with 2 interceptions. Brandon McManus was perfect on the day going 1 for 1 on fieldgoals and 4 for 4 on extra points. This is the kind of game that can really get a team going.

Grade: B+

Chargers

The Chargers have played and lost a lot of close games this year but bar none this loss, was the worse melt down this entire season. How do you completely dominate a team for almost three quarters and then allow that team to post 4 touchdown drives of 75 yards or more. Justin Herbert was 29 of 43 (67%) for 278 yards and 3 touchdown but also 2 very costly interceptions. Justin Jackson had 17 carries for 89 yards with 3 receptions for 53 yards. Mike Williams had 5 receptions for 99 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 2 sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss. Michael Badgley was 3 for 3 on fieldgoals and 3 for 3 on extra points. This is the kind of loss that cut the heart out of a team.

Grade: F

Raiders 

How do you outscore an opponent that has a 5-2 record by double digits, on the road, in the snow and sleet and look bad doing it, well the Raiders did. This was a UGLY game that turned into a 1950’s run the ball to win type game. Derek Carr was 15 of 24 (63%) for 112 yards and 1 touchdown with 6 carries for 43 yards. Josh Jacobs had 31 carries for 128 yard. Darren Waller had 5 receptions for 28 yards. The defense had 1 tackle for loss and 1 fumble recovery. Daniel Carlson was 3 of 4 on fieldgoals and 1 for 1 on extra points. This is the kind of game that the Raiders have not won since, well, forever.

Grade: B

PREDICTIONS

Carolina Panthers at Kansas City Chiefs

This could be an interesting game if Christian McCaffery can return to his all-pro form and they can play keep away from Patrick Mahomes and that scoring machine. Sorry, not going to happen. Way too may ifs and the Chiefs are hitting on all cylinders.

Chiefs 38 Panthers 16

Spread: -11 Chiefs

Over/Under: 52.5

Denver Broncos at Atlanta Falcons

This could turn into one of the best shootouts this year in the NFL. Both teams can score and quickly but have very suspect defenses to say the least. This one may come down to has the ball last.

Falcons 31 Broncos 27

Spread: +4 Broncos

Over/Under: 50

Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers

This game will be huge in the division. Expect the scoreboard to get lit up in this one as well. The defense that makes a stop late in the 4th quarter will secure the win.

Raiders 34 Chargers 27

Spread: -1.5 Chargers

Over/Under: 53.5

Week 8: 1-2 Season: 16-9

Football, Football and more football. Here is to a better week of predictions. Halloween is done and now we get ready for Thanksgiving, my favorite holiday. Let’s eat!!!!

Weekly Grades and Predictions

What a crazy weekend of football. The division played some good, bad and flat out UGLY football. The only thing really good is there is a lot of football to go. Let jump into the fire……

GRADES

Chiefs

Talk about a complete team win, DAMN! The Chiefs offense, defense and special teams got the job done in the snow after a disappointing loss the week before. Patrick Mahomes was 15 of 23 (65%) for 200 yards and a touchdown. Clyde Edwards-Helaire carried 8 times for 46 yards and a touchdown with 1 reception for 17 yards. Tyreek Hill had 6 receptions for 55 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 3 sacks and 5 tackles for loss with 2 interceptions (one returned for a touchdown) and 2 fumble recoveries. Byron Pringle had a 102 kick return for a touchdown and Harrison Butker was 3 for 3 on fieldgoals and 4 of 5 on extra points. This is what a complete team looks like.

Grade: A

Broncos

The Broncos are just not a good team at this point. They were just crushed at home in the snow and it was no winter wonderland for them. Drew Lock was 24 of 40 (60%) for 254 yards and 2 interceptions with 3 carries for 8 yards and a touchdown. Melvin Gordon had 17 carries for 68 yards and a touchdown with 2 receptions for 12 yards but 2 lost fumbles as well. Albert Okwuegbunam had 7 receptions for 60 yards. The defense had 4 sacks and 6 tackles for loss and a fumble recovery. Brandon McManus was 1 for 1 on fieldgoals and 1 for 2 on extra points. This was bad football.

Grade:D+

Chargers

One thing the entire football world is finding out, Justin Herbert can play! This kid is doing it all and notched his first win as a starter. He was 27 of 43 (63%) for 347 yards and 3 touchdowns with 9 carries for 66 yards and a touchdown. Joshua Kelly had 12 carries for 29 yards with 5 receptions for 24 yards. Keenan Allen had 10 receptions for 125 yards. The defense had 5 sacks and 7 tackles for loss with 1 fumble recovery. Michael Badgley was 2 for 3 on fieldgoals and 3 of 4 on extra points. With all of the injuries the Chargers have had they are trending in the right direction.

Grade: B

Raiders

Jon Gruden and his staff should be ashamed of themselves for this performance from their team coming off of a bye week and a big win. The play calling was horrible and the defense is starting to regress in every single area not just the defensive line. Derek Carr was 24 of 36 (67 %) for 284 yards and 2 touchdowns with 1 interception with 2 carries for 19 yards. Josh Jacobs had 10 carries for 17 yards with 3 receptions for 14 yards. Nelson Agholor had 5 receptions for 107 yards and a touchdown. The defense had 9 tackles for loss and not much else. Daniel Carlson was 2 for 2 on fieldgoals and 2 for 2 on extra points. This was one of the worse letdowns the Raiders have had in years and it was about play calling and once again failure to make half time adjustments.

Grade: D-

 

PREDICTIONS

Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos
This game is always a slugfest (nothing like division games). This one could even be more special as the loser will be in the basement of the division. In the end it will come down to which offense can put up points, advantage Chargers.

Chargers 27 Broncos 23
Spread: -3 Chargers
Over/Under: 44.5

New York Jets at Kansas City Chiefs
This game is going to be a bloodletting. The Jets are one of the worse teams in the league and are going into the lion’s den against one of the best. This thing should be over by halftime.

Chiefs 42 Jets 7
Spread: -19.5 Chiefs
Over/Under: 48.5

Las Vegas Raiders at Cleveland Browns
The Raiders played a flat out stinker against the Bucs at home and are going on the road to play in the eastern time zone, NO BUENO! Even though the Browns will be without OBJ, their defense will get it done and the coaching staff will once again NOT make any halftime adjustments.

Browns 31 Raiders 24
Spread: +2.5 Raiders
Over/Under: 53.5
Week 7: 2-1 Season 15-7

“Leadership is a matter of having people look at you and gain confidence. If you’re in control, they’re in control.” – Tom Landry

Well if this is true, then the entire defensive staff and Head Coach for the Raiders need to be fired or wear Vince Lombardi face masks. Have a great week gents, CHEERS!

Weekly Grades and Predictions

With half of the division on their bye week, things were a little slow in MS. With that said we still had two games that were very interesting. Let’s go………

GRADES

Denver Broncos

Where the hell has this defense been all year? When you don’t score a touchdown against the Patriots in Foxboro and you still win, you have really done something. Drew lock returned and went 10 of 24 (41%) for 189 yards and 2 interception. Phillip Lindsey also returned and had 23 carries for 101 yards. Tim Patrick had 4 receptions for 101 yards. The defense had 4 sacks and 7 tackles for loss with 2 interceptions and a fumble recovery. Brandon McManus was perfect on the day going 6 for 6 on fieldgoals. Overall the defense and kicking game won the day.

Grade: B+

KC Chiefs

The Chiefs signed Le’Veon Bell to a one year contract but Clyde Edwards-Heliare reminded them why they drafted him the first round. Patrick Mahomes went 21 of 26 (81%) for 225 yards and 2 touchdowns he also rushed 10 times for 36 yards. Clyde Edwards-Heliare was incredible in the game carrying 26 times for 161 yards. Travis Kelce had 5 receptions for 65 yards and 2 touchdowns but also had a fumble. The defense had 3.5 tackles for loss and an interception. Harrison Butker was 2 for 2 on fieldgoals and 2 for 3 on extra points. Overall this was a good road win.

Grade: B+

PREDICTIONS

Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos

Division games are always tough games but a lot of fun because of the trash talk. This one could be better than most think because Denver’s defense is playing pretty well. The Chiefs will have Bell for this game to add to that potent offense. Denver will not be able to keep up scoring with this team.

Chiefs 31 Broncos 17

Spread: +9.5 Broncos

Over/Under: 48

Jacksonville Jaguars at Los Angeles Chargers

The Jaguars have been down right BAD this year. The Chargers have been in every game they have played this year and have experienced some really tough losses. This week the Chargers get things back on track and get Herbert his first win.

Chargers 27 Jaguars 21

Spread: -8 Chargers

Over/Under: 49

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Las Vegas Raiders

This game has all the makings of a trap game for the Raiders after a big win and a bye week. The Bucs have been playing really well and their defense is very stout. This will be a barn burner but with a surprise ending. The Raiders get another HUGE win. (FO Lord)

Raiders 31 Bucs 27

Spread: +2.5 Raiders

Over/Under: 53.5

Week 6: 1-1 Season: 13-6

This should be one of the best weeks of football for the division. I expect a lot of mud slinging and trash talk leading up to game times. Here’s to a great week.

Love, JMC

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.